melaka travel map

Map of Melaka — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Melaka, Malaysia for travelers! Check out Melaka’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Melaka? See our Melaka Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Melaka. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Melaka map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Melaka by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 19 attractions in Melaka

Baba & nyonya heritage museum, villa sentosa.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Christ Church Melaka

Dutch square (red square) melaka.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

The Huskitory

Straits chinese jewelry museum malacca, masjid selat melaka, cheng hoon teng temple, morten village, cheng ho's cultural museum, malacca., church of saint paul, malacca, malacca river, jonker street night market, taming sari tower (malacca tower).

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Woof Station

Malacca heritage centre, the orangutan house, kampung kling mosque, top 10 restaurants in melaka, the baboon house.

The Daily Fix Cafe

Klebang original coconut shake, nancy's kitchen, calanthe art cafe, low yong moh restaurant, restoran nyonya makko, sun may hiong satay house, putu piring melaka, transportation in melaka, nearby airports, kuala lumpur international airport, highways and major roads.

• AMJ Highway
• Jalan Merdeka
• Jalan Munshi Abdullah
• Jalan Kota Laksamana
• Jalan Tambak
• Jalan Tun Perak
• Jalan Hang Tuah
• Jalan Bukit Baru
• Jalan Kubu.

Top searches in Melaka

Popular road trips from melaka, what's the weather like in melaka.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Melaka for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Melaka in January
• Weather in Melaka in February
• Weather in Melaka in March
• Weather in Melaka in April
• Weather in Melaka in May
• Weather in Melaka in June
• Weather in Melaka in July
• Weather in Melaka in August
• Weather in Melaka in September
• Weather in Melaka in October
• Weather in Melaka in November
• Weather in Melaka in December

All road trips from Melaka

• Melaka to Singapore drive
• Melaka to Kuala Lumpur drive
• Melaka to Bangkok drive
• Melaka to Siem Reap drive
• Melaka to George Town drive
• Melaka to Ho Chi Minh City drive
• Melaka to Kathu drive
• Melaka to Krabi Town drive
• Melaka to Pattaya drive
• Melaka to Phnom Penh drive
• Melaka to Chiang Mai drive
• Melaka to Ipoh drive
• Melaka to Hoi An drive
• Melaka to Hua Hin drive
• Melaka to Batu Caves drive
• Melaka to Johor Bahru drive
• Melaka to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
• Melaka to Luang Prabang drive
• Melaka to Sepang drive
• Melaka to Patong drive
• Melaka to Hue drive
• Melaka to Nha Trang drive
• Melaka to Ayutthaya drive
• Melaka to Kanchanaburi drive
• Melaka to Chiang Rai drive
• Melaka to Khao Lak drive
• Melaka to Ao Nang drive
• Melaka to Vientiane drive
• Melaka to Bagan drive
• Melaka to Da Lat drive

Explore nearby places

• Kampung Bukit Katil
• Durian Tunggal
• Masjid Tanah
• Kuala Sungai Baru
• Bukit Gambir
• Kuala Pilah
• Port Dickson
• Simpang Kiri
• Sungai Pelek
• Kampung Jelebu

All related maps of Melaka

• Map of Kampung Bukit Katil
• Map of Ayer Keroh
• Map of Durian Tunggal
• Map of Alor Gajah
• Map of Masjid Tanah
• Map of Kuala Sungai Baru
• Map of Tampin
• Map of Tangkak
• Map of Kota
• Map of Bukit Gambir
• Map of Rembau
• Map of Parit Jawa
• Map of Rantau
• Map of Muar
• Map of Gemas
• Map of Kuala Pilah
• Map of Port Dickson
• Map of Seremban
• Map of Bahau
• Map of Simpang Kiri
• Map of Sungai Pelek
• Map of Sepang
• Map of Mantin
• Map of Lenggeng
• Map of Nilai
• Map of Kampung Jelebu
• Map of Segamat
• Map of Labis
• Map of Batu Pahat
• Map of Bangi

Melaka throughout the year

• Melaka in January
• Melaka in February
• Melaka in March
• Melaka in April
• Melaka in May
• Melaka in June
• Melaka in July
• Melaka in August
• Melaka in September
• Melaka in October
• Melaka in November
• Melaka in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Melaka?

Get inspired for your trip to Melaka with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Melaka Itinerary
• 2-Day Melaka Itinerary
• 3-Day Melaka Itinerary
• 4-Day Melaka Itinerary
• 5-Day Melaka Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

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.

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

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

Things To Do in Melaka in Two Days

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

Here are all your hotel options in Melaka.

1. Discover Melaka’s Riverside Street Art

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

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

Discover the 2-week Malaysia Travel Itinerary

2. Murals and Orangutan House

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

Read: Georgetown, Penang – Charming city of Malaysia

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

Also read: Kuala Lumpur City Guide – Things to do

3. Cheng Hoong Teng Chinese Temple

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

4. Stadthuys and Christchurch

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

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

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

Also read: Ipoh, unknown city of Malaysia

5. Melaka Straits Mosque

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

6. Jonker Walk 

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

Visit the green tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands

7. St. Paul’s Church

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

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

Read: Langkawi, Malaysia’s paradise island

8. Maritime Museum

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

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

How to Visit Melaka

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

Kuala Lumpur to Melaka

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

Get your bus tickets here .

Singapore to Melaka

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

How to Get Around Melaka

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

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

Restaurants in Melaka

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

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

Where to Stay in Melaka

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

Hotels in Melaka 😴

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

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• Find Hotels via Booking.com
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11 Best Things To Do in Penang, Malaysia (Georgetown)

Malaysia travel guide: tips for the ultimate itinerary, 15 things to do in kuala lumpur (3-day guide).

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

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

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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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16 Top Tourist Attractions in Malacca, Malaysia

On Malaysia’s southwest coast, Malacca (Melaka) is a thriving city that has successfully paired its modern life with its rich colonial past. Founded by a fleeing Sumatran prince in the 1300s, Malacca became the domain of the Chinese, then the Portuguese and the Dutch before the British came along.

Add on a strong Indian population and you’ll begin to envision the elaborate cultural tapestry that has developed along the banks of the Melaka River.

Malacca’s Old Town is infused with colonial architecture. But floating through it (and along Jonker Street) are the aromas from generational recipes that have made Malacca’s street food renowned throughout Malaysia. As you explore all these things to do in Malacca, you’ll find the best of both, with a helpful dash of colorful nightlife.

16. Francis Xavier Church

Built in the 1840s, Francis Xavier Church is dedicated to one of Malacca’s most celebrated residents. St. Francis Xavier, aka the Apostle of East Asia, played a major role in bringing Catholicism to the region in the 16th century.

For more than 150 years, the Neo-Gothic church has been one of the most captivating in Malacca. Its twin bell towers and intricate facade mark the entrance of the city’s largest church. In addition, you’ll soon spot a statue of Francis Xavier, himself.

As you wander inside, the stained glass windows send down shimmering colors from above. The church pews are delightfully painted and the interior white walls present a disarming feeling of peace.

15. Shore Sky Tower

Are you after a way to see Malacca from above? Well, you may not find a better view of the coastal city from the top of the Shore Sky Tower.

With 43-stories, the tower may not hold a candle to some of Singapore’s biggest skyscrapers. But alas, it’s all relative. The Shore Sky Tower is the tallest in Malacca, and presents visitors with immense, 360-degree views.

Standing at 160 meters above street level, it sure isn’t a view for those with a fear of heights. But if you’re looking to conquer that, head out onto the Skywalk, which features a glass floor!

As you take in the view, look down upon Kampung Morten for a great example of old and modern Malacca.

14. Villa Sentosa

In the old village of Kampung Morten, Villa Sentosa is the oldest of the lot. Built in 1921, the traditional building is the perfect way to learn about and connect the wider, historic Malay community.

Kampung Morten is a living history. If seen from above, the village has over 50 red zinc rooftops surrounded by modern high-rises. It’s appropriate then that Villa Sentosa has gone on to become the Malay Living Museum.

It’s the most sightly home within the community. Visitors quickly become guests of the home as they’re welcomed by locals who show you around as you would your own home. You’ll hear old stories while admiring the period furniture and historic artifacts.

13. A’Famosa Resort

Ready to let your hair down and get your heart rate up? Well, make your way to Malacca’s beloved A’Famosa Resort. Named after the nearby 16th century Portuguese fort, A’Famosa is a blend of fun, family-friendly action. This, with a topping of adrenalin pumping water park action.

There’s so much to do here, you could realistically plan several days. Within the resort, travelers will find Malaysia’s largest water theme park, the Safari Wonderland, a sprawling 27-hole golf course and the desert, the Old West entertainment district.

The water park is the highlight, with a dozen major rides and a wave pool. The safari brings you up close to giraffes, orangutans and elephants. Finish up at the Old West to discover a world of cowboys, stunt shows and rustic saloons.

12. Melaka River Cruise

Kick back and relax on a Melaka River Cruise. With so many of the city’s highlights lined along the traipsing river, it’s a wonderful way to see Malacca’s history and interesting sights.

You’ll find boats making their way up and down the river throughout the day and into the evening. These pontoon-like boats depart from either the Spice Garden or Melaka River Square jetties.

Along the way, they pass under six traditional bridges and by such sights as Kampung Morten and Stadthuys. We preferred the 45-minute journey at sunset. This way we can hope to see the historic buildings awash with warm colors. As the sky turns black, the boat lights up with fluorescent colors to match the bright neon spread across the riverbanks.

11. Take a Trishaw Ride

A fiesta on wheels, embarking on a trishaw ride, is an unforgettable way to experience the best of Malacca. These sparkling pedal-powered mobiles are head-turners in the best way possible and you’ll see them spread right throughout.

For less than USD10, you can jump on board these rolling party bikes and see some of Malacca’s best sites. Trips usually last for 30 minutes, but once you jump on board, you’ll become the boss. As your trishaw makes its way from landmark to landmark, don’t be afraid to change the itinerary. The same can be said for picking the next song.

Yes, this is all quite kitschy. But with a disco ball above your head, it’s an utterly bodacious and hilariously fun way to explore the town.

10. A Famosa

The remains of this Portuguese fortress are among the oldest remaining European structures in all of Asia. A Famosa (Porta de Santiago) was built on a seaside hilltop in the early 1500s to protect the newly conquered land from returning to a sultanate or being invaded by other European nations.

The hope was to create another Portuguese friendly port along the Spice Route to ease trade for merchant ships delivering between Asia and Europe. It later fell into Dutch hands, and was given to Britain to avoid being conquered by Napoleonic France.

Britain feared its power if it were conquered, so chose to destroy it instead of fortifying it further. A single small gate was preserved at the request of Sir Raffles, the founder of Singapore.

9. Masjid Selat

Masjid Selat (Malacca Straits Mosque) was created in the early 20th century with a mix of Middle Eastern and Malay architectural styles. Built on manmade Malacca island, it is designed to appear as if it is floating when water levels are high.

In traditional Moorish style, much of the outside is white with accents of vibrant color. In this case, large stained-glass archways of yellow and green are one of the main showpieces that accent the mosque.

The building is particularly beautiful at night, when a series of colored lights make it one of the most beautiful sights in all of Melaka. The mosque serves as an active and popular place of worship, but also allows public tours.

8. Malacca Sultanate Palace

This is not the original, but a replica museum that was built in 1984 to showcase the region’s history. The building was built based on the historical descriptions of the palace of Mansur Shah, the sultan who ruled Melaka from 1456 to 1477.

The palace has a series of dioramas that depict what a typical day inside the palace probably looked like. Supplicants, guards and vendors flank the main hall, waiting to pay tribute to the sultan and make requests. A scale model of the building and more than 1300 period items make up the rest of this historical museum.

7. Stadthuys

This old Dutch city hall is painted the same red as Christ Church and most of the other remaining Dutch Colonial buildings in Melaka. It went from the offices of the Dutch governor and deputy governor under Dutch rule to a free English school under British rule.

Today it is home to the History and Ethnography museum, believed to be one of the premier museums in the region. It includes traditional costumes and artifacts that showcase the many different periods in Melakan history.

6. Menara Taming Sari

This revolving tower is reminiscent of the space needle in Seattle, and serves a lot of the same purpose. Part ride, part sightseeing excursion, the Menara Taming is a great way to get an overall look at both historical Malacca as well as the new and upcoming changes to city.

The gyro tower is a seven minute long ride and holds eighty people at a time. At the base of the tower are a number of other activities to try, such as pony rides, carnival rides and electric car rentals. Package deals are available to buy a ticket to the tower in combination with several other attractions in Melaka.

5. Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Dating from 1646, the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the oldest functioning temple in Malaysia. It practices the three traditional Chinese doctrines of Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism.

The temple is located along Harmony street, home to many other mosques and temples, and greets visitors with an ornate gate bedecked with Chinese lions. The temple itself is made up of several prayer halls, the main one dedicated to Kuan Yin, the goddess of mercy. Smaller halls honor the gods of wealth, propogation and prosperity, as well as providing a home for ancestral tablets.

4. Baba and Nyonya House Museum

Created from a mansion on millionaire’s row, this museum was established by Chan Kim Lay, a fourth generation inhabitant of this home to celebrate the complex and wonderful combination of Chinese and Malay culture, also known as Baba Nyonya.

The museum features a number of crafts and handiwork, including woodworking pieces, porcelain and furniture. Large, painted tapestries hang on walls with elaborately carved frames and a story of Chinese and Western cultures blending into a Malay world is told through the pieces in this traditional home.

3. St. Paul’s Church

Originally built by a Portuguese captain in 1521 as a simple chapel, St. Paul’s Church offers views over Melaka from the summit of Bukit St Paul. St. Francis Xavier, one of the founders of the Jesuit order, used the church as his base for his missionary journeys to China and Japan.

In one of those journeys, Xavier fell sick and eventually died in China in 1552. His body was temporarily interred here for nine months before being transferred to Goa, where it remains today. Visitors can look into his ancient tomb inside the church, and a marble statue of the saint gazing over the city.

2. Jonker Street

This street is the center of Chinatown of Melaka. It began in Dutch Colonial times as the home to many of the servants of Dutch nobility. However, after the Dutch left, it became the home of the nobles themselves.

Many seventeenth-century manors remain here, along with a large number of shops, restaurants and other amenities. When the large Chinese presence moved in, decorative accents like a large Chinese-style archway were added. The street is blocked off every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening to become a pedestrian-only night market.

1. Christ Church

A stone’s throw from Jonker Street, the Christ Church, is the most beloved in Malacca. In a city littered with old, historic religious buildings, the dusty red colors of the Christ Church place it on an unreachable pedestal.

Christ Church was created in the eighteenth century to replace the aging Portuguese church, and remains one of the most iconic buildings from the Dutch Colonial era in Malacca. Originally white, this building was painted red in the early 1900’s. Now the oldest Anglican church in Malaysia, it’s a centerpiece of the wider Red Square.

