reason to visit melaka

7 Reason Why You Should Visit Malacca, Malaysia

Posted on Last updated: 14/02/2024

Categories MALAYSIA

The city of Malacca (or Melaka) is one of my favourite places to visit in Malaysia, as there’s so much to see and do. Plus, it’s only a couple of hours by bus from Kuala Lumpur, or slightly longer from Singapore, making it the perfect destination for a weekend or quick trip.

But don’t accept my word for it; check out these seven reasons why you should visit Malacca on your trip to Malaysia.

Table of Contents

• 1 It’s UNESCO World Heritage Listed
• 2 The Street Food
• 3 Walls of Street Art
• 4  A Beautiful Mosque and Countless Temples
• 5 Museums and More Museums
• 6 Its Cafe Culture
• 7 It’s Easy to Reach

It’s UNESCO World Heritage Listed

Since 2008, Malacca has been listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, along with George Town , as one of the historic cities of the Straits of Malacca.

The city has a fascinating history, developing from a Malay sultanate through subsequent periods of Portuguese, Dutch and English colonial rule, to being part of independent Malaysia.

Don’t miss visiting the remains of the A Famosa fort and St Paul’s Church, both dating to the Portuguese period and some of the oldest European architectural remains in South East Asia. In particular, the Church was used as a base by the missionary Francis Xavier, and was his original burial site.

Next to these sites is the Dutch Square, along with the Stadthuys and Christ Church, dating from the subsequent period of Dutch rule. 

To delve more into the more recent history of the city I recommend visiting the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, plus just wandering along Jonker Street (officially Jalan Hang Jebat) and the adjacent streets full of old-style houses. 

The Street Food

While the UNESCO World Heritage listing has certainly put Malacca on the radar of international visitors, most of the Malaysians visiting Malacca come for one key reason: the food!

The street food in Malacca is some of the best that I’ve experience in Malaysia, and that’s saying something in a country with such an incredible variety of street food. 

My number one recommendation is to try the chicken and rice balls from one of the small shops on Jonker Street. My choice was Hoe Kee, but check out which place currently has the longest lines. So cheap and delicious! 

Other dishes to try include Nyonya laksa, cendol, Malaccan wonton noodles and fish ball soup.

On Fridays and Saturdays, a street market with lots of food options is held along Jonker Street. Otherwise, take a taxi to Portuguese Square outside of the main town to try the local seafood, often with hot Portuguese sauces, on outdoor tables.

Walls of Street Art

While wandering through the streets of Malacca, particularly close to the river and through the warren of alleyways in Chinatown, you’ll quickly spy walls decorated in street art. 

One of the best ways to check out the street art in Malacca is on one of the regular cruises along the river (the dock is near the Stadthuys).

The most popular time for the cruises is late afternoon or early evening, although it won’t be that easy to take photos along the way and the boats can get crowded.

Otherwise, take a slower stroll along the banks of the river (ideally early in the morning before the day heats up). Many of the works reference the history and varied cultures that exist in the city.

RELATED POST 7 Awesome Things To do in Kuala Lumpur

  A Beautiful Mosque and Countless Temples

Prior to arriving in Malacca I came across photos of a beautiful mosque perched above the sea. It was a bit trickier to locate and visit the mosque, known as Masjid Selat Melaka or Malacca Straits Mosque, as it’s located outside of the main centre of Malacca.

It’s about 4km away from the bridge over the river, located on a recently developed island that has remained largely empty, and is best reached via taxi (about 10 minutes) or on a bicycle.

Head there late afternoon, not long before sunset. After visiting inside (robes are provided to cover up), then wait along the shoreline for a beautiful sunset shot. 

If you’re interested in visiting more religious sites, there are plenty of Chinese temples along Jonker Street and nearby, the Sri Poyatha Moorthi Temple on Jalan Tukang Besi (the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia) and the Christ Church next to the Dutch Square.

The mixture of cultures and religions is one of the most fascinating aspects of Malaysia. 

RELATED POST Top Things To Do In Langkawi, Malaysia

Museums and More Museums

  If you walk along Jalan Kota from the Dutch Square, underneath the hill with St Paul’s, you’ll notice museum after museum located on the street, in addition to other museums elsewhere in the city such as the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum. It would be impossible to visit them all on a single visit!

My only explanation for so many museums is that it must be a popular destination for school excursions.

While I don’t advise visiting them all, visit at least one or two to learn more about the history of the city, Malaysia and Muslim culture in general. The air-conditioned interiors are also usually a welcome reprieve from the tropical heat.

My top pick is the Stadthuys, with its exhibits on regional history. In particular I found the displays on marriage customs to be fascinating.

Other options include the Maritime Museum (inside a ship), Museum of Literature, Malaysia Architecture Museum, Melaka Islamic Museum, People’s Museum and the Sultanate Palace Museum.

Its Cafe Culture

While the hawker stalls serving up Malacca’s street food aren’t generally the best places to laze over a meal (the queues mean that it’s generally polite to leave as soon as you’ve finished eating), the city has a delightful cafe culture in Malacca to while away mealtimes and hot afternoons, away from the sun.

There’s great coffee on offer, and many also serve western style food, if you want a break from traditional Malaysian cuisine. 

My number one recommendation is Baboon House, located on Heeren Street, just one street away from Jonker Street. I was so disappointed that I’d just eaten lunch and couldn’t try one of their delicious looking burgers.

Another great choice is the distinctive yellow building of the Geographer Cafe on Jonker Street, also the perfect retreat for a cocktail or cold drink. Alternatively, wander along the Jonker Street side of river in the evening to enjoy river-side beers at your choice of bar.

It’s Easy to Reach

As I already mentioned, Malacca is such an easy city to reach and add to your Malaysian itinerary. It’s just 2 hours from Kuala Lumpur (traffic dependent, of course) on one of the many cheap but comfortable, regular buses.

It’s possible to visit on a day trip , but I’d recommend spending at least a night to try as much of the food options as possible (and having an empty stomach on arrival!)

Additionally, Malacca can also be reached by direct bus from Singapore. The journey takes about 4 hours (including the waits at border control).

If travelling from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, consider stopping at Malacca along the way and experiencing this awesome destination.

Want to explore further afield? Here are a few recommendations for  top things to do in Malaysia .

What would be your favourite thing to do in Malacca ? Let me know in the comments!

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Shandos Cleaver is the founder and blogger-in-chief of Travelnuity, a travel blog focused on dog-friendly travel around the world. She spent 6 months travelling around South East Asia in 2016, including countless visits to Malaysia.

Mark Roberts

Monday 16th of April 2018

Place looks beautiful! Definitely in my list now.

Friday 20th of April 2018

Thanks Mark! Not only is it beautiful but it’s really interesting too. I hope you get to visit one day :)

Friday 13th of April 2018

Malacca was such an unexpected surprise. I did not expected it to be so beautiful; the street at took me 100% by surprise. Definitely would recommend everyone to go, do some research, since it's not a very well known place. Great post!

Sunday 15th of April 2018

Thank you! I absolutely loved Malacca too. It’s surprising that it’s not better known that it actually is

Sunday 18th of February 2018

Malacca looks like a delightful city to visit. The mosque and street art are beautiful and the food look delicious too!

It’s a great place to visit. If you have the chance, I highly recommend it! :)

Saturday 17th of February 2018

Malacca looks so beautiful and so different from all the cities I have visited during my trip to Malaysia. I love how each corner of the city seems to have a different type of architecture and how everything is nicely blended in with the murals. I have had quite a lot of street food in Malaysia so I can imagine how delicious is the one is Malacca too.

It’s very different to the rest of Malaysia, with a clear European influence. And as you say, the street food was delicious, just as the rest of Malaysia :)

Aaahhh! I love Melaka! It’s so vibrant and full of art. The town was so laid back. It’s a perfect weekend getaway if you’re looking for something that is refreshing.

I totally agree! A great getaway from the hustle and bustle of both Kuala Lumpur and Singapore :)

Dive Into Malaysia

21 Best Places To Visit In Melaka

Going on a Melaka trip and want to know all the best places to visit in Melaka? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best attractions in Melaka.

Melaka (also spelt Malacca), is a port city about an hour and a half’s drive south of Kuala Lumpur, and is a great place to visit. It has an interesting history thanks to periods of Malay, Dutch, English and Portuguese rule due to its strategic trade location on the Straits of Melaka.

The best part is that it’s easy to explore and learn more about this past on a holiday in Melaka by visiting all the most interesting things to do in Melaka, Malaysia. So – if you’re looking for the best place in Melaka to explore, read on! 

With a UNESCO heritage listed heart, Melaka is a great place to just wander. Many of the places of interest in Melaka are within walking distance of each other and you can find many of the Melaka best place to visit options this way by just wandering the old area. 

There are also some fun and fascinating Melaka, Malaysia tourist attractions just out of the central area including theme parks and other Melaka place to visit family attractions for people who have more time.

Below, you will find our Melaka travel blog with all the places to visit in Malacca that we loved. It also has everything you need to know about what to do in Melaka as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate Melaka vacation!

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Melaka

Here are the top places to go in Melaka. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe.

Sultanate Palace

This Melaka famous place is located at the foot of St Paul’s Hill, the Sultanate Palace was built in 1985 as a replica of the original wooden palace that once belonged to Sultan Mansur Shah. Sultan Mansur Shah was once the ruler of Melaka between 1456 to 1477.    

Today the palace is home to the Cultural Museum showcasing Malay history and offers tourists a rare insight into what the ancient Malay Kingdom was once like.

In the Cultural Museum, there are over 1300 items from Melaka’s past including photographs, weapons, drawings and musical instruments. This place to visit at Melaka is also surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens.

An interesting fact worth knowing about the Sultanate Palace is that it was built without any nails. Instead, the structure was put together by a series of wooden grooves and slots to hold everything in place.

Entry is RM2 for Adults and RM1 for kids.

Address: Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir

St. Paul’s Church

Located on the top of St Paul’s Hill are the ruins of this interesting place in Melaka that’s well worth a visit – St Paul’s Church. The Church is the oldest church in Malaysia and, in fact, Southeast Asia being built in 1521 by the Portuguese. Originally known as Our Lady of the Hill (Nossa Senhora do Oiteiro), the church was enlarged in 1556 and renamed the Chapel of Mother of God (Madre de Deus).

When the Dutch colonised Melaka, the church was no longer used as a place of worship and today only ruins remain of the church. However, this is still one of the interesting places in Melaka well worth visiting.  

The views from the top of the hill are worth it alone. Here you can see all across Melaka and even right out to the coastline.

In order to reach the church, you will pass various other historical places in Melaka including museums and monuments so be sure to give yourself enough time to explore everything of interest to you.

Entry is free.

Christ Church

Next in our Melaka places to visit list, and located opposite the Stadhuys (see below) on Jalan Gereja (also known as Church Street), Christ Church is an instantly recognisable red brick building which was built by the Dutch in 1753 to celebrate the Dutch occupation.  

Today, Christ Church is one of the most popular tourist places in Melaka and remains the oldest operational Protestant Church in Malaysia.

Inside the Christ Church, you will find 200-year-old handmade pews, decorative fanlights and plaques in honour of the Dutch soldiers and locals.

Christ Church is located near Chinatown across the bridge from Jonker Street and directly opposite the Historical Museum and Ethnographical Museum.

Address: No. 48, Jalan Gereja

A’Famosa Fort/Porta de Santiago

Located on St Paul’s Hill just before you reach the ruins of the St Paul’s Church, you will find the Porta de Santiago (referred to as A’Famosa Fort by locals), which was once used as a fortress in the war and is now a historical monument.  

This monument is perhaps the most famous place in Melaka to visit and the most photographed structure in all of Melaka.

Built in 1511, this fortress was built with long ramparts and four major towers. One of the towers was a four-storey keep while the others were the home of the captain, officer’s quarters and an ammunition storage room. Today, most of the fortress has been destroyed with the exception of a small gatehouse, yet it remains the oldest surviving European structure in all of Asia.

Address: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, Alor Gajah

Menara Taming Sari

If you’re wondering where to go in Melaka for a great bird’s eye view of the town, then head on up to the revolving Menara Taming Sari. With a height of 110 metres, from the top of this tower (the only one to be built in Malaysia) you get 360-degree panoramic views.

This Melaka tourist spot has visitors climb into the glass cabin, and the cabin then starts to revolve getting higher and higher until it reaches its peak. The entire journey lasts around 7 minutes.

This Melaka new attraction is located in Bandar Hilir on Jalan Merdeka and if you’re looking for places to visit in Melaka at night you’ll be pleased to know that opening hours are 10 am to 11 pm daily.

Entry fee is RM 22 for adults and RM 11 for kids.

Address: Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in Melaka and you love history, you won’t want to miss the Stadthuys. This massive, bright terracotta red, riverfront building is a popular tourist spot and one of the attractive places in Melaka to visit. The Stadthuys building dates back to 1650 and was built during the Dutch colonial period.  

The building is modelled on the town hall in Hoorn in the Netherlands and is believed to be the oldest surviving Dutch building in the East.

Stadthuys was once the local town hall and residence of the governor, although since 1982 it has been home to the History and Ethnography Museum. The museum showcases Melakan culture as well as its history from the Malay Sultanate, Portuguese, Dutch and British occupations.

Entry costs RM10 for adults and RM4 for kids.

Address: Jalan Gereja Bandar Hilir

Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

The Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum is a collection of three restored houses arranged to look like a typical 19th century Baba-Nyonya residence. Baba Nyonya was the name given to the affluent Chinese-Malays that once lived in Melaka.

The Baba Nyonya purchased dutch townhouses and renovated them into mini palaces. It was not uncommon for these homes to be decked out with Dutch-influenced fixtures such as hand-painted tiles, elaborately carved teakwood and Victorian lamps.  

For tourists interested in a glimpse into what these Baba Nyonya homes were like, then the museum is one of the must visit places in Melaka .

Entry fee is RM15 per adult and RM10 per child.

Address: 48-50, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock

Click here to buy discounted half day tour tickets now.

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the oldest operating Chinese temple in Malaysia, and another contender for the Melaka best place to visit prize. Built in the 17th century, today it remains one of the most important places of worship for the Buddhist Chinese community in Melaka.

While the temple is dedicated to Kuan Yin, the goddess of mercy, however, it remains a multifaith temple with Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian elements.

Located near the Hindu temple Sri Pogyatha Vinoyagar in Jonker Street, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is open daily and is one of the popular tourist attraction places in Melaka to visit.

Address: 25, Jalan Tokong, Kampung Dua

Masjid Kampung Kling

Masjid Kampung Kling is a mosque in Melaka which was originally built by Indian Muslin traders in 1748. The mosque was then rebuilt in 1872 with a combination of styles which remains much the same today.  

You can see Hindu influences with the multi-tiered Meru roof, Sumatra influences in the Moorish watchtower minaret and English and Dutch influences with the tiles used inside.

Given Masjid Kampung Kling’s close proximity to Cheng Hoon Teng Temple and the Hindu Temple Sri Poyatha Venayagar Moorthi, this Melaka destination is known as “Harmony St” and is must add to your Melaka sightseeing l ist, especially if you’re interested in Melaka attraction places that represent the diverse nature of Malaysia and Melaka. 

Tourists of all faiths are welcome to visit, however, please ensure to address appropriately.

Address: 75200 Malacca

Sri Poyatha Venayagar Moorthi Temple

Another religious sightseeing option on this Melaka interesting places list is the Sri Poyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple.

Opened in 1781, Sri Poyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple was one of the first Hindu temples built in Malaysia and remains one of the oldest operating Hindu temples in Southeast Asia. Whilst many say the temple is not as grand as the Masjid Kampung Klings, the temple does feature lovely, colourful stone-carved statues of animals and Hindu deities.

The temple is located in Harmony Street close to the Masjid Kampung Kling and Cheng Hoon Teng Temple and is one of the popular things to see in Melaka.

Visitors are welcome to visit the temple during their Melaka holiday daily.

Address: Jalan Tukang Emas

Jonker Street

Read any Melaka trip blog and no doubt they will say that the best place at Melaka is Jonker Street. It’s definitely one of the best known Melaka tourist place / hotspot for visitors.

Located in the centre of Chinatown, Jonker Street is certainly the place to be for street food, shopping and nightlife.

Probably the best thing about Jonker Street are the night markets which are on Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday nights. At the night markets, you can pretty much buy anything and everything such as great souvenirs and handicrafts as well as the best street food, restaurants and bars.

So if you’re looking for things to do in Melaka at night , be sure to head on down to the Jonker Street night markets and enjoy one of the Melaka best places to visit.

Address: Jalan Hang Jebat

Maritime Museum & Naval Museum

If you love boats, you won’t want to miss this place to go in Melaka. Located on Quayside Road you will find a staggering 34 metre high, 36 metre long and 8 metre wide ship. This ship is a replica of the Flor de la Mar, a Portuguese ship which sank off the coast of Melaka. As the story goes; when it sank it had the loot the Portuguese had stolen from Melaka city onboard.

The ship now contains the Maritime museum which is divided into various eras including the Melaka Sultanate, Portuguese as well as the Dutch and Britsh rule.  

On display, you will find various artefacts and documents from these administration eras. Other items on display include local vessels and nautical devices as well as a collection of porcelain, silk, textile and spices that were brought in by traders from Arab, India and China.

Just across the road from the Maritime Museum is the Naval Museum where there are a series of uniforms, boats and helicopters on display.

The Maritime Museum & Naval Museum is open daily and is one of the popular activities in Melaka for all those with an interest in maritime history.

Costs RM3 per entry for adult and RM1 for kids.

The Shore Sky Tower

For a great view across the entire city of Melaka and another fun Malacca place to visit, be sure to go the 43rd floor of the Shore Sky Tower – the tallest man-made structure in the city. From here you have 360-degree panoramic views up to 50 kilometres in each direction.

To ensure you get the perfect view, the fencing is made from glass so there is absolutely nothing obstructing your views. There are also a range of telescopes available for a closer look. If you dare, be sure to walk out over the glass floor section which feels like you are floating above the city! Plus this is definitely a Malacca famous place to experience. 

The Shore Sky Tower is open daily until 10.30 pm Sunday to Thursday and 11.30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

A visit to the top of the Shore Sky Tower is one of the best things to do in Melaka for a view of the entire city and definitely a highlight of this Melaka attractions list.

Entry costs RM25 for adult and RM18 for kids 3 to 12.

Address: Level 42, Tower 1, The Shore Melaka, 193 Pinggiran @ Sungai Melaka

Click here to buy discounted tickets now.

Also known as Chinese Hill, Bukit Cina is the largest and oldest Chinese graveyards outside of China. Dating back to the 15th century, here there are over 12,500 graves mostly of early Chinese settlers to Melaka.

These days, Bukit China is primarily used as a recreational park where many people like to stroll among the pretty walking trails. If you reach the very top you will be rewarded with panoramic views across the city.

If you do visit Bukit Cina, some interesting things to see are the Chinese World War II memorial as well as temples and wells built by Sultan Mansur Shah.

Melaka River

Another of the famous places in Melaka and spanning a total distance of around 10 kilometres, the Melaka River was once considered the “Venice of the East” as it was one of the main ports of entry for traders from Europe and Asia during the late 16th century.

Today, a Melaka River cruise is a great way to see the popular sites of Melaka. During a leisurely cruise, you can see numerous colonial buildings, old shophouses, local settlements, colourful street art and historical bridges.

A cruise along the Melaka River is a must for all those visiting the city, and you’ll see many of the Melaka interesting place to visit options along the way from the water.

Entry costs RM10 for locals, RM15 for foreigner adults and RM5 for kids below 12.

Address: Jalan Tun Sri Lanang, Pengkalan Rama Pantai

Taman Mini Malaysia & ASEAN

Located in Ayer Keroh, the Taman Mini Malaysia & ASEAN is a Melaka must visit for anyone wanting to learn more about the culture of the various Malay states. Here you will find 13 replicas of traditional homes for visitors to explore (one for each of the Malay states).  

These wooden houses are fully furnished containing fixtures and works of art as well as life-like wax figures dressed in traditional clothing so visitors get an understanding of the traditional culture from each of the Malaysian states.

Other activities at the park include traditional games, cultural dance, cooking and coconut shredding demonstrations, costume rentals, batik painting and more.  

Taman Mini Malaysia & ASEAN is open daily.

Entry for adult is RM12, RM6 for kids and RM10 for students.

Address: Leboh Ayer Keroh

This Melaka place is great if you’re an animal lover and wondering what to see in Melaka , then a visit to the Melaka Zoo is a must. Located in Ayer Keroh, Melaka Zoo is the second largest zoo in Malaysia (the National Zoo of Malaysia being the biggest).  

Spread out over 54 acres, the zoo is home to over 1200 animals from 215 different species including birds, tigers, elephants, zebras, orang-utans, panthers, deers, rhinoceros, reptiles and many more.

Throughout the day there are zookeeper talks, bird shows, elephant feeding and the popular night safari. During the night safari, visitors are driven around by tram where they can see the nocturnal animals. It is a highlight for many tourists visiting the zoo.

The Melaka Zoo is open daily with the night safari taking place only on Friday and Saturday evenings between 8 pm and 11 pm.

