visit to melaka essay

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 :)

BEST Melaka Itinerary To Plan Your Trip to Melaka (Malacca) For 1-2 Days!

Categories Asia , Itinerary , Malaysia

A trip to Melaka is a must! Melaka or Malacca, as it’s also known is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia ! It’s easy to get to from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, it’s fun and colourful and you don’t need a long Melaka itinerary to see all of the best things to do in Melaka because it is a small city!

I spent 2 days in Melaka enjoying the street art, the street food, the historical buildings and temples and I loved it! I went from KL to Melaka and it was such an easy journey!

There are also day tours from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka like this if you are short on time or just fancy visiting for the day!

In this Malaysia travel blog I’m going to give you the best Melaka itinerary (Malacca itinerary) so you can plan your trip to Melaka making sure you see all of the best places to visit in Melaka!

Whether you’re looking for a Malacca itinerary for 1 day or a Melaka itinerary for 2 days, or even 3 days, you can pick and choose from my itinerary below to help plan your Melaka Trip!

Melaka Itinerary

Melaka Trip:

Just looking for the top things to do in Melaka! Here’s my post on 10 amazing and fun things to do in Malacca !

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Getting to Melaka

Kuala Lumpur to Malacca by bus is 2 hours and a very easy journey, I did it with no problems at all.

Singapore to Malacca by bus is just 4 hours including the overland border crossing and Malaysia offers a 90day free visa to most nationalities so it is easy to travel to Malaysia and Melaka from Singapore for a few days.

Each of the above buses will drop you off at Melaka Sentral bus station.

From Melaka bus station to the city centre you can get a taxi outside the station which will cost about 20RM. Or you can order a grab taxi which is much less expensive at about 7RM, or get local bus 17 from stand 17 from Malacca Sentral to the Clock Tower for 2RM.

What’s really handy is that you can book your Malaysia buses in advance on 12GO Asia to save you time when you get there and so you know you have a confirmed booking! That’s what I did and it made my trip to Melaka from KL much easier!

Kuala Lumpur to Melaka Day Tour

Talking of KL, before we get into your itinerary for Melaka, if you are really short on time and you only want to do a day trip to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur and don’t have time to spend the night there, I do recommend an organised day tour to help you with the logistics and timings!

There are day tours from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka like this which I recommend instead of trying to visit yourself on a Melaka day trip!

How to get around Melaka

One of the reasons I loved Melaka so much is because it is easy to get around by foot! Although the city of Malacca is quite big, the tourist centre is only small and when planning what to do in Melaka, it’s easy to plan it all by foot!

If you need transport you can order a Grab taxi, get a public bus which are really efficient or you can get a crazy and colourful tricycle which I’ll talk about later!

Look for the best flights to Melaka here!

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price! 

Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

1 Day Melaka Itinerary

This Melaka itinerary for 1 day is a great itinerary to follow if you are visiting for Melaka for a one day trip because you will see all of the top tourist attractions in Melaka and get a feel for why this city is so fun!

For a one day trip to Melaka I recommend getting up early and getting to Melaka by mid-morning at least, this way you will have the morning, all afternoon and early evening to enjoy the best things to do in Melaka !

Breakfast at the Cafes in Melaka

When it comes to planning your Melaka itinerary, be sure to plan in time to enjoy the cafes because the cafes in Melaka are really good! There are a mix of local cafes and restaurants and also fancier cafes that could be taken straight from London!

I really loved Navy Navy for breakfast so definitely get breakfast out on day 1 in Melaka! For more ideas of where to go, check out my friend Rose’s cafe guide to Melaka !

Jonker Street Street Art & Shops

Jonker Street is the Main Street in the tourist centre of Melaka and it offers a lot. You’ll probably visit a cafe for breakfast near Jonker Street so I suggest staying in this area to see more of it.

When it comes to things to do in Melaka and what to do in Melaka, finding street art is one of the top things to do, especially if you like to post colourful photos on Instagram!

Lots of street art can be found around the River and it’s all in perfect condition and as well as looking along the river be sure to head off into some side streets around Jonker Street .

Jonker Street also has some great independent shops so if you’re looking for souvenirs from Malaysia these shops are a good place to look!

Cheng Hoon Temple

Cheng Hoon Temple is just off of Jonker Street so it’s worth seeing on morning 1 of your Malacca itinerary whilst you are exploring Jonker Street.

There are a few Buddhist Temples in Melaka but this is famous as it is the oldest working Buddhist temple in Malaysia and I read on a sign there it’s the oldest temple in South East Asia !

You’ll notice by now that there are so many places to eat in Melaka so enjoy one of the restaurants or cafes for lunch near Jonker Street . One of the cafes I really liked and is highly recommended is Geography Cafe .

Cheng Ho’s Cultural Museum

There are lots of museums in Melaka which are really interesting, Cheng Ho’s Cultural Museum is just off Jonker Street so it’s a good place to visit after lunch. It’s a history museum chronicling the life of noted Ming Dynasty explorer and fleet admiral Zheng Ho.

Clock Tower

The Clock Tower in Melaka or Menara Jam Melaka as it’s also called is a hive of activity! Especially with the tricycle drivers!

This is another great photo spot on your Melaka itinerary, especially photos of Christ Church which is a historic protestant church you can go inside of and the square opposite with a Dutch Windmill !

If you still have time in the afternoon of your Melaka itinerary then I recommend seeing some more museums and galleries close by like Cheng Ho Gallery and Melaka Literature Museum .

Jonker Night Market in Melaka

Come evening, there is only one place to be- Jonker Night Market! This is easily top of the list of things to do in Melaka and the top Melaka attraction!

Jonker Street is one of the main tourist streets in Melaka and on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening it turns into a night market full of food stalls, clothes stalls and so many other things!

I won’t lie to you, it gets busy! But it’s worth it and a great way to spend the evening in Melaka so do try and plan your trip to Malaka for a Friday, Saturday or Sunday night for one of the best night markets in Malaysia !

2 Day Melaka Itinerary

If you are 2 days in Melaka, I recommend you spend this day of your Melaka trip itinerary going slightly further out than you did on day 1.

Church of St Pauls in Mekala

Start your day at the Church of St Pauls, or the ruins of the Church of St Paul’s to be precise.

I liked walking here as it isn’t far from the river and the Clock Tower where Christ Church is however it is a bit hidden and once you’re there it opens out into the Fort and you’ll end up seeing much more than just the Church.

St Paul’s ruins are up a hill with a fair few steps but there’s a good view and you can even see the sea! I recommend visiting here in the morning of this 2 days Melaka itinerary so it isn’t as hot and the walk isn’t as hard!

Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum

Behind the ruins of the Church of St Pauls is Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum which is recommended highly as one of the best places to visit in Melaka and as you are so close by, it’s worth visiting on your trip to Melaka!

Maritime Museum

I went to the Maritime Museum next on my Melaka trip where I thoroughly enjoyed l earning about the history of Malacca as a port city and the colonisation of the Portuguese, Dutch and British.

I also loved walking to the Maritime Museum as it took me out of the really tourist centre of Melaka like it is around Jonker Street and showed me a more local side of the city .

On the way from the Church of St Pauls to the Maritime Museum is Dataran Pahlawan Shopping Mall , it isn’t a huge mall but it is a good place to visit if you need a bathroom or some air-con as I did!

Walk along the River

When ending your day in Melaka on this Melaka itinerary, I recommend walking back to your accommodation and back towards Jonker Street via the River.

You’ll pass lots more street art and nice cafes and it’s a good way to get away from the crowds of Jonker Walk in Melaka, especially if you visit for a weekend in Melaka when it get’s very busy.

The footpath up the river goes quite far however I felt like it got a bit industrial after walking for a bit and there are not many things to do in Melaka up there, so you can walk as far as you want and then turn back or cross the river on one of the many bridges and walk back the other side.

Have you booked your flight to Melaka yet??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price!  Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

Melaka Tricycle Ride

And finally, on your last night in Melaka you have to go on a ride on one of the fun, loud and colourful Tricycles. I recommend leaving this until night time because at night the tricycles light up and are even more fun!

If you are visiting Melaka as a family, this is definitely a great way to end your trip to Melaka!

I hope this Melaka itinerary has helped you plan your trip to Melaka!

To SEE my time in Melaka, have a watch of my YouTube video here!

• For more of my posts on Malaysia see:
• Things To Do in Georgetown!
• Travellers Guide to the Small Perhentian Island!
• How Much it Costs to Visit the Perhentian Islands!
• All Malaysia Posts

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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 .

Planning a trip to Malaysia? 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!

Related posts:

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.

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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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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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How to Spend 48 Hours in Melaka (Malacca) Malaysia

By: Author Guest author

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2023

Yen from the travel blog Wandering Journal is guest author with this article about solo travel to Melaka (Malacca) Malaysia. Learn about this historic city and find the best things to do when traveling alone to Melaka. I visited Malacca Malaysia in 1993 when I enjoyed my first round of vagabond life, solo backpacking around Southeast Asia for a few months. One thing that I noticed right away is that a lot of people spoke English, so I had no problem with communication. The other thing is, I found the people in Malacca very friendly and helpful to a solo traveler.

Along with relying on locals for information I also brought my guidebook for Malacca.

This post contains compensated links and I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. See my disclosure about affiliate links

In the old days everyone relied on the Lonely Planet travel guides, and my copy of Southeast Asia on a Shoestring served me well. Today we can plan a trip entirely on the internet. A smart phone becomes the tourist guidebook.

Melaka Itinerary

How to spend 2 days in melaka malaysia.

Once a major port connecting the Western and Oriental worlds, Melaka had its golden era back in the 1500’s. Packed full of history, Melaka is a place you shouldn’t miss if you’re into learning the culture and history of a country while traveling. There are lots of interesting things to do in Melaka but today, we’re only going to talk about how to maximize your 48 hours in Melaka.

Are you ready to craft your 2-days itinerary in Melaka? Let’s dive in!

Where Exactly is Melaka

Melaka is located 2 hours drive (145 km/90 miles) south of the country’s capital, Kuala Lumpur. It’s a seaport city, located on the west coast of West Malaysia.

Most of the attractions in Melaka are located near the port where you’ll also find many hotels and hostels . So, if you’re staying near the port, you’ll get easier access to all the interesting places in Melaka. We’ll talk about that in a moment.

Getting Around in Melaka

The best way to get around in Melaka is on foot. Attractions are located close to each other, so you can basically walk from one place to the next.

If you don’t feel like walking, GrabCar is the best alternative. Public transportation in Melaka is not particularly reliable. You have only 2 days in this city, don’t waste time waiting endlessly at bus stations.

For those who never heard of GrabCar, it basically works the same way as Uber, the only difference is that the fare is fixed, instead of metered. This way, you know what you’re paying in advance with no worries on overcharges.

Have a look and download the app . You can use it nationwide, also in Singapore, Vietnam and several other Southeast Asian countries.

Things to do in Melaka

Now we’re entering the most exciting topic, what to do in Melaka? So I assume that you’ll be staying near the port, as most of the travelers will. Let’s get started.

Visit historical Kota A’Famosa

Kota A’Famosa was built more than 500 years ago by the Portuguese army, aiming to defend the port from the Dutch and other forces.

Kota means ‘fort’ in the Malay language. And yes, it was a huge fort with walls surrounding the coast and city, but all that’s left is the main gate. The authorities had done well preserving it for tourism.

Just in case you’re wondering, the fort was destroyed by the Dutch in 1641.

Address: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 78000 Alor Gajah

Kota A’Famosa Fort Melaka Malaysia

Visit Jonker Walk Street

Jonker Walk Street is the most happening street in Melaka. On every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, there will be a night market all along the street. There, you’ll find all sorts of street foods, gifts, souvenirs, and many other street vendors.

During the day, it’s much quieter on Jonker Walk Street because of the blazing heat. You’ll still be able to find some decent restaurants during the day, like Daily Fix Café and Jonker 88 Café.