As you explore Christ Church, you’ll come to admire the single bell affixed to its top. Head through the trio of archways into the church itself to uncover the historic Dutch tombstones laden with glimmering silver and Dutch coat of arms.

Best Time to Visit Malacca

Malacca’s weather is remarkably consistent, remaining hot, humid and wet regardless of the time of year. Each month sees between 12 and 24 days with at least some rain with April to May and September to November being the rainiest periods when fewer people visit.

As they are drier and many people have holidays, both July and August are among the most popular months to visit Malacca. Although average temperatures of 31°C (88°F) and its high humidity do make sightseeing tiring, you can cool off at the beaches and water parks.

While prices are higher, important events such as its Independence Day celebrations create a lively atmosphere in town. Despite the daily downpours, some also visit in September and October for the Mid-Autumn Festival and Malacca by the Sea Carnival.

December is the other most popular month to visit due to the holidays, Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations. The prices and crowds shoot up around this time.

Other spikes in tourist numbers can also be seen around Chinese New Year in either January or February and for both the Buddha’s birthday and large Barsi Sikh celebrations in May. As much of the city is Muslim, there is also a lovely vibe for the whole month of Ramadan.

Where to Stay in Malacca

With its intermingling cultural history and mix of architecture, the best area to stay in Malacca is the Old Town. On the east edge of the Melaka River, the historic quarter is home to some of the city’s best highlights. These include A’Famosa fortress and the Red Square.

Travelers will be within walking distance of other major areas, including Jonker Street on the other side of the Tan Kim Seng Bridge. This is a lively street with some mouthwatering eats and fun nightlife.

It’s where you’ll also find Baba House Melaka . Set within an old heritage building, this 4-star hotel evokes Peranakan culture. Each room has classic wood furniture, old world charm and intricate carvings. There is an onsite cafe and guests can rent bikes to explore the surrounding highlights.

Another option in the Old Town, and close to the Stadhuys, is Hotel Puri Melaka . This budget-friendly hotel has cozy modern furnishings, an on-site restaurant and bike rentals.

How To Get There

The closest major city to Malacca is Kuala Lumpur. The cheapest and fastest way to get to Malacca is via bus. This is a 2.5 hour journey from KL’s Terminal Bersepadu Selatan station or from the airport.

Private transport and taxis are also convenient options. But due to inner-city traffic in KL, it’s unlikely that you’ll save much time.

Singapore is within reach of Malacca. The bus journey, however, is longer and can take between 3 and 4 hours.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Malacca

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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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2023 MELAKA TRAVEL GUIDE (ITINERARY + BUDGET)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Feb 26, 2023 | Featured , Itinerary , MALACCA , Malaysia , Melaka , Travel Guide | 0 comments

Detailed Melaka Travel Guide blog with Melaka Itinerary and Budget, places to see in Melaka, and where to stay in Melaka.

Melaka’s gentle flowing river provides a serene accompaniment to its architectural splendor. Everywhere I turn, Malacca (Melaka) reminds me that I am somewhere unforgettable! From narrow lanes peppered with colourful Baba-Nyonya houses to a plaza fringed by red-painted Dutch brick buildings, grandiose temples to commanding mosques, and from hand-crafted intricate souvenirs to cafes serving taste bud-tingling local dishes! This lively city is one of my most visited destinations in Malaysia , still, I can’t get enough of its beauty!

Malacca (Melaka) is the birthplace of Malay civilization.  Even before the rise to fame of its neighbour Sing apore, Malacca was already turning heads. In fact, it has a long-withstanding history of colonial rule under the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British.  Because of its rich heritage, Malacca/Melaka was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

To make the most out of your trip in this historic town, here’s my Malacca/ Melaka Travel Guide with sample Melaka itinerary and budget.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

MELAKA (MALACCA) TRAVEL GUIDE

Melaka travel requirements.

Melaka, like the rest of Malaysia has scrapped the travel requirements for tourists. Vaccinated and non-vaccinated travelers are free to enter. Wearing of mask is now optional, but passengers on public transport like buses and trains are required to wear mask.

HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN MELAKA?

2-3 Days in Melaka should be enough to visit the top tourist attractions. But if you want to explore more underrated destinations in this heritage city, you could always extend your Melaka itinerary.

MALAYSIA MONEY AND ATM 

Melaka uses Malaysian Ringgit as currency. 1 MYR (Malaysian Ringgit) is equivalent to roughly ₱12.61 (SGD 0.31/ $0.23).  Everything is on a cash (Malaysian Ringgit) basis in Melaka. But major hotels and restaurants take cards and debit cards.

ATMs are scattered in the city center and withdrawal limits depend on your bank. For ATMs in Malaysia, you can usually, you can withdraw up to MYR 1,500 (₱19,000 /SGD 466/ $352) per transaction. Foreign exchange fee will depend on your bank and the ATM will also charge you a foreign withdrawal fee for every transaction, unless you are using a Maybank card.

HOW TO GET TO MELAKA

Melaka/Malacca has an international airport; however, it’s not well-connected to other countries.  Most tourists fly to Kuala Lumpur first and then take a bus to Melaka/Malacca.

MANILA TO MELAKA/MALACCA

Fly to Kuala Lumpur from Manila . There are no direct flights to Malacca/Melaka from Manila, (Philippines) you need to fly to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) first. There are reasonably priced flights by airlines like Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, Jetstar, and Philippine Airlines.

Kuala Lumpur has 2 international airports for commercial flights:

• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) – airport for many airlines, mostly flag carriers, like Philippine Airlines.
• Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA2) – airport for low-cost airlines like Cebu Pacific and Air Asia.

KUALA LUMPUR TO MELAKA/MALACCA

If you are in Kuala Lumpur, you need to make your way to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS Terminal). Then take a bus to Meleka/Malacca. Most buses terminate at Melaka Sentral Terminal. But there are also buses that end at Mahkota Medical Center (Hatten Hotel), however, it’s not as frequent.  Pick which one is near your hotel, also check my  Melaka hotel guide below.

Buses from TBS Terminal to Melaka Sentral runs every hour from at 7:30 AM to 11:50 PM.  Travel time is roughly 2 -3 hours, depending on traffic situation. Depending on the type of bus (standard, economy, or executive), bus fare starts at RM 10 (₱127/SGD 3/ $2.35) to RM 16 (₱204 /SGD 5/ $4). You can book in advance online through the link below to reserve a seat.

IMPORTANT: If you take a bus that terminates at Melaka Sentral Terminal, take note that this is quite a distance from Melaka City Center. You can take a Grab or taxi to your hotel from there. Or take a local bus. See the Getting Around (Melaka by Bus) section below.

✔ KUALA LUMPUR TO MELAKA BUS: RESERVE HERE

✔ kuala lumpur to melaka (private transfer): book here.

• Make your way to KL Sentral in Kuala Lumpur.
• At KL Sentral, take the KLIA Transit to KLIA Airport.
• Get off at Bandar Tasik Selatan Station (BTS Station). Travel time is roughly 6 min. Fare is MYR 6.50 (₱83 /SGD 2/ $1.53).
• Walk to Terminal Bersapadu Selatan (TBS Terminal). About 2 min.
• Proceed to the centralized ticket counter. Show the bus ticket you bought online, after verification, you’ll be provided a bus ticket with the Gate number.
• Proceed to the Gate # on your ticket. You must be at the gate at least 30 mins prior to yous bus departure.
• Ride the bus to Melaka/Malacca.
• Depending on the bus ticket you purchased, get off at Melaka Sentral or Mahkota Medical Center.
• Take Grab or taxi to your hotel.  There are also local buses at Melaka Sentral Terminal, but research first which one will stop near your hotel. See the Getting Around Section by Bus below.

KLIA TO MELAKA/MALACCA

If you are coming from KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport), there are buses that run to Melaka/Malacca. You can book online in advance and check the bus schedule below.

✔ KLIA TO MELAKA BUS: TICKETS HERE

• At KLIA, walk to the bus station. About 12 min.
• Ride the bus to Melaka Sentral. Fare is roughly RM 26 (₱330 /SGD 8/ $6). for bus with 2.30 hours travel time. And about RM 35 (₱447 /SGD 11/ $8) for bus with approximately 1.5 hours travel time.  There are also buses at KLIA that departs for Hatten Hotel (Mahkota Medical Center) in Melaka. Fare is approximately RM 35 (₱447 /SGD 11/ $8) and travel time is about 2.45 hours.
• Get off at Melaka Sentral Bus Station or Hatten Hotel (Mahkota Medical Center) depending on the bus you took. Grab or taxi to your hotel.

KLIA2 TO MELAKA/MALACCA

If you are coming from KLIA2, there are buses that run to Melaka/Malacca. You can book online in advance and check the bus schedule below.

✔ KLIA2 TO MELAKA BUS: TICKETS HERE

Important: Choose your bus destination either Melaka Sentral or Mahkota Medical Center, wherever is near your hotel.

• At KLIA2, walk to the bus station at Level 1 of KLIA2 Gateway Mall. 11 min.
• Take the bus to Melaka Sentral. Fare starts at roughly RM 24 (₱330 /SGD 7/ $5) for Transnational MY bus with 2.30 hours travel time. And about RM 35 (₱447 /SGD 11/ $8) for StarMart bus Express Bus with 1.50 hours travel time. There are also STARM buses at KLIA that departs for Mahkota Medical Center (Hatten Hotel) in Melaka. Fare is approximately RM 35 (₱447 /SGD 11/ $8) and travel time is about 2.45 hours.
• Get off at Melaka Sentral Bus Station or Mahkota Medical Center (Hatten Hotel) depending on the bus you took. Grab or taxi to your hotel.

SINGAPORE TO MELAKA/MALACCA

There are several buses that run from Singapore to Melaka. Buses to Melaka Sentral and Mahkota Medical Center (Hatten Hotel, Estadia Hotel) depart from Queen Street Bus Terminal, Kovan Hub Bus Terminal, Golden Mile Complex, and Katong V Mall (Village Hotel Katong).

Depending on the type of bus and your destination, bus fare from Singapore to Melaka starts at RM 81 (₱1,031 /SGD 25/ $19) to RM 123 (₱1,565 /SGD 38/ $29).  Travel time is roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes to 4 hours. If you’re coming from Kovan Bus Terminal to Melaka, travel time is approximately 6 hours and 10 mins.  First trip departs Singapore at 7:15 AM, and last trip is at 7:15 PM.  You can check the bus schedule and buy your tickets in advance through the link below.

Important: Since this trip include border crossing, make sure you have a valid passport. You need to have your passport stamped with Singapore Exit at the border and Malaysia entry stamp prior to entering Malaysia’s border.

✔ SINGAPORE TO MELAKA BUS: TICKETS HERE

✔ singapore to melaka sentral bus: tickets here, getting around melaka / malacca.

It’s quite easy to get around or tour Melaka/Malacca, in fact it’s pretty cheap as most attractions are walking distance of each other.  So, you can either do a DIY Melaka Walking tour, avail of Melaka/Malacca guided tour or ride the groovy Melaka/Malacca trishaw. You have plenty of options for your Melaka itinerary.

MELAKA BY TRISHAW (RIKSHAW)

Alternatively, a cool way to tour Melaka is by riding Melaka trishaws (rikshaw) for about RM 50 (PHP 629 / SGD 15 /USD 12) for 1 hour.  Rate is good for two persons.  Make sure you agree on the price first and what the tour covers before riding the trishaw.

Melaka’s trishaw is stylishly decorated with flowers and stuff toys, featuring cartoon characters like Hello Kitty, Pokemon, Pikachu, Doraemon, etc. and with blaring pop music. At night it becomes so colorful with lights.

✔ MELAKA TRISHAW RIDE AT NIGHT: BOOK HERE

Melaka day tour package.

If you are pressed for time and you just want a quick day tour to Melaka from Singapore, you can book a day tour with lunch through the link below. The tour includes a visit to St. Peter’s Church, A ‘Formosa Portuguese Fortress, Melaka Museum, Chen Hoon Teng Temple, and Melaka River. Pick-up and drop-off at designated point in Kuala Lumpur city center and Bukit Bintang area and lunch in Melaka is included in the Melaka Day Tour package.

✔ MELAKA DAY TOUR FROM KUALA LUMPUR  (WITH LUNCH): RESERVE HERE

✔ historical melaka private tour: reserve here, ✔ melaka private night tour: book here, ✔ melaka + putrajaya instagram tour: book here, melaka by bus.

Once you get off the bus at Melaka Sentral Terminal, there are local buses that go to Melaka city center. However, waiting for the bus will eat up your time because the bus schedule is unreliable. If you insist on taking the bus, you can take the Panorama bus from the following bus stops at Melaka Sentral:

• BUS #14 – At Melaka Sentral, look for bus #14. Ride the Panorama bus to Pantai Kunder. Alight at Hang Tuah Mall, Jalan Tun Mamat. Travel time is about 6 minutes, and bus fare is approximately RM 2.50 (₱31/SGD 0.77/ $0.58). You can walk to Jonker Street (12 minutes) and Dutch Square (17 minutes).
• BUS #23 – At Melaka Sentral Terminal, look for bus #23. Take the Panorama bus to Batu Berendam. Get off at Hang Tuah Mall, Jalan Tun Mamat. Travel time is about 7 minutes, and bus fare is approximately RM 3.50 (₱44/SGD 1/ $0.81). You can walk to Jonker Street (12 minutes) and Dutch Square (17 minutes).
• BUS #3 – At Melaka Sentral Terminal, look for bus#3. Take the Panorama bus to Ulu Bertam. Alight at Hang Tuah Mall, Jalan Tun Mamat. Travel time is about 10 minutes, and bus fare is approximately RM 4 (₱50/SGD 1.23/ $0.92). You can walk to Jonker Street (12 minutes) and Dutch Square (17 minutes).
• BUS #17 – At Melaka Sentral Terminal, look for bus #17. Ride the Panorama bus to Ujong Pasir. This can take you to the Dutch Square (Red Square).  Get off at Muzeum Belia Malaysia, 3 stops, 30 minutes. Bus fare is roughly RM 2 (₱25/SGD 0.61/ $0.46).

MELAKA DIY WALKING TOUR

(Jonker Street Night Market)

Most of Melaka’s top tourist attractions are concentrated around Jonker Street peppered with Baba Nyonya houses turned into museums or antique shops and the Dutch Square (Red Square), famed for its red buildings. You can easily do a DIY Walking Tour around these areas. You can check out the Top Attractions in Melaka below.

MELAKA BY GRAB/TAXI

Grab is also a convenient way to get around Melaka. Taxis are also available in Melaka. Taxi fare in Melaka starts at RM 3 (₱38 / SGD 0.91 /$0.68) for the 1 st kilometer and RM 0.87 (PHP 11 / SGD 0.26 /$0.20) per km thereafter.