Address: Lebuh Ayer Keroh, Hang Tuah Jaya, Ayer Keroh

Melaka Crocodile Farm

Also known as Taman Buaya Melaka, Melaka Crocodile Farm is located in Ayer Keroh and is home to over 100 species of crocodiles. The crocodiles are housed in man-made swamp-like habitats and, as well as observing them from their enclosures, visitors can learn more about the crocodiles via live shows and feeding demonstrations.

As well as seeing crocodiles, the park also has numerous other non-crocodile attractions such as Malaysia in Miniature (showcasing 14 famous Kuala Lumpur attractions in miniature), Aviary Bird Park, Reptile House (see Iguanas and cobras), petting zoo, magic show and Water Recreation Park. The Water Park is a must on a hot day – here you will find mushroom-shaped water fountains, man-made waterfalls, a swimming pool and waterslides.  

The Melaka Crocodile Farm is open daily.

Entry costs: RM10 (Crocodile Park & Water Recreation) and RM5 (Crocodile Park) for adults; RM 6 (Crocodile Park & Water Recreation) and RM3 (Crocodile Park) for kids

Address: Pusat Pelancongan Ayer Keroh

A’Famosa Water World

If you’re still wondering about Melaka where to go with kids or for a fun family day out, A’Famosa is the largest water theme park in all of Malaysia and is the perfect place to visit on a hot day. Though it’s not one of the classic Malacca tourist attractions, it is great for cooling down for a few hours and relaxing. 

Spread across 1300 acres, the park features 11 rides and attractions including numerous waterslides (including the Big Ice Cream which is the tallest and longest waterslide in Southeast Asia), rapids, a wave pool and a multi-level interactive water play area for the kids. This is definitely one of the best places in Melaka for families with kids who love to swim. 

Right by the water park, you can also visit the other A’Famosa parks – Safari Wonderland and Old West Cowboy Town. At Safari Wonderland you can see a range of animals including elephants, camels, monkeys, orangutans and reptiles.

At Old West Cowboy Town, you can see a range of shows featuring cowboys and Indians as well as stunt shows or visit the funfair.

A’Famosa Water World is open daily except Tuesdays. If you plan on visiting all the parks, it’s best to purchase a combined ticket.

Address: Jalan Kemus / Sempang Ampat, Simpang Ampat, Alor Gajah

Melaka Wonderland Theme Park

Located in Ayer Keroh, Melaka Wonderland Theme Park features 11 awesome water attractions that the entire family will love. Attractions include waterslides, a wave pool and a multi-level active water play area for the kids which includes mini waterslides and interactive water activities.

Melaka Wonderland Theme Park is open daily.

Address: Lot PT17178, Lebuh Ayer Keroh, Hang Tuah Jaya, 75450 Ayer Keroh

Melaka Bird Park

This place to visit in Malacca is built across 1.8 hectares at the Botanical Gardens in Ayer Keroh, the Melaka Bird Park is the largest bird park in Asia. Here you will find almost 700 species of Malaysian birds as well as birds from South America, Asia, Australia and Asia.

Visitors will love wandering through the massive aviary where birds fly freely. To get a closer view of the birds, guests are invited to walk along the canopy walk. The canopy walk is 12 metres high and 108 metres in length and is accessible for everyone via stairs or an elevator.

Entry for adults is RM15 on weekdays and RM20 on weekends while it’s RM10 on weekdays and RM15 on weekends for kids ages 4 to 12.

Address: Taman Botanikal, Ayer Keroh

Did you find the best place in Malacca for you? As you can see, there are too many Malacca places to visit in just one day, so in the next section of this guide to places in Malacca, you can find all of my suggestions for where to stay in Malacca too.

Melaka day trip and Melaka Itinerary

If you are just visiting Melaka for a day or 2 nights, 1 day, you can find our Melaka trip itinerary by clicking here . This also works for a Melaka one day trip.

Top Things To Do In Melaka Tourist Map

Best Accommodation in Melaka

Most tourists coming to Melaka choose to stay in the UNESCO section of the city which is where you will the majority of the tourist attractions, and a great area to stay in when you visit Malacca.  

Any accommodation within walking distance to Jonker Street is a great spot. However, there are a number of great attractions in Ayer Keroh also which may warrant staying a few days in that location also.

Below I have listed some great accommodation to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for budget hotels in Melaka, mid-range accommodation Malacca has or a luxury hotel in Melaka for a relaxing get away. 

Casa Del Rio Melaka Review

Located right by the river only 300 metres from Jonker Street is the stunning 5-star luxury boutique hotel Casa del Rio Melaka Hotel.

The Casa Del Rio offers a range of different room types.  Hotel rooms accommodate up to 5 people, while for even larger groups there are two-bedroom suites which can accommodate up to 6 people.  

All rooms include a TV, wifi, tea and coffee making facilities, air conditioning and a desk. Suites also include separate living and dining areas with some suites even including an outdoor spa.

The hotel features first-class facilities including the stunning infinity swimming pool with views across the Melaka River as well as three restaurants, a gym, a rooftop garden and day spa.

Click here for the latest prices.

Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka Review

Located along the Melaka River just a 10-minute walk from Jonker Street is the 5-star Swiss-Garden Hotel which offers guests modern style accommodation.

Rooms at the Swiss-Garden Hotel accommodate up to two guests and include amenities such as a TV, air conditioning, wi-fi, tea and coffee making facilities, private balcony and seating area.  

For those who prefer more space, there are also suites which include separate dining and living areas. Some hotel rooms and suites also include panoramic views of the ocean and the Melaka River.

The Swiss-Garden Hotel includes a range of facilities including two Olympic size swimming pools, a tennis court and the Sky Garden rooftop bar. The hotel also has direct access to the Shore Shopping Mall and the Shore Oceanarium Complex.

T Hotel Melaka Review

Located in Melaka City, just 15 minutes walk from Jonker Street, the T Hotel is a terrific option for travellers after a good clean room at a low price.

Whether you are a group of two or family, the T Hotel has a suitable room for you in either their double, triple or family suites.  

Double rooms accommodate two guests in either one large double bed or two singles, while triple rooms come with one large double bed and one single bed. Family suites come with two double beds.

All guest rooms at the T Hotel come with air conditioning, wifi, a TV, tea and coffee facilities and a seating area.

For travellers looking for good clean budget accommodation, you really can’t go past the T Hotel.

You can find more options for accommodation in our guide to the best hotels in Melaka here.

Find our full guide to the best hotels in Melaka here.

Getting To Melaka

Melaka is close to Kuala Lumpur which makes it easy to get here from all over peninsular Malaysia. It’s also easy to get here from KL Airport and you can even take a taxi right from departures.

By clicking below, you can find our detailed guides for how to get to Melaka from:

• Kuala Lumpur

A very easy way to get to Melaka is to take a private taxi from anywhere in peninsula Malaysia. We can book this for you!

Click here for more information and to see the latest prices.

Final Words

As you can see there is no shortage of things to do and places to visit in Melaka – hopefully you’ve found lots of ideas and inspiration in this post!

Whether you’re interested in historical monuments, traditional temples or shopping there is something for everyone in Melaka. It’s also an ideal destination for families with loads of great family-friendly attractions.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

Read more Melaka guides here .

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

The Ultimate Guide to Malacca City

Malacca City, also known as Melaka, is a coastal area of southwestern Malaysia with a rich and unique history. There are so many diverse influences that makes it an interesting and one-of-a-kind place to visit.

Founded in the late 1300s by the Sumatran prince Parameswara, quickly established itself as an Islamic sultanate. Although the city is relatively small, the Strait of Malacca became a significant trade route between Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

The land was conquered by the Portuguese in 1511 and remained a Portuguese colony until 1641. For the next 180 years, the Dutch ruled with sporadic interference from the British.

The city continued to be under foreign control, becoming a British territory in 1826. It was also briefly occupied by Japan during World War II. Malacca remained under British rule until the formation of modern-day Malaysia in 1963.

You’ll have a lot to see and learn about when you visit this part of the world. After reading our ultimate guide to Malacca City, you’ll want to find out for yourself why the entire capital is listed as a World Heritage Site!

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Table of Contents

How to get to Malacca City

Malacca City is about 150 kilometres south of the centre of Kuala Lumpur. There are regular public transport options to take you between the two cities in a few hours.

The most common way is to take a non-stop KKKL Express bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan. You can get to this bus terminal by taking the train from KL Sentral to Bandar Tasik Selatan, then walking across the road. The bus will drop you off at Melaka Sentral, where you can then take a taxi to your accommodation.

There is also a small airport that operates flights to and from Penang, as well as Pekanbaru, Indonesia. Since it is served by so few destinations and airlines, taking the bus from Kuala Lumpur is usually the most convenient route to Malacca City.

What to expect in Malacca City

The official language is Malaysian, which is mutually intelligible with Indonesian. That being said, Malaccan Malay has its own distinct pronunciation. Since the area was once under British rule and is heavily reliant on tourism, English is spoken by most, particularly within business. You might also hear many minority languages, including Chinese, Tamil, and Portuguese Creole.

Ringgit is the currency used in Malacca and the rest of Malaysia, and you’ll see it written as both RM and MYR. You’ll easily be able to tell all of the bank notes apart as they are all different colours with clearly printed numbers. Tipping here is not common at all and won’t be expected.

Due to its diverse history, there are many religions practised here. While almost 70% of the local population are Muslim, 25% are Buddhist and many others follow Hindu and Christian faiths.

How to get around Malacca City

The best way to get around Malacca City is by walking. Many attractions are located within one central area, meaning you don’t need to rely on transport much as a tourist.

However, if you’ve walked enough, hop on a colourful trishaw to take you home. These unique, three-wheeled forms of transportation are always vibrantly decorated with flowers, souvenirs, and even pop culture references. Many have illuminating lights to make your evening ride fun and memorable!

For areas further out, you can book a taxi using Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber).

The best time to visit Malacca City

Like many other Southeast Asian cities, Malacca City has stable and reliable weather year-round. The daytime is generally 30 to 35°C with very high humidity.

Rainfall occurs throughout the year, although May and June are perhaps the driest months. Climate-wise, there’s no bad time to visit!

Since it’s such a food destination, however, you may want to avoid visiting during Ramadan. The Muslim population in Malaysia fasts for an entire month around May and June.

While there will still be food available, you may feel a little guilty around others that are refraining from eating!

Things to do in Malacca City

Wander jonker street.

You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities and things to do. Jonker Street is one of the most popular areas for both locals and tourists. It’s a fantastic shopping district, with many antique and souvenir shops.

One of the best things to do in Malacca at night is head to Jonker Street for the famous evening market. Each Friday, Saturday and Sunday until midnight, the street is closed and filled with friendly vendors.

Even if you don’t want to spend too much on shopping, you’re sure to enjoy being amongst the lively atmosphere. There are always performers to watch while eating some mouth-watering street food.

A lot of the main attractions are also located on and around Jonker Street, so it’s the perfect area to begin exploring.

Relax at Melaka Botanical Garden

Located in the suburb of Ayer Keroh is the luscious 359-hectare botanic garden. Here you can explore the Forestry Museum, look for some of the monkeys hanging around, or enjoy the afternoon in one of the many beautiful picnic spots.

It’s also a popular spot for locals to get some outdoor exercise with their families. If you’re looking for free things to do in Malacca, this is one of the most relaxing options!

Take a Cooking Class

The perfect activity to encapsulate the heart and soul, is a cooking class. Cat, a local Malaccan, invites tourists into her home to learn how to cook Peranakan or Malay dishes.

This hands-on experience is great for both budding chefs and those who simply want to prepare their own authentic, home-cooked lunch.

Explore the Sand Dunes

Klebang Beach is home to gorgeous white sand dunes that many tourists don’t even know about. A 15 to 20-minute car ride from Jonker Street will take you to this picturesque location (known as Padang Pasir Klebang in Malaysian).

From the carpark, the dunes are a further 20-minute walk away. It’s the ultimate place for a photo shoot or to watch the sun go down. There are nearby food vendors too, so you can stay exploring as long as you like without getting hungry.

Places to visit in Malacca City

Melaka straits mosque.

Although this mosque is one of the newest attractions in the city, it has become an iconic landmark. It was constructed in 2006 on a man-made island and appears as though it’s floating on the sea.

It is a particularly beautiful place to watch the sunset, and you should definitely stay to see the entire building lit up at night.

Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

Learn about the history of the ethnic Chinese-Malays known as Peranakan at one of the best Malacca attractions.

In Malaysia, Baba refers to the male descendants, while the women are called Nyonya. The museum is full of intricately carved woodwork and furniture, as well as gorgeous silk embroidery.

Malacca City doesn’t have too many high-rise buildings, so Shore Sky is the place to go for stunning views .

This sky tower has a large observation deck, which is 163 metres high. From the 43rd floor, you can see 360-degree views of the city, as well as the Strait of Malacca and Besar Island.

Dutch Square

Malacca is perhaps best known for the vibrant terracotta-red structures that make up the Dutch Square.

Interestingly, the buildings were originally white until 1911 when the British repainted them their new colour.

The Stadthuys, which translates to city hall, is a historical building that sits at the heart of the area. Construction was completed in 1650, along with the nearby red clock tower.

The Christ Church sits opposite the Stadthuys, and while remarkably similar-looking, it was built much later between 1741 to 1753.

The unique Anglican church is the oldest in Malaysia and holds three Sunday services in three different languages (English, Mandarin and Malay).

Malacca Batik House

Those interested in textiles will adore visiting here. Batik is a traditional Indonesian technique that’s also popular in Malaysia and Singapore.

The house is both a shopping area and a workshop, where you can see the unique fabric dyeing process in action.

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Since we’ve mentioned a mosque and a church already, why not add one of Malaysia’s most famous temples to the list?

This Chinese temple practices Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, and follows feng shui principles. It’s located near Jalan Tukang Emas, colloquially known as Harmony Street, and faces the Malacca River.

What to eat in Malacca City

There are countless food options that are unique to the area. Here are a few delicious dishes and treats you should definitely look out for.

Satay celup: This local speciality is a great dish for sharing. Think of fondue, but with skewered meats and vegetables dipped into thick, spicy peanut sauce.

Durian cendol: You’ll find durian everywhere in Southeast Asia, but Malaccans seem to adore it. The fruit is blended with the classic Malaysian dessert, cendol, which is a green jelly made with rice flour. It’s the perfect treat in the hot weather!

Chicken rice balls: A favourite that you’re sure to find everywhere. There are a few different stories about the origin of their rounded shape, and many restaurants serve them up in their own signature styles.

You also must try some Nyonya dishes. This cuisine is named after the female cooks of Peranakan descendants.

You’ll find a ton of great, authentic Nyonya restaurants in Malacca, like Kocik Kitchen and Seri Nyonya Peranakan Restaurant. Try some ayam pongteh , a chicken and potato stew, or a cincalok shrimp omelette.

Where to stay in Malacca City

Although Malacca City may be heritage-listed, there are many modern accommodation options to choose from. Here are two recommendations that merge both contemporary and traditional design.

Mori Residence : The boutique Mori Residence has five beautiful rooms that sit above a Chinese tea house. The quiet atmosphere is ideal if you’re after a relaxing getaway. It is the perfect place to stay if you are vegan or vegetarian, as all the dishes at their restaurant are meat-free.

That being said, anyone can enjoy a peaceful experience here. It’s only a three-minute walk to Jonker Street and surrounded by inviting cafes and quaint shops.

Courtyard @ Heeren Boutique Hotel : Both luxurious and homely, Courtyard @ Heeren consists of 15 rooms and suites that incorporate various traditional design elements.

Modern facilities are combined with Peranakan style to create a remarkably unique and welcoming atmosphere.

The hotel is on the main street of Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock and next to many great museums.

Tours to do in Malacca City

There are many guided tours you can take to make your trip even more memorable and informative.

Eight-hour guided historical tours are perfect for first-time visitors who want the full cultural experience.

Visit all the top tourist attractions, have your lunch taken care of, and get to know the multicultural heritage of Malacca City. If you’re coming from Kuala Lumpur, you can have your transfers to and from Malacca organised for you.

If you want to learn fascinating stories while sticking to a budget, join the Melaka Free Walking Tour. Learn about how the city was founded and then conquered by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British.

Discover more about the Chinese immigrants who settled in Malacca and hear about the city’s independence from Britain.

Day trips from Malacca City

While still technically located in the state of Malacca, you might like to take a day trip out to Tanjung Bidara Beach. It’s a 45-minute car trip and is a beautiful spot to unwind once you’re done exploring the attractions in the main city.

The beach itself is pristine and untouched, meaning you’ll be able to find a private swimming spot to enjoy by yourself or with your travel buddy.

As you I’m sure you’ve now realised, Malacca City is a destination like no other. If you’re looking for a city that’ll provide both a fun and educational experience, look no further than Malacca.

Recommend budget tours in Malacca City

• Learn to Cook Authentic Peranakan and Malay Cuisine in a Local’s Home in Malacca
• Taming Sari Tower Malacca Admission Ticket
• Malacca Duck Tours Admission Tickets
• Historical Melaka
• Melaka Full Day Tour Including 4 Admission Tickets With Lunch
• Melaka Zoo & Bird Park Tour with Lunch
• Full Day A’Famosa Theme Park Experience
• Guided Historical City Of Malacca Day Tour With Lunch
• The Shore Sky Tower Malacca Entrance Tickets

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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The Best Melaka (Malacca) Itinerary for a 1 or 2 Day Trip

• October 7, 2023
• One Comment

If you’re planning a one or two day trip to Melaka (Malacca) in Malaysia this guide is just for you. We recently spent a few days in the charming coastal city, so we can share what we got up to and what we consider to be the best Melaka Itinerary for one or two days. We cover all the top things to do in Melaka, where to eat and sleep, as well as everything you need to know to help plan your trip.

Whenever I mention Melaka, also known as  Malacca , I’m often met with blank or confused faces. The historic city doesn’t find it’s way onto most Malaysia itineraries – which is a pity, as it has a lot to offer.  While Melaka might not be as exciting as Kuala Lumpur or as adventurous as Borneo, the city provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of Malaysia. And if you’re looking to explore somewhere a little bit unique, you should, at the very least, consider a day trip to Melaka which is easy to do from Kuala Lumpur or even Singapore.

To sum up the city in a nutshell, Malacca is a melting pot of cultures and a stunning UNESCO Heritage Site. Having once been colonised by the Dutch, British, and Portuguese, you will find said influences in the food, architecture, and even the language. It also has a large Chinese and Indian community, whose influence again are prevalent throughout the city. Gorgeous architecture and a serene river add to its charm, and I promise you won’t regret giving this whimsical little city a chance.

Anyway, I could spend all day bigging up Melaka but let’s get to it. Here’s our tried and tested Malacca Itinerary, ideal for a 1 or 2 day trip.

Heading to Malaysia soon? Check out our  2 Week Malaysia Itinerary  and  2 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary  for further travel inspiration.

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How Long to Stay in Malacca

While Melaka is a huge city, the tourist centre is actually pretty small. Other than a few exceptions, the tourist centre concentrates most of the cities major landmarks, making it easy to navigate on foot and manageable in a day. If you wanted to explore places a little further afield such as the Melaka Straits Mosque, for example, I’d recommend spending at least 2 days here.  

Below I’ve laid out a suggested Malacca Itinerary for 2 days; but if you only have the day, you can follow day 1 of the itinerary and ignore day 2.

Where to Stay in Malacca 

There is no shortage of wonderful places to stay in Melaka, regardless of your budget. On one end of the spectrum, you’ll find cute hostels and charming homestays, on the other boutique hotels and luxury resorts.  

The best area to stay in would be near the river close to Jonker Street. This way, you’ll be close to most of the top things to do in Malacca, which is ideal if you’re only staying for a day or two. 

I’ve made some hotel suggestions below, or you can click the link for a list of all hostels, guesthouses, and hotels in the city.

Check rates and availability for all Melaka accommodation here.

Hostel $ – Yote 28 

Yote 28 is where we stayed during our time in Malacca, and it’s one of the best hostel experiences we had in Malaysia. The hostel is modern and clean with excellent facilities, and it’s within walking distance of Jonker Street and other famous landmarks. It is a tad more expensive than most other hostels in the city, but in my opinion, it’s worth every penny.

Check rates and availability for Yote 28 here.

Budget $ – Lavender @ Guesthouse

Hostels aren’t for everybody, so if you’re travelling as a couple or prefer a private room, Lavender Guesthouse comes highly recommended. Again, this place in an ideal location to explore the city, and while basic, the rooms are clean and comfortable, equipped with everything you need for an enjoyable stay. Throw in the optional breakfast for £1, and you’re onto an absolute winner.

Check rates and availability for Lavender @ Guesthouse here.

Mid-Range $$ – Heeren Straits Hotel

If you have a few extra pennies to spend, I can recommend Heeren Straits Hotel which provides insane value for money in one of the best areas of Melaka. Tastefully restored from a Peranakan culture townhouse, you can feel the history throughout this boutique hotel, which combines mid-century architecture with contemporary decor. Opt for a superior room for the best experience and enjoy the onsite terrace as well as a children’s play area.

Check rates and availability for Heeren Straits Hotel here.