Best way to end your busy day of sightseeing in Melaka.

Hop On Melaka River Cruise

Fun fact: Melaka River was once a highly polluted river. But since the authorities invested millions of Ringgit Malaysia into the project, the whole river reawakened. Clean water started flowing and the tourism blossomed.

The river cruises in Melaka are not big cruise ships they’re actually… I would call them tour boats.

For foreigner adults, the ticket will cost MYR18 (around $4.50 USD) for a 45-minute tour along Melaka River. You’ll pass through several cafes by the river, and notice the gap of development between both sides of the river.

The side near the sea was preserved as a UNESCO Heritage Site , while the other side is not. Therefore you’ll see huge buildings on one side and old, traditional Malay-style buildings on another side. Pretty interesting, huh?

Melaka River Cruise is a fun and relaxing tourist attraction

Kampung Morten UNESCO site

A village you’ll pass by during your cruise tour on the Melaka River, Kampung Morten is an underrated gem of Melaka city. Due to its location outside of the UNESCO Heritage Site, they hadn’t received funding from the government to preserve their buildings.

The head of the village decided to do things on his own, decorating his own house with antiques, cultural stuff, and information boards to showcase the Malay culture.

Things hit off and tourists started visiting the village. Now the whole village is looking sharp and it’s pleasant to walk around.

If you’re planning to stay overnight in this village, there are plenty of homestays for you to choose from as well!

Be sure to visit the Villa Sentosa in Kampung Morten, the traditional Malay house is now a living-history museum.

Kampung Morten Villa Sentosa in Melaka Malaysia

Street Art in Melaka

Street art is also one of the highlights of Melaka city. Along Melaka River, you’ll find a handful of massive street art murals painted on the side of the building. The most noticeable one is the Nyonya Ladies mural near Jonker Street.

CLICK for more street art around the world

Melaka street art mural “Nyonya Ladies” along the Melaka River

Visit Cheng Ho Cultural Museum

What if I tell you the first foreigner who set foot on Melaka was not from the West? Yep, 600 years ago, a fleet of business ships led by Cheng Ho, an admiral from the Ming Dynasty in China paid a visit to Melaka.

Over the years, Cheng Ho visited the port several times. He brought useful plantation techniques, skills and knowledge to share with the people in Melaka at no cost.

Some people even argue that Islamism was brought in by Cheng Ho during his visit, as Cheng Ho was a Muslim himself.

The entrance fee at Cheng Ho Museum is MYR 20 for adults and MYR 10 for kids.

READ now: Xian China Walled City – Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum

What to Eat in Melaka?

You’ll want to try some of the local cuisine in Melaka, here are a few suggestions to get you started.

Melaka Cendol

What’s special about the cendols in Melaka compared to the famous one in Penang, is that the Melaka Cendol was laced with Gula Melaka (Melaka Palm Sugar). The thick, flavorful aroma of the palm sugar is like icing on a cake.

You’ll find plenty of restaurants offering the dish but the best one is at The Wild Coriander Restaurant by Melaka River. Try it and you’ll never regret it!

READ now: 13 Best Places for Solo Travel in Southeast Asia

Cendol at The Wild Coriander in Melaka

Chicken Rice Ball

What’s the difference between chicken rice ball and chicken rice? You guessed it, the word ‘ball’!

Just kidding, but that’s right too. They’re just chicken rice pressed into spherical shapes. But why, you ask?

Centuries ago, when Chinese labors are still used widely by the British, they had no food containers to bring their lunch to the workplace. So what they did was press the chicken rice into spherical shapes, making them easier to carry.

And hence, chicken rice balls! Plenty of restaurants serve them in Jonker Street, give them a go.

Nyonya Baba Asam Laksa

Nyonya Baba, also known as Peranakan, are descendants of Chinese immigrants who moved into the Malay Archipelago between 15 th  and 17 th  centuries. They have unique cultures, combining the influence of both Chinese and Malay.

The best restaurant to try this dish would be Jonker 88 Restaurant on Jonker Street.

But there are more than just Asam Laksa. Nyonya foods are generally delicious and flavorful. Again, I recommend having them at The Wild Coriander Café.

Nyonya Baba Asam Laksa Jonker Street

Where to Stay in Melaka

Lodgings in Melaka range from hostels and homestays to luxury hotels.

Budget Option

Omni Hostel Malacca

One of the best-reviewed budget hostel in Melaka. It’s close to the city center, enabling easy access to all attractions nearby. It’s a bunk bed in a dormitory room and it’s a great value option – check availability now .

Mid-range Option

Ibis Melaka Hotel

Not exactly located in the UNESCO Heritage area but it’s close to it. With highly-rated reviews it’s always booked out many days in advance. So make sure to book early once you confirm your itinerary!

Luxury Option

The Majestic Malacca Hotel

One of the top luxury hotels in Melaka. It’s around $125 USD per night but sometimes they have specials so check for latest deals and prices . Located within 1 km (.6 mile) from the city center. A perfect choice especially when you have only a couple of day in Melaka.

So that’s probably everything I have to offer for your two days in Melaka. I hope I helped in planning your itinerary in Melaka, Malaysia. Feel free to leave comments below if you have any questions. Happy traveling!

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About the Author:  Yen from Wandering Journal is a full-time university student who always takes full advantage of his holidays to travel for new experiences. He’s been to New Zealand for a Working Holiday and then a road trip, volunteered in Kathmandu, Nepal and exchanged in California along with several backpacking trips through Southeast Asia. Having spent months in foreign countries, he gives in-depth travel tips and guides on his travel blog, Swing Abroad.

Explore other destinations for your next solo travel adventure

Saturday 20th of August 2022

Thanks with the helpful tips...Will definitely visit the places suggested...n try the cendol n laksa...can't wait...

SoloTripsAndTips

Sunday 21st of August 2022

Drew, I hope you enjoy Melaka, it's a wonderful city and the food is superb!

Sunday 17th of March 2019

This is a great guide to visiting Melaka. As a self-appointed street art aficionado, I am glad that the impressive murals got a nod. Along with excellent street art of Penang and Ipoh, Melaka should not be missed by street art lovers. Cheers!

Monday 18th of March 2019

Yea that's true, street arts are getting more popular in Penang, Ipoh and Melaka, they're everywhere to be found in the tourism area. It's a fun thing to do to explore them all. :D

Susan Moore

Hi Elena, thanks for your comment, glad you like Yen's guide to Melaka! And nice to know another street art lover. Always makes my day when I find cool murals while I'm traveling. Cheers, Susan

Saturday 16th of March 2019

Nicely written, with lots of information. The foods sound tasty and the art work on the buildings are gorgeous

The food is absolutely amazing, especially Melaka Cendol, which I'm still craving from time to time now. Give it a try when you're there!

Thanks for you comment Jo! Yes I love the historical info on Melaka that Yen included in this post, and I really miss the food in Southeast Asia!

Ryan K Biddulph

Friday 15th of March 2019

Good job Yen! That food looks amazing. So happy to be back in SE Asia; just arrived in Bangkok.

Thanks Ryan! Have a safe and fun trip in Bangkok!

I miss the food in Southeast Asia! Have fun in Thailand Ryan, thanks for dropping in on the blog :) Hope you get some time in Malaysia too!

Melaka itinerary: The best things to do in Melaka / Malacca

A city steeped in history, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and City of Melaka (or Malacca as it’s commonly spelled in English) in Malaysia is a wonderful mix of atmospheric colonial buildings, a sparkling waterfront, and authentic and local culinary experiences. It presents a striking contrast to glitzy Kuala Lumpur. With a rich past peppered with Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese, and even Indian influences, Melaka is an eclectic fusion of cultures and traditions; a place where nearly everybody can find a travel style to suit them. So, with that in mind, we’ve put together this: a Melaka itinerary to suit just about anyone’s travelling tastes.

A few words on Melaka / Malacca

The oldest city on the Straits of Malacca, the city of Melaka harks back to the Malacca Sultanate, and for many years was a trading port, with traders from all of the Middle East, Asia and Europe (particularly the Portuguese) flocking to it. It has a long history of conflict – from it’s occupation by the Portuguese, to the sultanates of Johor and Aceh trying to wrestle it away, as well as a stint under the Dutch, the British and the Japanese before it returned to the hands of the Malaysians, during the country’s formation in 1963.

Now one of the most confusing bits about any travel to Melaka, is understanding the name – you’ll find Malacca and Melaka used interchangeably everywhere you look. Essentially, the name Melaka has three potential origins, each with it’s own colourful story. It could be related to it’s trading history, with the name originated from the Arabic word ‘malakat’ which means to gather trade. It could be from a Hindu myth, that the area was akin to ‘amalaka’, a tree associated with wealth and power. Or, our personal favourite: It could have been named after a tree, with a prince resting under a pokok melaka (Indian gooseberry tree) when he came up with the name

Whatever led to the moniker of the place, Malacca is considered the English or anglicized version of the name, while Melaka is the Malaysian version. If you ask us? It’s Melaka. That’s since the Malaysian state itself decreed this it’s official name in 2017. 

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Malacca Highlights: 2 day Melaka itinerary

Need an itinerary in a hurry? If you just want our highlights from our time spent in Melaka, here is a short and sweet list of the must-do’s on any Malacca itinerary:

• Head to the Red Square to see Christ Church, Stadthuys and Queen Victoria’s Fountain
• Check out A Famosa, and the Porta de Santiago gate, alongside St Paul’s Church, one of the oldest churches in Southeast Asia
• Meander around museums like the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum, the Maritime Museum, and the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum
• Eat Nyonya or Peranakan cuisine – chicken rice balls, cendol, laksa lamek – you name!
• Take a walk down Jonker Street, admiring the shops or visiting the Jonker Walk Night Market for the food and clothing stalls
• Take a funky trishaw ride, or float down the Melaka river on a river cruise
• Search for street art in all the alleys and walkways of Melaka

Heading to Melaka just for the photo highlights? We’d recommend getting a local guide for your Instagram itinerary – you can book this great Get your Guide tour which takes you to all the most ‘grammable spots.

Witness cultural and religious harmony

Melaka has several notable religious structures, including mosques, churches, and Buddhist and Indian temples scattered across the city, a reflection of the region’s rich cultural diversity.

And with a Buddhist and Hindu temple and mosque located just a few minutes from each other, Jalan Tukang Emas or Harmony Street is a perfect example of this.

Cheng Hoon Teng temple is the first of these religious structures you will come across. Built in the 1600s, it is the oldest temple in all of Malaysia and was painstakingly restored in 2003, for which it was recognized by UNESCO.

Located 100 meters away is the Kampung Kling Mosque that features a unique mix of traditional Islamic and Chinese architectural features.

A minute’s walk from the Kampung Kling Mosque will take you to the Sri Poyatha Moorthi Temple, dedicated to the Hindu elephant god, Vinayagar.

We loved observing the distinctly different cultural influences in each of these structures but what stood out was how the vibe was always the same – that of peace and spirituality.

Another religious monument worth visiting is the Melaka Straits Mosque, a beautiful mosque that sits on a platform constructed on the water. With its golden-colored dome and arched entryway, it makes for a striking image and is definitely one of the most notable landmarks in Malaysia . The best time to visit the mosque is during the evening hours when the sun goes down, and the mosque and minaret are lit up.

Take a stroll back in time

The region is not called ‘The Historic State’ for nothing. You will find remnants of the Portuguese and Dutch period in many parts of the city but nothing quite as grand as the Dutch Square, the site of the iconic Christ Church. Just around the corner is the Stadthuys , built in 1660 and one of the oldest Dutch-style buildings in Asia.

A Famosa Fort is around the bend, a crumbling 16th-century fort that holds within its walls tales of a bygone era.

A short walk uphill from the fort will take you to the beautiful St. Paul’s Church. The oldest church in Malaysia, its dilapidated walls still retain much of its character. Take a walk around the structure; there is an old Dutch cemetery nearby. Not to be missed are the delightful views of the city the vantage position of the church provides. 