MELAKA BY BOAT (MELAKA RIVER CRUISE)

A leisurely way to tour Melaka/Malacca is by doing the Melaka River Cruise, operating daily from 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and includes sightseeing of the following attractions: Red Building, Stadthuys, Colorful Murals, Jonker Streets, Middleburg Bastion, Pre-War Buildings, Morten Village, Kampung Hulu Mosque, Church of St. Francis Xavier, The Shore Shopping Gallery, and the Mangrove Route. You can purchase tickets at the Spice Garden Jetty or Melaka River Square Jetty.

You can also rent an entire boat for the Melaka River Cruise if you are large group.

WHERE TO STAY IN MELAKA

You’ll never run out of places to stay in Melaka/Malacca.  There’s a wealth of accommodations here and they are mostly reasonably priced. When looking for a hotel, consider the location. If you’re a first-timer in Melaka, and you’ll spend your days touring, best to find hotels near the tourist attractions like the Red Square and Jalan Hang Jebat (Jonker Walk). From the bus terminal, you can easily book Grab or take a taxi to your hotel.

Here’s some of the top-rated hotels in Melaka, I grouped them according to their location:

✔ Hotels near Jonker Street (Jalan Hang Jebat)

If you want to stay near the tourist attractions in Melaka, book a hotel in or near Jonker Walk (Jalan Hang Jebat), Melaka’s Chinatown District. To get to Jonker Walk from Melaka Sentral Terminal, see the Getting Around (Melaka by Bus) section above.

Here are some of the top-rated hotels around Jonker.

•  Jonker Red Heritage Hotel
• CHECK RATES HERE or RESERVE HERE
• Swiss Hotel Heritage
•   Quayside Hotel
• Styles Hotel Malacca
• Baba House Melaka
• Discovery Malacca Hostel

✔ Hotels near Melaka City Center and Mahkota Medical Center 

If you happen to ride a bus that terminates at Mahkota Medical Center, then finding a hotel near this location will be more convenient for you. It’s also quite close to the Red Square (about 12-minute walk), and is a stone’s throw away from Dataran Pahlawan Shopping Mall, and restaurants.

• Imperial Heritage Hotel Melaka
• Hatten Hotel Melaka
• Estadia Hotel
• The Straight Hotel and Suites
• MidCity Hotel Melaka

MELAKA TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

  As I mentioned above, most of Malacca’s top tourist attractions are situated around the Dutch Square (Red Square) and Jonker Street (Chinatown District), so they are walking distance of each other.

Here’s a list of some of the places to see in Malacca that you can add on your Melaka itinerary.

1. DUTCH SQUARE (RED SQUARE)

The Dutch Square, also known as the Red Square, is probably the most recognizable attraction of Melaka, hence, it’s a must-visit on your Melaka itinerary. It is peppered with age-old buildings and structures built during the Dutch colonial period in Melaka from 1641 to 1825.

• Christchurch Melaka
• Open Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Entrance Fee: FREE

• Open Hours: Mon – Thurs 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Fri, Sat, & Sun – 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
• Entrance Fee:
• Foreigners – Adult – RM 10 (₱126 / SGD 3 /$2.31), Child – RM 5 (₱50 / SGD 23 /$ 0.92),
• Malaysians – Adult RM 5 (₱63 / SGD 53 /$1.15), Child -RM 2 (₱25 / SGD 0.61 /$ 0.46

• Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower
• Deutscher Grabenmorser
• Dutch Square Fountain/Queen Victoria Fountain
• Dutch Graveyard

2. ST. PAUL’S HILL

• FRANCIS XAVIER STATUE
• FAROL DE ALVENARIA DE MALACCA
• CHURCH OF ST. PAUL, MALACCA
• PROCLAMATION OF INDEPENCE MEMORIAL
• DUTCH GRAVEYARD

3. JONKER WALK (JALAN HANG JEBAT)

Jonker Walk is the Chinatown area of Melaka and a must-visit during your Melaka itinerary. It’s now officially renamed as Jalan Hang Jebat Street , the former antiques center in Chinatown. It’s a bustling street just right across the Melaka River from the Dutch Square, dotted with age-old Chinese shophouses revamped into museums, shops, and restaurants.

Jonker Walk, Melaka

Here are the other Melaka tourist attractions at Jonker Walk /Chinatown District area:

(Cheng Ho Cultural Temple, Melaka)

• Cheng Ho Cultural Museum
• Location: 51 Lorong Hang Jebat (1 min walk from Jonker Night Market)
• Open Hours: Daily (Except Monday) 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Adult – RM 20 (₱252 / SGD 6 /USD 5), Child – RM 10 (₱ 126 / SGD 3 /$2.31)

(Sri Poyyatha Vunayaga  Moorthy Temple, Melaka)

•   Sri Poyyatha Vinayaga Moorthy Temple
• Location: 5-11 Jalan Tukang Emas
• Open Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 11:30 AM, 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
• Location: 25, Jalan Toong, Kampung Dua
• Open Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

(Kampung Kling Mosque, Melaka)

• Kampung Kling Mosque
• Location: Junction of Jalan Tukang Emas (Goldsmith Street) and Jalan Masjid
• Open Hours: 24 hours
• Jonker Walk World Heritage Park & Dr.Gan Bong Leong Statue
• Location: Jalan Hang Jebat
• Hang Kasturi Mausoleum

(Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum, Melaka)

• Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum, Melaka
• Location: 48-50 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock (3 min-walk from Jonker Night Market)
• Open Hours: Thurs to Sun: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Adult – RM 16 (₱201 / SGD 5 /USD 4), Child (5-12 y.o) – RM 11 (₱ 138 / SGD 4 /USD 3

4. MELAKA MUSEUMS

Melaka is oozing with museums, that said, plan ahead which museum you want to enter, otherwise, museum hopping will eat up 1-day of Melaka Itinerary. Here’s a list of some well-known museums in Melaka (see the list above for the museums in Chinatown).

(Museum Samudera (Flor de la Mar), Melaka)

• Museum Samudera (Flor de la Mar)
• Location: Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, Melaka
• Open Hours: Weekdays 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Friday and Weekeneds 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Museum Samudera (Flor de la Mar) Entrance Fee:
• Foreigner: Adult – RM 20 (₱252 / SGD 6 /USD 5), Child – RM 10 (₱126 / SGD 3 /USD 2.31)
• Malaysian: Adult – RM 10 (₱126 / SGD 3 /USD 31), Child – RM 5 (₱ 63 / SGD 1.53 /USD 01.15),
• Tickets include entrance to 3 attractions: Replica of Flor del Mar, Maritime Museum Phase 2, Royal Malaysian Navy Museum.
• Melaka Royal Marine Museum
• Entrance Fee: Use same ticket as Museum Samudera (Flor de la Mar)
• Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum
• Location: Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir
• Open Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (except Tuesday)
• Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum Entrance Fee:
• Adult: (Foreigners) RM 5 (₱63 / SGD 53 /$1.15)
• Adult: (Malaysians ) RM 3 (₱38 / SGD 92 /$0.69)
• Children: RM 2 (₱17 / SGD 0.61 /$0.46)

(The Stadthuys Museum, Melaka)

• The Stadthuys Museum
• Location: Bandar Hilir,Melaka
• Open Hours: Mon to Thurs 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Fri,Sat, & Sun 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Stadthuys Museum Melaka Entrance Fee:
• Foreigners (Adult) RM 10 (₱126 / SGD 3 /$2.31)
• Foreigners (Child) RM 4 (₱50 / SGD 23 /$0.92)
• Melaka Art Gallery
• Location: Bandar Hilir, Melaka
• Open Hours: Daily (Closed on Mondays) 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Melaka Art Gallery Entrance Fee:
• Adult – RM 3 (₱38 / SGD 92 /$0.69)
• Child – RM 2 (₱17 / SGD 0.61 /$0.46)

5. MALACCA TOWER (TAMING SARI TOWER) 

A gyro tower in Bandar Hilir with a rotating viewing platform with an extensive view of Melaka.

(Malacca Tower)

Open Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM

MALACCA TOWER:  DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE

6. KAMPUNG KETEK MALACCA 

This is located right in front of Xian Ling Si temple near Jonker Walk.  You can make a detour here while on a walking tour in Jonker. One of the oldest villages in Melaka. You can visit the Munshi Abdullah House, a traditional Malay house while you are here.

• Munshi Abdullah House

6. KAMPUNG MORTEN (MORTEN VILLAGE)

There’s a living museum in Melaka, where you can see Malay traditional houses and witness Malay traditional lifestyle. The village is named after a British Land Commissioner – J.F Morten who was involved in developing this village from a former mangrove swamp. But the village is believed to be founded by Othman Mod Noh.

It is recommended to add a visit to a traditional Malay village on your Melaka itinerary, and Kampung Morten is an interesting community to explore. The village is composed of roughly 85 houses, and 52 of these houses are Melaka traditional houses. The most famous is Villa Sentosa , which is now a museum open to the public called The Malay Living Museum .

• Villa Sentosa (The Malay Living Museum)
• Location: Lorong Tun Mamat 1, Kampung Morten, Melaka
• Open Hours : Daily (Except Friday) 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Lunchbreak from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM, Friday – 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: FREE but donations are highly encouraged.

7. PORTUGUESE SETTLEMENT MELAKA (KAMPUNG PORTUGIS)

Located in Ujong Pasir, about 35 minutes away from downtown Melaka, is a Kristang (Portuguese-Eurasian or Malacca Portuguese) community. Malacca was a Portuguese colony from 1511 to 1641, and during that period, Portuguese men settled in Melaka and married Malay women.  Later on, they intermarried with Dutch, British, Chinese, and Malay.

Sometime in 1933, about 11 hectares of land in Melaka was cleared in what was previously known as the St. John Village, a sleepy fishing community. Here, about 11 wooden houses was built for the Kristang people. Eventually, it attracted more Kristang indigenous people from all over Malaysia. Unfortunately, today, only 1 traditional Kristang house stood the test of time. It is located along Jalan D’ Aranjo.  There’s not much to see or do in this quiet part of Melaka during the day, but at night tourists flock at the Portuguese Square to eat Portuguese seafood at the seaside.

(Portuguese Settlement Heritage Museum)

Here are some places to see while You’re in Portuguese Settlement Melaka:

• Portuguese Settlement Heritage Museum
• Traditional Kristang House (Portuguese Eurasian House)
• Portuguese Square
• Christ the Redeemer Statue
• Location: C-18 Portuguese Square, Portuguese Settlement
• Open Hours: Daily (Close on Sundays) 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: RM 2 (₱17 / SGD 0.61 /USD 0.46), Children: FREE under 10 years old

8. CHITTY VILLAGE (CHETTI VILLAGE) & CHITTY MUSEUM (CHETTI MUSEUM)

There’s a Chitty Village in Jalan Gaja Berang, Melaka, which is home to a small, close-knit community of Hindu Peranakans who are descendants of the original Tamil traders in Melaka. Chitty (also Chetti) are Tamil traders from Southern India who reached Melaka back in the 15 th century to trade spices and other goods. Some of them married local residents (Malays, Chinese, Batak, Javanese) in Melaka. They resided in Melaka, and eventually adapted to local customs and language, while still retaining their belief in Hinduism.

Today, there are more or less 30 families residing in Chitty Village, Melaka.  You can visit the community while in Melaka, which is home to 3 Hindu Temples, the most popular is the approximately 190-year-old temple – Sri Maha Mariamman Temple.  And while you are it, do drop by at the Chitty Museum to get a glimpse of the artifacts, handicrafts, photographs, and learn the history and customs of the Hindu Peranakas in Melaka.

• Chitty Museum
• Location: Jalan Gajah Berang, Kampung Chetti
• Open Hours: Daily (Except Mon & Tues) 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Chitty Museum Entrance Fee:
• Adult – RM 2 (₱17 / SGD 0.61 /$0.46)
• Child – RM 1 (₱13 / SGD 31 /$0.23)

9. MELAKA STREET ARTS

(Street Art at Melaka River Side)

In recent years, ingenious murals mushroomed in Melaka, particularly along Melaka River, a must-see during your Melaka itineray. Tourists enjoy taking photos and interacting with these artworks as they walk along the riverside.  Perhaps the most famous street art in Melaka is My Kiehl’s Heritage Mural , painted by artists Kiehl and Fritelldea (Mohd Anuar). While you are at it, drop by at The Orangutan House , a gallery selling artworks and graphic shirts, painted with a gigantic mural art. Other street arts include Melaka’s Street Art (The Well) , the Melaka Street Art (Horses) 2 lovely horses further down Jalan Kasturi, and the Melaka 3D Street Arts . They are walking distance to Jonker Walk.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN MELAKA

• THE SHORE SKY TOWER: DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE
• UPSIDE DOWN HOUSE GALLERY: DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE
• ILLUSION 3D ART MUSEUM:  DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE
• MAGIC ART MUSEUM:  DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE
• WONDERPARK MELAKA: RESERVE HERE  
• JAYA MATA KNIFE GALLERY: DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE    

MELAKA DAY TRIPS

1. melaka straits mosque (melaka floating mosque).

Melaka Straits Mosque is a visually-appealing mosque located on Malacca’s artificial island, about 1 hour away from Melaka city center. This gorgeous modern-day mosque has a golden dome and turrets. As its nickname suggests, it seems like a floating mosque during high-tide. Make sure to add this on your Melaka Itinerary!

(Melaka Floating Mosque)

Location: Jalan Pula, Melaka

Open Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

How to get there: Grab or taxi from Melaka City center.

2. HANG TUAH CENTER

This museum and tourism complex in Kampung Duyong is devoted to the famed Malay warrior Hang Tuah, who was born in Kampung Duyong. Gabled-roof traditional Malay houses dominates the Hang Tuah Center where visitors can learn more about Hang Tuah’s life history, as well as see traditional Malay weaponry and handicrafts.

• Hang Tuah Center
• Location: Kampung Jambatan Duyong, Melaka
• Open Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed 12:45 PM – 2:45 PM on Friday for prayer)
• Foreigners (Adult) RM 10 (₱126 /SGD 3/ $2.31), (Child 7-10 y.o) RM 5 (₱63 / SGD 1.53 /$ 01.15),
• Malaysians: (Adult) RM 5 (₱63 / SGD 1.53 /USD 01.15), (Child 7-10 y.o) RM 3 (₱38 / SGD 0.92 /$0.69)
• How to get to Hang Tuah Center:
• By Taxi or Grab: Grab or taxi from Melaka City center. There’s a bus, but schedule is erratic.
• Make your way to BSN, Jalan Munshi Abdullah bus stop.
• Take Panorama Bus #8 to Tangkak.
• Get off at SRA JAIM (Kandang Jalam Bukit Lintang), 11 th stop and travel time is about 14 minutes.
• Walk to Hang Tuah center, about 18 mins. Bus fare is roughly RM 5.20 (₱65 / SGD 57 /USD 1.17).