Luxury $$$ – Casa Del Rio Melaka

If you are going to treat yourself in Melaka, you can expect nothing less than the celebrity treatment at Casa Del Rio. Set alongside the river, just a 2-minute walk from Jonker Street, this 5* hotel provides astonishing views as well as convenience and luxury in the heart of the city. Alongside spacious and modern rooms, you can enjoy a realm of facilities including an infinity pool and fitness centre.

Check rates availability for Casa Del Rio Melaka here.

Top 10 Things to do in Melaka

I go into a quite a lot of detail in this comprehensive Melaka Itinerary. So if you’re short for time, here’s an overview of the top 10 things to see and do in Melaka.

• Sample all the street food at the Jonker Street weekend market.
• Learn about Malaysian history at one of the many museums.
• Take a ride to remember on a fantasy-themed tricycle. 
• Admire the pink facade of the Christ Church.
• Take a serene river cruise on the Malacca River.
• Check out the ruins of St Pauls Church
• Meander the streets on the hunt for street art and colonial architecture.
• Visit The Huskitory and play with Siberian Huskies.
• Marvel the awe-inspiring Melaka Straits Mosque.
• Visit the Cheng Hoon Buddhist Temple.

The Best Melaka Itinerary

OK, let’s jump into the itinerary. The goal here is to be as strategic as possible with your time, but I don’t want you to get too tired. You are on holiday, after all.  

If you are spending just one day in Malacca, I suggest sticking to the tourist centre and covering the museums and landmarks in that area. But if you have 2 days in Melaka, we can branch out a little bit and see some of the attractions on the outskirts of the city.

Remember, this is a two-day itinerary. If you only have the day in Melaka, I suggest following Day 1 of the itinerary. You can ignore Day 2 or save it for another time.

Melaka Itinerary Day 1

Discover the tourist centre & significant landmarks.

• Windmill Dutch Square 
• Cheng Hoon Temple
• St Pauls Church 
• River Walks & Cruises

Windmill Dutch Square

Your first stop on this Melaka itinerary is Windmill Dutch Square. The square is arguably the most famous spot in the city, thanks to its terracotta colonial architecture which is a prime spot for photography. You’ll find many significant attractions surrounding the square, including Stadthuys. Historically, Stadthuys served as the official residence of the Dutch governors. Today, it houses a collection of museums.

We didn’t go inside Stadthuys. You’ll soon realise you have to be picky when it comes to the museums you visit in Melaka as there are so many. For us, the view from outside was enough. It’s not often you see such architecture in this part of the world, and it’s rather striking. It reminded me a little of the Franciscan Church in Ljubljana. Other significant structures around the square include the unmistakeable Christ Church and the Tang Beng Swee Clocktower.  

St Pauls Church

St Pauls Church, or should I say  the ruins  of St Pauls Church is one of the most interesting places to visit in Malacca. The church was built in 1521 by a Portuguese Noblemen, who believed he owed the Virgin Mary his life after surviving a storm at sea. That’s pretty cool as it is, but it’s also the oldest church in Malaysia and South Asia.    

As I say, the church is in ruins today, but this only adds to its appeal. Admittedly I have a soft spot for wrecks and remains and anything eerie, but I’m confident you will enjoy it just as much as I did. It won’t cost you anything to visit the church remains other than a little of your energy. Set at the top of a hill, you have to climb some pretty steep steps to get to it.  

Street Art Hunting

One thing that surprised me about Melaka was the realm of street art that adorns several of the buildings. Of course, Georgetown in Penang is incredibly famous for its murals, but it seems Malacca is equally vibrant. In fact, hunting for street art turned out to be one of our favourite things to do.

You’ll find a lot of the street art down alongside the river, which is perfect as you can k!ll two birds with one stone. A stroll along the river banks is a gorgeous way to while away the hours and will help you to work up an appetite for lunch. As you walk, look out for the famous street murals such as the vibrant Kiehls wall pictured below. But don’t be afraid to take a detour down the backstreets, as much of the street art is hidden. Or you can check out this  Melaka Street Art Guide  to help with your quest.

Next up, it’s one of our favourite times of the day – the others being breakfast and dinner, of course. Mealtimes are particularly exciting in Melaka, however, as there is so much incredible food on offer. The hardest part is deciding what to have.

Your best bet is to find somewhere on or around Jonker Street, as it’s nearby our next stop of the day. Thankfully this area concentrates the majority of the best food spots as well, so it’s a win-win.  

My first suggestion would be to check out one of the quirky cafes in the area. The cafe culture has grown immensely in this part of the city, and it’s a quintessential Melaka experience. One of our favourites is Kaya-Kaya Cafe, with its industrial decor and delicious food & coffee. But there are many others,  as listed in this guide .

Don’t fancy a cafe, not a problem. Why not try the celebrated Malaccan dish of chicken rice balls at Kedai Kopi Chung Wah? Or sample traditional Nyonya cuisine at Nancy’s Kitchen.

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

After lunch, you can take a gentle stroll along Jonker Street, checking out the cute boutique stores along the way. The stores in this area seem geared mainly towards tourists, and the prices reflect this. But if you’re looking to pick up some local souvenirs, this is the place to go. We aren’t big shoppers ourselves, but according to this  Malacca shopping guide , there’s plenty of opportunities around the city.

Not far from Jonker Street is the Cheng Hoon Teng Buddhist Temple. The temple is one of the most notable landmarks in the city and a worthy addition to your Melaka itinerary. Like many other Buddhist temples we’ve visited, the ornate details and vibrant design are a sight to behold.  

The temple feels like a mini-museum for Chinese culture and arts, and incense, colourful carvings & shrines give it a profoundly religious vibe. What’s even more impressive, however, is that it’s believed to be the oldest Chinese Temple in Malaysia.  

Visit a Museum 

We don’t consider ourselves museum buffs, but if it means we’re going to learn about the local history, why not. As I said earlier, you’ll have to be selective about the museums you visit in Malacca on a day trip, as there are several. Some such as the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum and Villa Sentosa are really popular, but there are some hidden gems as well. 

Keen to learn more about the Peranakan culture in Malacca, we explored the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum. The Peranakans came from China and settled in Malaysia, where the combination of the two cultures resulted in a new and unique way of life. Admittedly, it isn’t the most exciting museum to visit, but for less than $6, we had a guided tour which provided an interesting insight into Peranakan history. 

Another museum worth stopping by is the Sultanate Palace, which is an exact model of a palace belonging to the ruler of Malacca during the early 1400s. Inside is another cultural museum, and at less than $1, it’s incredibly cheap to visit. We also enjoyed the Maritime Museum set inside a replica of a Portuguese sailing ship. If you have the time, you can check out this list of other  museums worth visiting in Melaka . 

River Boat Cruise

One of the best ways to take in the sights of this picturesque city is to enjoy a peaceful cruise along the river. The river is the focal point of the tourist centre, and on both sides, you can enjoy the multitude of beauty that Malacca has to offer. 

If you time the day right, the best time of day to take a river cruise is just as the sun is going down. The shops and bars alongside the river come to life during this time. And as it gets dark, you’ll get to see all the pretty lights. 

As you sit back and enjoy the ride, look out for the vibrant street art that adorns many of the buildings, as well as popular landmarks such as the Clock Tower and Ghost Bridge.

Jonker Street Night Market

The Jonker Street night market is the number 1 things to do in Melaka. That’s why I strongly recommend you plan your visit for the weekend if possible, as the market is only on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings.  

Slap bang in the middle of the tourist centre, Jonker Street is a fun and energetic spot anyway. But when the night market is on, it really bursts into life. Dozens of market stalls set up shop, selling anything from clothing to accessories, and local souvenirs, and best of all, there’s an amalgamation of street food to enjoy.

We spent hours wandering around the market, sampling a realm of different dishes at unbelievably low prices. Grab an ice-cold Tiger beer to wash it down with, and you’re good to go!

Tricycle Ride

After a long day of exploring, it’s time to rest your weary legs, and I suggest taking a tricycle ride back to your hotel. If you’ve travelled in South East Asia, you’re probably wondering what is so special about this activity, but when you get there, you’ll know exactly what I mean.  

You see, each of the tricycles in Malacca is adorned in some kind of wild and wacky theme.   Hello Kitty  is the most common (Malaysians love Hello Kitty! Check out this Hello Kitty Hotel), but you’ll also see Pokemon, Disney, and other in-your-face designs. They often play jingles and are a fun thing to do in Melaka, especially if you’re travelling with little ones.

Malacca Itinerary Day 2

Explore outside of the tourist centre, bukit china, visit another museum, the huskitory cafe, melaka straits mosque.

If you have a second day to explore Malacca, I suggest starting it at Bukit China.   Bukit  translates to  hill , and it’s called Bukit China because it is home to the largest and oldest Chinese cemetery outside of China. The grounds date back to the 15th century and features a temple, burial ground, and a well. 

To reach the starting point of the trail is around a 20-minute walk from Jonker Street, or you could take a taxi or tricycle. Once you reach the starting point, it’s around a 1.5km incline to the summit, where you can enjoy sweeping views over the city.  

If you don’t mind the early start, we agreed it could be a nice spot to catch the sunrise before breakfast. Otherwise, try to set off before 9 am when it starts to get hot.  

To round off the morning, you could check out another museum such as Villa Sentosa or the Maritime Museum, which are both on the outskirts of the tourist centre. If you missed it earlier, here’s a list of the best  museums worth visiting in Melaka . Our next stop is a cafe, but they don’t serve food, so grab yourself some lunch beforehand! 

Our next stop is often rated the best thing to do in Melaka, and for dog lovers like us, it’s easy to see why. We were beside ourselves when we learnt there was a husky cafe in Malacca. They are our favourite breed of dog, but unfortunately, our travelling lifestyle doesn’t allow for such a commitment just yet. So for now, we have to settle for cuddles with other huskies instead. Like the time we did a Husky Safari in Finland.

At The Huskitory Cafe, you can play, take photos, and spend time with this beautiful and lovable breed. Since our visit, I’ve seen some negative reviews regarding the well-being of the dogs and capabilities of the staff. But when we were there, the huskies seemed happy and healthy, and we saw nothing to cause us concern. Of course, any kind of animal tourism is never entirely perfect, but at least these dogs are cared for. That’s more than you can say for many dogs in Malaysia.

There’s a compulsory entrance fee to the cafe of RM18 which includes a drink, and to avoid disappointment, I would  book in advance . It’s also quite a ride out of the city, so use the  Grab app  to order a taxi. They are super reliable and affordable – much cheaper than local taxis in the city.

Our final stop of the day is the Melaka Straits Mosque. An awe-inspiring structure set on the coast of the Malacca Strait – The stretch of water separating Peninsular Malaysia with the Indonesian island Sumatra – it is by far, one of our favourite spots in the city.

Built on a man-made island just off the coastline, when the water level is high, the mosque appears to be floating on the water. For this reason, it is often referred to as the ‘floating mosque’. With its striking white facade and golden dome, it’s appearance is truly enchanting. The view is even better during sunrise and sunset or at night when the mosque lights up, so try to time your visit wisely.  

The view from outside alone is a wonderful experience, but you can visit inside the mosque for free. Just be sure to check the visiting hours on the day as they often change, and wear appropriate clothing. Legs below the knee and shoulders should be covered, but if there are any issues, the mosque provides the necessary gowns free of charge.

Tips & Advice for this Melaka Itinerary

Here I’ll list some of the travel tips that we accumulated during our stay in Malacca. Hopefully, they will help you have a hassle-free break in the city.

Getting to Melaka

If you’re travelling from within Malaysia, your best bet is to take a bus from Kuala Lumpur. The journey time is just two hours, and it’s super easy to organise. Just book your   ticket in advance with 12 Go Asia here for the best prices, a guaranteed seat, and peace of mind. We booked all of our internal transport in Malaysia with 12 Go, and it made our lives a hell of a lot easier.

It’s also common for visitors to travel to Melaka from Singapore. It’s just a 4-hour bus ride including the overland border crossing, which is pretty straightforward as Malaysia offers a 90-day free visa to most nationalities.  

If you wanted to head to Melaka on a day trip, without the hassle of planning everything yourself, you do have the option to travel with an organised tour group. This Full-Day Trip to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur includes transport to and from your hotel, a guided tour of the most famous historical landmarks, plus a traditional lunch. At less than $45, it’s also excellent value for money.

Getting Around in Melaka

You will spend a lot of time on your feet in Malacca. The tourist centre is rather small and easy to navigate on foot. For the few places further afield, you can take a local taxi or order through the Grab App, which we always found to be the cheapest option.

The Best Time to Visit Malacca

Since Malaysia is close to the equator, it has a tropical climate, sporting hot and humid conditions all year round. With this in mind, the best time to visit is between May to July and December to February when the humidity is lower and days are mostly dry.

Melaka Daily Budget

Below is a breakdown of what your daily Malacca budget might look like:

• Dorm Bed in a Hostel: $5-10
• Budget Private Room: $10-15
• Premium Hotel Room: $50-150
• Street Food: $2-5
• Local Restaurant Food: $7-15
• Taxis: $5-10
• Museums: $2-5

Travel Insurance

Melaka is a very safe place to travel; however, you should still have travel insurance to cover you for the unexpected. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. If the unlikely event that something goes wrong, you’ll want the best cover money can buy.

For this reason, we always recommend World Nomads for travel insurance. They are affordable, offer a variety of packages and add ons, and allow you to make amendments to your policy while travelling. 

If you need further convincing, read our article on  why you need travel insurance . Or get an on-the-spot quote from World Nomads using the form below.

Staying Connected in Melaka

If, like us, you rely on the internet when you travel (let’s face it, who doesn’t anymore), we have the perfect solution.   TravelWifi’s portable pocket wifi  allows us to quickly and securely connect when we need it the most. Click the link for more information on coverage, packages, and the latest offers.

Oh, and  don’t forget a VPN . Using a VPN is very important these days to make sure that all your data is safe and secure. Also, it helps while travelling not only for safety reasons but also it unlocks geo-restricted content such as Netflix and helps to avoid demographic price discrimination while looking for a flight or a hotel.

We use  Surfshark VPN  to keep us safe and secure.   Register here  and use promo code:  ourtasteforlife  for 85% off and 3 extra months free!

Did you enjoy our Malacca (Melaka) Itinerary?

Let us know!  That concludes   Melaka Itinerary .   We hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful city. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, or through our contact us page. Don’t forget to follow us on  Instagram here , where we share further travel advice & inspiration.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission,  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free travel tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

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The Essential 2-day Weekend Melaka Itinerary (Malacca Travel Guide)

February 28, 2023 by Bino 5 Comments

Melaka (Malacca) is one of the most historic destinations in all of Malaysia. With an old town that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Melaka is filled with charming Peranakan shophouses, old churches, unusual-looking mosques and one of the best restored old towns in the country. Tourist attractions aside, Melaka is also known for the food. Chendol, chicken rice balls, Peranakan food and Portuguese cuisines are just some of the things your tastebuds should try while here.

For a practical and efficient weekend trip to Melaka, this itinerary and travel guide aims to tell you how the town should be done within 2 days.

Table of Contents

Day 1 – A’Famosa, Jonker Walk, The Shore Sky Tower & More

If you are taking the very first morning bus from Singapore, you would have arrived in Melaka at around noon. If you are coming from Kuala Lumpur and are taking the early morning bus, you would have arrived at around 10am. After dropping your bags in the hotel, head out to the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum . A reconstruction of an actual sultan’s palace, the magnificent structure now houses a museum showcasing the local Malay culture. A visit here is as much about the photogenic exterior as it is about the interesting museum pieces inside. It’s also recommended to visit this place in the morning when the sun will be shining on the palace museum, making for great photos.

a’famosa

Afterwards, head to A’Famosa or Porta de Santiago. Dating back from 1511, the fort was built by the Portuguese to solidify their hold on Melaka. After the Dutch took over the city, they imprinted the logo of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) which can still be seen there to this day.

st. paul’s church melaka

Afterwards, climb up the series of steps to the hilltop St. Paul’s Church . Another Portuguese construction, the church was turned to a burial site after the Dutch took over. The stones plaques displayed around the walls of the church are actually tombstones erected by the Dutch back in the 1600s.

chicken rice ball in melaka

If you are thinking of where to have lunch around the heritage area of Melaka, I would recommend having chicken rice balls for your first meal in the city. In view of the crisis that gripped the tourism sector in Melaka, many of the chicken rice ball venues in the old town have closed.  A 10 to 15 minute cab ride away is Huang Chang (BB-376, Taman Melaka Baru, Batu Berendam, open daily except Wednesday and Thursday from 8AM to 3PM). This restaurant is refreshingly out of the tourist trail and you’ll find yourself dining with locals rather than those restaurants in Jonker Street that cater primarily to tourists.

christ church melaka

Afternoon is an excellent time to visit Dutch Square , the center of tourist activity in Melaka. Famous for its fiery red Christ Church and Stadhuys , the buildings around the square date back from the 1700s when Melaka was under Dutch influence. Now you might wonder why I did not combine Dutch Square with the other heritage sites prior to lunch. The reason is because the Christ Church and Stadhuys would have been against the sun during the mornings. This makes a huge difference especially during sunny days. You’ll be able to appreciate the vivid redness of the buildings when you visit during the afternoon.

jonker street in melaka

One of my favorite museums in Melaka is the Baba and Nyonya Museum (daily 10AM to 5PM except Monday). Built in 1986, the venue showcases the life and times of the Peranakans, or the Chinese-Malay people across the Straits of Malacca who have their own unique culture and cuisine. Another unique museum to check out in the area is the Jaya Mata Knife Gallery . Swords are a part of the local Malay culture, as seen through the elaborately made keris (local type of daggers). Jaya Mata has a number of sections with well thought out and interactive exhibitions including a section dedicated to Malay daggers. There are a few photo opps as well. 

the melaka river cruise allows one to admire the many wall murals in the city

One of the recommended activities in the city is the Melaka River Cruise . There are merits to doing in the day and the evening. If you do it during the day, the wall art would be more visible while doing the cruise during the evening allows you to appreciate the lights by the riverside. The cruise is priced at MYR 30 for foreigners and MYR 25 for Malaysians.

Probably one of the liveliest night markets I have seen in the entire Malaysia is the Jonker Street Night Market . This is another reason why a weekend trip to Melaka is recommended as the night market is only open from Fridays to Sundays between 6PM and midnight. You’ll get to see a lot of interesting food and souvenirs. While here, don’t miss out on coconut ice cream, chendol and the local popiah. You’ll find elements of Taiwanese night markets here through stalls selling dragon beard candy and mochi while Thai influences are also evident through the many Thai iced tea stalls.

the shore sky tower

Another evening activity you can do in Melaka is to climb up to the observation deck of The Shore Sky Tower . At 163 meters tall, this is the highest building in Melaka and you can catch views as far as 50 km away. The observation deck is open daily from 11AM to 10PM. The best time to visit is during sunset at around 7+PM.

Day 2 – Straits Mosque, Museum-Hopping & Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

melaka straits mosque by hams nocete | cc 2.0

Start the day early by watching the glorious sunrise at the seaside Straits Mosque of Melaka. The structure has a floating-like position whenever the water level is high which is compounded by the fact that the structure is situated at land’s end. The best place to view the mosque is by the beach just next to it. 

cheng ho museum

Afterwards, drop by Cheng Ho Museum (open daily 9AM to 5:30PM) to check out artifacts related to Chinese exploration of Melaka from 600 years back. The building housing the museum is itself believed to have been built by Chinese explorer Cheng Ho as a storehouse during his time in Melaka. The museum also serves simple breakfast. I had bee hoon (vermicelli) here.

kampung kling mosque

While here, make a stop at the Kampung Kling Mosque next door. Personally, I found the architecture quite interesting as it does not resemble a mosque at all. The design is said to be a cross between Chinese, Sumatran, Hindu and Malay sensibilities. The mosque also has a minaret with a pagoda-like rooftop.

melaka sand dunes

Spend the rest of the day at your leisure before making your way back to Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. For some family fun, you may wish to check out my suggestions under the “Melaka for Families” section below.

If you have your own car, you may wish to check out the unmarked sand dunes of Melaka . Located to the west of town in Klebang, the sand dunes were essentially left over from the reclamation project that occurred in the area. The result is a desert-like atmosphere by the sea. Do note that the pathway leading to the sand dunes is not fully paved.

If you are heading back to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur for the evening, it would be great to leave at around 3PM to 4PM (for Singapore) or 6PM (Kuala Lumpur) in order to reach your respective destination before it gets too late. Also, do note that the international border between Malaysia and Singapore tends to get jammed during Sunday evenings so leaving early certainly has its merits.

Melaka For Families

• A’Famosa Water Theme Park – 11 rides and attractions including pools and slides at Malaysia’s largest water theme park. Suitable for children of all ages. Those 90cm and below in height can enter for free. The theme park is located in Alor Gajah, around 30 minutes away from Melaka city proper.
• A’Famosa Safari Wonderland – Appealing to both kids and adults, this safari minutes away from the water park is filled with ostriches, flamingos, lemurs, giraffes, camels, zebras and more.

Getting There

Frequent departures between Melaka and Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Johor Bahru are available but you might want to book tickets in advance especially if you are traveling during a weekend. You can compare bus ticket prices here or here .