The perfect city for museum hopping

Melaka has a curiously large number of museums, given the size of the town.

The Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum is a gorgeous wooden building that is as interesting on the inside as it is beautiful on the outside. The structure is a replica of Sultan Mansur Shah’s wooden palace, the ruler who presided over Melaka from 1456 to 1477. Inside you will find exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history of the city.

The Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum is a fascinating museum and one of our favorites. The museum is actually a house converted into a museum. It is located on a street that was once called Millionaires Row and known for its large, luxurious homes. The museum traces the history of the ethnic Chinese Malays, also known as Baba Nyonya or Peranakans, and is filled with exquisite porcelain pieces, furniture, and intricately carved furniture.

Housed in a ship-shaped structure, the Maritime Museum is one of the most famous museums in Melaka. The museum design is based on the Flor de la Mar, a treasure-filled ship that sank off the coast of Melaka after the Portuguese conquest of the city. The museum takes you through the importance of Melaka as a maritime trade center through the Sultanate, Portuguese, Dutch and British periods.

Amble around Jonker Street, be it day or night

The main street of Chinatown, Jonker Street, is lively, festive and busy. Some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, including some popular museums are located on or near the area. The lane itself has a mix of charming old buildings, some from the 18th century, and some newer establishments.

A daytime visit to Jonker Street will allow you to appreciate the architecture and history of this place and also grant easy access to some of the city’s best-known attractions. And with some unique antique shops, cafes, and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to shop until you are ready to sample some fabulous local cuisine.

This street is famous because of the Jonker Street Night Market that takes place every Friday and Saturday night. Stalls pop up, live music streams through the entire road, and a party atmosphere takes over the whole walk. The Jonker Walk Night Market is considered the best in all of Malaysia, and you will find tourists from Kuala Lumpur and neighboring Singapore heading to the city just to be part of this.

With a wide variety of merchandise on offer, it’s the perfect place to shop and bargain hunt. But for us, the biggest draw was the street food – hot and sizzling! Juicy grilled meats, spring rolls, dim sums, and more are on offer, and you really don’t have to empty your wallet to try out a wide variety of local specialties.  

Savor authentic and traditional dishes

Melaka is a melting pot of sorts, and the best way to experience the diversity of the region is by savoring the city’s culinary offerings.

Peranakan or Nyonya cuisine, an exciting blend of Chinese and Malaysian flavors, originated in Melaka and is known for its unique fusion of ingredients and techniques. The cuisine developed as a result of Chinese immigrants marrying local Malays. If you are in the mood for food that gets your taste buds tingling, then head to Nancy’s Kitchen or, for a more upscale experience, to Seri Nyonya Peranakan Restaurant. Get a taste of dishes such as Otak otak, a fish dish cooked in banana leaves, Laksa Lemak , a coconut-based dish, and Rendang, a fiery meat-based stew and so many more delicious foods.

Try out the Chicken Rice Balls, a local delicacy, at Huang Chang Chicken Rice, an eatery popular with locals, or at the busy Hoe Kee Chicken Rice, located on Jonker Street.

For regional desserts, head straight to the Jonker Dessert Cafe for some cool Baba Ice Kachang or Durian Cendol with Palm Sugar and other local confections.

One of our favorite places to spend the evening was near the riverfront – at one of the many restaurants facing the Melaka River. Strolling past the vibrant art and twinkling lights and enjoying a beer and local cuisine at one of the outdoor eateries as a gentle breeze wafted by remains one of our most memorable moments from Melaka.

Cool off with a cruise down the river

If you’ve had a day or two of sightseeing, then taking a cruise down the Melaka River is the perfect way to finish off your tour of this charming city. The Melaka river cruise starts at Muara jetty and gives you a waterside view of the Stadthuys, brown-faced colonial buildings, and the colorful street art of Melaka. An evening cruise is particularly romantic as the skies change colors and your boat sails by beautifully lit-up shops and restaurants.

Experience nighttime in Mekala aboard a trishaw

This is one of those touristy things that can be totally avoided. Yet, we are glad we didn’t! Yes, it’s gaudy and quite over the top, but it was a total riot to tour the historic center of Melaka in a trishaw with flashing lights and a loud sound system. Hello Kitty-themed trishaws seem to be the most popular ones though we did see some trishaws decked based on floral and superman themes too!

You’ll find the trishaw drivers waiting near Red Square.

Attractions for families

Those traveling with children will find plenty to do in Melaka. The Melaka Zoo is home to 1200 animals and is a perennial family favorite. The Shore Oceanarium gives you and your little ones a glimpse of the wonders that lie under the ocean’s floor. Kids love the interactive exhibits there! There is also the Melaka Butterfly & Reptile Sanctuary, the Melaka Botanical Garden, and the Melaka Bird Park, all child-friendly places that also hold the interest of adults.

If you are looking for a bit of seaside fun, head to Big Island, located around 8 miles from mainland Melaka and known for its clean beaches. The other option if you want some beach fun is to visit Puteri Beach.

Bonus things to do in Melaka

Menara Taming Sari: This is a viewing tower and theme park ‘ride’ in one; a rotating tower that whizzes you up to 110 metres to give you a 360 degree view of the city. It’s not top of our list, but if you have the time, check it out. It’s open from 9am to 11pm, the 7 minute ride will only set you back 23 MYR (5.20 USD/4.50 GBP).

Kampung Morten: Morten village is essentially a traditional Malay village which boasts over 100 traditional Malay houses. It’s a great little slice of the city’s history but keep in mind it’s a real residential neighbourhood and not just a tourist attraction when you visit!

Where to Stay in Melaka

What we really liked about Melaka was that you really could get a great room, at a pretty affordable price. So, regardless of your budget, here are a few top notch options for accommodation:

Budget:  If you’re saving your Ringgit,  Ola Lavanderia Café  is a lovely hostel in the heart of old town that offers a range of rooms, and a nice sociable atmosphere.

Mid-range: Stay in the old town, in the hotel we stayed in on our last visit – JonkeRED Heritage Hotel . It’s a wonderful family-run hotel which is honestly a stone’s throw from the Dutch Square!

Luxury: If you really want to splash out, our choice would be Casa Del Rio Melaka . A hop, skip and a jump from Jonker Street with 5 star facilities to boot, it’s a great luxurious option.

Best places to visit near Melaka

Kuala lumpur.

Travel time : 2 hours by road – book it here

You can’t really explore Malaysia without spending time in Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital which – spoiler alert – is one of our favourite cities in the world! We probably don’t need to sell you on visiting KL since surely it’s already part of your travel plans. If not, make sure you read through our entire Kuala Lumpur itinerary , to find out the best bits.

Port Dickson

Travel time: 90 minutes – book it here

Port Dickson (or PD as it’s known to locals) is a bit of a Malaysian secret, a beach town frequented by Malaysians (and Singaporeans) but usually totally unknown to international tourists. It packs a punch – if you want to find out more, just read out full Things to do in Port Dickson guide .

Travel time : 3 hours by bus – book it here

While it might not be in Malaysia itself, Singapore needs no introduction really. This incredible city is just three hours away on the bus! Head there to gasp at Gardens by the Bay, to explore Little India, to shop til you drop and so much more. And, of course, you guessed it: we have a Singapore itinerary for you when you arrive.

What did you think of our Melaka itinerary and travel guide? Did you use it, and has something changed? Do let us know in the comments below!

About the Author: Gayathri Ranganathan Gayathri is an accomplished travel writer, who loves to travel with her family – her teenage girls and her husband. She feels that ‘traveling is the best way to open up one’s mind and heart to different cultures, foods, and lifestyles.’ When she’s not traveling, she’s dreaming about traveling or busy researching some new destination. “Over the years, I’ve discovered that in life and travel, it’s always about the journey, never about the destination.” 

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Melaka Travel Review

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Considered by many to be one of the highlights of visiting peninsular Malaysia, Melaka, is no longer a secret destination for travellers. To the contrary, Melaka pulsates with energy due to the diverse influx of tourists it receives – especially on weekends.

After visiting Melaka on multiple occasions, I would like to share an overview of my experience there and provide our readers with an honest review of the city and its attractions. Of course, your interests and opinions may differ from mine.

I find that the most convenient and affordable way to reach Melaka is by bus.  Typically, once I arrive at Melaka Sentral I make full use of the public bus network in the city to get down to Dutch Square and Jonker Walk . Dutch Square is a big highlight of the city in my opinion. It is a vibrant area of Melaka that is well maintained and nicely surrounded by gardens. If you can visit Dutch Square early in the morning or late afternoon when the lighting is optimal you will capture beautiful photos of Christ Church and the adjacent Melaka River.  Christ Church is unmistakable due its vibrant red colour which provides strong contrast to the other aged buildings in Melaka’s historic area.

One of the common activities for tourists visiting Dutch Square is to hire a trishaw driver for a tour around the main tourist areas of the city. If you are feeling overwhelmed by Melaka’s steamy weather or you are tight for time, I would recommend hiring one.  However, if you are up for a bit of a workout, most of Melaka’s top attractions can be easily seen over the course of a day or two by simply walking around. Either way, the trishaws are a colourful and unique addition to the streets of Melaka.

Literally minutes away from Dutch Square is famous Jonker Walk – the main artery of Melaka’s tourism industry. ‘Jonker’ is lined with shops, restaurants and it is famously known for its thriving weekend night market. I personally love the energy and the multicultural feel of this street. You will find tourists from all over the world checking out local art shops and traditional snacks on offer.  If you can visit Melaka during the weekend, I would recommend it. If you spend the night , this will provide you with an opportunity to see the night market.  It can get extremely busy, however, so keep this in mind or otherwise you might feel slightly claustrophobic (especially on a long weekend).

Two noteworthy sites to see right in the vicinity of Jonker Walk are Kampung Kling Mosque and Cheng Hoong Teng Temple. They are both located on Jalan Tukang Besi, which is the street that runs parallel to Jonker Walk. I often prefer to walk down Jalan Tikang Besi if I want to avoid the tourist crowds along Jonker Walk.  If I were you, I would allocate about 30 minutes to seeing both Kampung Kling Mosque and Cheng Hoong Teng Temple.  There are also a few interesting craft stores and cafes in the same area if you want to slow down and take a minute to get away from the sun for a while. This is also a great area to book your room in because it is extremely close to the night market, but far more laid back and quieter than Jonker Walk.

Once you have rested up, one affordable activity that I would highly recommend doing while in Melaka is going on a Melaka River Cruise.  The Melaka River is so conveniently located that it actually passes under Jonker walk and runs adjacent to Dutch Square. It’s quite rare in South East Asia to find a river running through such a scenic city, so take advantage of the opportunity. It’s no Venice or Amsterdam by any means, but the Melaka river cruise is still a fun thing to do!

During my first visit to Melaka, I felt like I needed to get a different perspective of the heritage area. To do so, I walked by Dutch Square along the River to Menara Taming Sari.  If you are unfamiliar, Menara Taming Sari is sort of like a Melaka’s version of a sky tower. It differs from most sky towers because you travel up the tower in a rotating elevator that serves a dual role as a viewing platform.

Once at the top, you will get stunning views of Melaka’s historic area and other regions of the city proper. Some of the noteworthy landmarks you will be able to clearly see from the top include Melaka River, the Flor del la Mar (a recreation of the 16 th century ship), and St. Paul’s Hill.  I would recommend placing a trip up Menara Taming Sari as one of the first “to do’s” in your Melaka itinerary. The justification for this is that once you get an idea of where the main sites are located in the city, it will make the rest of your navigation around the city that much easier.

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Historians and most vacationers should definitely make the effort to also see St. Paul’s Church, A Famosa and the Stadthuy’s while in Melaka. Of the three, my favourite is St. Paul’s Church.  Since it is perched atop St. Paul’s Hill, you will also get nice views of Melaka’s tourist region.