ALSO READ:  HANG TUAH CENTER MELAKA

3. malaysia heritage studios (taman mini malaysia & asean cultural park).

Malaysia Heritage Studios, formerly known as Taman Mini Malaysia & ASEAN Cultural Park, is a cultural theme park in Ayer Keroh, Melaka that features a cultural museum, traditional Malay house replicas, and traditional houses replicas from every member of the ASEAN. You rarely see this on the usual Melaka Itinerary since it’s quite a distance from Melaka city center, if you have the luxury of time, you can visit Malaysia Heritage Studios.

• Malaysia Heritage Studios Melaka (Taman Mini Malaysia)
• Location: Exit Lebuh, Ayer Keroh, Melaka Malaysia
• Open Hours: Mon to Thurs 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Cultural Show Times: Weekday- 11:00 AM, 2:30 PM, Weekend -11:00 AM, 2:30 PM, 4:00 PM
• Foreigners (Adult) RM 90 (₱1,124 / SGD 27 /USD 20), (Child 4-12 y.o) RM 70 (₱874/ SGD 21 /$16)
• Malaysians (Adult) RM 45 (₱562 / SGD 14 /USD 10), (Child 4-12 y.o) RM 35 (₱437 / SGD 11 /$8)
• Senior Citizens – RM 35 (₱437 / SGD 11 /$8)
• PWD – RM 30 (₱375 / SGD 9 /$7)

RELATED BLOG:  MALAYSIA HERITAGE STUDIOS (TAMAN MINI MALAYSIA )

Melaka food: what to eat in melaka.

The ancient shophouses dappled around Jonker Street were once antique shops, but now they’ve been turned into cafes and restaurants.  Malacca is a foodie haven, a perfect place to try Nonya, Malay, Indian and Chinese cuisines, you’ll never run out of places to eat here. Be warned though about the queue especially on weekends and holidays, so if you want to skip the long line, either you eat early or late for lunch. Make sure to add food trip to your Melaka Itinerary.

• Chicken rice balls
• Nyonya laksa/ Nyonya asam laksa
• Gula Melaka

MELAKA ITINERARY (3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS WITH BUDGET)

It is possible to do a Melaka Day tour from Kuala Lumpur, but I recommend an overnight stay or at least 2 days 1 night Melaka itinerary. I would even stay here for 3 or 4 days, taking things at a leisurely pace while exploring the town’s outskirts.

Melaka Itinerary Day 1 is mostly walking tour, all sights are close to each other, so better go there on foot or hire a disco trishaw.  On the other hand, most attractions listed on Melaka Itinerary Day 2 (see other attraction listed above) are located outside Melaka’s historic district and are far from each other (see Google Maps).  So, it means, either you take the local bus (will eat up our time) or take a cab or book Grab to those destinations.

Here’s my sample 3 day/ 2 nights Melaka itinerary with budget.

IMPORTANT: The sample budget below doesn’t cover accommodation, the airfare going to Kuala Lumpur from your country, drinks, souvenirs and shopping expenses.

This 3 days 2 nights Melaka Itinerary covers most of the top attractions in Melaka for first time tourists. It’s a jampacked Melaka itinerary, but if you want a cheaper and more laidback itinerary, feel free to skip some attractions or activities above.  I’ll be writing another Melaka itinerary for 2 days 1 night soon.

IMPORTANT: I personally wrote the above Melaka Itinerary; it took me a week to finish it. Feel free to use it for your personal trip. But since this blogpost is copyright-protected, you are NOT allowed to copy this Melaka itinerary (or any other itineraries in this blog) in whole or in parts.  You can share the link to this blogpost instead, so others can read this too, and that will help me write more comprehensive trip itineraries to help you plan your future trips. Thank you for reading!

RELATED BLOG:

Kuala lumpur itinerary (5 days 4 nights) with budget , kuala lumpur travel guide + itinerary , cameron highlands itinerary (3 days 3 nights), cameron highlands travel guide + itinerary, malaysia travel blogs, follow me on facebook for travel guide updates.

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This compact Malaysian state's catchphrase – 'Don't mess with Melaka' – sums up its confident attitude. Recent years have seen Melaka capitalise on its illustrious history and assert itself as one of Malaysia’s most irresistible tourist draws.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Melaka City

This former town hall and governor's residence dates to the 1650s and is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East. It functioned as State…

Dutch Square

The focal point of the Unesco Heritage zone, this attractive and elegant square is surrounded by Dutch-era buildings that have been painted crimson, shady…

Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

Touring this traditional Baba-Nonya (Peranakan) townhouse transports you to a time when women peered at guests through decorative partitions and every…

History & Ethnography Museums Complex

The ground floor of the Stadthuys houses Melaka's most interesting museum, which focuses on the city's fascinating history and ethnography. Exhibits…

Maritime Museum & Naval Museum

Embark on a voyage through Melaka's maritime history at these linked museums, all covered by the one ticket. The most enjoyable of the Maritime Museum's…

Masjid Selat Melaka

Especially beautiful at morning or dusk, this gold-domed mosque overlooks the Strait of Melaka from its shoreside perch on an artificial island a short…

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Malaysia's oldest still-operating Chinese temple, constructed in 1673, remains a central place of worship for the Buddhist and Taoist communities here. It…

Christ Church

Built in 1753 from laterite bricks brought from Zeeland in Holland, this eye-catching cherry-pink church is one of the most photographed and imposing…

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

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

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

How many days do you need for a Melaka trip?

Things to do in melaka.

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

Below the eight best things to do in Melaka!

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

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

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

4. View the Melaka Straits Mosque

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Admire the street art and graffiti

The nicest restaurants in melaka.

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

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

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

The Nyonya kitchen in Melaka

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

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

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

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

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

Fine dining during your Melaka trip

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

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

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

The best hotels for Melaka

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

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

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

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

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

How do you reach Melaka from Kuala Lumpur?

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for all the  Malaysia blogs!

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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 (Malacca) Malaysia – 31 Things To Do Guide + Photos 2024

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Rich in colonial history and home to some of the best street food in Malaysia, Melaka should be on your Malaysia must-do list.

A UNESCO World Heritage city with incredible coastal views and Portuguese stylings, there are plenty of things to see and do in Melaka / Malacca.

An easy trip from Kuala Lumpur , there are many tours available to Melaka / Malacca from the Malaysian capital but we’d implore you to stay a few nights, enjoy the city and cool down in Melaka’s best cafes .

From the iconic Red Square and Stadthuys to the random golden body-building statue (do read on!), there are so many things to see and do in Melaka (but try not to get run over by the famous cartoon cyclos!)

Here is our guide to the best things to do in Melaka / Malacca in 2024:

You might like – 60 Things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia >

Table of Contents

How to get to Melaka

How to get to melaka from kuala lumpur.

You can visit Melaka as part of a day trip from Kuala Lumpur, or independently by taking a bus and staying a few nights in a hotel/hostel.

If you are short on time, a Melaka day trip from Kuala Lumpur will be the best option, but if you have longer, we’d recommend spending a few days in Melaka as there are many activities and attractions plus so much good food.

Day trips to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur

From Kuala Lumpur: Private Full Day Tour to Malacca >

From Kuala Lumpur – City Explorer: The ‘non-touristy’ Malacca Private Day Trip >

From Kuala Lumpur – Historical Melaka Tour with Lunch from Kuala Lumpur >

Taking a Bus From Kuala Kumpur to Melaka

The bus journey time from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka is around 2 hours from KL Terminal Bersepadu Selatan bus station (this Kuala Lumpur to Melaka bus station is located a bit out of the city so take a Grab taxi there).

The Melaka bus fare from Kuala Lumpur usually costs between RM10 and RM20 . The bus arrives at Melaka Sentral station which is 3 miles north of the city (so again you will need to take a GRAB / taxi to your accommodation for about RM15 to 20).

Read our detailed guide (with step by step photos) of how to get the bus from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka here >

You can also reach Melaka by bus from Singapore (it is a good stopping off point if you are travelling from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur or vice versa).

Buses also go to and from other Malaysian cities such as Genting Highlands , Ipoh , Penang , Kota Bahru, Johor Bahru, as well as Hatyai in Thailand.

Use 12Go Asia to find the best fares for your trip to Melaka:

Tip: There is a direct bus service that goes from Melaka to KLIA or KLIA2 airport in Kuala Lumpur if your next port of call is a flight to Penang , Langkawi or somewhere international.

You can also book a private car charter from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka for either 1, 2 or 3 days. Check out the package options on Klook >

Planning a trip to the Cameron Highlands after? Treat yourself to a chauffeur driver car from Melaka to Cameron Highlands >

You might like – How to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the City with bus, train and Grab taxi fares >

Getting around Melaka

Melaka is fairly compact so getting around by foot is no problem (70% of the major Melaka things to do and attractions are within 1km radius).

Alternatively, or you could pay to take a sightseeing ride around Melaka old town in one of the famous cartoon character trishaws (rickshaws) – more on this later.

Some Melaka hotels offer bicycle rental for their guests, and there are a few places in town where you can hire bikes.

To get to and from the Melaka bus station to your accommodation, and also to visit places a bit further out of town such as the floating mosque and the Melaka Skydeck you will most likely be needing a taxi.

We recommened you download the Grab taxi app – they are widely used by both tourists and locals in Melaka, and their fares are really cheap!

Things to do in Melaka / Malacca, Malaysia in 2024 map

1. Jonker Street Weekend Night Market

Our number one thing to do in Melaka! The Malacca Jonker Street weekend night market runs every Friday to Sunday from the river to the far end of Jonker Street.

We highly recommend you try to coincide your stay in Melaka during a weekend as it is hands down one of the best night markets we visited in the whole of Asia.

We revisited Jonker Street Night Market in December 2023 and it is still lots of fun plus has cheap, tasty street food in abundance.

We know Penang and Ipoh are increasingly touted as the ultimate food destinations in Malaysia and that might be true, but the sheer character and number of the sublime street food stalls available at Jonker Street Night Market take some beating.

We also really loved the Heeshan Turkish style coffee baked in sand – very strong and a good brew!

The entertainment on offer during the Jonker Street night market is usually also very entertaining. For instance, on our very first visit, we saw dozens of old ladies doing synchronised dancing and cartwheels in unison. So cute and super cool to see (although the last time we went in late 2023, it was mainly the odd singer or musician).

As of 2024, the Jonker Street Night Market opening hours are 6pm until late, Friday to Sunday. Note that the Sunday night market on Jonker Street is on a smaller scale than the market on Friday and Saturday.

Read our Jonker Street night market blog post >

You might like – Malacca Night Tour with River Cruise and Trishaw Ride from Kuala Lumpur >

2. Melaka Red Square / Stadthuys

Probably the first image you see when you do any form of search for Melaka online, this iconic red square (not Russia!) is home to the Stadthuys (the former town hall built by the Dutch in 1650).

Here at Melaka Red Square, you will also see Christ Church , an 18th century Anglican church that was actually painted red later in 1911 to match the rest of the distinctive square.

These days, it is also the meeting point for Melaka’s cartoon cyclos (see below) plus a ubiquitous ‘I love’ sign. As you’d expect, the sign says I LOVE MELAKA – these seem to have popped up in every major Asian city including Malaysia and Seoul.

A steady stream of gift-shop stalls can also be found in Melaka’s Red Square, in the shadow of the Melaka History and Ethnography Museum.

You might like – things to do in Langkawi, Malaysia

3. Melaka River Cruise

A Melaka River Cruise is a great and relaxing way to see many beautiful historical buildings and interesting sights in the old town. The round trip with commentary takes 45 minutes and the boat trips run daily from 9am to 11pm.

The Melaka River Cruise ticketing counter is located next to the tourist information centre opposite the Red Square buildings.

Prices for foreigners are 30 RM per overseas adult (12 years over) and 25 RM per foreign child (2 to 12 years), or 25 MYR per Malaysian adult. Melaka River Cruise prices are correct as of March 2024.

You might like – 40 epic things to do in Ipoh, Malaysia >

4. Take a ride in a colourful and kitsch Melaka trishaw (rickshaw)

We’ve all seen cyclos around Asia, but here in Melaka, they really make a special effort in terms of how they dress and design their cycling contraptions.

There are hundreds of trishaws / rickshaws cycling around downtown Melaka city, all with movie or cartoon character themes; Hello Kitty, Doraemon , Pokemon, Squid Game and Marvel characters. Spiderman, seemed to be the most popular.

You also don’t need to worry about getting run over by the cartoon trishaws / rickshaws in Melaka, as they all have incredibly loud stereo speaker systems blaring out cartoon tunes plus have bright flashing lights and glitterballs at night (kinda like a mobile disco really).

Head to the Stadthuys area in the evening to see them in action (or by the Jonker Street Night Market riverside entrance at the weekends).

One of our favourite activities and things to do in Melaka was to sit in the bars overlooking the main streets and watch the cartoon cyclos whizz past, watching tourists giggle with their selfie sticks.

A note – the cost of cartoon rickshaws / trishaws in Melaka can vary but generally shouldn’t cost more than 25 MYR to 35 MYR. If a price isn’t displayed, make sure you agree the fare in advance.

It should be noted that many tourists have been ‘ripped off’/ scammed by Melaka drivers and the local Government office is very keen to overhaul and better licence the trishaws – so be alert!

If you like cute cartoon themed things, check out these cute themed 7-Elevens in Taiwan including Snoopy and Hello Kitty >

Try this – Malacca Night Tour with River Cruise and Trishaw Ride from Kuala Lumpur >

5. Visit the Church of St.Paul in Malacca

High on a hill overlooking Melaka, the Church of St Paul was originally built in 1521 and is supposed to be the oldest church in Malaysia and the whole of South East Asia.

Now partially ruined after being used as a military store by the British in the 19th century, the Malacca Church of St Paul sacred site offers fantastic 360 degree views overlooking Melaka (the stray cats also seem to love it there!)

One of the most visited attractions in Melaka, we preferred to visit later in the evening, to coincide with the sunset and the departure of all the Melaka cruise-ship masses (much quieter to visit in the evening).

Melaka’s Church of St. Paul is free to visit, accessible only by steps.

You might like: The perfect 2 week Malaysia itinerary and travel guide

6. Melaka’s Street Art Scene

Although not on par with say Georgetown for its street art, it is fun to stumble across Melaka murals in the most unusual of places.

The best way to explore the Melaka street art is to simply explore the streets with no fixed plan. Although if this isn’t to your liking, concentrate your search along the river and surrounding side-streets for the highest volume of street art.

Travelling around Malaysia? Check out our blog posts for Kuala Lumpur , Penang , Langkawi , Ipoh and the Cameron Highlands !