What to Eat in Melaka

matcha and canele at kin

The Daily Fix Cafe – Located right at the heart of Jonker Street, The Daily Fix Cafe is perhaps the most popular cafe in town. It’s an excellent option for breakfast / brunch especially if you love pancakes. Do note however that the wait can be extremely long during weekends. If so, you can check out their sister cafe – Kin by The Daily Fix located less than 3km away. They have excellent caneles. 

Bei Zhan Restaurant – This is a popular Chinese restaurant for banquets in Melaka due to the venue’s sheer size. Frequented by locals, Bei Zhan serves Chinese cuisine with a slight Malaysian flair. Specialties include their Pumpkin Tofu as well as Fish with Assam Sauce. 

Bunga Raya Popiah – You will find a snaking queue well before this humble stall opens at noon. Bunga Raya Popiah serves neatly rolled takeaway popiah (fresh spring rolls) in either spicy or non-spicy versions. Their secret is the crispy pork lard which they stuff inside the popiah.

laksa, toast and kopi at siang chang

Siang Chang – If you prefer local breakfast, Kedai Kopi Siang Chang is a reliable option for its thinly sliced kaya toast, laksa and Sarawak kolo mee. Be prepared to queue a bit if you come from 10AM onwards. 

assorted skewers at ban lee siang

Ban Lee Siang Satay Celup – Satay celup is Melaka’s variation of the satay / lok lok concept with various types of skewers cooked in simmering satay sauce. In Melaka tradition, re-used sauce (from the previous set of diners) supposedly makes the food taste better and is the default option if you choose to dine here. Those concerned with hygiene can also opt to get a fresh pot of sauce or have the restaurant cook the skewers themselves. 

nyonya cuisine at atlantic restaurant

Atlantic Nyonya Restaurant – Melaka, like Penang and Singapore, is one of the strongholds of the Peranakan community. As such, you’ll find a number of Nyonya restaurants around Melaka. One of the most popular options is Atlantic Nyonya Restaurant. They have 3 outlets within the city with the main branch in the old town typically having a long wait. If you’d prefer to skip the queue, I suggest heading to their Melaka Raya outlet a few kilometers away. 

Klebang Original Coconut Shake – For a rather filling dessert, head out to the suburb of Klebang for this popular coconut shake stall. The business started as a purely takeaway business with a tent by the street selling coconut shake with ice cream. They have since expanded to an actual shop with dine-in options. 

Where to Stay in Melaka

There are three main areas to stay in Melaka. The first is within the traditional core near Jonker Street or the old forts. The second is in an area called “Melaka Raya” which is dubbed as the new downtown of the city. The third is along the area immediately north of the old town.

The benefit of staying in the old town area is that guests get easy access to the bulk of Melaka’s tourist attractions. The main disadvantage however is that traffic can be congested here due to narrow roads and parking is rather limited for those who are driving. Most of the hotels in this area are also small boutique hotels as many buildings here are conserved under UNESCO.

Midrange: The Rucksack Caratel – Garden Wing feels like a world away with its beautiful garden views. Rooms are stylish with a slight hipster vibe. Excellent value for money.

Luxury: Majestic Malacca – A luxurious colonial hotel located by the river, the Majestic Malacca is perhaps the most upscale accommodations to be had while in the city. Nearer to the old town, Casa del Rio charms with its Mediterranean style interiors. 

Melaka Raya

Surrounded by shopping malls and close to direct drop off points (for buses coming from Singapore), Melaka Raya is the area to choose if you’d rather stay in a multi-storey chain hotels.

Midrange: Holiday Inn Melaka and Hatten Hotel are popular picks along this stretch due to their sheer size. If you’d prefer accommodations with a bit more personality, you can check out the no-frills but nicely decorated The Nest House located in one of the side streets.

Luxury: Doubletree by Hilton , at the end of Melaka Raya, is undoubtedly the poshest hotel along this stretch. It is located just next to ElementX Mall. 

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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March 8, 2019 at 12:16 pm

hi bino! i would just like to ask if what are we going to ride from melacca to singapore. and where can we ride a bus if there is a bus going to singapore. do you have any idea about the sched and fare?

April 2, 2019 at 10:47 am

You can book your return trip bus ticket online.

April 6, 2019 at 9:20 pm

Hi Bino! I’m traveling to Malaysia for the first time with a friend and Melaka is one of our stops from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore. This is a great article! The details and time recommendations to visit the places you mentioned with this travel guide is very helpful and useful! I’m also a travel guide blogger and I really appreciate how detailed your writing is.

September 13, 2019 at 8:55 pm

Hi Bino, what’s the best way to get around Malacca? Is it worth booking a taxi for the whole day? Or take grab from point to point? Thank you

September 15, 2019 at 10:06 am

Yes taking grab from point to point is still better. It is cheap and relatively easy to book

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21 Things To Do in Melaka (Melacca): History & Food

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Despite the fact it’s a small city, there are plenty of things to do in Melaka. It’s one of my favourite places in Malaysia and I’m always surprised it doesn’t get more visitors. If you love culture, food and architecture, make sure to add Melaka to your Malaysia itinerary . Not only is it easy to reach from Kuala Lumpur but it’s also not far from Singapore so you could consider stopping off when travelling by bus between the two countries. In this Melaka travel guide, I’ll run through everything you need to know for the perfect trip.

Mosques, colonial churches and Hindu and Chinese temples sit on every corner making Melaka a cultural melting pot. The gorgeous old-style houses are just as elaborate, telling tales of days gone by. Visually, Melaka reminds me a bit of Hoi An in Vietnam , one of my favourite places on Earth. It’s simply a charming place to wander whether you hit up the must-see Melaka attractions or just relax and enjoy the slow pace of life.

MELAKA ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia Getting there: flight, bus, train ( 12GoAsia ) Accommodation: Hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide / Viator

Read next: All the best things to do in Southeast Asia and my Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary

A quick history of Melaka

Now a UNESCO World Heritage City, Melaka was set up by a fleeing Sumatran prince in the 14th century. Next to arrive were Chinese settlers whose ancestors make up 25% of the population today. The city then became a stomping ground for European colonialists with the first invasion from Portugal in 1511. The Dutch kicked out the Portuguese food and set up windmills in Melaka Square which you can still see today. Like a sick game of chess, Holland traded Melaka for Jakarta in Indonesia, giving Melaka to the British who then ruled Malaysia for almost 200 years. Indian workers, who nowadays make up almost 10% of the Malay population, were recruited to help build the empire. It wasn’t until the 1950s that Malaysia finally gained independence.

How long to spend in Melaka?

Honestly, you could see all of Melaka in one day as the city centre is tiny. However, my best Asia travel tip is to take your time and enjoy the sleepy cities when you find them. Save your big city energy for KL! If you’ve got two days, you could spend the morning of one taking a trip to Melaka Straits Mosque. There are a couple of museums that could also fill some time, and if you’ve got a third day you could relax and enjoy the cafe scene. It’s really up to you but I feel that 1-3 days would be optimum.

Where to stay in Melaka

There are plenty of places to stay in Melaka for all budgets. I would recommend the following places. Hostels:

• Ola Lavanderia Cafe – this sunny yellow cafe and hostel has private and dorm beds with AC. Tea and coffee are included, plus there’s laundry facilities and bicycle rental. Beds start from $10.
• Yote 28 – this modern and shiny hostel has all your amenities, comfy beanbags, games, Netflix and beds for $13. Flashpacking for sure!

Guesthouses:

• Hotel Puri Melaka – this gorgeous hotel built in Malay heritage style with carved wooden details and period artwork is a bargain with rooms starting at $50 a night.
• The Rucksack Caratel – this charming boutique hotel has double or twin rooms with bathtubs from $32 a night, as well as large caravan rooms with up to four beds inside. You’ll also have access to a swimming pool and stylish games area.

How to get to Melaka

Many people arrive by bus from Kuala Lumpur which takes around 2 hours and arrives into Melaka Sentral, a 15-minute taxi ride from town. Taxis wait around the station but your cheapest option is calling a Grab. Book your KL to Melaka journey on 12go . Melaka is also a 4-5 hour bus journey from Singapore . Aside from having to get off twice for customs, it’s an easy journey. Book on 12go .

Things to do in Melaka

Melaka is a wonderful city to visit whether you’re with friends, family or travelling solo in Malaysia . It’s great for eating and comes alive at weekends when Jonker Street Night Market pops up. While Melaka is generally a quiet, low-rise city, you’ll be shocked to see (and hear!) tuk-tuks decked in Hello Kitty and Minions accessories and blaring chart music like Nicki Minaj. Honestly, they’re ridiculous and add to the character to this weird and wonderful city. My recent trip to Melaka was pretty chilled although I still managed to fit in the activities below. Here are my top things to do in Melaka…

1. Go house-spotting

The first thing you’ll want to do when you arrive in Melaka is explore your surroundings. The historical centre of Melaka is a UNESCO site with some of the most decorative and unusual I’ve ever seen. Wandering between cafes and snapping photos was how I spent most of my time in Melaka. As briefly mentioned, the Chinese community in Melaka makes up a percentage of the population. The words Straits and Peranakan refer to the ancestors of Chinese people who settled in Malaysia during colonial rule. Alongside Penang and Singapore’s Koon Seng Road , you’ll find some of the best Straits architecture in Malaysia. These buildings are known for their bright colours and antique windows and shutters, as well as their use of Chinese characters and hanging lanterns.

2. Stroll around the Red Square

Also known as the Dutch Square, the Red Square is often considered to be the heart of Melaka, and it’s one of the best spots to see the impressive colonial Dutch-inspired architecture. Faithful to its name, the buildings surrounding the square are all painted red, with this photogenic element only adding to its charm – and probably the reason why the square is featured on so many Melaka postcards! Prominent buildings to admire within the square are the 18th-century Christ Church and 17th-century Stadthuys. Built in 1650, Stadthuys is the oldest remaining Dutch colonial building in Southeast Asia and, in more recent years, was converted into a History and Ethnography Museum.

3. Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

I first visited this museum back in 2015 and it’s still going strong today. Baba & Nyonya in the heart of the UNESCO Old Town is a fascinating place to learn about the history and customs of Chinese settlers who arrived in Malaysia, often called Straits people. This ornate house is the ancestral home of four generations of a Peranakan family. By visiting, you can learn about their culture and customs through furniture and household items. It’s an important thing to do in Melaka to understand the rich, mixed heritage of Malaysian people. Entry is 18 MYR.

4. Visit Melaka Straits Mosque

Melaka Straits Mosque (Masjid Selat Melaka) is just a short drive from town is worth a visit while in Melaka. Also known as the Floating Mosque because it sits on an island above the water, this gold-domed mosque was only completed in 2006, making it several centuries younger than some of Melacca’s religious buildings. Non-Muslim guests are welcome to go inside the mosque provided they dress conservatively and women cover their hair. You also need to leave your shoes at the door. Getting there: We caught a cheap Grab (Asia’s answer to Uber) to man-made Melaka Island which only cost 10 MYR each way. You could also consider riding a bicycle there but possibly not during the sweaty summer months unless you have a hat.

5. Seek out the street art

Like George Town, Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur, there’s so much vibrant street art dotted around Melaka. I loved finding it and taking photos, especially in the early morning before the crowds came out. The best bit is Kiehl’s Wall which is a giant rainbow masterpiece and selfie backdrop. You’re bound to find it whether you’re looking for it or not – you can’t really miss it! However, if you’re keen to see all the best bits, follow my street art guide to Melaka . Street art is a relatively new phenomenon in Malaysia but it’s taken off. Ernest Zacharevic is a Lithuanian artist who became well known when he completed some quirky, 3D murals in George Town, Penang for a local festival in 2012. As he became famous, he was asked to complete more street art in Ipoh and other cities around the world. Although he hasn’t done any work in Melaka, there’s still some colourful art worth seeking out. Browse my Malaysia street art archives .

Temples in Melaka

6. Wander Tokong Street AKA ‘Harmony Street’

As a multi-ethnic nation, there are amazing temples wherever you go in Malaysia. In Melaka, they’re particularly well-preserved and part of the reason the city gained UNESCO Heritage status. To see numerous religious houses on one street, head to Tokong Street dubbed ‘Harmony Street’. Temples to see on Tokong include…

7. Cheng Hoon Teng Temple (the oldest temple in Malaysia)

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the oldest temple in Malaysia, decked in red lanterns is Taoist, Confucianist and Buddhist and founded by the Chinese population of Melaka.

8. Kampong Kling Mosque 

I haven’t been inside Kampung Kling Mosque , which is just a few moments from Cheng Hoon Teng, but I always love seeing it from the outside. As one of the tallest points in low-rise Melaka, it stands out like a beacon. It’s the oldest mosque in Melaka dating back to 1748. A third religious house to visit on Tokon Street is Sri Poyyatha Vinayaga Moorthi Temple , the oldest Hindu temple in the city. The colourful entrance tower leads to a shrine featuring Ganesh.

9. People-watching + nightlife at Geographer Cafe

There are cheaper and more authentic places to eat in Melaka but there’s nowhere better to sit and people-watch than Geographer Cafe . This sunny yellow cafe is a gorgeous place to while away a lazy afternoon. It’s also one of the few places for nightlife in Melaka. It won’t be an all-night rave but you can sink some beers while enjoying a vibey atmosphere.

10. Indulge at Jonker Street Night Market

One of the best things to do in Melaka for foodies is take a trip to Jonker Street Night Market , locally known as Jalan Hang Jebat, held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. It can’t rival the hawker food in Penang but it’ll still blow you away. My friend and I tucked into mua chee which are gooey rice balls rolled in peanut, as well as about five other sweet and savoury dishes. Other (unhealthy but delicious) things to eat include deep-fried ice cream, coconut ice cream served in whole coconut shells, quails eggs, and snackable popiah rolls. I like that Melaka is popular with Malaysian holidaymakers as well as Westerners because it feels more local than the markets in Thailand which are specifically aimed at foreign tourists. Even the locals come out to eat and sing karaoke making it a great place to be at the weekend with a real party atmosphere.

11. Gawp at the Hello Kitty tuk-tuks

Melaka’s Windmill Square has to be one of the strangest places ever with its Dutch windmills and Catholic churches. To me, it just feels wrong but I know a lot of tourists love the novelty . It’s here in the central square that you’ll find the outlandish Hello Kitty tuk-tuks adorned in glitter and cuddly toys. Seeing masculine-looking guys driving them around always make me smile! In the evenings, the trishaws are lit with flashing LED lights while stereo music and disco balls turn the experience into your own personal disco as you ride along the streets!  Of course, the trishaws are kitsch and touristy, but that’s somewhat part of the appeal in this case. Again, it’s very silly, but perhaps you’ll feel less self-conscious of the gawping onlookers once you’ve descended into giggles.

12. Dig into the street food

The more time I spend in Malaysia, the more I love the food . I doubt many people around the world have Malaysian cuisine on their radar, maybe because there aren’t many Malaysian restaurants overseas. After eating the food in KL’s Chinatown and Little India (Brickfields), I’d describe Malay food as the best of Chinese and Indian with some extra delicious dishes thrown in.

A few things to eat in Mekaka include:

• Biriyani on a banana leaf in Little India
• Dim sum in the endless Chinese restaurants
• The national dishes of nasi lemak (in just about any local restaurant)
• Laksa, a rich noodle soup that can either be made with coconut milk (curry laksa) or tamarind (assam laksa)
• Popiah, fresh egg rolls filled with veggies, peanuts and tofu
• Cendol, a sweet shaved ice dish you can try for dessert
• Chicken rice balls from one of the many restaurants serving them.

Read next: The best food in Melaka

Most of the food in Melaka is very affordable: you can get a hearty meal for 10-15 MYR including a drink in many authentic local restaurants. I ate so much in Melaka and never had a bad meal.

13. Drink coffee at a cute cafe

For such a well-preserved UNESCO city, I was surprised by how many modern coffee shops there are in Melaka. It can almost rival the number of cafes in George Town, Penang ‘s coffee hub! The flat whites and cappuccinos are as good as any I’ve had at home, and the quirky cafes are the ultimate escape from the sticky afternoon heat. The shabby-chic decor reminded me of the Insta-friendly cafes in KL . We all need a cool cafe from time to time, right? As well as your standard Western coffee, you can also try local Malay coffee. If you’re trying to be healthy, you might want to give this one a miss because it contains bucketloads of sugar as well as butter. It’s very sweet and moreish, served in tiny cups at local coffee shops. If you need your caffeine fix but don’t fancy paying inflated prices at the fashionable cafes, Malaysian coffee is less than a quarter of the price of a flat white.

Read next: My Melaka cafe guide

14. Cycle to A Famosa Portuguese ruins

For a fun activity, hire a bike and cycle up to Porta de Santiago , the oldest European ruins in Southeast Asia. This fortress dates back to 1511 and, while it’s understandably dilapidated today, it’s one of the most famous things to do in Melaka (the name ‘A Formosa’ actually translates to ‘famous’ in Portuguese).

The best part of a visit to Porta de Santiago is the views over Melaka, right the way out to the coast. Visiting for sunset is the best time of day. If you’d rather not cycle there, you can hire a local taxi driver to take you.

15. Visit the historic St Paul’s Church

St Paul’s Church is the oldest church in Southeast Asia. Although some parts of the historic structure are now beyond repair, it’s still a fascinating place to visit in Melaka. The original church was built in 1521 by Portuguese colonialists to honour the Virgin Mary. The site has had many uses over the years; it was one of the first modern schools in the Malay Peninsula. In addition, its hilltop location made the church a strategic landmark for navigators sailing into the city through the Straits of Melaka. However, the British did the structure no favours after using it to store gunpowder in the early 1800s.    The church is located at the summit of St Paul’s Hill, so even if you’re not interested in the history, it’s still one of the best Melaka things to do for the views alone.

16. Take a Melaka River Cruise

Another one of the best things to do in Melaka is to take a 45-minute river cruise. This is a relaxing way to enjoy the colonial and traditional architecture of the city. While the historical commentary isn’t the most insightful, it’s still a laidback way to enjoy Melaka at a slower pace.

Book now: your Melaka river cruise

Look out for Kampung Morten Village during your trip, Melaka’s last remaining traditional village. The village was once the home of early settlers to Melaka. Thanks to government funding, 85 authentic houses still remain, and locals still live here.  Aside from being squashed onto your boat with other tourists, don’t be alarmed by the huge monitor lizards sharing the river with you. If you’re lucky, you might also spot an otter. If you prefer cooler weather, take the journey at night, when many of the river’s bridges are colourfully lit up, or first thing in the morning to beat the crowds. 

17. Explore the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum

With a fascinating array of traditional costumes, artwork, weaponry and other historical artefacts on display, visiting the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum is one of the best ways to discover Melaka’s history.  The unique wooden building design was inspired by the historic palace of the Malacca Sultanate. The museum is a replica of the imagined original site, carefully constructed based on 16th-century historical texts about the original architecture, and even used traditional construction methods and materials to recreate it in the most authentic way possible.

18. Maritime Museum (also known as Flor de la Mar)

Conveniently located next to the jetty for those going on a river cruise, the striking Maritime Museum will likely grab your attention before you’ve even been inside. The entire museum is a replica of the historic Portuguese ship Flor de la Mar and reaches 34 metres tall and 8 metres wide.  Once stepping inside the ship, you’ll find a fascinating museum focussed on Melaka’s Maritime history. Exhibits include model ships, paintings, historic artefacts once used by local seamen and traders, and treasures saved from other local shipwrecks. You can also walk up to the ship’s upper deck and peek inside the captain’s cabin.

19. Get up high and see Melaka from Menara Taming Sari

To find your bearings and better understand Melaka’s coastal location, it might be worth heading up to the Taming Sari Revolving Tower for a 360-degree panoramic view over Melaka. Its epic vantage point of 80 metres high gives you a fantastic lookout over the city, Melaka Straits, Pulau Besar and Gunung Ledang.  The whole experience only takes seven minutes to complete – including five minutes at the top – so make sure you get your camera ready on the way up.

20. Shore Sky Tower

If you prefer to sit back and relax once you’ve found a great view, then another fun thing to do in Melaka is visit the Shore Sky Tower . At 163 metres high, you’ll get picturesque 380-degree views of Melaka and beyond. The viewing deck has benches and telescopes, so you can take your time and get a closer look. If you’re not afraid of heights, then the best feature of the Shore Sky Tower is definitely the glass floor of the Sky Deck, from which you can see people walking along on the streets far beneath you!  Another well-known Melaka observation deck is at Melaka Skydeck @ Hatten City . However, the views aren’t quite as impressive. So if you only have time for one viewing deck, I’d recommend choosing the Taming Sari Revolving Tower if you’re short on time or the Shore Sky Tower.

21. A’Famosa Water Theme Park

This final activity in Melaka is great for families. A’Famosa Water Theme Park is packed with slides, flumes and tubes that’ll keep kids busy for hours. There’s a shop and cafe onsite should you need to dry off and eat. A word about A’Famosa Safari Wonderland – you may see this place beside the theme park. While I understand everyone wants to see beautiful animals like giraffe and elephants, I cannot recommend this place because I have seen photos of people riding elephants which should never be done . Don’t go, please!

That’s a wrap! For more inspo, read my other Melaka posts:

• All the best things to do in Melaka
• The best food in Melaka
• 10 cute Melaka coffee shops
• Where to see street art in Melaka

Thanks for reading these things to do Melaka!