Many guidebooks also speak of Melaka’s Portuguese Settlement. During my most recent trip to Melaka I decided to check it out as well. After about a 15 minute ride on public bus #17 from Dutch Square, I asked to get dropped off at the Settlement. You will find a few restaurants near the water, a small museum and a few traditional homes in the area. I personally found the architecture and the settlement as a whole quite disappointing. If you come from Portuguese ancestry or you are a historian you might disagree. I suggest that if you are tight for time, this is one of the sites in Melaka to see if you come back a second time.

After a sweaty day walking around Melaka’s various sites, rest for a while because the Jonker Walk Night Market will pick up shortly after 6 pm on weekends. I usually check out the market for an hour or two and then stop by at one of the live music venues along Jonker. If you still happen to be out around 11 pm, then swing by the Hard Rock for their live band.  Typically, their bands are from Indonesia and they play a wide range of high quality music. Another bonus is that the Hard Rock in Melaka is completely smoke-free (unlike most establishments in Malaysia).

Although Melaka is regarded by many as a prime “daytrip” destination, I tend to disagree. If you book a room near Jonker Walk and you spend at least one night, you can slow down and do things that you would otherwise never have time for.  Go for a trishaw ride, take a relaxing stroll along Melaka River, or even sample the best Nyonya restaurants in town.

Where did we stay in Melaka?

We had two main priorities in terms of accommodation for this trip to Melaka: 1) find something affordable and 2) make sure it’s close to Jonker Walk. Eventually, we decided to stay at Kawan Kawan Guest House . We don’t have a direct affiliation with this property .  Therefore, I can honestly say that we had a nice stay.  It’s a simple budget choice.  Very close to Jonker Walk – less than a five minute walk to/from the main street. It could get a bit noisy due to their thin walls if there’s a loud group staying there, but it was fine during out stay.  Look elsewhere if you want something more luxurious. At the time of writing it had a score of 7.8/10 based on 231 verified guest reviews .

How to find the cheapest rooms in Melaka?

Melaka has plenty of rooms to choose from, with the top choices getting booked up early (especially in the vicinity of Jonker Walk).  Try www.agoda.com , www.booking.com or www.hotelscombined to get the largest selection of rooms. To save you valuable 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..

• Properties rated based on ‘overall’ review scores from each respective website’s verified guests.
• Minimum of 50 verified guest reviews required to be considered eligible for comparison.
• All star ratings and verified guest review scores are tallied at the time of writing, and therefore, are subject to change.

You can also use the Search Box below to compare hotel prices:

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)
• Top Attractions in Melaka (Malacca)
• Top Reasons to Visit Melaka, Malaysia

5 thoughts on “Melaka Travel Review”

Melaka is best place and lot of historical place. I like…

You should definitely check out one of the free guided walking tours. I did the one covering the historical center. Sure, you can see the sights by yourself, but it was really interesting listening and the guide also talked about food and where to get it 😀

Thanks Jutta for the tip!

hi,how to join the free guided walking tour in Melaka? We’re going there this coming June, Thank you.

I am not sure if there is a free guided walking tour in Melaka. We did not go on a walking tour. We used a guidebook to check out the attractions. If you can’t get a tour, another option for you is to look up Google map for the Portuguese quarter. You can check out the different attractions in the area. Once you figure out what you want to see, just print out a copy of the map.

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Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Cultural Travel , Malaysia

What to Do in Melaka – A Trip to the World Heritage Site of Malaysia

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Many will tell you to skip this World Heritage Site in Malaysia. But here’s what to do in Melaka city that makes it worthy of a visit. 

Melaka (also known as Malacca) is usually the place that people visit in between travel from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and since Malaysia is well known for its stunning beach locations, you will likely come across other travellers heading straight for the islands and bypassing smaller spots on the mainland.

However, setting out on a Melaka trip is worth the short two-hour bus journey from Kuala Lumpur, even if only for a day trip. 

A key trading route in the 1400s, numerous European colonial occupations intersected with Malay Islamic culture. These periods of history and heritage have blended with a unity of multiple religions to create a city of contrasting colour, architecture and atmosphere where no two areas look the same. 

In Chinatown business booms as people hustle through its long shopping streets, restaurants and temples while the adjacent calm, scenic riverfront receives a sporadic scattering of people seeking solitude. In the historic town centre, earthly red buildings catch your eye, street food sizzles and the smell of sea air passes. The shallow ding of metal hitting the ground can be heard as the trishaw drivers park their flower-covered carts in a row to begin a competitive game of coin throwing, inviting you to join.

If I had listened to the majority verdict on the place, I would never have gone. Instead, Melaka ended up being one of my favourite places in the country and a lesson on the multifaceted Malay culture. 

One Day in Melaka Trip: Visiting the Quaint Malaysian City

Where to Stay in Melaka

Tour melaka historic old town , go to melaka’s chinatown, wind down at melaka’s riverside, visit melaka’s little india, getting to melaka is a pain, melaka is a tourism hub, getting to melaka from kuala lumpur , take a historical melaka/melacca tour , want to go to melaka pin it, is melaka worth visiting.

While not a destination you would probably want to spend days in, spending at least one day in Melaka should be considered.

A compact, easy to navigate, and picturesque little town, a Malaka trip is an excellent window into the history of the Portuguese, Dutch and British rule as well as being a quiet, charming spot to relax in between city visits.

Known as the ‘Historic State’ you can expect to stumble upon an array of colonial architecture, the fort remains and churches mixed with temples, mosques, funky art stores and unique clothing shops hidden in the never-ending grid of streets that make up central Chinatown. 

While ultra very touristy in places, Melaka has a lot to offer that makes it stand out from the more basic and unattractive towns and cities on the mainland. 

If you want to stay overnight, my budget suggestion is the Homestay Tidurzzz Bandar Melaka guest house (formerly known as Tidur Tidur), where we stayed. Based in the central Chinatown neighbourhood, it comprises basic rooms built into an art studio that backs onto the river. 

There’s many mid-range properties with historic character, including the JonkeRED Heritage Hotel , close to the famed night market street, alongside Baba House Melaka housed in a beautifully restored heritage building. The Jonker Boutique Hotel adds a slick design to a heritage house. 

Heritage buildings on the streets of Melaka.

What to Do in Melaka to See it Differently

The most iconic things to do in Melaka is to visit the landmark of Stadthuys – its vivid terracotta red buildings that glow more salmon pink in the sun are not hard to find.

Built upon the ruins of a Portuguese fort, The Stadthuys of Melacca is believed to be the oldest surviving Dutch buildings in Asia from the colonial period that dates back to 1660. It’s also where you will find the Christ Church Melaka, also built by the Dutch when they took possession of Malacca from the Portuguese. 

The main hall – the seat of successive governments for over 300 years, including the Malay Sultanate and Dutch, Portuguese and British occupations – was converted in 1982 to house the Museum of History & Ethnography. Here you can learn about the rich culture and history of Melaka city.

The iconic, pink Christ Church Melaka in The Stadthuys of Melacca.

Take a Trishaw ride – the elaborately decorated tricycle rickshaws are well-known attractions in Melaka. You’ll find the drivers waiting outside The Stadthuys in what is dubbed as the Red Square. From Hello Kitty to Superheroes, each Trishaw reflects the driver’s personality. Or you can enjoy them in a coin game as they while away the time. 

Playing a coin game with Melaka locals.

Red Square at the Stadthuys of Melacca, Malaysia.

In the historical district, as well as the Chinatown area, you will also find one of the famous bronze statues of Datuk Wira Dr Gan Boon Leong. A famous Malaysian bodybuilder, he went on to win Mr Universe and Mr Asia and is revered as the ‘Father of Bodybuilders in Malaysia’. His statues are as much a tourist site as the centuries-old sites themselves. 

The bronze statue of famous Malaysian bodybuilder, Datuk Wira Dr Gan Boon.

A replica of the 16th-century Portuguese vessel The Flor de la Mar is part of the Melaka Maritime Museum. Seen as one of the finest cargo ships of its time, it was lost off the coast of Sumatra on a Portugal to India voyage. 

Replica of the 16th-century Portuguese vessel The Flor de la Mar at the Melaka Maritime Museum.

Chinatown’s main thoroughfare, Jonker Street is a good place to start. This antique store-lined street, affectionately known as the Jonker Walk, is centrally located and an easy navigation point. Street murals and hanging flags give this area pop of vibrancy, although it comes to life during the Jonker Street Night Market on Fridays and Saturdays.

Visit Jonker Street in Melaka’s Chinatown.

The main site here is the Chinese Cheng Hoon Teng Temple whose red-tiled upturned boat-shaped roof is visible from the sandy toned street walls. This 17th-century structure is said to be the oldest functioning temple in Malaysia, representing the worship of the Three Doctrinal Systems of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism.

Today, it continues to serve as the spiritual centre for the Chinese neighbourhood in Melaka.

The colourful streets of Chinatown, Melaka.

Street art in Melaka’s Chinatown district.

A painted dragon head on a building in Chinatown.

The Sungai Melaka river is the place to wind down after time spent in the crumbling colonial-era streets. A meandering promenade of stores, hotels and cafes, it is very much a local relaxation point as it is a tourist draw.

Since my time in Melaka, the riverside has seen some urban regeneration, including the addition of street art on river-facing walls, shop-front murals to bring life to the tiny side streets, and boutique stores adding some flair to the area’s beautification. 

The tranquil river walk in Melaka.

Sketching club in Melaka.

Layers of history in architecture line the river in Melaka.

An enclave of around 30 Indian traders who elicit the smell of spices, dazzle with fabrics and pump to the sound of Indian music beats, can be found at the intersection of the Jalan Bendahara and Jalan Temenggong roads intersection. While this area and its wares serve the needs of Melaka’s Indian Muslim community, it’s a wonderful place to stroll, shop and understand another layer of Melaka’s multi-cultural mix. 

The gate designating the Little India neighbourhood in Melaka.

The Downsides of Visiting Melaka / Melacca

The main downside to Melaka is getting from the end bus stop to the city centre. Taxi drivers in Malaysia are notorious for not using their metres and insist on ridiculous prices. My friend and I spent half an hour trying to convince the drivers at the bus terminal to lower their costs but to no avail.

Expect to pay the set price of 20 Ringgit for the short journey into town – being assertive only landed us a 5 Ringgit discount with a battered old taxi, but we felt like we had won the war.

Another issue is that this is one of Malaysia’s key tourist centres – international and domestic – so don’t expect to have any part of it to yourself. There is even a Hard Rock Café in town to put the cherry on top of the ‘developing’ status.

The best thing to do is concentrate on your surroundings, block everyone out, or find a secluded spot by the river away from the central thoroughfares and attractions. Or go and sit with the locals at the hawker stalls and sample the delicious snacks and dishes.

Life in Melaka.

It is more accessible to get to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur via bus. Despite the KL Sentral railway station, there are no direct trains to Melaka.

The Available Train Journey to Melaka (via Tampin)

If you are thinking of taking the train, Tampin is the closest town to Melaka with a train station. While the Komuter train to Tampin may be cheaper, the journey is up to four hours long since it stops at every station as part of the commuter belt around Kuala Lumpur city. 

There is a local bus from Tampin to Melaka, with multiple stops that take over an hour to reach Melaka. It is a real, local experience, with over-crowding and no air conditioning.

Bus vs. Express Bus to Melaka

The easiest way to get to Melaka is via express bus from the TBS bus terminal (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) in Kuala Lumpur to Melaka Sentral station. Buses leave the city every 30 minutes, cost between RM10 and RM20, with a total journey time of approximately two and a half hours. 

You can pre-book your bus tickets here via 12Go Asia . 

Take a Taxi

Driving time to Melaka is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, although you will spend time trying to haggle a reasonable price with a taxi driver to get there. The estimated fare should be around RM150, according to Uber. 