7. Melaka local snacks and dishes

There are many reasons to visit Malaysia , and sampling delicious Malaysian food is one of them. Melaka has some amazing local dishes known as Nyonya cuisine (a unique blend of Chinese, Malay and other Southeast Asian cultures).

Below are some of the local foods we ate during our short stay. Look out for them at the Malacca night markets or at any of the traditional Nyonya restaurants.

Chicken Rice Ball This is a dish of Chinese origin and not really found anywhere in Malaysia except Melaka. Rice is boiled in a chicken soup, and once cooked is rolled into balls, then served with steamed or roasted chicken and a homemade sauce (a mix of red chillies, garlic, ginger and lime).

There are several restaurants in the old town serving Chicken Rice Balls but the best place to try this dish is at Chung Wah Chicken Rice Ball.

Nyonya Laksa This spicy dish is a rich and creamy coconut-based noodle soup with broth made from chicken and prawns. It is usually topped with sliced cucumber, a boiled egg, sambal, fish balls and fish cake slices. We tried a tasty version of Nyonya Laksa at Poh Piah Lwee restaurant.

Pineapple Tart This is a very delicious bitesize snack, made from flaky and buttery pastry and filled with a zingy pineapple jam.

You will find shops all over town selling these, and locals love to buy boxes of them as gifts for family and friends during the festive seasons, especially Chinese New Year.

YOU MIGHT LIKE: What to eat in Penang – the best foods in Penang guide >

8. Sip a delicious coconut shake

We’re (coco)nuts about this Melaka thing to do!

The coconut shakes were one of our favourite drinks during our Asia travels and are a refreshing concoction of coconut water and flesh, ice cubes and vanilla ice cream blended together.

In Melaka, there are a few stalls around town selling them but the best ones we tasted were from the stalls at the very start of the Jonker Street Night Market (the sellers were also very entertaining – juggling coconuts to entertain the crowds).

One cup costs around 4 RM in 2024 (equivalent £0.70 / $0.85 USD) and you will definitely want more than one!

9. Head to the Melaka Straits floating mosque

We’ve all seen floating markets before but how about a floating mosque? A little out of town (so getting a GRAB taxi is essential), a trip to the Malacca Straits ‘floating mosque’ is a rejuvenating experience.

While the main Melaka Straits floating mosque dome is Islamic in design, the four corner turrets are topped with typical Malaysian rooflines. Built on a man-made island in 2006, with glorious ocean views, you are free to visit the floating mosque inside (it doesn’t sway or anything!).

We’d say this is easily one of the best free things to do in Melaka; just remember it is a place of worship and to visit in accordance with their rules.

A change of clothing is provided at the entrance to Melaka Straits floating mosque in the outside changing rooms to ensure you totally cover your body. Just be careful not to step on the large prayer carpet / mat inside as you’ll be politely prompted not to by one of the helpful but assertive staff inside.

10. Visit Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

The oldest functioning temple in Melaka (founded in 1645), Cheng Hoon Teng Temple (also known as the ‘Temple of Green Cloud’), this temple was awarded a UNESCO award in the early 2000s for its outstanding architectural restoration over the years.

It is free to visit and pleasant to wander around, although a little underwhelming compared to other temples we’ve visited in Malaysia, like Kek Lok Si .

You might like – the best temples in Chiang Mai, Thailand >

Viewing Decks in Melaka, Malaysia – view Melaka from above

We love a good observation deck here at CK Travels and there are 3 different spots in the city to view Melaka from above:

11. Melaka Skydeck @ Hatten City (Gale’s) – temporarily closed

2024 update – Melaka Skydeck @ Hatten City is currently closed

The first viewing deck we visited was the Melaka Skydeck @ Hatten City. We weren’t particularly impressed by the set-up and we were the only visitors at the time. In fact, the entrance is in a nearby abandoned mall and it looks like this is another tourist attraction that has never quite taken off (we saw a lot of this across Malaysia).

The viewing deck itself is OK (the views in Melaka are quite ‘flat’) and the entrance fee includes a voucher towards drinks in the Aroma Cafe on level 43 (sadly the views were facing the wrong way, overlooking wasteland). As such, we’d only recommend a visit here if you have lots of time to kill.

12. Taming Sari Revolving Tower

The second viewing deck is the Taming Sari Revolving Tower which has awesome 360 degree views of the city.

The views here are much better than the Melaka Skydeck (currently closed) as it is located in the city centre.

The ride only lasts 7 minutes and costs 23 RM per foreign adult if you book in advance online or 27 RM per adult on the door – Taming Sari Revolving Tower prices are correct as of March 2024.

We would recommend visiting the Taming Sari Revolving Tower for the best aerial views of Melaka and the fact it is much easier to access from most hotels in Melaka compared to the outer city observation decks.

Book your discounted Menara Taming Sari Ticket with Klook >

You might like – 20+ Things to do in Genting Highlands, Malaysia >

13. Shore Sky Tower Melaka

With 43 floors, the Shore Sky Tower is now Melaka’s tallest building, with an observation deck on the top floor offering a bird’s eye view of the city and the sea.

Head up over 160 meters above street level and see panoramic views of Melaka. If you dare, walk across the glass floor skywalk (just don’t look down!)

Prices for the Shore Sky Tower are 25 MYR per person (£4 approx) Monday to Thursday and 35 MYR Friday to Sunday as at March 2024.

Book your discounted Shore Sky Tower ticket via Klook >

There is also an escape room here; the Breakout Escape Room Experience in The Shore Melaka >

You might like – Things to do in Kuala Lumpur at night >

14. Take a stroll along the river to Kampung Morten / Melaka Morten Village

A relaxed stroll along the Melaka River (or tourist boat) brings you to the rustic setting of Kampung Morten village, one of the few remaining traditional villages in the area.

Set amidst various skyscrapers and hotels (e.g the huge Majestic hotel is just next door), Kampung Morten Village is a charming place to explore, as residents wave to you from their impeccable and lush gardens.

The vast majority of households at Kampung Morten Village (mainly descendants of the first Melaka settlers) have now tapped into the tourist market, turning their homes into traditional home-stays – there are also several houses that have small restaurants and cafes located in their front gardens.

If you are walking along the Malacca River boardwalk to Kampung Morten / Melaka Morten Village, look out for the huge monitor lizards on the river banks who can be seen in the daytime sunning themselves – many of the Malacca River Cruise boats also stop to let tourists onboard take snaps of the monitor lizards.

You might like – Our guide to Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL’s nightlife and entertainment area >

15. Enjoy some dinner and drinks by Melaka River

Drinks along the Melaka River (once dubbed the ‘Venice of the East’) is a fun way to wind down in the evenings. There are several bars all next to each other along the river, with various competing happy hours.

Go early so you can grab an alfresco spot by the Melaka river and watch all the tourist boats glide by, brightly lit by various neon lights and LED strips (sunglasses optional – beer essential).

16. Relax at one of Melaka’s hipster cafes

There are several charming cafes in Melaka old town that are great for a quick coffee or smoothie pit stop.

One of the cutest Melaka cafes that we visited (and a pioneer of the Melaka coffee scene) is the The Daily Fix cafe located at the back of a souvenir shop on Jonker Street, which had a very trendy interior and served some really yummy lunches.

Check out our guide to the best cafes in Melaka including the vintage stylings of Heesan Kopi , the incredible VW campervan interior of Mods Cafe and the fantastic French Brown with their oh-la-la sweet treats and patisserie section.

You might like – Guide to Ipoh’s colourful Concubine Lane in Malaysia >

17. Gravy Baby Melaka

As the huge sign says outside, Melaka’s Gravy Baby is famous for its cocktails and pies – now that is our kind of big night out in Melaka.

Gravy Baby has several locations in Malaysia (including Gravy Baby in KL’s Changkat Bukit Bintang )  but this set-up beats them all as some of its tables look out over the Malacca River. Gravy Baby often has live music and live sports on TV with a happy hour most nights.

Gravy Baby bar serves pub grub style food like pizzas, chicken and nachos (including vegetarian versions).

It is also one of the bars with the longest opening hours, starting at 8am daily for brunch and closing at 1am Friday to Sundays (midnight the rest of the week).

You might like – Guide to Kuala Lumpur at Christmas >

18. Mamee Jonker House

The home of oodles of Mamee Noodles in Malaka, the Mamee Jonker House is part fun-house, part cookery school where you can try your hand at making noodle dishes in the ‘Lil Monster Kitchen, or even create your own noodle cup design (we think they’ve ‘borrowed’ the idea from the Cup Noodles Museum in Japan ).

Mamee Noodles are a famous Malaysian instant noodle brand which features the famous blue Mamee monster on its packs. The gift shop at Mamee Jonker House is super cute with noodles, magnets, tote bags, stickers and more and more all featuring the Mamee Monster.

Entry to the Mamee Jonker House is free but fees for the workshops and classes apply – there is also a nice cafe and coffee shop inside with a courtyard setting that sells several instant noodle dishes.

19. Get cultural at Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum

This is in fact a recreation of Sultan Mansur Shah’s 15th-century palace, built in 1985 using traditional construction techniques and materials.

The painstaking palace recreation contains over 1,300 artefacts, prints and photographs detailing the Malacca Malay Sultanate’s history (plus lots of rather creepy looking mannequin dummies, which we found rather off-putting!).

Also make sure you check out the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum gardens before you leave as these were equally as impressive.

20. Eat like a local at Jonker Street Hawker Centre / Jonker Street Kopitiam

A few minutes walk from the main lodgings in Melaka, we’d recommend you visit Jonker Street Hawker Centre during the week when the Jonker Street night market isn’t on, to get your fill of cheap street food.

There are around 10 to 15 street hawker / food stalls located at Jonker Street Hawker Centre, across two ground floor rooms, with lots of outdoor seating.

Wander round the stalls, choose and order your food from the respective stalls (make sure you have a table number) and then pay them when they bring it over.

The food here was inexpensive and delicious – there was lots of choice but we eventually opted for some yummy char kway teow and some seafood noodles.

Jonker Street Hawker Centre is open daily until midnight. Note when we last visited, Jonker Street Hawker Centre was closed on Thursdays but Google says different so check ahead!

You might like – Traditional Nyonya Dessert Cooking Class in Melaka >

21. Visit the Melaka Bodybuilding Statues – Datuk Wira Dr. Gan Boon Leong

Malaysia’s most successful bodybuilder and Melaka’s answer to Arnold Schwarzenegger, there are four enormous statues dedicated to Datuk Wira Dr. Gan Boon Leong (who sadly died in 2022 at the ripe old age of 84).

Born in 1937 and known as the ‘Father of Bodybuilding in Malaysia’, Datuk Wira Dr. Gan Boon Leong got involved in local politics and owned a gym in later life. The several statues of him dotted around Melaka were erected in his honour and have now become a curious tourist attraction and lasting tribute.

Thanks for checking out our blog! We are currently digital nomading / travelling for the next few months around London and Asia (Thailand, Taiwan and Singapore). Check out our travel diaries on Instagram – @.c.k.travels , Tik Tok – @cktravels and on Facebook .

22. The Cat Palace (Melaka Cat Cafe)

A little way out of the Old Town, Melaka’s cutest cat cafe – The Cat Palace is well worth a visit. We’ve been to a few cat cafes in our time and this is the best of the bunch.

The cats are well looked after, appear happy and well fed, plus all the cats have been rescued from the streets. There are even several blind cats that they care for too.

The Cat Palace cat cafe in Melaka is very cheap compared to most other cat cafes – you can have unlimited time with the cats and a hot drink for only 25 MYR per person.

Alternatively, you can enjoy 30 minutes with the cats for just 8 MYR but you must buy a hot drink – for instance, we had an Americano and a latte plus 30 minutes with the cats for 32 MYR (just over £5 / 6 Euros / $6.80 USD).

Cat treats are available for around 4 MYR and we liked that the owners were always on hand to ensure the cats were being looked after and not scared by visitors.

The staff at Melaka’s Cat Palace were so friendly and most importantly, the cats seemed very chill and at ease with the attention.

You might like – Guide to Saloma Bridge, KL’s most ‘lit’ attraction >

23. Ming Sate Hut (Satay)

A personal foodie recommendation in Melaka – we discovered Ming Sate Hut (Satay) in Melaka hidden in the side-streets near to Moty Hotel Melaka , where we stayed on our most recent visit.

This sublime satay restaurant was simple in its set-up, but the flavours were incredible and the staff so lovely – they even remembered our order by heart after our first visit.

Ming Sate Hut serves pork satay and chicken satay which we loved and came back for a couple of times (plus they also serve liver, gizzard, intestine versions which we didn’t try.)

Their satay is sensational as they put a secret dollop of pineapple in it giving it a slightly sweet tang plus the satay is smoked out the back – prices were really cheap (for Melaka) as it is away from the usual tourist routes. Highly recommended.

You might like – Guide to Kuala Lumpur’s KLCC district >

24. Jaya Mata Knife Museum

Of the newest attractions in Melaka opening in October 2022, the Jaya Mata Knife Museum is easy to spot – it has the biggest knife in Malaysia out front acting as a ‘sharp’ signpost (it is even bigger than the knife in Crocodile Dundee!).

The museum traces back the history of knife making both in Malaysia and world wide across five themed zones (a small admission fee applies) plus has a free shop you can visit and also a cookery workshop.

Whilst this Melaka knife museum isn’t exactly ‘cutting edge’ (like all good knives should be…sorry not sorry), the entrance fee is very small and some of the kitchen knife sets look spectacular.

Book your Jaya Mata Knife Museum in Melaka entry ticket with Klook >

25. Xiang Lin Si Temple

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is perhaps the best known and most visited temple in Melaka’s Old Town – however, be sure to also visit the Xiang Lin Si Chinese Temple next door.

Often overlooked by the Melaka tourist hordes, this is a much tranquil Buddhist temple which was built in the 1980s (on the site of a former wooden villa owned by a monk that was constructed in the 1950s)

When we visited Xiang Lin Si Temple, other than three locals playing cards downstairs, we seemed to be the only visitors.

Head on up to the second floor and take a step out onto the outdoor balcony for aerial views of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple and watch all the trishaws whizz by outside.

You might like – Kuala Lumpur’s best shopping malls >

26. Makan Avenue Food Hall

One of Melaka’s most popular food courts with around 20 or so food stalls selling everything from ‘Teacher’s’ Char Kuey Teow to ‘Tacosta’ Mexican, Makan Avenue Food Hall is a little way out of Melaka’s Old Town, around a 10 minute along the Melacca River walkway.

Not only is this a pleasant walk, but the Makan Avenue Food Hall also has a large seating space and riverside terrace – here you’ll find the famous Cendol Kampung Hulu shaved ice stall which is well liked by local families.

Makan Avenue Food Hall is open daily from noon until 11:30pm – conveniently located across the road from Makan Avenue, you can get spooked at one of Melaka’s newest activities – the Melaka Ghost Museum.