Penang blogs:

• The best places to visit in George Town, Penang
• The top hawker food in Penang
• How to visit Kek Lok Si from George Town
• Penang digital nomad guide
• The best cafes in George Town, Penang
• Where to find healthy food in George Town

Ipoh blogs:

• How to take an Ipoh day trip
• Ipoh street art walking tour
• Ipoh cave temples to visit

Kuala Lumpur posts:

• The ultimate KL itinerary for 2 days
• 5 cute cafes in Kuala Lumpur
• The top restaurants in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur

Southeast Asia travel planning:

• 101 items for your Southeast Asia bucket list
• 101 backpacking Asia tips
• The perfect Southeast Asia travel route

See you next time for more adventures,

Follow for more Malaysia content on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked these things to do in Melaka? Pin it for later!

Malaysia quick links Flights – I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just span the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia . For Malaysia buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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8 Things To Do in Melaka, Malaysia (2-day Travel Guide)

Melaka: a colorful, artsy city on a riverbank in southwestern Malaysia. The architecture, monuments, and people reflect the influences of its former position as a trading hub. Absorb the history of this UNESCO site in the mornings, street art in the afternoon, and the lively street market by night.

Things To Do in Melaka in Two Days

Melaka, formally written as Malacca, has something for everyone, so plan to spend one or two full days exploring this city. If you’re in a time crunch, an alternative would be to book a day tour leaving from Kuala Lumpur.

Here are all your hotel options in Melaka.

1. Discover Melaka’s Riverside Street Art

One of Melaka’s biggest surprises is its vibrant street art scene. Everywhere you look, buildings are decorated in the brightest colors, with large murals covering the walls. By strolling a few hours along the river or taking a river cruise, you will find many older houses that have been renewed by street art in this area.

Tip: The river is not the only place you can find street art! There is much more tucked away in Melaka’s narrow back streets.

Discover the 2-week Malaysia Travel Itinerary

2. Murals and Orangutan House

Two huge murals stand out among the rest: a fun thing to do in Melaka. Situated just away from the river is Kiehl’s heritage mural. Made up of primary colors in a lively color block design.

Read: Georgetown, Penang – Charming city of Malaysia

The brand collaborated with UNESCO to create a heritage site trail of six sites in Malaysia. The mural is one of them and is a great place to take some photos that will truly represent the energetic feeling of Melaka. The Orangutan mural, created by artist Charles Cham, is located just around the corner.

Also read: Kuala Lumpur City Guide – Things to do

3. Cheng Hoong Teng Chinese Temple

Cheng Hoong Teng Chinese temple is the oldest operating temple in Malaysia and is quite different from the other buildings in Melaka because of the Chinese architectural influences. Ornate gates, gold leafing, and ruby red Chinese lanterns are just some of the features that make this a top thing to see in Melaka. 

4. Stadthuys and Christchurch

The red square is the epicenter of Melaka, featured on many postcards. The iconic red (pink-ish) buildings were built using bricks shipped over from the Netherlands during the period of Dutch rule.

Both buildings are in the trademark Dutch style which provides a unique European-Asian fusion of architecture. The central town hall named Stadthuys is even believed to be the oldest surviving Dutch building in the east! 

We do recommend visiting this in the early morning as it will be busy with visitors after 8 AM. 

Also read: Ipoh, unknown city of Malaysia

5. Melaka Straits Mosque

This majestic white building is a highlight of the things to do in Melaka. The mosque is located on the edge of the city, situated on a jetty emerging from the water. This means that when the water level is high, it gives the impression the mosque is floating. See the building’s stained glass and gold details by day or when it’s lit up by many different colored lights by night.

6. Jonker Walk 

The Jonker Street night market is a long stretch of street vendors selling products like jewelry and unusual foods. The market is held on Friday and Saturday nights, with live street music on every corner. If you’re unable to visit over the weekend, Jonker Walk is still an enjoyable place to visit in Melaka, as it’s in the center of Chinatown, where the majority of the historical monuments and good restaurants are located.

Visit the green tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands

7. St. Paul’s Church

St Paul’s is the oldest church building in Malaysia and South East Asia! It was originally built by the Portuguese in 1521 but was taken over by various other European powers over time. Now the church is in ruins, but it’s still a beautiful and impressive place to see. Interesting fact: The stones featured inside have old-dutch texts on them. 

Finally, it is an excellent place to enjoy a panoramic view of Melaka due to its position on a hill.

Read: Langkawi, Malaysia’s paradise island

8. Maritime Museum

A replica of the ancient Portuguese ship ‘Flora de La Mar’ stands high above the buildings as a museum. After having stolen goods, the original ship famously sank off the coast of Melaka.

Situated just a short walk from Dutch Square, the museum is a great place to learn a bit about Melaka’s importance as a maritime trading center. 

How to Visit Melaka

Melaka is easy to get to, with numerous travel options on offer. There is an international airport, and many flights leave for Kuala Lumpur daily. You can also visit Melaka on a day tour leaving from Kuala Lumpur if you’re in a time crunch.

Kuala Lumpur to Melaka

However, if you are flying into Kuala Lumpur , the journey by road is very easy and takes only 2-3 hours. Buses leave from Kuala Lumpur Airport and the city center at various times throughout the day.

Get your bus tickets here .

Singapore to Melaka

Another good option is to travel from Singapore to Melaka. A bus takes 3-4 hours.

How to Get Around Melaka

Once you arrive in Melaka, almost everything can be done on foot as all the main landmarks are within walking distance of each other. For those sights that are further away (such as Melaka Straits Mosque), jump on a trishaw for an authentic Malay experience, cycle by bike, or take a Grab taxi.

We recommend to rent a car in Malaysia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Restaurants in Melaka

Melaka is an established foodie paradise. The melting pot of different cultures in Melaka makes for a variety of tasty foods from all over the world. These were our favorite restaurants and cafes:

• The Daily Fix Cafe
• Mori Vegetarian Tea House
• Geographer Cafe

Where to Stay in Melaka

It’s best to situate yourself centrally so as to be within walking distance from all the attractions. There is a nice atmosphere by the river, and plenty of hostels and guesthouses are situated here.

Hotels in Melaka 😴

Guesthouses in Melaka are very reasonably priced and of good quality. However, there are more upmarket hotel options that sit a little further out of the center.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Melaka via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Renting a Car in Malaysia in 2024: All you need to know

11 best things to do in penang, malaysia (georgetown), 9 best things to do in ipoh, malaysia.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hi yall, did you have to have an International Driving license? or your dutch driving license was enough?

Hi Kazi, anyone with a valid driver’s license needs an accompanying IDP in order to drive in Malaysia. This is because it needs to either be in English or Malay. Hope that helps!

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Are you finding yourself in or near Malaysia or planning to go here? Don’t forget to visit Melaka.

Melaka is a bustling city and easy to get to. Melaka is definitely a must see in Malaysia!

If you don’t believe us on our word, continue reading this article to find out 5 reasons why you don’t want to miss out on this city.

Melaka can also be seen as a food heaven for tourists and is known for their amazing food.

A mix of flavors from different cuisines takes place which create plenty of choice.

This is also one of the most popular reasons why people choose to visit Melaka.

Examples of cuisines that you can choose from are the Chinese cuisine, Indian, Malaysian, and Portuguese.

Popular dishes that you should try are Nyonya laksa, cendol, Malaccan wonton noodles and fish ball soup.

2. Historical monuments

Next to the great food, there are also other reasons why you should visit Melaka.

One of these reasons are the historical monuments that this city has to offer.

In 2008, Melaka has been chosen to be on the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage lis t. This list includes important natural and cultural places chosen for their exceptional importance to everyone.

The city has an intriguing history. It contains a history in which the Portuguese, Dutch and English were in Melaka for certain periods.

Nowadays, Melaka is part of Malaysia. But historical remains of other countries can still be seen.

For example, in Melaka is located the Dutch square, Stadthuys, and Christ church all from the Dutch period. For the Portuguese period you can find remains of the A Famosa fort and St Paul’s Church.

In addition to these historic relics, don’t forget to take a stroll through the adjacent streets full of old-style houses.

3. Street Art

The weather in Melaka will remain pleasant throughout the year.

A good option to enjoy the city and the weather at the same time is to stroll through the city.

But strolling through the city in Melaka is of course not the same as strolling through your hometown.

Enjoy the street art that you can find throughout the city or visit the bustling cafes Melaka has to offer.

You can find the street art close to the river. If you’re not a big fan of strolling through the city, a great way to still enjoy the street art is to go on a cruise along the river.

4. Religious sites

Many different religions co-exist in Malaysia, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and many more.

These religions can be seen reflected in Melaka. In the city there are temples, churches, as well as mosques.

A popular mosque is the Masjid Selat Melaka also known as the floating Mosque.

This mosque is a bit more difficult to visit because it’s located outside of the main centre. When the water level is high, it seems like the mosque is floating.

You can visit Jonker street if you are interested in visiting temples , there you can find a lot.

Next to the Dutch square you will find the Christ church.

5. Night market

Jonker Walk is a bustling street during weekdays but also during weekends.

On weekends, the street comes alive at night with a vibrant night market offering a variety of street food, beverages, and snacks.

You’ll find stalls selling everything from local herbs and small treasures to clothes, art, and more. For those who prefer shopping in cooler environments, the city also boasts several high-end malls.

If you want to try out different night markets besides Jonker walk you can. There are a lot of different options such as the Vintage night market , Pahlawan Walk Night Market, and different Pasar Malam’s.

Melaka is a vibrant mix of history and modern delights, perfect for history enthusiasts, food lovers, and shoppers alike.

With its historic sites and lively markets, it’s a must-see for travelers seeking a taste of Malaysia’s heritage and contemporary offerings.

Melaka definitely has a lot to offer, it’s a beautiful destination to add to your itinerary. 

Don’t miss your chance to invest in this tourist heaven with IQI Tender   and turn your dreams into reality.

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An ultimate guide to Melaka for explorers- which places to visit in the historical center of Malaysia

Malaysia is a beautiful country, presenting various natural landscapes- tropical beaches, equatorial rainforests, highlands, and coral islands. There is also a rich variety of ethnic cultures and traditions. But this country has also some history to reveal, and this history is really fascinating. And one of the best places presenting the country’s history is the city of Melaka, known also as Malacca. Let’s make a journey to this unique and beautiful gem, and explore the places you should visit in Melaka!

Table of Contents

Basic facts about Melaka

I don’t know about you, but for me, the name „Malacca” was one of the first names from this part of the world, when I studied geography as a kid. Probably it was because it is the name of one of the most important sea straits on the Earth- the Strait of Malacca. Even the sound of this name is somehow close to the name of the country- Malaysia, although it has a very different meaning.

Melaka (Malacca) is a city, located on the western coast of Peninsular Malaysia, in the middle of this important sea strait with the same name. The name of the city comes from a tree, known as Melaka tree (Indian gooseberry), related to a story in which Parameshwara, the founder of Melaka was sitting under such a tree, watching a warrior’s hunting dogs kicked into the river by a mouse deer. Later the Europeans slightly changed the pronunciation of the name into Malacca, as it is known now in the West, but the original name Melaka remains its official name today.

A very important feature of the city is the Melaka River, and a small hill on its left bank. This is the core of Melaka and its birthplace, following its long history, and the reason for its nickname- „Venice of the East”. But let’s see how it has begun.

History of Melaka

Melaka is not an ancient city. You can’t find there any thousands of years old ruins. But it doesn’t make its history less interesting, because what happened there through the last centuries, remained significant traces in its modern image now. So, let’s start from the beginning…

Before 1396

A thick equatorial rainforest with rich wildlife. A slow-flowing river through the forest, with floating monitor lizards inside. And a small fishing village on the place where the river reaches the sea. There are no more than 7-8 houses, made of wood and straw, and their inhabitants are called Orang Laut, came to this place some 3000 years ago. They are hunters and fishermen, almost naked, wearing only a simple „jungle clothing”.

This is what Melaka looked like before 1396. Until one day, a rich prince from the neighboring Sumatra Island arrived in their village with his warriors. His name was Parameshwara and he was looking for a place to establish a new kingdom. Sitting under a Melaka tree, he found this place proper for his plans.

Parameshwara and Sultanate of Melaka (1396-1511)

Within only a few years, Parameshwara and his people quickly built a small new fortified city with a well-established port. In 1403, the first Chinese trade envoy, lead by Yin Qing and the famous Chinese sailor Zheng He, arrived in Melaka and made an important treaty with Parameshwara, by which the new kingdom would be a protectorate of the Chinese Ming Empire, against the threats from the neighboring Siam and Majapahit kingdoms.

Parameshwara soon converted to Islam and renamed himself into Sultan Iskandar Shah, and its kingdom became the Sultanate of Melaka. And its good relations with the Chinese Ming Empire provided great conditions for growth and prosperity. Many Chinese settled in Melaka and other places in today’s Peninsular Malaysia and married local Malay girls. Their descendants, of mixed origin, have called Baba & Nyonya, and they live in Malaysia until today.

Portuguese era (1511-1641)

Everything was great, but new guests arrived from much farther- the Portuguese. First, they came with peace, but the local Muslims convinced the Sultan to kill several of them. Then the Portuguese returned, this time as an army, led by Afonso de Albuquerque and captured the city, severally persecuting the Muslims. Thus the Portuguese era began, and this time the Chinese Ming Empire couldn’t help Melaka.

But the reign of the Portuguese was not peaceful. Two neighboring sultanates- Aceh and Johor entered a was with the Europeans, as well as between each other. At the beginning of the 17th century, the Dutch came too and tried to steal Melaka from the Portuguese. Finally, the Dutch succeeded with the help of Johor. All that was left of the Portuguese presence until now was the fortress A Famosa on the top of the central hill, and a mixed Creole population, called Kristang, living in today’s Portuguese Village.

Dutch era (1641-1826)

The Dutch ruled Melaka for about a century and a half, and during their era, Melaka lost its important position at the Strait, because they focused on Batavia (Jakarta in Indonesia). However, they expanded the city and built many new residential areas, while the population grew significantly.

During the Dutch rule, there was a peace most of the time, except for the war with Riau Sultanate. Also, due to the Napoleonic Wars, they gave the control of Melaka to the British temporary, from 1795 to 1818, and after that again retook the power. However, in 1826 a treaty between the Dutch and the British empire was signed, in which Java and most of today’s Indonesia remain under Dutch control, and the rest (current Malaysia, including Melaka)- under British control. Thus the Dutch era finished. The two main landmarks that remained from them now are the iconical Christ Church and Stadthuys (the City Hall) in the center of Melaka.

British era (1826-1942)

When the British started ruling Melaka and the whole of today’s Malaysia, their rule was different. They were not interested in political power, but more focused on economic control and benefit. So, they preserved many of the existing sultanates, making them vassal to the British crown. But there were some special territories, called Straits Settlement, which were direct British colonies, both politically and economically. And Melaka was one of them.

During British rule, the city flourished and expanded further. From the end of the 19th century, many Chinese and Indians moved to Melaka, most of them as workers. Thus they gradually changed the ethnic picture of the city. Many new buildings in the Chinese architectural style were raised, as well as some Chinese temples. And the Indians, as well as the Chetty (Chitty) community, also gradually formed their „Little India” too, as well as some Hindu temples. A church with an interesting architecture remained from that period too- the catholic Church of St.Francis Xavier.

Japanese occupation and the transition to independence (1942-1957)

The Japanese arrived in 1942 and took Melaka, as well as the rest of Peninsular Malaysia. They occupied the city for three years, bringing a lot of suffering and poverty, but without major battles or war atrocities. After their surrender, the British returned, but their colonial system was already not the same- the Straits Settlements were dissolved, and as a whole, a new course was started toward an independent Malaysia.

Malaysian contemporary era (1957 until now)

Eventually, in 1957 an independent Union of Malaya was established, and in 1963 this new state took its contemporary form as Malaysia. Melaka remained a part of it, and in 1989 the city was given a status „Historical city”, and was declared as UNESCO Heritage Site. The city continued to grow, both in territory and population, but its historical center remained the main attraction for thousands of tourists.

Our trip to Melaka

So, all of this, along with my knowledge of geography, was a strong reason to include Melaka in our Peninsular Malaysia itinerary . We chose six destinations, of which Melaka was the second one. And we arrived there from Kuala Lumpur by bus, to Melaka Central Bus Terminal, from where our journey to this beautiful city started.

But before that, I had to plan our route around the city, identifying the places of interest in Melaka that we wanted to visit, as well as our accommodation.

Places to visit in Melaka

I noticed that most of the places to visit in Melaka are located in its historical center. Another area of Melaka that I found interesting was located some much far from the center- a cluster of several sites near the main highway between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and an area called Ayer Keroh. And I found two other remote places of interest, one at the sea coast, and one in the southeastern end of the city- the Straits of Melaka Mosque and the Portuguese Village. So, I will divide these places into three groups.

The historical center of Melaka

This is the central part of Melaka, and it is divided into two parts by Melaka River. On the left of the river is the main central spot, called Dutch Square, St. Paul’s Hill, and the main museums presenting the city. And on the right is the main part of the „Old Town”- a residential area with old traditional architectural style, mainly with Chinese influence.

So, let’s start first from the Dutch Square and the area on the right of the river.

Dutch Square, Stadthuys and Christ Church

This can be your Melaka tour starting point. Dutch Square is located on the left side of the Melaka River and is connected to the right side by a bridge. It is called „Dutch Square”, because two of its main landmarks- Christ Church and Stadthuys, along with its clock tower, are located there. They are all painted in pink-reddish color (although first, they have been white, this color is painted later, in 1911), and are in the same architectural style. There is also a small windmill, as one of the symbols of Holland. This is the most iconic place to take photos of Melaka, and normally Christ Church and Stadthuys are the first places to visit in the city.

Christ Church is built in 1753, but its construction began in 1741, for the 100th anniversary of the Dutch rule in Melaka, by Abraham de Wind. It is an Anglican Church, and after transferring the political power from Holland to the British Empire, it adopted the British style of worship. Now it is the oldest Anglican church in Malaysia, which is still active. There is no entrance fee, you can enter inside freely and attend some of the services (there is a timetable on the gate, as well as additional historical information).

And Stadthuys is the neighboring building, which served as the „City Hall”, and this is the meaning of its name in Dutch. Now it is turned into a History and Ethnography Museum, part of the Museum complex. So, let’s enter the main museums of Melaka.

The Museum complex

This is a cluster of several museums, of which the History and Ethnography Museum, located in the Stadthuys building is the main one. It is on three floors. Its historical section presents a lot of artifacts and stories from the whole history of Melaka. And the ethnographical section presents the culture, traditions, and artifacts from the various communities in the city. A small section on the third floor presents the early relations with the Ming Empire of China and the famous Chinese sailor Zheng He. And there is a monument of Zheng He behind the building. Entrance fee: 12 RM for adults, 6 RM for children.

There are three other museums in the complex, which are worth to visit too. They are the Literature Museum, Education Museum, Governor’s Museum, and Democratic Government Museum. These museums present a lot of additional information and artifacts, related to these topics. You can reach them from the backyard of the History and Ethnography Museum, using the same entrance ticket, which is valid for the whole museum complex.

St. Paul’s Hill and Church

This is a short, but important part of your Melaka journey, related to its most historical hill. The hill is called „St. Paul’s Hill”. It is very small and low, and you can reach it easily from the backyard of the History and Ethnography Museum. On its top are the ruins of the St.Paul’s Church, and the Melaka Light.

St.Paul’s Church is built in 1521 and is the first church built in the whole of Southeast Asia. It has been active until the 18th century when it was replaced by the newly built Christ Church by the Dutch. Since then, its building was abandoned or served as a part of the fortifications on the hill.

Then, in 1849, the British built a lighthouse on the top, which is not active now, but remained as a historic construction. Although the hill is low, you can enjoy a nice panoramic view of the city and the Strait of Melaka behind it. No entrance fee and you can reach it from other directions too.

From the top of the St.Paul’s Hill, you can descend to the left. There you will see a small fortification construction. This is A Famosa. Built in 1511 with the arrival of the Portuguese, it was once a whole fortress with walls around the hill and several gates. The fortress has served for the Portuguese and the Dutch, but because the city grew in size much far beyond its walls, the British destroyed the wall in the first half of the 19th century. Only this construction remained, and it is one of its gates.

When you descend from the hill from the side of A Famosa, you will arrive at a square with many landmarks. Among them, you can see a wooden ship, called „Melaka Live”, several other museums with relatively minor significance, among which the Kite Museum, Malay and Islamic World Museum, and the Proclamation of Independence Memorial (turned into another museum with an exhibition, related to this topic).

But in my opinion, the most important place near the A Famosa that you should not skip is the Sultanate Palace.

Sultanate Palace

This is not the original palace of the Sultans of Melaka, but its modern replica. It is designed in its original Malay style so that you can see how its original has looked like in the 15th century. Now it is a museum, presenting artifacts and model scenes of the life in the Melaka Sultanate era, and this makes it of important significance of your Melaka exploration trip. There is a nice garden in front of the museum, which is well combined with the museum building itself. Entrance fee: 10 RM.