Want to cut the hassle of getting between Kuala Lumpur and Melaka, as well as get local insight on all the top sites?

Consider this bestselling full-day Melacca tour with an English speaking guide , a private vehicle and a local lunch. Melaka tours are great for those on limited time, or who enjoy the convenience of having everything organised by an expert. 

For around €40 per person, you can embark on a 10-hour round-trip, including pick up and drop-off to your accommodation in KL. You’ll get to experience the best of historical Malacca, including a visit to St. Peter’s Church, the Portuguese settlement, Sultan’s Well, the Chinese Cheng Hoon Teng Temple and other highlights in the port town. There’s also a chance to sample traditional Peranakan food at lunch. 

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

10 April 2014 at 11:26 pm

Hi again did u go by bus from KL to Malacca. Im planning on heading to Malacca via Singapore but wanted to go to Cameron highlands as well for a couple of days did u have to go back to KL or am I able to get there from Malacca itself..I will find out but if you can give me the heads up would b handy cheers ..enjoy your travels Ian

10 April 2014 at 11:37 pm

I travelled all around Malaysia by bus (and ferry to get to the islands). You will need to check the bus routes with your guest house or at the nearest bus station as they vary from place to place as to where they stop and the direct routes they take.

Lisa Hardy says

23 September 2013 at 5:57 pm

I remember going on a Far East cruise about 15 years ago. It stopped at Melaka and all my cruise friends decided to stay and sunbathe on board ship, and I decided to go it alone. I was pleased I did. It was such an interesting place with so much to see in such a small place. I don’t think there was a Hard Rock Cafe then, and it was pretty much undeveloped. I loved the little indoor shopping centre and the other little stores in Little India. It was quite unspoilt from mass tourism at the time. The people were very friendly and welcoming and loved the fact you had come to see their little town. We got invited to see a locals house which was on stilts. I loved it. I don’t want to go back though as I fear it will have been changed somewhat by the increase in tourism. I want to keep it in my mind as I remember it from years ago.

23 September 2013 at 6:36 pm

Unfortunately, everywhere changes and holding on to that shouldn’t stop you going back! I didn’t feel it was overcrowded by tourism, when I was there and it was very quaint, laid back and full of local people going about their daily lives. If anything, it probably has more for you to see – a perfect excuse to revisit 🙂

Angela says

25 May 2013 at 2:56 am

We’re in KL at the moment and still deciding if we should go to Melaka. We probably will. Where else in Malaysia have you been? Any great tips?

25 May 2013 at 3:43 am

It’s easy to get to so worth a try! I’ve also been to Pangkor Island, Ipoh, Cameron Highlands, Penang (Georgetown), Langkawi, Perhentian Islands, Taman Negara and Tioman island. It depends how much time you have and what you like doing. My top picks would be Cameron Highlands, Penang/Georgetown, Langkawi and Perhentians (which I liked more than Tioman).

Jeremy says

4 April 2013 at 11:58 am

Definitely looks like there are some cool buildings, but I hate when the locals try and take advantage of you, doesn’t do the place (or people) any good.

5 April 2013 at 3:08 am

Some colonial era architecture here! Fortunately, the locals are not on the same level as the hideous taxi drivers at the bus station!

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My Trip to Melaka – An Awesome Place to Visit

Essays Essay on Trip to Melaka , Melaka - An Awesome Place to Visit , Melaka Essay , Melaka Malacca 1

Last Updated on August 5, 2022

My Trip to Melaka :

• Melaka is a wonderful tourist place in Malaysia
• We visited this place last year with our family friends
• Melaka is a state close to Kuala Lumpur (Capital of Malaysia)
• We can find highly built attractive buildings in Melaka
• We enjoyed traveling in Trishaws in streets

My Trip to Melaka : (Short Essay)

Commonly known as Malacca, Melaka is one of the famous destinations in Malaysia. A beautiful state in Malaysia, that is situated south to Malay Peninsula. Having known the fame and popularity of the state, we planned well ahead to visit the top 10 attractions in Melaka in a one week trip. The most scintillating spots that throbbed my heart are the Christ Church, The Stadthuys, St. Paul’s Church, Malacca Reptile and Butterfly Sanctuary and Mini Malaysia and ASEAN Cultural Park.  Also, I found the Malacca Crocodile Farm very adventurous. I have taken a lot of pictures of all the places I visited and I am sure I am going to preserve those valuable pictures.

My Trip to Melaka : (Brief Essay)

One of the precious places to visit in the world is Malacca (Melaka). Known as the “The Historic State”, Melaka preserves ancient buildings till this day. We were craving to visit Malaysia since a very long time. My father was deeply researching on the best places to visit in Melaka. That is when we learnt that:

“Visiting Malacca Means Visiting Malaysia”

At that moment, we decided our vacation destination and booked our tickets to Melaka. To avoid bore-some we planned a joint trip with our uncle’s family.

The toughest task about the whole trip was to decide upon what places to visit in Melaka. The spots that are historical and familiarity value went endless. My uncle had a friend there who guided us to plan the whole trip and we planned to visit the historical places and buildings in priority.

The most important part in preserving the numerous historical sites are the valuable museums. Malacca Museum Corporation manages those museums and the museums we visited in Melaka are:

• Agricultural Museum
• Customs Department Museum
• Al-Quran Museum
• Chitty Museum and
• Governor’s Museum

These museums are just a short list of the many other museums yet we were much amazed by the historical collections in them.

The  next biggest target spot we planned to visit were the historical buildings and structures. The 2 among the many we visited and that attracted me were the Saint John’s Fort and Malacca Warrior Monument.

As a break in the theme destinations visits we planned a one day parking at A’Famosa Resort. It was a great place to hang out and spend time with family.

The next part of our trip was totally religious. We spent almost 2 days in visiting various worshiping places like: Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Christ Church, Chinese Mosque, Straits Mosque and State Mosque. The majestic sculpture and art work in those places were simply overwhelming.

The funniest and most enjoyable part in the trip was the time we spent traveling in Trishaws in the street. We did most of our shopping in the Trishaws and it was a completely new experience. Only after the  trip, we were so fulfilled that we spent 10 days in a tourist destination worth its fame.

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Review my trip to Melaka – Best things to do [2024 updated]

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I’m really into ancient towns all over the world and will never be bored when traveling to those destinations. This time, I chose Malacca (Melaka) – a renowned trading port in Malaysia in the past – located to the South of Kuala Lumpur. Well, undoubtedly, this town is really worth my visit… and yours as well. 

In this ultimate travel guide, I will sum up all information that you need to know before taking your trip to Melaka.

👉 Want to rent a private car for your trip to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur ? Contact me via Whatsapp +60 149.776.712 (Mai) or my Instagram for the best price 💸 .

Useful links for your Melaka trip

• Buy 4G Malaysian sim card (KLIA2 pickup) : Click here
• Buy bus tickets from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca: Click here
• Highly-rated hotels in Melaka (below 100RM): Hotel Arissa , Ohana House HQ , Greystone 99 Suites
• Best tours in Melaka: Melaka historical tour with lunch , Melaka & Putrajaya tour from KL
• Discounted ticket to Menara Taming: Click here

You may also like: Batu Caves – Murugan Statue: interesting facts, history, how to get there?

Table of Contents

1. About Melaka

2. how to get to melaka from kuala lumpur, 3. how to get around melaka, 4. where to stay in melaka, 5. best things to do in melaka, 6. how many days to stay in melaka.

Melaka is a historical site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008 and is known as one of the best destinations in Asia recognized by Forbes and Lonely Planet.

BRIEF HISTORY

In the 14th century, as a protectorate of Ming China, Melaka developed rapidly and was once a bustling international trading center with trade routes between China, India, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. 

Not until 1511, Melaka became a colony of Portugal after a conquer led by Alfonso de Albuquerque. 

In 1641, after several efforts, the Dutch eventually defeated the Portuguese and captured Melaka. Despite not developing Melaka as a trading center, they still erected Stadhuys as a landmark in the city.

The Dutch then ceded Melaka to the British in 1824 according to the Anglo-Dutch Treaty. 

From 1942 – 1945, the city was ruled by the Japanese during World War II.

Nowadays, Melaka City is the political and economic center for the state of Malacca. Simultaneously, it is also one of the most famous travel destinations in Malaysia.

Melaka city is the capital of the state of Melaka located 148km southeast of Kuala Lumpur. You can easily reach Malacca from Kuala Lumpur within 2 hours by bus or car.

There are 2 ways to get to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur: by bus or by car.

• From Kuala Lumpur City Centre to Melaka: The easiest way is by bus which takes around 2 hours costing just around 15RM/way/person. From Kuala Lumpur, you go to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) by LRT, KTM, or KLIA transit trains. In TBS, there are buses departing every 30 mins to Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal (and other southern parts of KL, even Singapore). Tickets can be purchased at the station or online via this link.
• From Kuala Lumpur International Airport: There are bus terminals in both KLIA (Lower Ground Floor) and KLIA2 (Level 1).  The bus ticket cost about  25-35RM/way/person and take around 2 hours and 30 mins to reach the Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal. You can buy tickets online via This link.

Besides, you can also go to Melaka by car. Going to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur by car is much more convenient and time-saving than traveling by bus.

If you want to rent a car to Malacca, contact me via Whatsapp +60 149.776.712 (Mai) or my Instagram for the best price 💸 .

Read more: How to take a bus from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca: bus schedule & ticket price

From Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal to your hotel: there are 2 options for you. One is by bus which costs about 3.5 – 5.2RM. However, as I arrived in Melaka quite late (after 8 pm) and I only have nearly 2 days to visit this beautiful city, thus, I prefer the second option – taxi/grab. You can also download Grab which is a very popular app in Southeast Asia where you can book a taxi at an affordable price. 

Around the city: I think walking is the best way as the places of interest are quite near to each other, except for the Malacca Mosque. On the other hand, you can use a taxi/ grab car when you feel too tired of walking, but believe me, it’s not that tiring.

Besides, as an option for tourists, there are a plethora of colorful Trishaws with cute decorations (Doraemon, Hello Kitty, etc.) and fun music that you can try, the price may vary depending on your bargaining skills, it’s about 25RM for 10mins (you can try to ask for a lower price, who knows….).

The best area to stay in Melaka is probably the neighborhood of Jonker Walker Street. This is where many tourist attractions are located at such as the Christ Church, Stadthuys, Melaka river cruise, etc. So if you stay nearby, you can get around by walking.

Here are some highly-rated hotels nearby Jonker Walker that cost less than 100RM/night: Ohana House HQ , Ola Hostel

During my trip to Melaka, I stayed at Bayview hotel Melaka – a 3-star hotel located in Jalan Bendahara (15mins walking to the Jonker Walker) for the price of around 150RM. The room is quite big, clean, and fully furnished with a massive window (although the view is not beautiful…at all). However, one of my concerns is that the area is a little bit dangerous for solo female travelers (as I feel) because I didn’t see many people walking around, so if you travel alone, I recommend you take a taxi when it’s late. Overall, I think it was quite ok with that price and location.

Note: Since 2017, Malaysia applies tourism tax for foreigners at a flat rate of 10RM/room/night (no matter where in Malaysia). So if you stay there for 4 nights, you have to pay 40RM/room.

Best things to do in Melaka in the daytime

• Admire Malacca Straits Mosque

The mosque is situated on the man-made  Pulau Malacca Island which is quite far from the city center taking about 15mins by taxi (costs about 15RM/way). It is a gorgeous white mosque with the harmonization between the Middle Eastern and Malay architectural styles floating on the water. 

• Free Islamic clothing is offered for free for tourists visiting the Malacca Straits Mosque. You can find it on the left-hand side of the mosque. And remember to return it after visiting the mosque.
• If you don’t want to get inside the mosque, it’s fine, you can come at any time you want as we can also take a lot of beautiful pictures from the outside.