CK Travels tip – we loved coconut shakes in Melaka – they are very cheap and so cooling. We thought the Coconut Shake Kampung Hulu kiosk just across from Makan Food Avenue (next to 906 Riverside Hotel) was one of the best coconut shakes in Malacca.

Try this –   Cendol Kampung Hulu voucher >

27. Go on a free walking tour of Melaka (currently suspended in 2024)

2024 update – the free walking tours were suspended when we last visited Melaka in late 2023 but please visit the Melaka Tourist Information Office downtown to make sure.

We didn’t have time to do this but there is a free 2 and a half hour walking tour which starts at 9.30am every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday* from the tourist information office near Dutch Square.

Aim to arrive at 9.15am to sign up for it and guarantee a place. *Times and days are correct as of January 2019.

You might like – Things to do in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur >

28. Abandoned Melaka

Fans of URBEX and random abandoned buildings may also found several things to enjoy in Melaka, Malaysia including:

Abandoned Melaka Monorail

Look up whilst walking along the Melaka River and you’ll see the remains of a now mothballed monorail system that really never took off after its launch.

Several mechanical problems coupled with a comparatively expensive fare (too much for locals) meant this looks like a huge white elephant.

There is often talk of relaunching the Melaka monorail (money seems to be an issue – or the lack of it), but nothing has happened since and the Monorail was still closed and boarded up as of late 2023.

Abandoned theme parks and ‘ghost’ shopping centres

We also noticed several abandoned small-scale theme parks whilst in Melaka including a pirate inspired park next to the river, plus several shopping centres that seemed to be nigh on vacant. This seems to be a thing in Malaysia, as also experienced at the Sky Deck at Hatten City.

You might like – Lagenda Langkawi, an abandoned theme park in Malaysia >

29. The People’s Museum / Muzium Rakyat

We first heard about the People’s Museum from an article on the Atlas Obscura website. In essence, it is a museum that charts the people’s history of Melaka as seen through their eyes (located in the Kite Museum).

All in all, we found the People’s Museum a bit of an oddity, with dated exhibitions on subjects like kite-flying that rarely seem to get changed. Cheap as chips though as it less than $1 entry so maybe treat this an alternative rainy day activity?

You might like –   Guide to Jalan Alor Night Market in Kuala Lumpur >

30. Melaka Theme Parks and Water Parks

Melaka is a very family friendly destination and fun for kids of all ages. There are many theme parks to enjoy in Melaka including:

• Malacca Illusion 3D Art Museum Admission Tickets
• Magic Art Museum Admission Ticket
• Upside Down House Gallery Melaka Ticket
• Malaysia Heritage Studios Ticket in Melaka
• Get spooked at the Melaka Ghost Museum 
• Wonder Park Melaka indoor playland and themepark
• Melaka Zoo animal park

Our final thing to do in Melaka, Malaysia

31. other traditional cultural activities in melaka.

From dessert making classes to Malaysian pewter making workshops, there are several ways you can create your very own unique souvenir to bring home:

Traditional Nyonya Dessert Cooking Class in Melaka

Pewter Keris Workshop in Melaka

Bear Brick Workshop in Melaka

Tufting Workshop in Melaka

Where to stay in Melaka

We stayed at  Hotel Puri  – the location was amazing and just a few minutes walk to Jonker street weekend market, the river and many restaurants. The rooms were a little tired looking but there was a fairly decent free breakfast every morning.

Here are some other suggestions for accommodation to suit all budgets:

Here are some cheap hostels that come highly rated on Hostelworld:

Ringo’s Foyer Guest House Budget accommodation ranging from family and double rooms to single and dorm rooms, with rooftop and cycling tours.  Check out prices and availability for Ringo’s Foyer Guest House

If you are looking for something mid range then these hotels have great reviews: r

Rosa Malacca Modern hotel featuring contemporary-industrial decor.  Check out prices and availability for Rosa Malacca  

Timez Modern Heritage Hotel Boutique hotel located in a side alley just off Jonker street.  Check out prices and availability for Timez Modern Heritage Hotel

RC Hotel Melaka Boutique hotel located just beside the Malacca River with rooms featuring different unique themes.  Check out prices and availability for RC Hotel Melaka

Treat yourself

Alternatively if you are looking for something more special then treat yourself to a stay at one of these seriously beautiful hotels in Melaka:

The Majestic Malacca  Boutique hotel set along the banks of Melaka River featuring elegantly decorated guest rooms and spa and outdoor pool.  Check out prices and availability for The Majestic Malacca 

Casa Del Rio  Riverside hotel featuring an infinity pool, fitness centre, spa, 3 restaurants and rooms with a private balcony.  Check out prices and availability for Casa Del Rio 

Sim cards and pocket WIFI

Having data on your phone whilst travelling is almost essential these days – from planning your route around the city, booking a Grab taxi or for staying connected with friends and family back home.

SIM cards are pretty cheap in Malaysia with generous data allowances and are available to purchase from airports, malls and convenience stores (bring your passport along for identification purposes).

You can also  prepay online and collect  a SIM from  KLIA2  airport .  Just remember to make sure your phone is not locked to your local network provider before purchasing one.

Alternatively if you do not want to change your sim card then renting a  pocket WIFI device  might be for you. We’ve used them multiple times and love that we can both connect our devices to it, however the downside to the Malaysian ones is that there is a data allowance of 1GB per day.

Pre-order one online with  Klook  for collection when you arrive at either KLIA or KLIA2 airport in Kuala Lumpur. 

Other Malaysia blog posts you might like

• Things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 
• Top things to do in Georgetown, Penang – travel guide
• The perfect 2 week Malaysia itinerary and travel guide
• Cameron Highlands attractions: the ultimate travel guide
• Kuala Lumpur at Night – top things to do
• Tasting Malaysian cuisine on a Kuala Lumpur food tour
• A cheap day tour in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
• Visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur for the Thaipusam Festival
• Exploring Langkawi’s Mangrove flora and fauna
• Island hopping in Langkawi
• Exploring Kuala Lumpur from above – KL Tower and Eco Forest Park

Did you enjoy our things to do in Melaka / Malacca blog post? Let us know in the comments or by sharing it on social media.

You can follow CK Travels on:  Instagram Facebook TikTok   YouTube Pint e rest

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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!

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 is a city that boasts of lots of good food, apart from its cultural attractions. From the famous Christ Church to the busy night markets, theres lots to do in the city, for every kind of traveller. When youre here, try out the Nyonya cuisine in particular, for its wonderful flavours.

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Melaka (Malacca): 19 Top Things To Do (Ultimate Guide)

• Last updated: January 1, 2024

Welcome & thank you for reading our blog. :) We love what we do and put a lot of work in our free articles. We hope you find what you are looking for!

About Melaka / Malacca

Melaka, also known as Malacca, is a beautiful historical port city and UNESCO World Heritage Site for Culture, just 150km or 2 hours drive south of Kuala Lumpur . 

Melaka is known for the Peranakans, the term used to describe descendants of mostly early Chinese settlers of South East Asia and later Arab and Dutch. 

The highlight of Melaka is the beautiful mix of Peranakan and Malay cuisine and preserved historical buildings from the colonial times under the Dutch and British.

Skip ahead to:

How to get to Melaka

Where to eat in melaka, where to stay in melaka.

Melaka City Travel Tips

Let’s start with some helpful travel tips for visiting Melaka.

Transport: The easiest way to go around Melaka is to simply walk around, as almost everything is easily reachable on foot.

Stay: The best is to book accommodation in the center of Melaka.

Internet, calls: The easiest way to stay connected on your trip to Melaka and Malaysia is to get an affordable local SIM card , either at the airport or in one of the supermarkets or phone stores. You can also buy an affordable Malaysia eSIM online through Airalo or Holafly .

Currency: The currency used in Melaka and Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit, abbreviated as RM, and 1 USD is around 4.5 Malaysian Ringgit .

Tours, activities, tickets: There are plenty of options online, but the most extensive selection of trusted ones is found on Klook , GetYourGuide , Viator , and the local provider worth checking out is Tripcarte .

Melaka Travel Map

Top things to do in Melaka

1. visit red square, stadthuys & christ church.

Melaka’s beautiful Red Square, also called the Dutch Square, is the icon of the city and houses colonial structures like the Stadthuys, Christ Church, and the Queen Victoria Fountain. The bordeaux red buildings are the most picturesque spot in Melaka, and the square is portrayed on all Melaka postcards .

Red Square’s Stadthuys is the oldest remaining Dutch colonial building in the Orient , which was first used as the government seat by the Dutch and later the British.

2. Eat all the food at Jonker Street Night Market

A must-visit in Melaka is the Jonker Street Night Market which operates on a three-day-a-week system on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday .

Since 2010, Jonker Street Night Market has been an icon of this historical city, offering a great night out for exploring the culinary delights, local handicrafts, and culture through its 450 and counting stalls .

We loved the food at Jonker Street Night Market, and some of the best things were definitely: Coconut Ice Cream, Durian puff, Papaya salad, pure Mango smoothies, and veggie rolls.

Even though everyone (us included) focuses mainly on the food at Jonker Street Night Market, you can also find an immense range of other stalls. There are stalls with local handicrafts, clothing, packaged snacks, herbs, spices, teas, jewelry, toys, and souvenirs. If you’re into tattoos, you can also get a temporary tattoo at one of the Henna stalls.

Read all about it in our article Jonker Street Night Market: Full Guide .

Need a reliable Malaysia mobile package to stay online?

While you can find WiFi practically everywhere, in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and even beach bars, having a reliable mobile package in Malaysia is the way to go. We recommend the unlimited data eSIM packages from Holafly .

Tip: Shipped Away readers get 5% off with the code SHIPPEDAWAY

3. Cruise on the Melaka River

The best way to explore Melaka’s riverside is on the Melaka River Cruise, a 45 minutes round trip , costing 30RM (about $7) for foreigners and 25RM for local adults.

Melaka’s river cruise runs daily between 9 am and 11 pm and the best time to go on the river cruise is towards the sunset as you watch the city’s countless beautiful lights turn on.

You can buy tickets for the Melaka River Cruise right next to the tourist information center opposite Red Square or purchase them online.

Book your Melaka River Cruise Ticket on Tripcarte.

4. Ride in a cyclo or trishaw

A very popular thing to do in Melaka is riding in the colorful and funky cyclos named trishaws.

The trishaw ride in Melaka lasts 1 hour and costs 40 Malaysian Ringgit (about $9) , and they take you around the central part of town.

The most popular time for taking a trishaw ride in Melaka seems to be at night when all the trishaws are glowing with lights. It’s also the time when the trishaws are playing very loud music from their onboard loudspeakers.

We didn’t go for a ride, as we loved going around on foot, but we can imagine it being a fun activity.

Note: We’re not sure, but it seems like the music they play on the trishaws is adjusted to the people on the trishaw, so for example, we’ve heard Indian music played for Indians, and Chinese music played for Chinese.

5. Visit St Paul’s Church

St Paul’s Church in Melaka, built in 1521, is located on the small hill above the Red (Dutch) Square and is the oldest church building in Malaysia and South East Asia .

Even though it’s not entirely preserved (the roof is missing), it does contain the tombstones of influential people from those times that were previously found scattered around the area.

And right in front of the church, you will also find an old white lighthouse built much later in 1849.

From the hill where St Paul’s Church is, you can arguably have the best view of Melaka and even see the sea.

6. Check out A Famosa

Right under St Paul’s hill, you can find A Famosa, the remains of the old Dutch fortress .

7. Find the street art

Melaka, along with Penang, holds an immense amount of street art that is waiting for you to be discovered.

Melaka’s street art project helped transform many of the old forgotten streets to become the centerpieces of tourist attractions.

You can find murals in many locations spread out around Melaka’s downtown. The most known street art spots in Melaka are My Kiehl’s Heritage, street art along the river, “The Well” on Jalan Hang Kasturi, and the art on Jalan Kampung Pantai street.

“The Well,” Jalan Hang Kasturi street, and Jalan Kampung Pantai street are all right next to each other , and the best way to find all of them is to just write “The Well street art” on Google Maps . This area is also the most interesting because it portrays lifelike murals of local life.

Note: Some street art might not look like in our photos or photos of others online when you come, as they do deteriorate through time.

My Kiehl’s Heritage

Street art on the river

Jalan Hang Kasturi

Jalan Kampung Pantai

Orangutan House

8. Enjoy delicious Melaka food

One of the most important things to do in Melaka is to taste all the delicious food, especially the local Nyonya cuisine, the fusion of local Malaysian and Indonesian food with Chinese and later Indian cuisine.

We really loved all the food we tried in Melaka, and some of the best dishes we had were Nyonya Laksa (spicy noodle dish) and Nyonya Cendol (a delicious dessert).

If you love trying new delicious food like us, read our guide about the Jonker Street Night Market in Melaka.

Read more in the section below: Where to eat in Melaka.

Need reliable Malaysia Travel Insurance?

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Tip: Shipped Away readers get 5% off

9. Visit the floating Melaka Straits Mosque

The beautiful “floating” Melaka Straits Mosque is about a 15-minute drive from the center, and it’s pretty unique, as it looks like it’s floating when it’s high tide .

And if you visit when it’s low tide, you might get the chance to even go down to the “beach” right next to it. We saw many photos online of that, and it looks super cool. But, unfortunately, we weren’t so lucky.

The mosque is open from 5 am until late at night, so you can visit during sunrise or sunset .

Melaka Straits Mosque visiting tips

Although the Melaka Straits Mosque is a bit out from the city, you can easily reach it with a taxi or, better yet, by booking a Grab car.

And it’s not hard to get a Grab ride back either, as some reviews on Google say (that it’s so far away and remote that nobody will come and pick you up). 😉 We had a fantastic Grab driver who shared our love for Vietnam pick us up in a few minutes after requesting a ride.

Dress code: Before entering the Melaka Straits Mosque, women have to cover their hair, arms, and legs, and men are also provided with a robe to cover their legs in case they are wearing shorts.

All the clothing which you use for covering is provided for free.

10. Visit Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple in Melaka is the oldest traditional Chinese Buddhist temple in all of Malaysia , and its details are genuinely remarkable. We loved observing all the decorations on the roof, walls, and inside the temple.

No matter if you’re religious or not, we’d say it’s well worth a visit, as it’s an integral part of Melaka’s history and an insight into the culture of the Chinese community here.

11. Stroll through Tokong Street

In Tokong Street, where the Cheng Hoon Temple is, you can also find the Sri Poyyatha Vinayaga Moorthy Temple, the oldest existing Hindu temple in Malaysia, and the Kampung Kling Mosque.

It’s great to see the diversity and harmony between the different communities in Melaka.

12. Observe Melaka from above

Along with St Paul’s hill above the Red Square in Melaka, you can observe Melaka from the Taming Sari Revolving Tower and The Shore Sky Tower .