When you go out of the museum, ascend again to the top of the St.Paul’s Hill, but before the church ruins turn right on a narrow alley passing by a small graveyard. It is called Dutch Graveyard and is one of the Dutch era remnants. Then you back to the Dutch Square and turn right, to one of the most beautiful churches in Malaysia- St. Francis Xavier Church.

St. Francis Xavier Church

This is a Catholic church, built by a French priest in 1856, during the British rule of Melaka. It follows the same architectural style as the St. Peter Cathedral in Montpellier, France- Neo-Gothic style. The church building is especially significant for its two towers with four horns on the angles of each one. It is still active today.

If you stay in front of the St.Francis Xavier Church, turn back and you will see a small site with ruins. This is Victoria Bastion. I mentioned above that the Melaka Fortress was destroyed by the British, and only A Famosa Gate has remained. But recently, four other remnants were unearthed from the fortress, and Victoria Bastion is one of them. Two others- Mauritius and Wilhelmus Bastions are discovered on the southern side of the St.Paul’s Hill, and the last one- Middleburgh Bastion is now reconstructed between the Dutch Square and the Melaka River. But before you back to Dutch Square, it is worth to visit Little India.

Little India

It is a small district on the left side of Melaka River, the main area of the Indian community in the city. Since Melaka is a multi-ethnic place, Little India is worth to visit, to touch and taste the culture of one of the city’s ethnic groups- the Indians. The area consists mainly of Indian shops and restaurants. There are no Hindu temples in Little India (there are several Hindu temples in Melaka, but they are located much farther from this place), however, most importantly, you can explore the daily life of its inhabitants. Then you can back to Dutch Square.

Southwest of Dutch Square

This is the last area of interest on the left side of Melaka River, in the historical center of Melaka. And it is worth to walk around and explore this part of the city. During your walk, you can see the replica of the Middleburgh Bastion, then the Maritime Museum, in construction like an old ship, presenting artifacts, related to the importance of Melaka as an international port in the history. Entrance fee: 3 RM.

Then, you can proceed to a nice neighborhood with several storey houses in the traditional Malay style. Among them, you can enjoy places for fun like the Upside Down House and the simulation house of Melaka Thousand Tales of Adventures (entrance ticket: 28 RM for adults, 23 RM for children).

Finally, you can back to the Melaka Historical Vehicle Park, where you can see more artifacts, mainly from the recent history of the city. But the main attraction there is the Menara Taming Sari – the tower with rotating observation deck, which descends and ascends to 80 m height (entrance ticket: 23 RM for adults, 15 RM for children). Then you can back to Dutch Square again, or to the pier for the Melaka River cruise.

Melaka River

Now, before we explore the right side of the Melaka Historical Center, let’s focus on the Melaka River because it is one of the most important landmarks of the city. Curving through the old houses, it creates picturesque views which became a reason Melaka to get the name „Venice of the East”.

You can join a Melaka River cruise, which connects the pier near the Maritime Museum and Taman Rempah Jetty, north of the Historical Center. The whole cruise is 45 mins long, and the tickets are 30 RM for adults, and 25 RM for children.

But another nice experience is just to walk on Melaka River’s banks. You can enjoy the curves of the river between the houses, some local riverside cafes and beautiful bridges. And don’t be surprised if you see giant lizards, slowly swimming on the water or hiding under the pedestrian path. They are water monitor lizards, they are not dangerous for people, anyway it is better just to watch them from distance. Finally, back to the Dutch Square again, cross the main bridge and enter the other picturesque part of the Historical Melaka Center.

Jonker Street

Although most of the streets on the right side of the Melaka River look quite similar, passing between beautiful old houses, Jonker Street is the central and the most attractive one. The area around this street is a typical touristy „old town” place. While walk on the street, you can enjoy its nice atmosphere and views, as well as a lot of cafes, souvenir shops, local food restaurants, and other attractions. It is especially exciting in the evening, when you can have a lot of fun in its Jonker Street Night Market . Although there are not any „special historical places” to visit on the street, the street itself is a must to explore attraction. And after you enjoy it enough, you can turn aside on the other, much quieter streets, and you will find more gems there.

Baba & Nyonya Museum

One of these gems is the Baba & Nyonya Museum . It is a typical house of a rich house of a family, related to Baba & Nyonya (called also Peranakan) community. Inside the house, you can enjoy the beautifully decorated rooms, a lot of artifacts and the whole atmosphere of the community’s culture and life, as well as its history. But there is a little problem- you are not allowed to take photos inside the house, however, you can shot the facade outside, it’s beautiful. Entrance fee: 16 RM for adults and 11 RM for children.

Other places around the Old Town

You can wander around the old houses and streets of the Old Town, on the right side of the Melaka River and enjoy the whole atmosphere. And during your walk, you can visit, or just take a photo of some interesting places. Among them, I would mention the following:

• Zheng He (Cheng Ho) Cultural House . One of the largest museums in Melaka, dedicated to the Chinese sailor Zheng He, on the proposed location of his warehouse, 600 years ago. Entrance fee: 20 RM for adults, 10 RM for children.
• Melaka Street Art . When you walk aside from the main Jonker Street, you can find some hidden narrow alleys between the houses. On the walls of some of them, you can see some amazing street art murals.
• Hang Jebat Mausoleum . A burial ground in Aceh style, hidden among the houses, where it is believed that the legendary warrior Hang Jebat, from the Sultanate of Melaka era, was buried.
• Straits Chinese Jewellery Museum . Another Baba & Nyonya traditional house. Maybe not such attractive like Baba & Nyonya Museum, but at least you can take photos there. Entrance fee: 15 RM for adults, 10 RM for children.  
• Cheng Hoon Teng Temple . The oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia, dated from the beginning of the Dutch era.
• Sri Poyatha Moorthi Temple . The oldest functioning Hindu temple in Malaysia, again from the Dutch era, located on the same street with Cheng Hoon Teng Temple and Kampung Kling Mosque, called Harmony Street.
• Kampung Hulu Mosque . The oldest functioning mosque (again from the Dutch era), with a building that combines several architectural styles.

Kampung Morten Village

Finally, I would mention Kampung Morten Village. Although it is just outside of the Historical Center of Melaka, it is an interesting local village inside the city. It is not an ordinary village, but because most of its houses are in traditional Malay style, it is declared as a National Heritage and turned into a tourist attraction.

Other places to visit in Melaka

That was the most important that you can explore in the Historical Center of the city. But there are some other worth to visit places in Melaka, located farther from the center. Let’s see some of them.

Not far from the Historical Center is Bukit Cina- the largest Chinese cemetery outside of China. Its origin dated from the 15th century, when the first Chinese migrants settled in this area. Among the interesting landmarks of the area is the King’s Well- an important water supply source for the old Melaka, and Poh San Teng Temple.

Melaka Straits Mosque

This is a new construction, built on the man-made Melaka Island. It is one of the „floating mosques” in Malaysia. Not because they really float, but because they are built on pillars over the sea surface. And the building on the sea creates a beautiful view, especially in the morning or evening.

St. John’s Fort

This is a remnant of a small fortress, dated back to the Portuguese and the Dutch era. It is located east of the Historical Center of Melaka and all that remained of it is a part of the wall and several cannons (obviously modern replica).

Portuguese Village

The Portuguese Village (or Portuguese Settlement) is located in the southeast suburbs of Melaka. Its inhabitants are actually not original Portuguese, but Kristang people- a creole ethnic group of mixed Portuguese and Malay origin. Some of them have Jewish roots too. Their language is a local Portuguese, but with strong influence from Malay. And this village is arranged by the government in 1933. Since then, the conditions there are improved and it is turned into a tourist attraction. You can go to the main square of the village, located on the sea coast, with a statue of Jesus, and a sculpture of a ship. This is the main place for their festivals and other events.

Perigi Hang Tuah Well

This is Hang Tuah’s Well, located further than the Portuguese Village. Hang Tuah was a famous warrior in the court of the Sultan of Melaka and was born in this place. It is said that he has made this well by himself and its water remains pure until today.

As I mentioned above, there is another area, relatively far from the Historical Center of Melaka, with a cluster of places to visit, which is worth to explore. This is Ayer Keroh, a suburb or town between Melaka proper and the main highway between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Let’s see what can you explore there.

All the places of interest in Ayer Keroh are modern, and most of them are just for fun. But two of these places are also educational. They are Taman Mini Malaysia & ASEAN Park, and Orang Asli Museum.

Taman Mini Malaysia & ASEAN Park

It is a theme park, which presents original traditional houses from every state of Malaysia, as well as from every country in Southeast Asia. You can enter the houses and see the environment in which the local people used to live. There is also a stage for live folklore performances, as well as a nice lake, and an amusement park.

Unfortunately, now this place is in decay. I don’t know the reason (just can guess), but many of the houses were neglected. Rusted metal pillars, broken wood boards, and stairs, which was even worse in the houses of the other ASEAN countries. The house of Myanmar was almost destroyed, its roof was fallen. In dozens of other houses were impossible to enter. The amusement part was closed too (obviously, a long time ago) and also has begun to rust. Besides us, there were only a few other tourists. Even the live show that began at 11:00 am was very poor- only two girls danced on several songs, and that was all. No real-size wax dummies, no „Orang Asli village”, no traditional games (as I read in some other websites).

I know, it could be a very attractive place, full of tourists, but for some reason now it isn’t. Nevertheless, I would still recommend it, because, despite its current decay state (I hope only temporary), it is very interesting and educational. Entrance fee: 24 RM for adults, 15 RM for children.

Orang Asli Museum

This is another educational place really worth to visit. It is a small museum in the same area, dedicated to the oldest people of Peninsular Malaysia, called Orang Asli. The museum is established in a traditional Temuan tribe house. It has only one hall with some artifacts and small models of the people’s houses and tools, as well as information about some famous Orang Asli people. You can get a good initial knowledge who are Orang Asli, where and how they live. Entrance fee: 2 RM for adults, 1 RM for children.

Other attractions in Ayer Keroh

All the other attractions in this area are just for fun, or some related to nature education. Of course, you would enjoy to visit them, since you are already in the Ayer Keroh area, so let’s see which are they.

• Melaka Zoo . This is the second-largest zoo in Malaysia with a rich collection of animals, including some endangered species like Malayan tiger and Sumatrans rhinoceros. Entrance fee: 35 RM for adults, 25 RM for children.
• Crocodile Farm Park . This is an attractive park with about 100 crocodiles. Besides the crocs, there are some other attractions like a performance stage, amusement park, mini models of Malaysian landmarks and some other exotic animals. Entrance fee: 30 RM.
• Bee Museum . It is a small gallery, dedicated to the bees and honey. You can try and buy various kinds of honey. No entrance fee.
• Melaka Bird Park . This is a kind of a bird zoo, presenting a collection of many bird species. Entrance fee: 23,70 RM for adults, 17,80 for children.
• Amusement parks- SKYTREX Adventure and Melaka Wonderland . SKYTREX is a place for adventures, such as biking on a rope, trekking in the air between the trees and many other challenges. The entrance fee depends on the level of difficulty you choose, between 60 and 90 RM. And Melaka Wonderland is just a playground, with many attractions, including water slides, etc. Entrance fee: 36-40,50 RM for adults, 29 to 34 RM for children, depending on the day of the week.
• Planetarium Melaka . An attractive science center, related to the space theme. Entrance fee: 10 RM for adults, 5 RM for children.

The beaches of Melaka

Yes, after all, Melaka is a seacoast city. So, maybe you would expect some beaches to enjoy? Yes, there are beaches, although a bit far from the city itself- at least 15 km in the northwest direction. They are called Tanjung Kling, Pantai Kundur, and the farthest one- Tanjung Bidara. These beaches are not the greatest ones in Malaysia, you can find much better ones in places like Langkawi, Tioman or Perhentian, but are still a nice place to enjoy the sea.

The real islands of Melaka

Yes, I mean „the real”, because Melaka Island with its floating mosque is a man-made one. But there are other islands, which are natural and worth to visit. Pulau Upeh is a nice small park, where you can see Hawksbills turtles, and in the past, it was used as a pirate base. Another island is Pulau Besar, covered by equatorial rainforest and full of legends and mysteries. You can get there by speed boat from Umbai Jetty.

In general, that’s all of the important places to visit in Melaka. We visited most of them, although not all, for just a day and a half. But our travel style is relatively fast, due to our time limits. However, if you are not urgent, I would suggest at least 3-4 days to enjoy everything without a hurry. And to build your itinerary better, you need to arrange well your transportation and your accommodation. First, let’s see how is transportation in Melaka.

Transportation in Melaka

Melaka is well-connected to the rest of Malaysia , by air (to Melaka Airport), by bus (frequent buses at every 10-15 mins from Kuala Lumpur, to Melaka Central Terminal) and by roads, if you rent a car. There are also ferry services from Indonesia- Bengkalis, Dumai, and Pekanbaru. Once you arrive there, it is not difficult to move around Melaka, and its places to visit.

Check your transportation to Melaka on Bookaway!

Check your transportation to Melaka on 12Go!

As budget travelers, we always try to find the cheapest and at the same time, the fastest possible transport. If you see the map, you can notice that the Melaka Historical Center is a very small area, surrounded by a large normal contemporary network of suburbs, villages, and countryside.

Transport in the Historical Center of Melaka

The Historical Center of Melaka is small, its places to visit are very close to each other, so the best transportation around it is your own two legs. For your attraction, you can also hire a rickshaw- there is a rickshaw „terminal” in Dutch Square. And a 30 mins ride can cost you around 25 RM.

Another option is to rent a bicycle. There are many places to rent a bike from the Historical Center- many guesthouses offer it, as well as several bike shops (you can easily find JT Minimart and JFS Bike Rental in Google Maps). The prices are usually 20-25 RM for the whole day, 15 RM for half a day or 10 RM for an hour.

Transportation in the rest of Melaka

The rest of the city is different, with much longer distances. You can walk on foot, of course, but it would take hours to visit only 2-3 of the places in the farther areas of Melaka. Ayer Keroh is even farther, so, you would need a normal transport.

And the best option is Grab, and I highly recommend you download the app on your mobile. There are taxis, but Grab is cheaper, and the price is clear and fixed. For your reference, we paid 16 RM for the distance from Ayer Keroh to Dutch Square, which is 13 km, but depending on the time of the day, and on the traffic, it can be different.

There are also some public buses, but we didn’t see any of them. They should be cheaper, but obviously, very rare and slow, that’s why we even didn’t look for them. Another transportation is the new Monorail, but it is more like a local attraction, rather than a useful way of transportation because it has only one very short round route in the area near Kampong Morten Village. Anyway, you can try it from Monorail Station Tun Ali.

Accommodation in Melaka

It is another important thing that you have to arrange. There are all kinds of hotels, from splurge to budget, and you can easily find what you like in Booking and Agoda. But I would advise you to be strategic. First, choose a proper location. To do that, consider two things- how will you visit the places of interest in Melaka, and how will you leave Melaka.

For your route to the places of interest, the best area is the Historical Center of Melaka. It is the most convenient place to walk around the center and the best starting point for the farther places. The streets in the Historical Center are not pedestrian, so you can call a Grab to the gate of your accommodation. Besides, you can find nice hotels, hostels and guesthouses in this area, some of which quite cheap.

But if you have to leave Melaka by plane or bus early in the morning, you can think about a place closer to the International Airport or Melaka Central Bus Terminal, because it can be critical. About the price, there are many budget hotels, especially far from the Historical Center. A good budget hotel chain is OYO.

Check your Melaka accommodation on Booking!

Check your Melaka accommodation on Agoda!

After Melaka

We left Melaka at noon, after visiting the Melaka Straits Mosque and the Portuguese Village in the morning. Melaka was our second stop in Malaysia, and now we got the bus to Mersing, the starting point for Tioman , one of the most beautiful islands on the Earth. And we proceeded our Malaysia journey with a good impression of the country, to which Melaka contributed a lot. So, if you travel to Peninsular Malaysia, include in your itinerary Melaka, and after that, you would which to back there again!

Get more impressions from the video below!

Check some travel and history books about Melaka and Malaysia!

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Hi, we are Krasen and Ying Ying. Krasen is from Bulgaria, and Ying Ying is from China. We are passionate about geography and history, and we believe that the best way to experience it is by exploring the Earth in reality, not in a school, and not virtually.

So, we created this blog Journey Beyond the Horizon, where we share geographical knowledge, travel guides and tips how to experience it when you explore our planet, and a lot of inspiration.

And we wish you a happy journey, not just virtually, but most of all- in reality.

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Melaka trip: the eight best things to do in Melaka, Malaysia!

Melaka is a nice city just a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur . We initially did not plan to visit Melaka (or Malacca as it is often called). But we are so happy that we did! The city really surprised us with cool street art, nice shops and great food.

Melaka is a lot bigger than we expected, the city is quite extensive, although almost all the sights are in the centre. We also noticed how clean the city is. It sometimes reminded us of Japan!

How many days do you need for a Melaka trip?

Things to do in melaka.

Melaka is a tourist spot at the weekend when many Malaysian tourists visit it for a day trip. However, during the week it is pretty quiet here. You can walk around freely on Jonker Walk (the central street where everything happens) and there are more than enough hotel rooms available. However, keep in mind that some restaurants and shops are closed. We stayed three nights on weekdays in Melaka and found the peace wonderful. Unfortunately, we had to miss the night markets, these only take place at the weekend. Read about our 8 favorite things to do in Malacca below!

Below the eight best things to do in Melaka!

1. visit dutch square, the old stadthuys and christ church, 2. enjoy the nyonya cuisine, the local food in melaka., 3. wander around st. paul’s church and a famosa fort.

Behind Dutch Square, there is a hill where there used to be a fortress. You can still find a number of historic buildings here. The most beautiful is St. Paul’s Church . This church was built by the Portuguese (who also ruled here for a while) and is full of Dutch gravestones.

Just behind St. Paul’s Church is the only remnant of the A Famosa Fort . This is a very old (and unfortunately poorly maintained) building that was part of the fort built by the Portuguese. The only thing left to see of this fort is the gate, which is also called Porta de Santiago.

4. View the Melaka Straits Mosque

5. shop on jonker walk or visit the night market at the weekend, 6. admire the sultanate palace.

The Sultanate Palace is a wooden replica of the real palace of Sultan Mansur from the 15th century. It is made according to traditional building technology with associated material. Nowadays the palace houses a cultural museum called Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum .

Are you travelling to the Cameron Highlands after Melaka? Find our in-depth travel guide to the Cameron Highlands here!

7. Take a cruise on the Malacca River or walk along the river in the evening!

The Malacca River goes right through the centre of Melaka. Although, the river itself is not very special (even a little dirty with the brown water), but the beautiful buildings, which are illuminated at night, bridges and street art, make a cruise (especially when travelling with children) fun. A cruise costs 30 MYR and takes 40 minutes.

We did not opt for a boat trip on the Malacca River but often walked the quays in the evenings. With the lights, there is a very nice atmosphere here. Sit down at one of the dozens of bars on the water or admire the beautiful bridges.

8. Admire the street art and graffiti

The nicest restaurants in melaka.

There is really an abundance of nice restaurants, coffee shops and street food in Melaka. Keep in mind that many restaurants have strange opening times. For example, many eateries are closed after 6 pm in the evening, or closed on any day of the week. So always check Google Maps to see if the cafe or restaurant is open.

The best breakfast, lunch, and coffee shops during your Melaka trip

Backlane Coffee – good coffee Are you looking for a quiet coffee shop? Then Backlane is a very good option. Internet is not always as fast (just as in all other places in Melaka), but the setting is nice, there are sockets and the coffee is nice. A good co-working place. Click here for the location on Google Maps.

The Nyonya kitchen in Melaka

When you come to Melaka, you absolutely must have tried the Nyonya cuisine. Below several restaurants that prepare tasty dishes in this style.

The Melting Pot – dining among the locals It might seem to be a bit of a tourist catch, but  The Melting Pot  isn’t! The food is very tasty and you will only find Malaysians inside. We went for the Nyonya Pancake (fried fish pancakes), Nasi Malak and mustard greens prepared locally. Click here for the location on Google Maps.

Heng Huat Coffee Shop – cheap lunch No, Heng Huat Coffee Shop is not a place you go for coffee, but for delicious and very cheap food! We had lunch here (this place closes at 3 p.m.) with rice and noodles and paid less than € 3.50 together! You will only find local people here. Click here for the location on Google Maps.

Jonker88 – always full! You can also try the Nyonya food at Jonker88 . Here you can eat local noodle soup or a dessert of shredded coconut ice cream and durian. It is always very busy here, so be on time or be prepared to wait a while. Click here for the location on Google Maps.

At the weekend you also have two famous street markets where you can eat very well: Jonker Walk Street Market and Kee Ann Food Street . On these two markets, you can eat and shop from Friday evening to Sunday evening. Kee Ann Food Street is much less known to tourists and therefore less crowded.

Fine dining during your Melaka trip

Many restaurants are closed in the evening, but the places below were open during our visit and very nice!

Makan Avenue – food hall We discovered this food hall by accident when we walked along the Malacca River. You will only see locals who are sitting on the waterfront or in the hall enjoying the food. There is not much choice for vegetarians, but the fresh spring rolls were tasty. Ries took Malaysian satay, also a good choice! Click here for the location on Google Maps.