Address: Jalan Pulau Melaka 8, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

Opening hours: 9:00 – 17:00 on Sunday only

This is one of my favorite things to do in Melaka. Besides Penang, Melaka is also a famous city for street art. The interesting thing is that those murals perfectly matched the ancient beauty of the town making the whole area so gorgeous, romantic, and instagramable. Fortunately, this area is located between all the famous tourist attractions, so you can easily find it when walking around the city center. 

• Enjoy the bird’s eye view of Melaka at Taming Sari Tower

Taming Sari Tower is the first and highest tower in Melaka with 24 levels and a height of 110 meters. This is the best place in Melaka to see the panoramic view of Melaka town. The special thing is that the observation deck will revolve around the tower so that visitors enjoy the 360-degree view. 

Pro tips: Don’t buy tickets at the counter, it’s cheaper to buy online via THIS LINK .

Address: Jln Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka

Opening hours: every day, 10 AM – 11 PM

• Drop by Masjid Kampung Hulu

It is the oldest functioning mosque in Malaysia which was once demolished by the Portuguese and later rebuilt by the Dutch as a part of their colonization tactics. The mosque, however, is not open for tourists, thus, you can only wander around and admire its magnificence.

Address: Jalan Kampung Hulu, Melaka

It is surely the most famous attraction in Melaka which is located within Dutch Square. This church dates back to the 18th century with the Dutch architecture style and is the oldest functioning Protestant church in Malaysia. Interestingly, it was originally painted in white, until 1911, it changed its outfit to red making this area so distinctive from a far distance.

Address: Jalan Kota Melaka, Melaka

Tips tips tips :

If you want to take a Trishaw ride, it is a perfect location to find drivers. As I mentioned above, it may cost around 25RM for 10 minutes. 

Next to the Christ Church Malacca is Stadhuys, it was built in 1650 by the Dutch and functioned as the local town hall but later, was converted into the History & Ethnography Museum. Same as Melaka Christ Church, Stadhuys was also initially painted in white and was re-painted in red later on.

Address: Banda Hilir, 75000 Malacca, Malaysia

This was once a fortress of the Portuguese which was built in 1511 known as one of the oldest European historical relics in Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, it was intentionally destroyed in 1806 by the English when they dominated this city. Nowadays, there is only a small gate called the  Porta de Santiago remained thanks to the decision of Captain William Farquhar to save this gateway.

Address: Jln Parameswara, Banda Hilir, 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka, Malaysia

Opening hours: 24/7

• Cheng Hoon Teng temple

This is the oldest functioning Chinese temple dating back to the 17 th century and is the most popular place of worship for the Hokkien community in Melaka. There are several prayer halls inside the temple, the main one is to worship Guan Yin – the Goddess of Mercy.

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

Opening Hours: 07:00 – 19:00

Best things to do in Melaka at night

It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Melaka at night, especially for foodies.

No more peacefulness like during the daytime, after 18:00, this street is chock-full of people and has a myriad of dancing or singing street performances making it so lively and hectic – a good place to have fun. Especially, you will be enamored by all the delicious smells along this food paradise, try at least 4-5 foods, it’s cheap and finger-licking good!!! For this site, you can spend almost the whole evening exploring it.

One thing you should bear in mind is that this market only opens on the weekend (every Friday and Saturday). 

Opening hours: 18:00 – 00:00 on Friday and Saturday

• Take a Malacca River Cruise

I would say this is the most romantic thing to do in Melaka. Although the cruise is also operated during the daytime, I prefer to take it at night because we can enjoy the breeze in the evening and avoid the heat (which makes this experience less enjoyable). The total cruising time is about 45 mins to 1 hour and you can buy the tickets on some apps such as Klook, Traveloka, etc.

Operating hours: 9:00 – 11:30pm

Where to find boarding jetties: there are 2 jetties close to the center which are Muara Jetty and The Shore Jetty. You need to check your booking reservation (if you book online) to see exactly where your cruise departs. If you buy tickets at the counter, there is one ticket counter just nearby the Dutch church (next to the bridge), you can go there to buy tickets and ask for directions to the jetty.

Price: 30RM (for adults) and 25RM (for kids).

Well, in my opinion, 3 days 2 nights are just enough for a trip to Melaka. If less than 3 days, you cannot discover all the attractions. If more than that, there won’t be many things to do in Melaka.

And make sure that you come here on Friday and Saturday when the Jonker walker night market is open. If not, there are NOT many things to do at night time, so your trip turns out quite boring.

Alright, that’s all I want to share with you after my trip to Melaka. Hope you find it helpful and share your thoughts below. 

Thanks for reading.

You may also like : Batu Caves – Murugan Statue: interesting facts, history, how to get there?

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Discover The Hidden Gems Of Melaka In Malaysia

The sleepy Malaysian city of Melaka charms visitors with its mishmash of cultures, ancient religious structures, and simple life.

By: Susheela Nair Published: Dec 15, 2022 12:00 PM MYT

Revisiting memories of pre-COVID vacations with friends and family has become my favourite exercise to cope with the cabin fever and sense of doom evoked by the second wave. One such vacation that keeps cropping up in conversations is  Melaka (also spelt Malacca). I vividly remember rambling down the meandering lanes of the Malaysian city a few years ago. It seems surreal now, a vacation without masks or physical distancing.

Check out some of the undiscovered hidden gems of Melaka

Melaka is not as flamboyant as Kuala Lumpur , but it abounds in history and architecture. It is no wonder tourists come in hordes to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though it’s small enough to explore on foot, Melaka has sufficient attractions to fill an itinerary of several days.

Book Your Luxury Experiences In Kuala Lumpur Here

I wandered at leisure in this ancient city, admiring its old churches, Hindu temples, gilded Chinese temples, grand mosques, opulent mansions, red colonial buildings, and streets lined with tile-roofed louvred shophouses where traders reside. The foreign influences —from early Indian civilisation to Portuguese and Dutch, were discernible. I was, at times, transported to the late 18th century when Melaka was a busy outpost for the British, who stormed this part of the world in search of spices and stayed back to reap the benefits of the lucrative trade.

Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum was my first stop. This private museum, located along Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, is owned by the fourth generation of the Chan family. Built during the Dutch occupation, the structure offers a glimpse into the rich and colourful Peranakan lifestyle. “Peranakans are a group of wealthy families who evolved from the intermarriage of Babas, or Chinese traders, and Nyonyas, or local residents. This was once the ancestral home of a Baba Nyonya family,” explained our ebullient guide. The ancestry altar, an archive of costumes, neoclassical furniture, Victorian-era chandeliers, and other artefacts created a delightful time warp in the unique museum.

Walking on Jalan Tokong , or Harmony Street, I came across three of the oldest places of worship in Malaysia. The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia . It rendered me speechless with its ornate, upturned, boat-shaped roof, stunning wood carvings, furnishings, and mythological figures. I spotted visitors lighting incense sticks in front of a gilded statue of the Goddess of Mercy, the deity for whom the temple was founded in the 1600s. Just then, a muezzin’s call pervaded the air. I followed the mellifluous voice to the nearby Kampung Kling Mosque . Built by Indian Muslim traders in 1748, it is a medley of Corinthian columns, Portuguese tiles, Hindu carvings, and a pagoda-like minaret. Down the street, chants emanated from the Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple , a rectangular structure that stands on land donated by the Dutch and that happens to be one of the first Hindu temples built in the country. On my way back, it hit me why locals called it Harmony Street.

After all that walking in the sweltering heat, I stopped to have cendol, a shaved-ice dessert with green vanilla jelly, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, toffee sauce, and kidney beans. At twilight, I was on Menara Taming Sari , a 360° viewing tower with a sky-high platform, to take in a panoramic view of the coastal town, twinkling with lights under a star-spangled sky.

An illuminated tricycle rickshaw ferried me to Jonker Street later in the night. In this vibrant heart of Melaka City, old townhouses have been transformed into cafes, pubs, and boutiques. Murals and flags give the area pops of colour, but the street can get a tad boisterous on weekends, with a food and retail market taking over.

The next day, I headed towards Maritime Museum , which is housed in a replica of Flor De La Mar, the famous Portuguese ship that is said to have sank off the coast of Melaka. The museum is divided into different eras—the Melaka Sultanate period, the Portuguese rule, the Dutch rule, and the British rule—and offers a glimpse into Melaka’s seafaring history. I spent hours perusing the display of porcelain, silk, textile, and spices that were brought in by traders from the Arab world, India, and China; collections of model ships; and reading material on Melaka’s history.

After a Duck tour (tours that take place on purpose-built amphibious tour buses) covering landmarks such as the waterfront Melaka Straits Mosque, which appears to be floating on the Strait, I headed to Porta De Santiago , an old gateway located at the foot of St Paul’s Hills. Built by the Portuguese in 1512, it was once one of the four main gates of the Portuguese fortress, A Famosa.

From there, I clambered up a flight of steep steps to the sublime ruins of St Paul’s Church crowning the summit of St Paul’s Hills. I was rewarded with a stellar view of the city and the Straits of Malacca. It was originally a chapel built by a Portuguese sea captain in gratitude to the Virgin Mary for saving his life at sea. The Dutch renamed it St Paul’s Church, and this is where the body of Jesuit missionary St Francis Xavier is supposed to have been interred before it was moved to Goa. The tomb remains at the centre of the ruined church.

Also Read – Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Malaysia

My next stop was the town square, where hordes of bright trishaws, three-wheeled pedal rickshaws, festooned with plastic flowers and soft toys glided around. At the Dutch Square , also known as the Red Square, tourists posed in front of the salmon-coloured Stadthuys, the former townhall and the most prominent landmark of Melaka. It not only dominates the square but is claimed to be the oldest remaining Dutch colonial building left in Southeast Asia. Today, it houses the Melaka Ethnographical and Historical Museum , which offers a glimpse into the customs and traditions of all the peoples of Melaka. During the Dutch rule, many buildings in Southeast Asia, like the 18th-century Christ Church in Melaka, were painted white. However, in 1911, the Christ Church and the Stadthuys complex were painted red by the British.

On the last day, I embarked on the Melaka River Cruise . My curiosity had been stoked when my guide mentioned that the 1999 Sean Connery movie Entrapment was partially shot here. The recorded commentary on board the 45-minute cruise provides info on the history of the river: how it was widened and made pollution-free, and how the historic monuments on either bank were restored and maintained. I had fleeting glimpses of the simple, laid-back life of the locals on the river banks. The multicultural fabric of the country was palpable as the boat whizzed past historic buildings, old warehouses, numerous bridges, and murals adorning the walls of homes, shops, and cafes . The most interesting sight on the cruise was that of Kampung Morten , a cluster of well-maintained traditional Melaka houses that are over 100 years old. As I watched the illuminated buildings and canals at twilight, Melaka evoked romantic visions of the past. There could not have been a better finale to my sojourn.

GETTING THERE

Multiple airlines offer connecting flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Kuala Lumpur. You can take a bus, train, or taxi to Melaka from here. It takes around two hours by road.

Casa del Rio offers Mediterranean-style rooms with a touch of Peranakan flair. Doubles start from INR 6,476; casadelrio-melaka.com

5 Heeren is a polished boutique hotel offering river views. Doubles start from INR 7,908; 5heeren.com

Related: The Best Cafes And Coffee Shops In Historical Malacca

• Beaches Near Kuala Lumpur
• Kuala Lumpur
• malaysia reopen
• malaysia tourism
• Melaka in Malaysia

Susheela Nair

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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.

*Before You Travel to Malaysia,  have you got your travel insurance sorted?  Cover yourself for the unexpected, read  why you really need travel insurance  or  get a quote from World Nomads .

*Have you got your travel Visa sorted? Check if  you need one here  and retrieve a quote. It’s simple, fast and reliable.

*Don’t leave home without any  backpacker essentials  with our free printable packing list.

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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We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.