The best one, according to most people, is the Taming Sari Revolving Tower, which supposedly gets you a better 360 view, unlike The Shore Sky Tower.

We planned on visiting the Taming Sari Revolving Tower, but in the end, we didn’t have enough time to do it.

13. Visit Kampung Morten village

Kampung Morten village, the only remaining traditional village of the first Melaka settlers , is only about a 20-minute walk from Jonker Street and Red Square. The houses are nicely decorated, have yards full of greenery and flowers, and now serve as homestays.

You can see parts of the Kampung Morten village on the Melaka River Cruise if you don’t plan to visit it specifically, and that’s what we did.

14. Enjoy food and drinks by the river

Melaka’s riverside is filled with small cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy some food and drinks and is especially alive in the evenings.

We love every city with a river and Melaka is one of them, especially because you can walk so close to it.

15. Visit a cool cafe

Melaka offers plenty of cool-looking cafes with creative interiors and great food and drinks, like The Daily Fix Cafe, The Stolen Cup, The Baboon House, and Calanthe Art Cafe.

We enjoyed dinner at the Geographer Cafe, which looked especially great during that time. And we had a delicious vegetarian Tom Yam here, and we miss it so much that we would return to Melaka just for that. It was served in a coconut, and it was so so delicious!

Stay protected on public WiFi

We’ve been using NordVPN for over 5 years now and can highly recommend the tool for protecting your privacy and freedom while browsing the internet.

It encrypts your connection and hides your data from potential hackers . Also, with a VPN, you can access blocked/restricted content like some Netflix movies or booking sites.

TIP: Shipped Away readers get a special deal .

16. Learn about history at Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum

History lovers should check out the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum with a collection of traditional art, costumes, jewelry, weapons, and other interesting historical artifacts.

The Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum was built in 1986 as a modern reconstruction of a palace of the Melaka Sultanate based on the historical information gathered from the Malay Annals, the literary work of the Malay maritime empire composed between the 15th and 16th centuries.

17. Visit Flor de la Mar – the maritime museum

Not far from the Red Square is the Maritime Museum, which is actually housed in a replica of the ancient Portuguese ship Flor de la Mar.

We didn’t end up visiting inside, but it looks cool from the outside, so it’s worth making the short walk down to it. And if you’re going for the Melaka River Cruise, the jetty is right next to it.

18. Visit Datuk Wira Dr. Gan Boon Leong’s bodybuilding statues

The quirkiest attraction in Melaka is definitely the statues portraying the father of Malaysian bodybuilding, Dr. Gan Boon Leong, and a counterpart to Arnold Schwarzenegger.

We forgot to take a photo of one of the statues we passed right next to Jonker Street, but they’re big and golden.

19. Observe the wildlife

It might come as a surprise, but Melaka offers quite an interesting collection of animals. The most interesting ones are the huge monitor lizards that are cousins of the scary Komodo Dragons .

You will find the monitor lizards all along the Melaka river : below the bridge at the Red Square, swimming in the river, down at the river close to St Francis Xavier Church, and further up towards Kampung Morten village.

Seeing giant monitor lizards in Melaka was a huge surprise, as before we came, we only heard of otters being present on the riverside. And even though we really looked forward to seeing otters on our 4 or 5 walks along the river, we didn’t see any in the end!

More things to do in Melaka

Baba & nyonya heritage museum.

Visit the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum to get an insight into the local Peranakan culture and history.

Buy your Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum Tickets on Tripcarte.

Pantai Klebang Sand Dunes

The sand dunes of Melaka at Pantai Klebang are nothing special, but they would serve as a great spot to watch the sunset .

Jonker Street Hawker Centre

As we were busy going around other places and visited the Jonker Street Night Market three times, we didn’t end up seeing the Hawker Centre.

Melaka Waterparks

You can find the A Famosa Waterpark next to A Famosa, which we didn’t have the chance to visit, but it seems like it offers some great rides.

And there’s another popular waterpark called Bayou Lagoon Water Park, a bit further out from the city.

Skytrex Adventure Melaka

We only heard about the Skytrex Adventure park after we left Melaka, and we’re so sad we didn’t go as it looks like a fun, adrenaline-pumping activity.

Best time to visit Melaka

Melaka has a lot of rainy, humid days all year, but it is still great to visit year-round , and if you’d like the sunniest and driest month, go in February.

We visited Melaka at the beginning of July, and the weather was a mix of sun and clouds, with some days having rain in the afternoon. And it was just fine, as we did most of our exploring in the mornings.

The best place to stay in Melaka is right in the center , as almost all attractions will be easy to reach on foot.

Many travelers to Melaka want to stay next to the river, and there are limited options you can choose from. However, these are the accommodations we found on the riverside that have good reviews, and we would recommend staying in:

• Casa del Rio Melaka (5-star, resort-like hotel)
• Vspace Guesthouse and Cafe (capsule hotel, right on the river)
• Luxury on Melaka River (luxury 2-bedroom apartment overlooking the river)
• Leju 21 (holiday home for 4 people, right next to the river)

We made a mistake and stayed outside the city center, so each time we went to the center, we had to book a Grab ride which took about 10 to 15 minutes. It felt like a nuisance, especially during the weekend when the Jonker Street Night Market takes place, so it’s much harder to book a ride; you have to wait longer, and there are traffic jams.

Melaka’s cuisine is easy to explore because all restaurants are right in the city’s center. You can find all kinds of cuisines from Indian, local Malay, fusion Nyonya cuisine, and Western restaurants.

As mentioned above, definitely try to plan your visit around the weekend, so you can visit the night market, which offers a great selection of delicious dishes.

Dishes you should try in Melaka:

• Nyonya Laksa
• Nyonya Cendol
• Nyonya Kuih
• Popiah rolls

Places we recommend for food in Melaka are:

• Geographer cafe (various amazing dishes, including vegetarian options)
• Christina EE Pineapple Tarts & Nyonya Cendol
• Selvam Restaurant for delicious Indian food (try the banana leaf curry)

The best places for vegetarian food in Melaka are:

• Shui Xian Su Shi Yuan Vegetarian (has Nyonya Laksa!)
• Mei Lin Vegetarian Restaurant
• Vege Good Vegetarian Restaurant
• Hui Yuan Vegetarian Restaurant
• Anthony Vegetarian Restaurant

Visiting Melaka from Kuala Lumpur for a weekend is easy as it takes only 2 hours by car, bus, or train (150km) for less than $5.

We recommend coming to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur with a bus/van, as they’re super comfortable, and they drop you off at either your hotel or the central bus station.

Book your bus/train/taxi tickets from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka on 12go.

On the other hand, you can also get to the Melaka train station from Kuala Lumpur by train in 2 hours. But as you arrive at the Batang Melaka train station, that’s actually a 1-hour drive away from central Melaka, it kind of doesn’t make much sense.

How to get to Melaka from Singapore

The best way to get to Melaka from Singapore is by bus in 4 hours for about $30 . 

Book your bus tickets from Singapore to Melaka on 12go.

How to get around Melaka

The easiest way to get around Melaka is on foot as most attractions are in the central part of the city, with only one or two requiring booking a taxi or Grab car.

How many days in Melaka is enough?

Two days is enough for most visitors to Melaka , but you can also visit Melaka on a day trip from Kuala Lumpur as it’s only a two-and-a-half-hour drive away.

Of course, you can also stay longer in Melaka (we stayed for almost a week as we took things slow), but usually, a few days is enough. We wanted to visit the Jonker Street Night Market more than once (we went three times), so it was perfect for us.

Prices in Melaka

Melaka is an affordable destination for most travelers, as the prices are much lower than in, for example, Kuala Lumpur . Of course, it also depends on the places you stay and eat at, but the prices seem pretty fair, even for upscale restaurants.

Is Melaka a safe destination?

Melaka, like Malaysia, is a very safe destination to visit , the people are welcoming, and the atmosphere is pleasing. And it’s one of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations, so that already says enough. 🙂

Is Melaka worth visiting?

Melaka is definitely worth visiting as a visit to Malaysia can’t be complete without visiting Melaka due to its fantastic food, street art, and bustling night market.

We hope we inspired you to visit Melaka!

Looking for more travel guides and travel inspiration?

• Kuala Lumpur
• Jonker Street Night Market
• Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
• Phi Phi Islands
• Saigon (HCMC)

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2 Responses

Thank you for the useful and inspiring information. We are on our way to Makaka right now, and after reading your blog I do look even more forward to spend some days in the city. Thanks!

Greetings from Kuala Lumpur.

You’re so so welcome!

We hope you have a great time. 🙂

Arijana & Matej

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Ostrich Trails

Because it is a walking bird and walking is what we do.

Malacca Walking Tour

Home » Asia » Malaysia » Malacca Walking Tour

By Vicky · Published Jun. 24th, 2022 · Updated Nov. 28th, 2022

When you buy through links highlighted with an asterisk (*) on this site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Stroll through beautiful, historical Malacca on this self-guided walking tour with map to visit all the famous sights. You can explore at a leisurely pace over two days or fit everything into a packed single day.

If you’re coming from Kuala Lumpur, check out this great Guided Tour of Malacca * where you’ll be picked up directly from your hotel.

Page Contents:

How to get to Malacca from Singapore

Malacca is on the western coast of Malaysia, a four- to five-hour bus ride from Singapore. We always book our tickets with 12GoAsia *, a handy website that shows you all the available buses. You can either book directly from Singapore * (most buses leave from SunCity), or you can get a cheaper ticket by booking from Johor Bahru *. The buses go to Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal , though some continue to a stop by Mahkota Medical Centre , much closer to the centre of Malacca.

With a bus directly from Singapore to Malacca, the bus drops you at the border to complete border formalities and picks you up again on the other side. If you take a bus from Johor Bahru to Malacca, you have to travel yourself to Johor Bahru Larkin Sentral Bus Terminal . The 170 bus from Singapore goes directly from the Malaysian side of the border to Larkin Sentral, so this is a convenient option.

How to get to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur

There are many buses from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca. 12GoAsia * is a convenient way to see all the options and book tickets. Most buses leave from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan on the south side of the city. With the light rail, it takes 15-30 minutes to get here from the centre of Kuala Lumpur. The trains take 15 minutes and leave every 15 minutes, arriving directly at Terminal Bersepadu Selatan. Getting a taxi here from the centre of Kuala Lumpur can take anywhere between 20 minutes and 1 hour, depending on traffic. The bus journey from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca itself takes about 2.5 hours.

If you’re coming from Kuala Lumpur, you can also go on a Guided Tour of Malacca *, picked up directly from your hotel in KL.

If you are visiting more places in Malaysia, it may be more convenient to hire a car for your holiday from Kuala Lumpur, check options on Rentalcars *.

Malacca Walking Tour Map

Get the route by downloading the .gpx or .kml file below. For navigation with Maps.me on your mobile phone, simply download the .kml file and open to add it to the Maps.me bookmarks.

Tips for Malacca Walking Tour

• We did this walk over two days , exploring first the eastern side of the river and then the western side of the river. You can fit everything into one day if needed, but it’s best to stay overnight *.
• Use the cooler mornings and afternoons to walk, and spend the hottest time of the day in a museum.
• At night time explore Jonker Street Night Market and check out the river – either on a stroll or on a Melaka River Cruise .
• There’s lots of cheap and tasty food in Malacca, and plenty of snacks to take away with you.
• For other walks and hikes in Malaysia see our Malaysia page .

Attractions on the Malacca Walking Tour

On this walking trail you’ll see the main sites and attractions of Malacca. We took two days to complete this walking tour, the first exploring the east of the river (6km) and the second day exploring the west (4km). Two days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Malacca , but if pressed you can fit everything into one day.

• Red Square (Dutch Square)
• Christ Church
• A’Famosa (Porta de Santiago)
• Sultanate Palace
• St Paul’s Church
• Bukit China
• Kampung Morten and Villa Sentosa
• Heeren Street
• Baba and Nyonya Museum
• Jonker Street
• Temple Street
• Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple
• Kampung Hulu Mosque
• Malacca River Cruise
• Flor de la Mar Maritime Museum
• Taming Sari Revolving Tower *

This is a self-guided walking tour. If you prefer to go on a guided tour, check out this fun Guided Tour of Malacca *.

Malacca Walking Tour Route

This walking trail starts from Red Square , also known as Dutch Square. It’s in the centre of town, just by the bridge across the Malacca River. We explored the east side of the river on our first day (6 km) , and the west side on our second day (4 km) . This walking tour returns to Red Square to cross the river in roughly the middle of the walk, so it’s an obvious place to split the walk in two.

1. Red Square (Dutch Square)

This square is the central focus point of Malacca, surrounded by famous buildings – mostly red and mostly built by the Dutch, from where the square gets its name. In the centre stands Tang Bang Swee Clocktower, with Christ Church, the Stadthuys and the main tourist information surrounding the square. There’s a cafe by the river where you can sample the famous local cendol . This is a cold, sweet dessert made of green rice flour jelly, palm sugar, coconut milk and red beans – a great pick-me-up.

2. Christ Church

On the east side of Dutch Square is a red church, Christ Church. This is a protestant church built by the Dutch on top of a Portuguese Catholic church around 1750. It’s now one of the most famous buildings in Malacca.

The red bricks used to build the church came all the way from the Netherlands – on their outward journeys Dutch trading ships needed extra weight, or ballast, to stabilize the ships in rough seas. Once in the East, they would get rid of the heavy bricks and load up on expensive trading goods such as spices, textiles, tea and coffee.

3. Stadthuys

Key Information: Open daily from 9-5 (closed Mondays). RM10 per foreign adult, discounts for locals and children. Allow 1-2 hours.

The elegant Stadthuys (City Hall) now contains the History & Ethnography Museum (see reviews *). It’s one of the best museums in Malacca and has exhibits about the Malay Sultanate, the colonial periods (Portuguese, Dutch, English) and how Malacca has changed over the years, as well as detailing the traditional Malay customs and the importance of trade to the city. There are free guided tours at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm in English.

Before you leave Red Square (Dutch Square), pop over the roundabout to check out Bastion Middleburg . The Dutch built this bastion, or fortress tower, when expanding the former Portuguese fortress. Originally there were nine bastions dotted around the fortress, but today only Middleburg Bastion remains. It’s been restored and there are now several cannons, with a nice view of the river below.

Directions: From Bastion Middleburg, cross the road and continue on Jalan Kota, a road to the left of a lovely white building.

4. Jalan Kota

This street is lined by many historic buildings, now mainly museums . There’s also a children’s playground on the right, together with a shiny real-life plane and train. Towards the end of the street you’ll also find the remains of Santiago Bastion on the right. There is a walkway over the top of these ruins, large laterite blocks of a former tower in the Portuguese Fortress. In its heyday the Fortress was on the edge of the ocean, but recent land reclamation projects mean it’s now far back from the shore. Opposite Santiago Bastion you can see the Proclamation of Independence Memorial , a fancy building with many flags outside that contains a small museum.