The Daily Fix Cafe – hip Asian and Western dishes This restaurant is hidden behind a souvenir shop, but nevertheless it is always full here. Daily Fix Cafe serves dishes that are a mix of Asia and the West, very tasty but with accompanying Western prices. Click here for the location on Google Maps

The best hotels for Melaka

Melaka is bursting with cool hip hotels and hostels. Below a selection of our favourite hotels in Melaka. Are you staying in Melaka at the weekend? Make sure you book your accommodation well on time before everything is full!

This cozy hostel has surprisingly large private rooms, clean showers and is attached to a cool café. You sleep here from 17 euros per night in a private room (with air conditioning).

The beautiful rooms of JonkeRed come straight from a design magazine. With a location next to the Dutch Square, you can hardly be more central. For only 22 euros per night (two people).

This hotel, housed in a red-brick building, is so cool! The interior is beautiful, with a courtyard garden and luxurious rooms. You sleep here from 75 euros per night including breakfast (two people).

Super handy: the best hostels, hotels and lodges per destination at a glance. Read our guide to the best hotels in Malaysia !

How do you reach Melaka from Kuala Lumpur?

Melaka is located in the south of Malaysia, just a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Public transportation – MYR 10 / € 2.50 per person Buses run to Melaka every half hour from the central bus station in Kuala Lumpur (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan, TBS). You can reach Melaka Sentral by bus in just over two hours, from where it is another ten minutes to the centre by Grab/taxi (costs 8MYR or € 2).

By taxi – MYR 250-310 / € 55-70 You will be travelling by taxi from Kuala Lumpur for about an hour and a half. You pay a lot more for this, while the bus is probably as comfortable as the taxi.

Tip: buy your tickets at the station itself, or in advance via Easybook or  Bus Online Ticket

Are you planning your Malaysia trip? Check out our  Malaysia itinerary  for three weeks travel!

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The 14 Places to visit in Melaka, Malaysia That Will Amaze You

The UNESCO heritage city, Melaka , also known as Malacca, situated on the west coast of Malaysia, is not just a city with rich history and heritage but also an important trading point in Asia for centuries. The capital of Malacca state, this city is colourful, organized yet chaotic, and one of the most popular tourist attractions and Places to Visit in Melaka, Malaysia and rest of the world.

Culture, good food, and the Dutch and Portuguese influences on Malaysia can all be found here. Malacca is rich with history and attractions. You can never run out of reasons to visit the place. Here we have listed down Places to visit in Melaka that you shouldn’t miss.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Melaka main attraction points

This heritage city is one of the busiest cities in Malaysia as it has one of the oldest cultures of trade between the east and the west. As well as with its geographical position between India and China it has monopolized as the trading centre which enabled UNESCO to declare it as UNESCO heritage site in 2008.

Places to visit in Melaka for free

1. jonker’s street melaka.

The night market on Friday and Saturday in Jonker Street Melaka is one of the lively places in the city loved by both the locals and the tourists. This is where the Chinatown of the city is located. Many old heritage buildings, antique shops are nestled along this road.

On Friday and Saturday nights, the streets come alive with the street bars and food stalls opening. You can hear the happiness of weekends, music and satisfactory food along with the array.

Jonker Street activities to do: 

● Walk and eat bbq and snacks and drinks in the night market

● Visiting Cheng Ho Cultural Museum and Baba Nyonya Museum

● Cheng Hoon Teng Temple and Kampung Kling Mosque visit

● Visiting antique souvenir shop

If you start your tour around the Jonker Street area in the morning on Friday or Saturday, you can start off by visiting the Cheng Hoon Temple, which is Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple 

and has UNESCO approval for protecting the heritage. And then, you can visit the Kampung Kling Mosque, built in the 1800s and is an amalgamation of architecture from all over the world. And, then you can visit the shops and finish the day by visiting the night market and eating delicious food.

2. Cheng Hoon Temple Melaka

Located in the famous Jonker Street, Cheng Hoon Temple is the oldest Chinese Buddhist temple in Malaysia. This temple is unique for its outstanding architecture and enchanting history. Even Cheng Hoon Temple has been awarded by UNESCO for its splendid architectural design and excellent preservation. 

The temple is dedicated to Kuan Yin , the Goddess of Mercy. After entering the temple complex, you’ll find several prayer halls here and the black, gold, and red-robed statue of the Goddess of Mercy. 

Cheng Hoon Teng temple is also locally known as “Merciful Cloud Temple” or “The Temple of Green Cloud”. Here you’ll find not only the doctrine of Buddhism but also Confucianism and Taoism.

This dazzling temple will give you numerous opportunities to click on some iconic pictures. So be the witness of this architectural wonder when you’re in Melaka.

Address: 25, Jalan Tokong, Kampung Dua, 75200 Melaka

Opening hour: Daily 07:00 am to 04:00 pm

3. Kampung Kling Mosque

Kampung Kling Mosque is one of the oldest and most traditional mosques in Melaka. But it is not the only thing that is unique about this mosque! Kampung Kling Mosque , built in the 1800s, is an amalgamation of architecture from all over the world.

It was first built by the Indian Muslim traders in 1748, and at that time, the mosque was the main prayer centre of the Indian population of this area. Over time, Kampung Kling Mosque was rebuilt, and now it has the touch of several architecture styles like Chinese, Sumatran, Hindu, and the Melaka Malay.

The mosque is situated in “ Harmony Street “, and this street also houses other worshipping places like Cheng Hoon Temple and Sri Poyyatha Temple . So whenever you come to this Harmony street, you’ll see the beauty of multiple cultures of Malaysia and the harmony among them.

You can also visit the shops and finish the day by visiting the night market and eating delicious food in this street.

Address: Jonker Street 75200 Malacca

4. A Famosa Melaka

A Famosa located at the same complex of the St. Paul’s Church, you will see the fort built by the Portuguese to run their administration in Melaka. Portuguese invader Alfonso De Albuquerque originally built it to run the forts, hospitals and towers built by the Portuguese.

But only the remains of the fort with the crumbling structure now remains to tell the tale of time, and A Famosa is one of the best sightseeing spots in Melaka. The complex is always open for visitors.

5. St. Paul’s Church Melaka

Situated in the Malacca Museum Complex Bandar Hilir, Melaka, St. Paul Church is one of the oldest buildings remaining till now. Built by a Portuguese in the 1500s, this Church was a Roman Catholic church originally and was a Dutch Reformed Church before it became a museum.

This Church became famous after briefly housing the remains of St. Francis Xavier, whose armless statue will be noticed by the Church.

Opening Hours: All-day, best to visit around 10 AM to 12 AM

Entry Fee: None

6. Malacca River (Sungai Melaka)

Flowing through the city’s heart, the Melaka River is one of the main tourist spots for visitors and the Melaka River cruise for touring. The cruise is available for riding from 9 AM to 11:30 PM, but the cityscape lights can only be enjoyed on the night rides.

For the cruise, you can catch the boat from three jetties, the Murari Jetty, Tamana Rempah Jetty and the Shore Jetty, and all of them take a roundtrip of around 45 minutes, covering 9km.

7. Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum Melaka

The Baba & Nyonya , UNESCO Heritage Museum , is a three terrace shophouse originally owned by the Chan family and built in the late 1800s. You will find detailed Chinese architecture and a showcase of Peranakan or the mix of Chinese and Malay culture.

From artefacts to used items, Baba &Nyonya will take you through the journey of Peranakan culture and their lifestyle.

Opening Hours:  10:00AM to 1:00PM and 2:00PM to 4:00PM

8. Melaka Straits Mosque

Melaka Straits Mosque , located on a man-made island just off the coast, the mosque appears to float in the water when the tide is in. So it’s commonly known as the “ floating mosque ” now. It has a magical appearance with its stunning white facade and golden dome. Visit at sunrise or sunset or at night when the mosque is illuminated for an even better view.

You can enjoy the mosque’s view from the outside, but you can also go inside for free. Just make sure to double-check the hours of operation on the day of your visit because they are subject to change.

Also, dress appropriately. Ideally, women’s lower legs and shoulders should be covered, but if this is a problem, the mosque will provide free gowns for those who need them.

9. Kampung Morten Malacca

You must have seen several artificial museums. But have you ever seen a living museum? Yes, that’s right, Melaka has a living museum known as Kampung Morten . In the Malay language, “Kampung” means “village”, so basically, it is a village that contains Malay culture and traditions. 

Since Malaysia has become one of the modern countries of the world, it is really hard to find out the original Malay culture and lifestyle. The people of Kampung Morten still practice this traditional Malay lifestyle, and it reflects the best in their housing designs.

The star attraction of Kampung Morten is Villa Sentosa . A traditional Malay wooden house that showcases antique furniture, tableware, Malay embroidery, and many historic artefacts. 

Villa Sentosa opens its door for the visitors daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed between 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm) except for Friday. On Friday, this private living museum is open from 2:45 pm to 5:00 pm. It takes no entry fee, but there is a donation option.

Address: Kampung Morten, Malacca

Unique places to visit in Melaka

10. muzium samudera ( flor de la mar ).

How many of you have fantasised about making a tour on an ancient ship? If you have, then the Maritime Museum or Muzium Samudera is the place for you. It is a museum where you’ll find a vast ship that is 34 metres high, 36 metres long, and 8 metres wide.

It is a replica of the Portuguese ship called “ Flor de la Mar “. This ship sank off the coast of Melaka due to an unfortunate accident. People used to say that the ship was carrying the loot that the Portuguese had stolen from Melaka.

Besides this mesmerising ship, the museum also showcases several artefacts, documents, and the history of Malacca, which make it a must-see attraction of this city.

Address: Jln Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka

Opening hour: Tuesday to Sunday 09:00 am to 05:00 pm (Closed on Monday)

Ticket price: with MyKad Adults RM 5.00; Children RM 3.00｜without MyKad Adults RM 10.00; Children RM 6.00

11. Taming Sari Tower Melaka

Menara Taming Sari or Taming Sari Tower is the first Gyro observation tower in Malaysia. It is an architectural marvel that measures 110 metres in height. You can see the whole city from a 360-degree angle after reaching the top of this tower. It will give you a bird’s eye view of Melaka.

The tower is made by using advanced Swiss technology for its rotating platform. At the same time, it can accommodate 80 people at a time on the viewing platform. There is a glass cabin that takes passengers from the ground to the top of the tower.

Opening hour: Daily 10:00 am to 11:00 pm

Ticket price : with MyKad Adults RM 10.00; Children (below 12) RM 5.00｜without MyKad Adults RM 20.00; Children RM 10.00

12. Christ Church Melaka (Malacca Christ church)

Built-in the 18th century when the Dutch took over Malaysia, the christ church Melaka is a go-to place for tourists. The oldest Anglican Church in Malaysia has simple rectangular Dutch architecture, and the red bricks are its signature.

Located along with the Jalan Geereja Christ Church is a statement tourist spot of the city. The church complex is beautiful, and the inside will showcase simple architecture.

Entry fee: RM 10 (2.39USD) per person

Opening hours: 9 AM to 5:30 PM daily

13. Stadthuys Museum

Your Melaka tour would be fascinating if you pay a visit to its Dutch building, Stadthuys Museum . It is the oldest surviving Dutch building in the East that used to be the official residence of the Dutch governor and officers. The word “Stadthuys” means “city hall”, and it is still popular among locals as a very famous city hall. 

The bright terracotta-red building is an amazing example of Dutch architecture. The museum showcases the history and ethnography of Malacca culture and traditions. Here you’ll see maps, prints, and photographs of many local legends and also learn the history behind them.

Address: Jalan Gereja,75000 Malacca

Opening hour: Monday to Thursday 09:00 am to 05:00 pm｜Friday to Sunday 09:00 am to 08:30 pm

Ticket price: with MyKad Adults RM 5.00; Children RM 2.00｜without MyKad Adults RM 10.00; Children RM 4.00

New attraction in Melaka

14. the shore sky tower.

Thrill-seekers surely should not miss the Shore Sky Tower . The tower is justified by its name as being the tallest building in Melaka. The observation deck is situated on the 43rd floor of the tower, which will give you a spectacular breathtaking view not only of this traditional city but as well as of Gunung Ledang and Pulau Besar. This glass floor observation deck will give you a 360-degree view of Melaka and the surroundings.

Apart from this, on the 42nd floor of the tower, you can have residential and commercial hubs like hotels, shopping malls, and eateries.

Don’t miss the most beautiful sunset view when the whole city decorates itself with colourful and enchanting lights.

Address: 193, Pinggiran @ Sungai Melaka, Jalan Persisiran Bunga Raya, 75100, Malacca

Opening hour: Daily 11:00 am to 10:00 pm

Ticket price: Adults RM 25.00; Children (3 to 12 years old) RM 18.00 (this price included a pack of souvenir postcards)

Places to visit in Melaka at Night

There are many things to see and do in Melaka, even after the sun sets. Here are some places you can visit in Melaka at night:

Jonker Street Night Market: If you want a unique shopping and dining experience in Melaka, check out the Jonker Street Night Market. This bustling market is filled with vendors selling everything from delicious street food to trendy clothing and unique antiques. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir or two to remember your visit!

Melaka River Cruise: Experience the beauty of Melaka at night with a scenic river cruise along the Melaka River. As you glide along the water, take in the stunning city views illuminated by colourful lights, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. The Melaka River Cruise is a must-do activity for anyone visiting this charming Malaysian city.

Menara Taming Sari: For a stunning panoramic view of Melaka’s skyline, head to Menara Taming Sari. This tower rotates 360 degrees, allowing visitors to view the city’s sights from every angle. For a different memorable experience, visit at night when the city lights up and creates a breathtaking view.

The Shore Sky Tower: For a breathtaking view of Melaka’s skyline, head to The Shore Sky Tower. This tower offers a stunning panorama of the city, especially at night when the lights twinkle like stars. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this unforgettable sight.

These are just some places you can visit in Melaka at night. The city has vibrant nightlife, and there’s always something to see and do after dark.

Melaka best place to eat

Melaka is a food lover’s paradise with a plethora of dining options to choose from. For authentic Peranakan cuisine, head to Nancy’s Kitchen , where you can indulge in dishes like Nyonya laksa, ayam pongteh, and cincalok omelette. Suppose you’re in the mood for tandoori chicken and naan bread.

In that case, Pak Putra Tandoori & Naan Restaurant is a must-visit. For local delicacies like cendol, laksa, and rojak, Jonker 88 is a popular spot. Capitol Satay Celup is famous for its unique Melakan dish of skewered meat and vegetables cooked in a pot of satay sauce.

Finally, Geographer Cafe offers diverse dishes, from local to Western cuisine, and boasts a rooftop bar with stunning city views. These are just a few of the many amazing places to eat in Melaka, so don’t hesitate to explore and discover more delicious food. Please note that these restaurants have no affiliation with me.

Not only delicious Malay food, but Melaka will also offer you its own unique dishes influenced by the Portuguese culture, and its delectable cuisine evolved over time. Some delicious local food recommendations are:

Make a list of famous foods in Melaka which you can try

Satay Celup : Satay Celup is the Malay hotpot with satay gravy and assorted semi-cooked seafood, meat and vegetables. Satay Celup is not like any other hotpot you may have had before and is a signature dish of Melaka.

Nyonya Cuisine : Melaka has a lot of places for you to enjoy the delicacies of this cuisine. The must haves in the peranakan cuisine are Ayam Buah Keluak, Laksa, Sambal Sotong, Ikan Goreng Cili Garam, Rendang, Nyonya Curry. Some best places to have this fusion cuisine in Melaka are Nancy’s Kitchen, Restoran Nyonya Makko, Amy Heritage Nyonya Cuisine.

Chicken Rice ball : Have this unique, tasty delicacy of Malacca either at Jonker Street or Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice ball.

Putu Piring : The chewy, sticky sweet rice balls are traditional treats that you should not miss while in Melaka. You can buy them from a lot of stalls or shops and one of the oldest shops in the city in Putu Piring Melaka, where they are available in their best taste.

Jonker Street snacks : While you hit the night market on the street, you cannot miss out on the few sweet and savoury dishes that only this part of the city offers. Having a barbecue and trying the coconut sherbet are two must-try in Jonker Street.

Other than that, chicken rice ball and many fusions and innovative foods like fried ice cream, Chinese burger sambal, and candies are available. The options for exploration are limitless here.

Best Routes to Travel to Melaka

If you are travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka, there are two best ways for the travel guide.

Bus: If you are travelling from another state or country, this guide begins in Kuala Lumpur. After arrival in Kuala Lumpur , the cheapest, flexible and easiest way is to get the bus. You have to arrive at the Bandar Tasik Selatan or KL Sentral station in the city centre, where buses are available for the southern part of the country.

You can reach there by either by monorail, LRT or KTM commuter from any part of the city. From there, you will find buses departing with an interval of 30 minutes.

The trip takes around 2 and half hours from Bandar Tasik Selatan (TBS), and along the way, you will find beautiful scenery to enjoy. For booking you bus or train tickets in advance we recommend buying through 12go.asia

Bus ticket price: RM 8.40 ($2.50 to $5)

Starting point: Bandar Tasik Selatan or KL Sentral Station

Arrival: Melaka Sentral Station

Car or Taxi: The second-best option for reaching Melaka is drive your car its just about 1 hour 45 minutes’ drive from Kuala Lumpur or renting a taxi. You can always find taxis nearby all the hotels and prime areas of Kuala Lumpur city, and the taxi charge will be RM 250 to RM 280 Alternatively, you can rent a car for the day with just RM 50 to RM 150 depending on size and number of seats.

However, another option you can take is a train that will take you to Tampin from TBS Terminal, and you have to take another consecutive bus from Tampin to reach Melaka. This route of train and bus will take around 3 hours for the whole trip. Hence, drive your own car or a taxi or bus is the recommended option for the commute.

Best places to stay in Melaka

Melaka has an abundance of wonderful places to stay , regardless of your budget. On the one hand, there are beautiful hostels and charming homestays; on the other hand, there are boutique hotels and luxury resorts.

The best neighbourhood to stay in is near the river, near Jonker Street. This way, you’ll be close to the majority of Malacca’s top attractions, which is ideal if your stay is only a day or two. I’ve included some cheap hotel & hostel recommendations below.

Wanderer In Melaka

Situated 200 metres from Menara Taming Sari, Wanderer In Melaka features rooms with air conditioning in Melaka. The property is around 2.2 km from Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, 2.2 km from The Stadthuys and 2.3 km from Jonker Street. Free WiFi is available and private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.

Atlant i s Residence by Harmoni Harbour

Located in Melaka, 2.2 km from Cheng Hoon Teng Temple and 2.3 km from Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, Atlantis Residence by Harmoni Harbour provides accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, an outdoor swimming pool and a garden. With free private parking, the property is 2.4 km from Jonker Street and 2.5 km from Straits Chinese Jewelry Museum Malacca.

The One Vacation Home

Situated in Melaka, 500 metres from Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum and 600 metres from Jonker Street, The One Vacation Home features accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning,  free bikes  and a shared lounge.

Imperio Res – Quality Comfort Location

Set just 1.9 km from St John’s Fort, Imperio, Res – Quality — Comfort —  Location  offers accommodation in Melaka with access to an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, as well as a 24-hour front desk. The property has lake and river views and is 1.9 km from Porta de Santiago.

Filled with bustling streets, the history of Peranakan and Malay heritage, the capital of Malacca is undoubtedly a place of interest for tourists seeking the taste of Malay culture, history buffs, and those who want to just experience the hot, busy yet colourful culture of the city Melaka. So there you have it, 12 Places to visit in Melaka, Malaysia that will amaze you. Feel free to tell me of other places that should be on this list!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most popular site in Malacca?

The most popular site in Malacca is the historic Walk of Jonker Street, known for its antique shops, street food, and night market. Other popular sites include the Christ Church, Stadthuys, A Famosa Fort, and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

What is Malacca famous for?

Malacca is famous for its rich history and cultural heritage. It was once a major trading port and has been influenced by various cultures over the centuries. Some top things to do in Malacca include visiting historical sites like the A Famosa Fort and St. Paul’s Church, exploring the Jonker Street Night Market, and trying local delicacies like chicken rice balls and cendol.

Is 2 days enough for Malacca?

While it’s possible to see some of the highlights of Malacca in a day, we recommend spending at least two days in the city to fully explore its rich history, culture, and cuisine. Within two days, you can visit the top attractions, try local dishes, and even take a river cruise or visit nearby attractions like the Portuguese settlement or the beaches of Pulau Besar. Read my article  How to spend 48 hours in Melaka

Is Malacca worth seeing?

Absolutely! Melaka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is rich in history and culture. Some of the top things to do in Malacca include visiting historical sites such as the Stadthuys and A Famosa Fort, exploring the Jonker Street night market, and trying the local cuisine.

What are the top sightseeing places in Melaka?

What are the top activities in Melaka?

Some of the top activities in Melaka include visiting historical sites such as the A Famosa Fort and St. Paul’s Church, exploring the Jonker Street Night Market, trying local cuisine at the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, and taking a river cruise to see the city from a different perspective.

What are the top attractions to visit in Melaka?