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Melaka: Culture, History, and Nature

For an enjoyable history fix, a visit to a city that celebrates its rich and diverse history can be the ideal weekend getaway. Travel photojournalist David Bowden finds Melaka to be a nearby destination that offers ample heritage and much more.

Melaka (also spelled Malacca) is a well-visited tourist destination south of Kuala Lumpur which has become even more popular since it was placed on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites nearly a decade ago. This list has become the global seal of approval for the world’s finest cultural, historic and natural sites. It has help guide me on my global travels as a point of reference for the must-see destinations around the world.

The listing covers the 600-year-old historic Melaka town centre, which acts as a magnet for tourists wanting to see the vestiges of the old port’s historic past (it is actually a dual site in sharing its listing with the historic centre of George Town in Penang). A UNESCO listing means that all such sites around the world must develop management plans and adhere to strict guidelines to ensure each site maintains its integrity and,subsequently, its place on the list.Those that don’t, and there have been a few, lose their UNESCO status.

Historic Melaka has a wealth of cultural and historic features dating back to an era when it was one of the region’s most strategic spice trading ports. Old buildings from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial eras stand alongside historic shoplots that were initially built by influential Chinese merchants. Many still remain in the family and some continue traditional trades and activities carried on by their forefathers.

Today, Melaka’s tourism assets are extensive and extend beyond its historic heart as I was to discover on my most recent trip that commenced in the semi-rural surroundings of Ayer Keroh and extended into its historic town precinct. Several tourist attractions are located near Ayer Keroh including Zoo Melaka, Ayer Keroh Recreational Forest, Crocodile Park, Taman Mini Malaysia, and an Orang Asli Museum. Most are well-visited by locals with the forest being popular for a range of activities such as picnics, jogging and cycling. The small zoo has a reasonable selection of animals including Tapirs, Malayan Tigers and Malayan Gaur.

Nearby, the Malacca Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary (open daily from 8.30am to 5.30pm) is home to a menagerie of butterflies, snakes, lizards, crocodiles, birds, and tortoises. Children will love the displays, as there are several hands-on opportunities and places for photographs with some of the animals.

Mini Malaysia and Mini ASEAN has on display several miniature replicas of Malay houses as well as some from around the region. Local games and cultural performances are staged here every day between the hours of 9am and 5pm.

Ayer Keroh is located at the main highway exit to Melaka, and the Philea Resort and Spa makes a great base for those who want to explore this part of Melaka. The resort’s unique log construction makes for an impressive retreat, especially as it is surrounded by lush and rustic landscaping.

Streets with stories

Melaka’s best-known tourist precinct, brimming with shops, museums, and restaurants, is located at the mouth of the Melaka River in the centre of the town. Despite the heat and humidity, it’s best to explore this part of Melaka on foot, especially at the weekends when traffic congestion can make progress grindingly slow. On hot days, covered walkways lined with souvenirs and assorted wares provide some respite from the weather.

The best place to begin exploring the old town is near the bridge over the Melaka River. It was here that Portuguese soldiers made their final assault in 1511 to claim the town as their own. The Melaka River is still an essential part of the town’s fabric today, and visitors can take a 45-minute river cruise to gain an insight into the culture and lifestyle of the locals. There are regular daily departures from 9am to late at night.

Melaka’s architecture is best described as eclectic and visually stimulating, as something interesting is virtually around every corner. Chinese buildings stand adjacent to Dutch-built churches, and Moorish-inspired mosques are situated close by. Most colonial influences are reflected in the architecture of Dutch Square, and there is a sense of being somewhere in the Holland of the past while admiring the Christ Church and the neighbouring Stadthuys. The striking red-coloured Christ Church built in 1753 is Malaysia’s oldest functioning Protestant Church.

Just across the Melaka River, streets in the historic commercial town area are lined with old two-storey shoplots. Some of these retain their historical integrity, while others have been modernised, to varying degrees, over the years.

Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock was once Melaka’s ‘Millionaires Row’ and there are some fine examples of Baba Nyonya-styled houses along this street. The Chinese first traded with Melaka in the 15th century, and the Chinese settlers who followed and inter-married became known as the Baba (men) and Nyonya (women), or, less restrictively, the Straits Chinese or Peranakan.

Most of these houses and shoplots in Chinatown are deceptively small in appearance and from the street, it’s difficult to gauge just how big they really are. Being terraces, windows to the outside were only built at the front and back entrances so open courtyards were incorporated into most to allow sunlight, fresh air, and rainwater (which was collected) to enter the middle part of each house.

Temple Street has been dubbed the ‘Street of Harmony,’ as it houses three different places of worship on the same side of the street close by to each other. Congregations of each religion have coexisted peacefully with each other for over three centuries.

Museums and markets

Melaka’s tourism officials set about many years ago to distinguish the city from others by establishing a multitude of museums. The port’s maritime history is recorded in the Maritime Museum situated next to a huge replica of the Flora de la Mar , a Portuguese vessel that sank in the Straits of Malacca.

Some of the other museums in the historic city precinct include Muzium Budaya (at the base of St Paul’s Hill) which is a large wooden replica of a Melaka sultan’s palace. Muzium Rakyat near the Porto de Santiago highlights the local society and its economy. There are others including the rather intriguing Muzium of Eternal Beauty which details how people have adorned their bodies over the ages.

The weekend night markets along Jalan Hang Jebat (best known as Jonker Street) receive a lot of press, but the jury is still out as to just how good they are. They are certainly crowded and there is a lot of energy fromthe shear mass of humanity that congregates here each night. Many come to eat and are rarely disappointed with the variety but most of the goods sold bear little resemblance to the heritage surroundings. The good news is that bars such as The Geographer Café are located along the market strip, so a cold beer is never too far away. Nearby, Sid’s Pub @ Jonker’s overlooking the Melaka River has quickly developed a well-earned reputation for providing a traditional British greeting, chilled ales, and some decent pub nosh. For even more international flair, Hard Rock Café also operates an outlet on the river.

Where to stay, what to eat

One of the best city locations for accommodation is in the Hotel Equatorial Melaka which has impressive rooms offering either views across the Straits of Malacca or those of the historic downtown area. For those seeking a few extra luxuries, the Equator Club floors provides access to the private lounge on the 21st floor with personalised breakfasts and evening cocktails.

One of Melaka’s big attractions is its food and the most unique local style is that of Nyonya cuisine. This is a blend of Chinese and Malay cooking traditions that has evolved over the centuries and one of the finest Nyonya restaurants is the Seri Nyonya in the Equatorial Hotel.

Here and in other similar-styled restaurants in the city, Nyonya laksa, the well-known spicy coconut soup and signature dish of the Peranakans, is served. Other dishes to order include hee peow soup, udang masak lemak, and kerabu udang.

Travel file

Getting There : Ayer Keroh is a two-hour drive south from Kuala Lumpur down the North-South Highway. Traffic in Melaka’s historic centre is heavily congested on weekends and public holidays and choosing a hotel within close proximity and walking distance of the city centre is highly recommended.

Accommodation : In Ayer Keroh, stay at the Philea Resort and Spa  while in the Melaka city centre, there are several options from the Hotel Equatorial Melaka  to the Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka , Holiday Inn Melaka , and Casa del Rio Melaka .

A version of this article was originally published in The Expat magazine (May 2017) which is available online or in print via a free subscription .

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Melaka Day Trip: 16 Best Things To Do

A Melaka day trip is perfect for those looking for a quick getaway from KL or even Singapore.

Melaka (also spelled Malacca) was a major trading port back in the days of the Portuguese ruling. Flash forward to today, Melaka is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich history and culture.   

From narrow lanes lined with shophouses selling authentic Malaysian food to incredible architecture reminiscence of the Portuguese and Dutch occupations and colorful street arts, there are so many things to see and do.

Conveniently located about a 2-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur , a day trip to Melaka is perfect if you’re short on time but want to squeeze in a less touristy city in your Malaysia itinerary . 

If you need help in planning the perfect Melaka one day trip itinerary, this travel guide will show you 16 best things to do in Melaka, including tips on how to get there and where to stay (if you decide to stay overnight).

Melaka Travel Essentials

Top Experiences and Tours in Melaka:

• Melaka day tour from KL (including hotel transfers & lunch)
• The Shore Sky Tower (best panoramic view in Melaka)
• Melaka River Cruise  
• Private Melaka historical tour (including lunch)

Best Hotels in Melaka:

• Timez Hotel (1-minute walk from Jonker Street)
• Thian Siong Inn  (10-minute walk from Jonker Street)
• Hotel Arissa (20-minute walk from Dutch Square)

Traveling from KL to Melaka? Click here to book your bus ticket. Or if you’re coming from Singapore, you can book your bus ticket here .

Stay connected by pre-booking your  Malaysia sim card  which you can easily pick up at KL airport.

Read more about Melaka:

• Jonker Street Night Market: Ultimate guide
• Malacca street art guide
• How to get to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur?
• How to take the bus from Singapore to Melaka?

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support 🙂

Table of Contents

IS IT WORTH TAKING A MELAKA DAY TRIP?

Since most of the tourist attractions are located around the Dutch Square and Jonker Street, it’s easy to see them all in one day.

If you’re coming by bus from KL, you can take the 7 a.m bus and then travel back with the 9 p.m bus which gives you at least 12 hours in Melaka.

For those coming from Singapore, it’s best to stay overnight as it takes around 4-5 hours to travel between each destination which can be a bit tiring if you decide to do the round trip on the same day.

HOW TO GET TO MELAKA? 

Melaka day tour from kuala lumpur.

If you’re short on time and would like to have everything planned out for you, I recommend booking this guided Melaka day tour from Kuala Lumpur .

The tour is very affordable and includes a guided visit to some of the most famous attractions like the Dutch Square, A’Famosa Fort, St Paul’s Church, Chen Hoon Temple, Melaka River and more.

Also included are transfers to and from your hotel in Kuala Lumpur, lunch and an English-speaking guide.

CHECK PRICE FOR A GUIDED MELAKA DAY TOUR FROM KL

Bus From Kuala Lumpur 

Traveling by bus is another great option when planning a Melaka trip. You can easily book your bus ticket on Easybook or 12Go .

Although you can buy tickets on the same day at the bus station, booking online is more convenient and guarantees that you get a spot on the bus, especially if you’re traveling during the weekend or public holidays.

To get from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka , take the bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan. A one-way ticket starts at RM 10 (USD 2) and the price varies according to the time and bus company. The bus will then drop you off at Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal and from there you can take a local bus or Grab to the town center. 

CHECK BUS SCHEDULE AND PRICES HERE

The bus takes only about two hours, making it perfect for a weekend getaway in Malaysia !

Related post: Exactly how to get to Melaka from KL

Bus From Singapore 

If you’re coming from Singapore, you can take the bus from several bus stations in Singapore. For my second visit to Malacca, I took the 707 Inc bus from Queen Street in Singapore and the bus dropped me just a few minutes walk from my hotel.

The price of a Singapore to Melaka bus  ticket starts at USD 17. 

WHERE TO STAY IN MELAKA?

Thian siong inn.

If you’re on a budget, I highly recommend staying at Thian Siong Inn . It’s conveniently located about a 5/10-minute walk from Jonker Street and the Dutch Square. It features clean private rooms with air-con and shared bathrooms. The host is super nice – always ready to help and provide recommendations on the best restaurants and places to visit. 

CHECK LATEST PRICE AND AVAILABILITY ON AGODA OR BOOKING.COM

Hotel Arissa

Hotel Arissa  features clean and modern rooms that can fit up to three people. Although it’s a bit far from the main attractions (about a 20-minute walk from the Dutch Square), it’s located in a quiet neighborhood so you’re guaranteed a peaceful night’s sleep.

CHECK LATEST PRICE AND AVAILABILITY ON  AGODA  OR  BOOKING.COM

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN MELAKA

WHAT TO DO DURING YOUR MELAKA DAY TRIP?

Wander around the dutch square.