Directions: Follow Jalan Kota as it bends around the hill and you will see Porta de Santiago on your left.

History of Malacca (Melaka)

Malacca has been variously owned by the Portuguese, Dutch, British and now rightly by Malaysia. The different cultures bring a fantastic blend of architecture, food and cultural sights.

When the Portuguese conquered the city in 1511, they build a large fortress to guard the town from attacks by Malays and also other colonial powers prowling the region. The Dutch arrived and after a long siege, defeated the Portuguese in 1641 before enlarging the fortress. When the British took over Malacca in 1807 they destroyed the fortress to prevent it from ever falling into enemy hands. Only one gate, Porta de Santiago, was saved from destruction.

In 1957 Malaysia gained independence from the British. Malacca still retains many traces of its past as a great shipping port, melting pot of cultures and strategic location overlooking the Malacca Straits. You can explore the history of Malacca on this walking tour.

5. A’Famosa (Porta de Santiago)

This is the most impressive remaining part of the famous Portuguese Fortress (known by the Portuguese as A’Famosa) and one of the top sights in Malacca. At Porto de Santiago you can see many cannons and the old stone entranceway to the fortress. What you see is actually mainly a Dutch reconstruction, but it is still very old.

Directions: Look to the right and you’ll see the entrance to the Sultanate Palace Museum.

6. Sultanate Palace Museum

Key Information: Open daily from 9-5 (closed Mondays). RM5 per foreign adult, discounts for locals and children. Allow 30 mins to 1 hr.

Explore the history of Malacca and the sultanate, and learn about Hang Tuah (a prominent figure in Malay culture) in this wonderfully built museum, a reconstruction of the original Sultanate’s Palace, where the sultan lived in 1450 ( see reviews *). No nails were used to build this building! Don’t forget to explore the gardens which are rather lovely.

Directions: Head back and through Porta de Santiago, then up the steps behind to the church at the top of the hill.

7. St Paul’s Church

This partially ruined church at the top of the hill has great views over the city. St Paul’s Church was built in 1521 and is one of the oldest buildings in the country. You can go inside the stone walls and marvel at the old gravestones pilled up along the walls. It’s also a nice place to watch sunset.

Directions: Return a little way down the steps and take the first right along a small path. You’ll see the Dutch Graveyard on your right. At the road, turn right past the graveyard entrance and take the next left. Continue slightly left and straight on at the next junction all the way to Jalan Temenggong, where you turn right. Walk along this slightly busy road and you’ll soon reach a roundabout in front of Bukit China.

8. Bukit China

Slightly left from the roundabout is a memorial for Chinese killed in the Second World War by the Japanese, and next door on the left is a famous well . This well is called Perigi Hang Li Poh. You can go inside the whitewashed walls to see this old well from 1459. The Portuguese used it as their main drinking water for the city.

Next to the well on the left is Poh San Teng Temple . This is a small, historic Chinese temple set among some nice vegetation. Just to the left of the temple some red steps lead up into the main section of Bukit China. Bukit China is the largest Chinese cemetery outside of mainland China. From the top there are panoramic views over the city, and the earliest graves are from the 17th century.

After walking up the steps, head left at the path junction. Continue straight on and around to the viewpoint at the top of the hill where there’s one special grave and the trees have been cleared so you have views over the surroundings. After admiring the views, head down and back into the city.

Directions: Once back near Poh San Teng Temple, cross over the main road and onto the quiet street Jalan Bukit China. Bend left around the corner and then right on Jalan Temenggong. Take the next right on Jalan Bendahara.

Jalan Bendahara is also known as Little India. You’ll see that a lot of the shops sell Indian goods and there are some Indian decorations.

Directions: Continue walking up Jalan Bendahara.

After a while you’ll see St Peter’s Church on your right. This is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Malaysia, from 1710.

Directions: At St Peter’s Church turn left towards the river, and cross the bridge you see a short distance to the right.

9. Kampung Morten and Villa Sentosa

On the inside bend of the meander in the river is Kampung Morten, a more traditional Malay-style village and a living museum. From the bridge you’ll see Villa Sentosa on the left, next to the river. This house, which is sometimes open to the public, is from the 1920s and you can go on guided tours to see the inside, see reviews *. As you walk left along the riverbank, you’ll see many other traditional buildings in Kampung Morten, including a nice mosque.

Directions: Continue walking along the riverbank, out of the Kampung.

On your left, on the opposite side of the river, you’ll see the Shore Sky Tower, the tallest building in Malacca. If you want to visit the rooftop * for panoramic views over the rest of the city, cross over the bridge, else continue walking on the same side.

Directions: At the Old Bus Station Bridge, an elegant covered bridge over the river, take the bridge across the river. Then continue walking down the by the river.

As you approach the centre of town, you’ll see a church near the banks of the river. This is the Church of St Francis Xavier , from 1849, and based on Montpellier cathedral in southern France.

Directions: Continue walking past the church and you’ll soon be back at Red Square (Dutch Square) in the centre of Malacca.

We ended our first day here , saving the next points of interest in Chinatown, on the west bank of the river, for the following day.

Directions: To reach point 10 from Red Square, cross over the bridge, turn left then take the first right.

10. Heeren Street Malacca

Heeren Street (Gentleman Street in Dutch) used to be known as Millionaire’s Row. Wealthy Chinese Peranakan traders built their large mansions here in the last century. Many in the community traded in rubber, tin or shipping industries. Many of the houses on this street are quite ornate. The Chee Ancestral Mansion further up Heeren street is the most striking example of an old Peranakan house from a very wealthy clan. Almost opposite this mansion is the Eng Choon Association Clan House , with a very ornate doorway.

Directions: Walk up Heeren Street.

11. Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum

Key Information: Open Fri, Sat, Sun 10-12:30 and 2-5. RM16 per adult. Allow 30 mins to 1 hr.

The Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum (see Tripadvisor reviews *) is a traditional Peranakan townhouse complete with the original furnishings and has an exhibit about Peranakan Culture in Malacca. There are some lovely antiques inside and you get given a brochure explaining the different items and rooms.

A short distance further up Jonker Street is Malaqa House (open 10am-6pm, see reviews *). This is similar to the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum, but cheaper to enter and lots of the items inside are for sale.

Directions: 500 metres after the start of Heeren Street, turn right on Jalan Kubu at a triangular intersection. Take the first right after 100 metres, opposite the nice green and white Malay-style building.

12. Jonker Street Malacca

You’ll see a large sign across the road saying Jonker Street. This is perhaps the most famous street in Malacca, the perfect place to buy souvenirs and food. Speciality food you can find in Malacca includes gulu melaka (a type of palm sugar), pineapple tarts, and dodols ( a palm-sugar toffee-like treat). Many of the buildings lining the street are original shophouses, many of which are grand and brightly painted.

Jonker Walk Night Market

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings there’s a night market on Jonker Street , starting around 6pm and going on until late. The road is closed to traffic and there are many street stalls, many selling food, some selling souvenirs and handicrafts. It’s very popular and makes for a great evening activity.

Directions: Walk all the way down Jonker Street until just before the bridge. Turn left and first left again onto Temple Street.

13. Temple Street

As its name suggests, there are many temples on Temple Street. Malacca, being a trading port, naturally attracted people from different parts of the globe, and they brought with them their different religions.

As you walk up Temple Street you’ll pass San Duo Temple on your left, followed by Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple (one of the oldest Hindu Temples in Malaysia, people worshipped here since the 1780s), then Kampung Kling Mosque . This mosque is a blend of architecture – Chinese, Malay, Hindu and European. You can see that the mosque’s minaret is fairly similar to a Chinese Pagoda.

From Temple Street you can make a short detour to Hang Jebat Mausoleum , a collection of Malay graves and the potential resting point of Hang Jebat, the legendary Malay hero. To see these graves, turn right off Temple street just after San Duo Temple. You’ll also see quite a bit of street art around here.

14. Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple

Towards the end of Temple Street on the left, is Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple. This temple is the oldest Chinese Temple in Malaysia, dating from the 17th century. It’s one of the most famous sights of Malacca and is often busy with worshippers. You can visit generally within daylight hours.

Opposite Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple you’ll see another interesting temple, Xiang Lin Si Temple , and Munshi Abdullah House , a traditional wooden Malay kampung (village) house.

Directions: Head back down Temple Street a short way and turn left just before the mosque. Continue slightly left at the junction and you’ll see Kampung Hulu Mosque on your left.

15. Kampung Hulu Mosque

This mosque is the oldest in Malacca. It was built around 1728, when the Dutch ruled Malacca, and was located in Hulu fishing village, on the edge of the river. It was designed and financed by a Chinese Muslim man, with elements of architecture from all over the region.

Directions: Once past the mosque take the first right to the riverside and head right along the banks of the river. Continue all the way to the bridge in the centre of town. Cross the bridge and return to the riverbank, now on the opposite side.

16. Malacca River Cruise

While walking along the river, you’ll soon come to the Melaka River Cruise Boarding Point. Here you can book a 45-minute cruise along the river, see reviews on Tripadvisor *. There are also cruises at nighttime when you can check out the city lights.

Directions: Continue along the river and you’ll see the large wooden boat, the Flor de la Mar, on your right. The ticket office is on the lefthand side by the road.

17. Flor de la Mar Maritime Museum

Key Information: Open daily from 9-5 (closed Mondays). RM12 per foreign adult, discounts for locals and children. Allow 1 – 2 hours if you visit all the museums (the Flor de la Mar ship, the Royal Malaysian Navy Museum and the Samudera Museum). See reviews *.

The Flor de la Mar (flower of the sea) was a 16th-century Portuguese carrack (a large trading ship), wrecked by a large storm in 1511. The ship sank off Sumatra full of incredible amounts of treasure, and the search for her continues to this day.

The replica ship in Malacca now contains a small museum, with many much smaller replica ships and some history of trading in the region. The other museums you can enter with the same ticket are not as interesting: the Samudera Museum is extremely dated, and the Malaysian Navy Museum mainly just has detailed information about the Navy.

Directions: If you head around the corner past the Malaysian Navy Museum, you’ll see the tall narrow tower of Taming Sari Revolving Tower and the ticket office just next to the road.

18. Taming Sari Revolving Tower *

The Taming Sari Revolving Tower * has great views from the top, at 110 metres high. You stand in a revolving capsule, which rises to the top and then rotates before descending and the whole experience lasts 7 minutes.

This is the last stop on the Malacca walking tour. There are some other worthwhile sights in Malacca, detailed below, though these are further away and you need to take a Grab taxi to see them.

Other attractions in Malacca

Prison museum.

This slightly niche but interesting museum details the history of the prison system in Malaysia, see reviews *. It’s about 2.5 km east of the centre of town, a 5-10 minute taxi ride.

Malacca Zoo & A’Famosa Waterpark

Visiting Malacca Zoo * or a trip to A’Famosa Waterpark * are both very popular activities to do while in Malacca. They’re both slightly out of town, with the zoo 30 minutes and the waterpark 1 hour’s drive from the centre of town.

Floating Mosque of Malacca

The Floating Mosque of Malacca, or Melaka Straits Mosque, is 3.5 km south of the centre of town and a 10-minute taxi ride. It’s a lovely location for the mosque, which seems to be floating on the water, and it’s especially photogenic at sunrise or nighttime when it’s lit up.

St Johns Fort

Near the Prison Museum, St Johns Fort is a small Portuguese Fort on top of low hill, built in the 18th century. There’s a good view from here, several cannons, and the fort walls are still fairly intact.

Bear Hill (Bukit Beruang)

For a short hike and amazing views over the town, hike up Bear Hill. The walk starts 7 km north of the town centre, so take a Grab. It takes about 15 minutes to walk to the peak, and there are several other longer jungle trekking trails available here too. It’s a great place from which to watch the sunset over the ocean.

Where to Stay in Malacca?

There are many budget to luxury accommodation options in Malacca. We stayed in a budget hotel roughly 750 metres from Red Square. We stayed in OYO Good2Stay hotel *. It was fairly cheap, plus close to the centre of town and also close to the bus station to Singapore. If you want to push the boat out, stay in a Luxury Beachfront Villa * just west of town.

What to eat in Malacca?

Chicken rice balls are a speciality of Malacca and there are many restaurants selling them. There’s also a lot of Peranakan, or Nyonya food , which has both Malay and Chinese influences. Fish-head curry is a famous, though perhaps not overly appealing, example.

Cendol is a tasty and interesting dish to try – a cold dessert that contains rice jelly, coconut milk, red beans and palm sugar. I’m a big fan. Popiah , or spring rolls, are great to try here, as is sugar cane juice , or a goat soup called sup kambing. Roti kok is a local hard bread (or roti), and rice wine flavoured cocktails are another interesting flavour to try.

I hope you enjoyed this free walking tour of Malacca. If you want to explore other great Malaysian cities, check out the Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru Walking Trail – more than just cheap shopping!

FAQS – Malacca Walking Trail

Malacca is known for its rich culture and historic colonial buildings. It’s one of the top tourist destinations in Malaysia.

Melaka is now the official name of this city. Malacca is the older, anglicized spelling, and is still very commonly used. Melaka, or Malacca, is a type of tree, and the city was named after this tree, which used to grow at this location.

Two days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Malacca, but if pressed you can fit everything into one day.

To get to Malacca from Singapore, either drive or take a bus. You can find buses either directly from Singapore or from Johor Bahru on the bus comparison website, 12GoAsia *.

The best things to do are explore Dutch Square (also known as Red Square), which includes historic Christ Church and the Stadthuys Museum. Nearby on the hill is St Peter’s Church, with Porto Santiago (the remaining part of A’Famosa Fortress) on the other side. Chinatown on the west of the river, especially Jonker Street, is also a must-see in Malacca.

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

23 Mar 2023

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

18 Best Places To Visit In Malacca

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

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

1. Malacca River

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

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

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

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

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2. Alor Gajah

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 8 Most Popular Beach Resorts In Malaysia

4. Ayer Keroh

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

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

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

5. Masjid Tanah

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

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

6. Melaka Straits Mosque

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

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

7. Jasin Hot Springs

Image Source

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

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

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

8. Tanjung Kling

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

9. Pulau Besar

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

10. Pulau Upeh

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

11. Red Square

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

12. St. Paul’s Church

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

13. Malacca Jonker Street

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

14. Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

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

15. Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

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

16. Melaka Wonderland Theme Park

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

17. Freeport A’Famosa Outlet Village

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

18. The Shore Sky Tower

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Malacca

Where can I go at night in Malacca?

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

What is Malacca known for?

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

What is there to do in Melaka for free?

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

How far is Melaka from KL?

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

How do I get from Singapore to Malacca?

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

What is the tourist season in Malacca?

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

Where should I go for 2 days in Malaysia?

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

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