Some top attractions in Melaka include the historic A Famosa Fort, the Stadthuys and Christ Church in the Dutch Square, the Jonker Street Night Market, the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, and the Melaka River Cruise. Other popular activities include visiting the Melaka Zoo, exploring the Melaka Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary, and trying local cuisine at the city’s many food stalls and restaurants.

What are the most popular things to do in Melaka with kids?

Some of the most popular things to do in Melaka with kids include visiting the Melaka Zoo, exploring the Melaka Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary, taking a river cruise, visiting the Melaka Wonderland Theme Park, and checking out the interactive exhibits at the Melaka Planetarium.

Which is better Penang or Malacca?

Both Penang and Malacca have their own unique charm and attractions, so it ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in a visit. Penang is known for its street art, food, and beaches. In contrast, Malacca is known for its historical sites and cultural heritage.

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Top Reasons to Visit Melaka, Malaysia

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One of the most charming and accessible destinations in peninsular Malaysia is historic Melaka (Malacca). It’s really hard to find someone who has visited Melaka and disliked it. Rather, most visitors consider Melaka to be one of the most rewarding destinations in Malaysia. So what makes Melaka such a well-regarded place to visit? Here is my opinion.

1. Melaka is very accessible from either Singapore or Kuala Lumpur.

Whether you land in either one of these hubs, Melaka is no more than 3 hours away by bus. Now, with solid intra-city bus services in Melaka, it doesn’t take much effort (or money) to get right down to Jonker Walk (the most famous street in Melaka) from Melaka Sentral.

2. Melaka serves up excellent cuisine.

You never have to walk far to find great local cuisine in Melaka. Whether you are looking for traditional Chinese cuisine, Nyonya, or basic hawker food, Melaka has you covered. You will also be delighted to know that the food in Melaka is significantly cheaper than in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

3. Melaka has a great night market along Jonker Walk.

Come night time and the main tourist street in Melaka gets even more interesting. Jonker Walk transforms into a large street market with local vendors selling everything from Henna tattoos to ear candles. Hawker food is never too far from reach as you stroll the market and pass by historic buildings and lanterns.

4. Melaka has the beautiful Sungai Melaka (Melaka River) flowing through its downtown core.

Once a pivotal trade route during the 15th century, Sungai Melaka only adds to the charming atmosphere around Melaka’s tourist area. Early in the morning, or late in the afternoon capture beautiful water reflections. Since there is a walkway lining the river, also consider taking an early morning walk (or run) all the way out to the Malacca Straight (Straight of Melaka).

5. Melaka is full of Heritage Sites to Explore.

Christ Church, St. Paul’s Hill, and Cheng Hoong Teng Temple are just a few of the headliners that attract tourists from all over the world to Melaka. Kampung Kling Mosque and A Famosa Fort should also be on anyone’s list who decides to visit the city. Melaka is an official UNESCO World Heritage City, so there are plenty of sites to see over the course of a couple of days.

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6. Melaka is compact and can be easily navigated by foot.

Once you arrive at Dutch Square or in the vicinity of Jonker walk, you will appreciate the reachable attractions. Most of the noteworthy temples, mosques, historical sites, famous restaurants, and tea shops are within a 10 minute walk. Malaysia is scorching hot during the day (pretty much year round) so it’s nice to have everything conveniently located in Melaka.

7. Melaka has an excellent range of boutique hotels and guesthouses for a city its size.

Finding a hotel or guesthouse that suits you is extremely easy in Melaka. Most of the accommodation choices are located minutes away from Jonker Walk or along Sungai Melaka (Melaka River). In low season you can find great deals online when tourist numbers are down. In my opinion, book well in advance and try to find something close enough to the action, but far enough from the thick tourist crowds that can clog up the tourist region.

Click here and use the map tool to find a place to stay that suits you near the prime tourist sites. Melaka has roughly 420 accommodation choices to choose from.

8. Melaka is loaded with trendy art shops.

Melaka is not all about hawker food and souvenirs. The city also has a broad range of tiny art shops selling locally made goods. You can easily find hand-made jewellery and lots of household ornaments on the streets off of Jonker Walk. Let’s face it – shopping is an entertaining way to avoid the rays in the middle of the afternoon.

9. It might sound generic, but Melaka is just charming.

It’s hard to identify a single entity that makes Melaka such a charming destination to visit in Malaysia. Rich history, riverside restaurants, picturesque Dutch Square? Of course different travellers perceive different sites, differently. Spend a night or two roaming Melaka’s streets and sites and form your own opinions along the way.

Where did we stay in Melaka (Malacca)?

We have visited Melaka many times.  Each and every time we have stayed within walking distance of Jonker Walk. Sometimes Jonker can get a bit overcrowded with day-trippers. Therefore, trying to book a room a few streets over is a good strategy. During our last trip we stayed at Kawan Kawan Guest House . We don’t have a direct affiliation with this or any property in Melaka, therefore our opinion is an unbiased one. Overall it turned out to be a nice budget choice. It took us about 3-4 minutes to walk to Jonker Street. It’s located on a quiet street with some nice boutique art shops and restaurants. At night you might hear some noise from adjacent rooms due to their thin room walls. Again, it depends on your priorities. At the time of writing it had a score of 7.8/10 based on 225 verified guest reviews . I would consider this to be a fairly accurate representation of this property.

How to find the cheapest rooms in Melaka (Malacca)?

Melaka (Malacca) has a healthy range of hotels to choose from.  But of course this raises the question of which hotel site to use in order to find the best prices. Traditionally, www.agoda.com has been the leading accommodation site in Malaysia with the widest selection of rooms.  This is still the case for Melaka. Many of our readers use Agoda , but if you’re up for shopping around try www.hotelscombined.com . Hotelscombined.com  gets excellent reviews from our readers because it quickly enables visitors to complete price comparisons of the world’s leading hotel sites. Another reputable option is www.booking.com .  Many of our readers book exclusively with www.booking.com for their worldwide travels. I have created a table that shows the top hotels in Melaka to save you some time:

Top Rated Properties in Melaka (Malacca)

Based on verified guest reviews, important: mobile users must swipe from left to right to see entire table..

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Read More About Melaka

• How to Get from Johor Bahru to Melaka
• How to Get from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka (Malacca)
• How to Get from Melaka Sentral Station to Jonker Walk
• Jonker Walk Night Market, Melaka
• Melaka (Malacca)
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• Top Attractions in Melaka (Malacca)

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• 18 Places To Visit In Malacca In 2024 That Bring Out The Other Side Of Malaysia

23 Mar 2023

Malaysia’s south-western coastal state and the country’s historical heart, Malacca, has many aces up its sleeve. The destination is extremely popular amongst travel enthusiasts. Steeped in culture, history, and traditions, this coastal state allows you a peek into the Malaysian way of life through its many museums, architectural, gastronomic delights, and plenty of places to visit in Malacca . Malacca is truly a melting pot of cultures with its unique blend of Chinese, Portuguese and Dutch influences.

18 Best Places To Visit In Malacca

Here are the top 12 places to visit in Malacca . There are tranquil beaches, lakes and hot springs for those seeking a relaxing break from the hubbub of Kuala Lumpur:

• Malacca River
• Masjid Tanah
• Melaka Straits Mosque
• Jasin Hot Springs
• Tanjung Kling
• Pulau Besar
• St. Paul’s Church
• Malacca Jonker Street
• Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum
• Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
• Melaka Wonderland Theme Park
• Freeport A’Famosa Outlet Village
• The Shore Sky Tower

1. Malacca River

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the capital city of Malacca is a rollercoaster ride of visual and sensory delights. You can either take a leisurely stroll through the historical center or a ride in the vibrant and quirky ‘trishaw’ to soak in the flavor of this culturally rich city.

Must-visit attractions: Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, Christ Church, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple (exquisite engraved woodwork), Stadhuys, Melaka Sultanate Palace, A’Famosa (Portuguese ruins), Eye on Melaka, Melaka River Cruise, Jonker Street (for antiques, knick-knacks, and tantalizing traditional food).

Do not miss: Friday and Saturday Jonker Walk Night Market is the best place to visit in Malacca at night. You must sample the fried egg ice-cream and Nyonya pineapple tarts.

Must Read: 10 Reasons To Visit Malaysia That Will Trigger Your Wanderlust

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2. Alor Gajah

Just 24 Kms north of Malacca City is the lush and laidback countryside town of Alor Gajah, counted among the top places to visit in Malacca, Malaysia . While the tranquil town square is a nice spot for a stroll amidst pretty shops, the highlight of the town is the renowned A’Famosa Resort. Sprawled over 1300 acres, this haven of leisure is a unique and magical world with several theme parks and a golf course within it making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Malacca . You should definitely consider visiting here.

Must-visit attractions: Animal World Safari, Water Theme Park, Cowboy Town.

Suggested Read: 23 Romantic Budget Honeymoon Destinations In Asia For Every Budget

Located along the Malacca Strait this coastal town just a two-hour drive away from Kuala Lumpur has some unique attractions making it one of the best places to visit in Malacca town . The Klebang beach is a nice area to take a leisurely stroll, play in the sand and enjoy kite flying with the kids. Do not miss on sipping the delicious coconut shake while gazing at a pretty sunset. It is the best places to visit in Malacca city .

Must-visit attractions: The Submarine Museum (offers a chance to visit a real submarine converted to a museum), Pantai Klebang Sand Dunes (a stunningly beautiful stretch of white sand dunes changing hues with the setting sun. Adventure enthusiast can indulge in sand-boarding).

Suggested Read: 8 Most Popular Beach Resorts In Malaysia

4. Ayer Keroh

Those looking for places to visit in Malacca bathed in nature’s splendor amidst lush greenery and soaring trees can make a visit to Ayer Keroh. The laid back vibe of this backwater town just 15Km outside Malacca city allows you to spend a relaxed and fun-filled day with the kids and family. The Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary as well as Melaka Zoo (with an exciting night safari) are great spots to keep the kids engaged and amazed.

Must-visit attractions: Mini Malaysia and ASEAN Cultural Park, Malacca Crocodile Farm, Melaka Botanical Garden, Melaka Wonderland Theme Park and Resort (nestled amidst 60 hectares of forests and home to 16 thrilling attractions and rides).

Suggested Read: Best Hotels In Malaysia: For Those Who Love Living Life To The Fullest

5. Masjid Tanah

Located in Alor Gajah district, Masjid Tanah is one of the largest towns and best places to visit in Malacca for outdoor activities. With some of the best hiking trails in the state as well as beautiful beaches around, it’s a great getaway for adventure enthusiasts and beach bums alike. Add to this a turtle hatchery and a lovely waterfront with some of the best restaurants in Malacca offering delectable seafood and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect holiday.

Must-visit attractions: Turtle Information Centre (with a chance to hold some endangered species in your hands), Sungai Udang Recreational Forest, Tanjung Bidara and Pengkalan Balak Beaches, The Al-Khawarizmi Astronomy Complex.

6. Melaka Straits Mosque

Though a part of Malacca city, this man-made island is also a special destination in itself and must be on top of your list of places to visit in Malacca . Along with its buzz and beaches, this tiny island is special because of the visually stunning and tranquil Melaka Straits Mosque. Also called the floating mosque, this gorgeously designed place of worship also offers breathtaking sunset views. You’ll be blown away by the mesmerizing view. So, make sure to stop by here.

Suggested Read: 15 Best Resorts In Malaysia That Are Downright Alluring

7. Jasin Hot Springs

Image Source

The southernmost district of the State is one of the popular Malacca tourist attractions owing to the rejuvenating hot springs located here. Jasin Hot Springs, based on the Japanese onsen concept offers pools with varying degrees of rejuvenating thermal water. You can take a relaxing dip in the healing waters while the kids can enjoy the inflatable slides and kids’ pools. Though the maintenance is average, this reasonably priced attraction is one of the best places to visit near Malacca to unwind.

Timings: 9AM-midnight (Tuesday to Thursday); 9AM to 2AM (Fri-Sat); 3PM-midnight (Tuesday)

Suggested Read: 21 Malaysia Islands You Must Visit For Having The Best Vacation Ever

8. Tanjung Kling

Tanjung Kling is well-known for its gorgeous Puteri beach and the tomb of one of the greatest Malay warriors. The 2.5km stretch of beach offers panoramic views and is a wonderful place to put your feet up and relax, relish the local food at the food stalls or hang out in the night market along the shore. This is one of the best places to visit in Malacca at night. You can also visit the Hang Tuah mausoleum to pay homage to the legendary warrior and get an insight into his life.

9. Pulau Besar

Also called the Big Island, this mystical island off the south-east coast of Malacca is a great choice for places to visit in Malacca for a memorable day trip. The island is frequented by spirituality seekers who come to visit the meditation caves of Muslim mystics. You can also choose to simply relax at the palm-shaded beaches soaking in the tranquility and natural beauty of this Instagrammable place in Malacca. Jungle hiking is also a rewarding experience for outdoor junkies.

10. Pulau Upeh

A small island off the coast makes it to the list of Malacca attractions for its tranquil setting away from the bustle of city life. Popular amongst both locals and tourists, Pulau Upeh is also the breeding site for the endangered Hawksbills turtle. Visitors can catch a glimpse of their nesting on the beach during March-June. Can it get any better than this? Make sure to stop by this destination for scenic views.

11. Red Square

If you want to get background information on the Dutch possession of Malaysia, stop by Red Square. You will come across two prominent landmarks in Malacca, which includes the Christ Church and the Old Town Hall. Hop on a trishaw ride and indulge yourself in some souvenir shopping. We promise you’ll have the time of your life and you won’t be disappointed.

12. St. Paul’s Church

Located at the top of St. Paul’s Hill, the St. Paul’s Church ruins make for some photography shots. After a brief hike, you can have some amazing views of the city of Malacca. Make sure to carry your camera with you. The place has been well maintained by the local authorities. The tombstone and the relic inscriptions will allow you to get a detailed insight into the history of the church. You’ll be convinced to visit Malacca again and again.

13. Malacca Jonker Street

Image Source Jonker Street happens to be an enormous market area in the center of Chinatown and it has everything you can possibly think of buying in Malaysia. Loaded with a rich history, a variety of people, plenty of historical landmarks, numerous cafes and restaurants, as well as various attractions, Jonker Street in Malacca is nothing less than a sheer delight for people to walk through. Since it is a great place to shop, you will always find it busy with people looking for some or the other interesting stuff to buy. It’s a good place to visit in Malacca to buy handicrafts, clothes, jewelry, and much more.

14. Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

Image Source This splendid living museum was established way back in 1896 and had once served as the family home of Baba Chan family in Malaysia. It’s now a renowned heritage building that attracts people with its unique blend of cultures and showcases the Peranakan lifestyle as it was at the end of the 19th century. The original design of this place draws influence from European architecture as well as Eastern traditions and history.

15. Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Image Source This is the most popular landmark of the city of Malacca and it is located in the famous Jonker Street. Built in 1646, this historic Chinese Temple is known to be the oldest shrine and Buddhist place of worship in Malaysia. Dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, this holy structure was designed by Malacca’s second Chinese captain who also happened to be the son-in-law of Captain Li. People are often impressed by the huge black, gold and red statue of Goddess Kuan Yin of the temple perched in the central prayer hall.

16. Melaka Wonderland Theme Park

Image Source Looking for the perfect place to beat the heat in Malacca? Well, the Melaka Wonderland Theme Park and Resort is the best means to cool down as well as indulge in some fun activities on a hot day in Malaysia. The prime features that attract people to this place are high-speed water slides and thrill rides, other than 16 different yet equally exciting attractions and rides. The park is located inside a lush forest far away from the maddening crowd and traffic of Malacca. The most popular rides here include the Lazy Cum Crazy River, the Big Wave pool, Pendulum slides, Adventure Island, and Anaconda Twist, which together make this one of the best places to go in Malacca, Malaysia.

17. Freeport A’Famosa Outlet Village

Image Source This is essentially an open-air Dutch colonial era styled shopping village located in Malacca. Locals and tourists consider it to be the biggest shopping outlet situated at Alor Gajah since it consists of over 70 international brands that are offered here at amazing prices. This shopping arcade is located right outside A’Famosa Resort Malacca and rumor has it that it will soon be declared as Malacca’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kids too are attracted to this place owing to its pool with miniature geysers, enormous windmill, carousel rides, strollers, and tricycles.

18. The Shore Sky Tower

Image Source If you wish to indulge in some breathtaking 360° bird’s eye views of the city of Malacca, then you must get to the 43 storied Sky Tower that will let you see as far as 50 kilometers into the distance in all directions from a great height. And the best part – it’s super easy to reach this spot since it is located just a short walk away from the UNESCO World Heritage district beside the riverbank that faces the delightful Morten village.

Further Read: Malaysia Honeymoon Guide To Answer All Your Travel Queries

Now that you know all about this gem called Malacca, book a trip to Malaysia at the earliest and share your offbeat experience with the world. These places will provide you with a unique and awesome experience on your trip. Make sure to stop by as many places to visit in Malacca that we’ve shortlisted as you can. You will have the time of your life here amidst beautiful sunsets and scenic views of the beach.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Malacca

Where can I go at night in Malacca?

There are plenty of places you can explore in Malacca at night. Some of the best options are Hard Rock Cafe Malacca in Lorong Hang Jebat, Geographer Café in Jonker Street, Mixx Club, Ringo’s Classic Café in Jonker Street, Portuguese Square, The Library, Eleven Bistro & Restaurant in Jalan Hang Lekir, and Reggae on the River in Lorong Hang Jebat.

What is Malacca known for?

Malacca is famous for its unique blend of beautiful ancient architecture and breathtaking modern structures coexisting in a single space! It is loved by travelers for its rich cultural heritage, and the charming blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences that you will see in the food, architecture, and lifestyle of people here.

What is there to do in Melaka for free?

Malacca has a range of experiences that you can experience without having to use your wallet! You can choose to explore the river, visit the temples, meet the Buddhist monks, behold the gorgeous street art, roam around the night market on Jonker Street, wander around in the Dutch Square and the Stadthuys, watch stunning street performances, or explore the Portuguese fortress.

How far is Melaka from KL?

The driving distance between Kuala Lumpur and Malacca is about 150.84 km. you can hire a taxi or take a bus to get there. You can even take a train to Tampin and a taxi from there to reach Malacca. The cheapest way to get there is by bus.

How do I get from Singapore to Malacca?

There is no direct train to Singapore from Malacca or vice verse. You will need to take a train from Tampin in Malacca to Singapore. Tampin is located approximately 40 km away from the town of Malacca. Once you get down at Tampin, you can travel around on a local bus or taxi.

What is the tourist season in Malacca?

The peak tourist season in Malaysia is from December to January and then during the festive season, that is, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Chinese New Year.

Where should I go for 2 days in Malaysia?

You can easily cover the main destinations like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Penang, Langkawi, and Malacca in a duration of 2 days in Malaysia.

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The Reasons Why You Should Visit Melaka Malaysia

Melaka is a small but attractive place in Malaysia, having a rich history, which you can see after seeing its structures around. Melaka, the city of Malaysia, which is the tourist spot with a lot of things to enjoy, gives a lot of reasons to visit. After you arrive by bus from Singapore to Melaka , you can enjoy the following attractions.

Boutique Hotels: Melaka is becoming one of the favorite tourist spots in Asia, therefore, the government is bringing much more boutique hotels to cater the needs of travelers. These boutique hotels are located in the best location of the city where you can enjoy restaurants, shopping and peaceful environment to stay after a trip by bus from Singapore to Melaka and exploring the beautiful Melaka city.

Perfect place for a history lover: A lot of people love to know the history of a place, traditions and the group of inhabitants, therefore, it is the perfect place for the history lovers.

Perfect for shopping: Melaka has a lot of shopping centers, saving stores, galleries, and the shops with all the variety along with the local ornaments that you can purchase for a physical remembrance of Melaka visit.

Cruising: The river cruise in Melaka is the romantic and peaceful spot to spend a lovely time with your partner. You can enjoy this beautiful place that takes you apart from the busy life of the city.

Food: You can find delicious food in Melaka, which has famous cuisines. In Melaka, you can enjoy Chinese and Italian cuisines too, which are also very delicious and liked by the people very much.

Tourist spots everywhere: There are a lot of tourist spot with old buildings and heritage that are of great importance to their local society. You can visit A’Fomosa Resort, which is the modern place, where you can enjoy a splash in a pool with your family along with the beautiful nature.

Nature trip: If you are going on a nature trip by bus from Singapore to Melaka, to see fruits and plants there, D Paradise is the right place for this purpose.

Hard Rock Café: At hard café, young people can enjoy night life cool music and dancing.

Melaka has a lot of attractions for the tourist and the travelers. You can enjoy the stunning spots, delicious foods, cool music, and rich history by visiting Melaka from Singapore by bus, which is the safest and the most comfortable mode of journey.

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The months of April, May and October during the dry season, are the best time to visit Melaka. The weather in this particular place in Malaysia is usually hot and humid all year round. It has a climatic condition similar to that of the tropical rainforests. Also, there are specifically two seasons there, dry and wet. The dry season is from April, May and October and the wet months are March-April, October-November. During the dry months, the average temperature is around 30ᴼC. The humidity is high, and there’s no rain during this time. During the monsoon (wet) months, the average precipitation is about 80 mm. May and June are the hottest months in Melaka, and it might get a little uncomfortable for you to travel there during this time.

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