A day trip to Melaka isn’t complete without visiting the Dutch Square (Red Square). The focal point of Melaka is always buzzing with activity since all the main attractions are located within this area.

The red buildings and water fountain together with the iconic “I love Melaka” sign make for a great photo op!  

Here, you’ll find lots of souvenir stalls and rows of colorful rickshaws that take you around town for about RM 40 while blasting catchy musical tunes. 

Dutch Square is definitely one of the best places to visit during a Melaka trip!

Cost: Free 

GET A SHOT IN FRONT OF THE ICONIC CHRIST CHURCH

No day trip to Malacca would be complete without a visit to the iconic Christ Church. It’s one of the most recognizable buildings in Malacca due to its vibrant red color and imposing façade.

It’s the oldest Protestant church in Malaysia and was built by the Dutch in the 1700s to commemorate the 100 th anniversary of the capture of Melaka by the Portuguese. 

CLIMB UP ST PAUL’S HILL

The lookout point from St Paul’s Hill offers a panoramic view of Melaka. Constructed by the Portuguese in honor of the Virgin Mary, the church was used as the temporary tomb of St Francis Xavier. It later fell into disrepair and today only the ruins stand above Paul’s Hill.  

Since St Paul’s Church is a major tourist attraction, you’ll find lots of souvenir stalls and locals selling cold juice and water which is highly welcomed after climbing up the hill in the scorching sun. 

Cost: Free 

VISIT THE STADTHUYS

The Stadthuys is located within the Dutch Square and houses the History and Ethnography Museum. Melaka is known for its high temperatures even in the early hours, so visiting the Stadthuys will help beat the heat for a while during your Melaka day trip itinerary. 

Cost: RM 10

TAKE IN THE VIEW FROM THE SHORE SKY TOWER

As the tallest building in Malacca, at 163 meters above sea level, The Shore Sky Tower provides a panoramic 360-degree view of the city.

If you’re not afraid of heights, you can even walk across the glass section and admire the view at your feet. There are also several telescopes for a closer look at the city.

Opening hours : 10 a.m to 10 p.m, daily

Cost: RM 25 for adults and RM 18 for children (Monday to Thursday); RM 35 for adults and 25 for children (Friday to Sunday)

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS TO THE SHORE SKY TOWER

EXPLORE THE PORTA DE SANTIAGO AT A’FAMOSA FORT

A’Famosa Fort is another great spot to visit during a Melaka day trip itinerary. Located down the path from St Paul’s Church, A’Famosa Fort was built by the Portuguese in the 1500s since they believed that Melaka could be an important port linking Portugal to the Spice Route in China.  

The fort previously served as the captain and officers’ quarters. Later on, the Dutch overtook the fortress and eventually handed it over to the British in the 1700s. 

Nowadays, you can only find the Porta de Santiago (gatehouse) which has been salvaged before the destruction of the fortress. 

Cost: Free    

SKYTREX ADVENTURE MELAKA

If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity, I recommend Skytrex Adventure . It does require a moderate level of fitness but you can choose the beginner, intermediate or advanced level.

For almost two hours, you’ll be hopping from tree to tree with the help of zip lines, rope bridges, swings, and more. It’s definitely a fun activity to do with family or friends.

Cost: From RM 70

CHECK PRICE FOR SKYTREX ADVENTURE

MARITIME MUSEUM (Muzium Samudera)

The Maritime Museum is a giant replica of a Portuguese ship that sunk along the Strait of Melaka.

It houses several exhibits highlighting the history of Melaka when it was under the ruling of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The attraction is mostly aimed at history enthusiasts and/or families with kids.  

Cost: From RM 10

GO ON A STREET ART HUNT

Malacca has its fair share of street art scattered all over town just like in Ipoh and Penang. Just take a stroll around the city to discover some of the most popular murals as well as some hidden ones.  

Start by walking along the river banks to see the huge Kiehl’s mural and if you keep going, you’ll come across several buildings completely covered with colorful murals.  

For the exact location of each mural, be sure to read my Malacca Street Art guide .

Related post: Melaka’s best street art

CRUISE ALONG THE MELAKA RIVER

If you want to see Melaka from a different perspective, it’s a good idea to take a Melaka River Cruise .

The boat ride lasts about 45 minutes, taking you along Melaka’s famous attractions such as the Dutch Square and Jonker Street and you can even spot some beautiful murals painted over the old buildings.

Tickets can be purchased at either the Spice Garden jetty or the Melaka River Square jetty. 

Operating hours: 9 a.m to 11.30 p.m.

Cost: RM 30 (US$ 7.20) for adults and RM 25 (US$ 6) for children.

SEE MELAKA FROM ABOVE AT THE MENARA TAMING SARI

Menara Taming Sari is a revolving tower that rises up to 80 meters, providing a 360-degree view of the whole city.

You’ll be able to spot some of the major landmarks including St Paul’s Church, Naval Museum, and the Strait of Melaka, making it one of the best things to do during a one day Melaka itinerary. 

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS TO MENARA TAMING SARI

Operating hours: 10 a.m to 11 p.m

Cost for tourists: RM 23 (USD 4.90) for adults and RM 13 (USD 2.80) for children, including a free water bottle.

Cost for Malaysians: RM 17 for adults and RM 11 for children

WATCH SUNSET AT THE MELAKA STRAITS MOSQUE

Head out to the best sunset spot in town at the Melaka Straits Mosque (Masjid Selat Melaka) which looks like it’s floating on the water.

The sun setting behind the illuminated Mosque is truly a magical sight that will make you stare in awe. It’s located slightly outside of the town center but you can easily take a Grab there.

Note that you need to rent a robe for about RM 5 to enter the mosque.

EAT AND SHOP AT JONKER STREET NIGHT MARKET

Another top attraction to add to your Melaka day trip from KL is Jonker Street Night Market which happens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6 p.m to 12 p.m.

It’s by far the best place to sample some delicious street food and enjoy live enternainment.

If you’re not visiting on a weekend, you can wander around Jonker Street during the day to discover some quirky street art, temples, historical buildings as well as boutiques selling clothes and souvenirs.  

Related post: Ultimate guide to Jonker Street Night Market

EXPERIENCE MELAKA’S CULTURAL MELTING POT

Malaysia as a whole is a melting pot of culture with an abundance of temples, mosques, and churches and Melaka is no exception.

So naturally, one of the best things to do during your day trip to Melaka is to visit some of the houses of worship dotted around the city center.

A few of them include the Church of St Francis Xavier , Kampung Kling Mosque , Sri Poyyatha Vinayaga Moorthy Temple , and Cheng Hoon Teng Temple .

GET YOUR CAFFEINE FIX AT THE DAILY FIX CAFE!

The fact that went to Melaka multiple times just to eat at the Daily Fix Café says it all! The coffee shop is hidden behind a souvenir shop so make sure to keep an eye out for the sign.  

The vintage décor makes for a great Instagram backdrop and the fluffy pandan pancakes will make you crave more.

The Daily Fix Café is super popular so make sure to get there as soon as it opens to grab a seat and indulge in the most delicious meal ever! 

Operating hours: 9.45 a.m to 5.30 p.m daily.

ILLUSION 3D ART MUSEUM

The Illusion 3D Art Museum is a great activity to do especially for those traveling with kids. Have fun posing with over 30 trick-eye paintings and you can also check out the augmented reality studio at the end of your visit.

Cost: RM 34 for adults and RM 17 for children (Malaysians); RM 50 for adults and RM 25 for children (tourists)

March 2024 update : Note the the museum is currently closed for maintenance until further notice.

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS TO ILLUSION 3D ART MUSEUM

PRIVATE HISTORICAL MELAKA DAY TOUR

If you would like to visit all the main tourist attractions in Melaka while getting insider info from a local guide, I recommend this 10-hour private guided tour . The tour includes transfers to and from your hotel, lunch, and entrance ticket to the Stadthuys.

CHECK PRICE FOR A PRIVATE TOUR OF MELAKA + LUNCH

BEST TIME TO VISIT MELAKA

Just like any other part of Malaysia, Melaka is hot and humid year-round with the occasional rainfall and temperatures rising up to 32 degrees Celsius. The wet season occurs from April to October while November to March is usually the driest.   

I hope you found this guide helpful if you’re planning a trip to Melaka. Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions and I’ll be happy to help!

More Malaysia travel guides:

• Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 2 days or more: 19 incredible things to do!
• Penang itinerary for 3 days
• 14+ cool things to do in Ipoh
• 3 days 2 nights Langkawi trip: Complete guide
• Malaysia itinerary for two weeks on a budget
• 4-12 day Singapore and Malaysia itinerary
• Seven Wells Waterfall: Best waterfall in Malaysia?
• 20 awesome destinations for a short trip in Malaysia

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

What to do in Penang in 3 Days (Best Penang Itinerary)

The best 2 days in kuala lumpur itinerary, you may also like, 10 best hotels in bukit bintang kl [luxury to budget], best hotels in chinatown kuala lumpur [top-rated options], instagram spots in kuala lumpur: best photo spots in 2024.

Nice post. Really loved the Melaka River Cruise. Went twice. The day one and the night one. Stay safe

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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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Photo Essay: Melaka’s street art

History of street art in melaka.

Penang started the street art trend in Malaysia and Melaka soon followed suit with their River Art Project in 2012. Water has always been a big part of Melaka’s history. It was o nce one of the world’s most important trading ports. So it also makes sense that they start with the buildings beside the river. The murals painted on old and rundown houses, reflect Melaka’s melting pot of cultures. These colorful and vibrant murals add flavor to the otherwise drab riverside. They are best seen by strolling around the riverside or taking the river cruise. Some of these buildings though were converted into guesthouses for backpackers.

Street art inside Melaka World Heritage City

As soon as you step into Melaka World Heritage City , buildings with murals will welcome you. Like this one painted with trading ships. The following pictures are only some of the street art that can be found in Melaka.

Walking along the streets on our way to Jonker Walk, we saw this closed café with a painting of anime characters. They were from Hayao Miyazaki’s My Neighbor Totoro . The owner must be a fan. 🙂

Trying to find my way back to my hostel after a jaunt inside the UNESCO World Heritage City, I stumbled on this long alleyway filled with street art. Best thing is, there weren’t even many people around, unlike the more popular Kiehl’s Heritage Mural. To me, they looked like 3D art that resembles the artworks you will see in a 3D art museum or a trick art museum.

These can be found near Jalan Hang Kasturi.

One of the most popular murals is Charles Cham’s yellow and peach orangutan. Found in Lorong Hang Jebat, Orangutan House is a studio gallery cum T-shirt store. Charles Cham is one of the locally acclaimed artists whose pieces range from abstract faces to witty slogans like “to lah or not to lah”.

The largest mural to date is done by Fritilldea for the cosmetic brand, Kiehl’s . This is the brand’s contribution to raising awareness on the importance of preserving heritage. The vibrant and colorful mural was finished only last June 2015. And it has been a popular spot in Jonker street for the tourists ever since.

QUICK GUIDE TO MELAKA

Melaka/Malacca is best reached via a flight to Kuala Lumpur and a bus to Melaka Sentral. From KLIA 2, you can board a bus straight to Malacca. It takes 2 to 2 and a half hours to go from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka.

From Singapore, you can also take a bus direct to Melaka Sentral, and the ride takes 3 to 4 hours depending on the traffic condition.

Do you like street art? What’s your favorite?

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Darlene is currently on the road again and traveling full-time after being an expat/overseas Filipino worker in Qatar. She's rediscovering what it means to travel solo and in her 30s while working on her blogs.

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Pingback: george town street art: capturing the essence of penang, june 1, 2017, pingback: 15 most instagrammable street art in bgc | point and shoot + wanderlust, may 13, 2017, pingback: gaga for graffiti: around the world v.8, may 29, 2016, pingback: ultimate guide to melaka | point and shoot + wanderlust, april 2, 2016.

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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.

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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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