Earlier this year, we set off on a three-week adventure across Southeast Asia, with Malaysia as our first stop. We explored the green Kuala Lumpur, swam in the turquoise waters of Langkawi, and then found ourselves craving a visit to a place that is a little bit more steeped in history. We had three days to spare and a growing appetite for culture, flavor, and that chaos only Southeast Asia can offer.
Malacca — Melaka in Malay — is a place located just under 2 hours from the capital by car, but it delivers all of the above big time. It’s a cultural mash-up like no other — centuries of customs, religions, food traditions, and people. Navigating such a rich and varied location can be quite hard, so if you’re wondering what to do in this place, keep reading — because I’m about to give you my personal take on the best things to do in Malacca (Malaysia) in 2025!
Article contents
- Things you need to know before visiting Malacca
- Day 1 — riverside, square, museum, and church
- Day 2 — observation deck, cemetery, church, museum, and a night market
- Day 3 — some museums and temples
- Where to stay in Malacca?
- Activities you shouldn’t miss while here
- Where to eat in Malacca and what to try?
- How to get to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur?
- Best time to visit
Things you need to know before visiting Malacca in Malaysia
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Planning a Malacca, Malaysia itinerary? First things first then — you must know that Malacca is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This means it’s a cultural treasure chest, and well worth your time.
- This city is one of the earliest European colonies in Southeast Asia. I won’t bore you with a Wikipedia rundown, so here’s the short version: The town was founded in the 15th century, and within a hundred years, the Portuguese had already moved in. After that came the Dutch, then the British — and the impact of all three is visible from the moment you step into the city center.
Sometimes you genuinely forget you’re in the heart of Asia — in Malacca, Catholic churches rise among fortress ruins, lovely colonial streets hide Portuguese bakeries, and single-story buildings from another era still line the roads. When night falls and the lanterns and string lights flicker on, Malacca becomes even more charming.
Malacca is a small city and very walkable, too, so if you’re wondering how many days is enough for Malacca, I’d say three is the perfect amount of time to explore it without feeling rushed.
Pro tip: Try to visit over a weekend so you can catch the famous night market (more on this further down).
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Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Malacca:
- Currency & cash tips
The official currency in Malacca is Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). 1 MYR equals $0,24. Bring cash as many small shops, market stalls, and even some guesthouses (those will usually warn you in advance) don’t take cards.
- Transportation
As I’ve already mentioned, Malacca is super walkable, but Grab (local version of Uber) is also cheap and available all around the city. Scooter rentals are an option, but honestly, we walked almost everywhere and didn’t feel like we missed out.
- Language
Malay is the official language in Malaysia, but English is widely spoken — honestly, better than in many other Southeast Asian countries in my experience.
- Main website for all things entertainment
As I’m going to write about places that sometimes need a ticket to enter, I’ll warn you ahead that widely known platforms like GetYourGuide are actually less known here. All Asia use Klook.com for literally EVERYTHING: data, entry tickets, transfers, tours.
- Beaches… or lack thereof
A lot of travelers assume that since Malacca’s on the coast, there must be gorgeous beaches nearby. There aren’t! There’s no real beachfront in the city, and no scenic promenade where you can lounge with a view. The closest beaches — Klebang Beach, Pantai Kundur, and Tanjung Keling — are 10 to 20 km from the center. They’re okay for a seaside picnic or a sunset stroll, but not really for swimming. Some have jellyfish issues, and none of them are what you’d call paradise beaches: More so a local weekend hangout than a tropical getaway.
Now that the important and a tad boring details are out of the way, it’s time to get to the fun part: Our 3 days in Malacca itinerary.
Ideally, I advise you to arrive in Malacca on a Friday or Saturday morning, stay for two nights, giving yourself three full days in the city. I’ve spread the must-see spots over those three days according to location, so you can explore on foot without calling a Grab every five minutes. If you follow this Melaka itinerary, you might only need a ride a couple of times.
Day 1
Your first day in Malacca should hit all the legendary city destinations without feeling too overwhelming right out of the gate. That’s why I’ve picked what I consider to be equally low-key (you can control the amount of energy you exert in each of these places) and the most visually pleasing locations for you to explore after you’ve dropped your bags off at the hotel.
Get ready to see a giant ship, spinning city views, and last remnants of Malacca’s once prominent structures!
Melaka Riverside
If Malacca had a heart, it would be the river. This is the city’s main tourist attraction, and for good reason. It’s lined with perfectly manicured flower beds in some parts, crossed by colorful bridges in others, and overall flanked by an endless stretch of cozy riverside cafes.
You’ll find everything here: Stylish bars and coffee shops, all with a front-row seat to the water. And what a view! When the sun goes down, the river comes alive with music, glowing lanterns turn on, and the whole promenade turns into a shiny fairytale.
You can take a river cruise (read on to find out the details — many say that it’s one of best things to do in Malacca) but don’t skip the walk. Stroll the riverside, cross the quirky little bridges, and keep an eye out for monitor lizards basking in the sun. Yes, seriously — giant lizards, just hanging out on the rocks like it’s no big deal.
Entrance fee: Totally free
Dutch Square (Red Square)
If you’ve searched for places to see in Malacca online, the iconic picture of the historic center of town — a cluster of crimson-red buildings — was bound to pop up more than a few times on your screen. Known as the Dutch Square (or Red Square), it features:
- the Dutch Stadthuys (city hall),
- Christ Church,
- and Melaka Clock Tower (also known as the Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower)
All of the buildings listed here were originally white, but the British governor had them painted in a deep, almost burgundy red in 1911. Or was it the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland?
You might want to know that Stadthuys, built in the 17th-century, is one of the oldest Dutch structures in the East and now houses the History and Ethnography Museum. Despite the name of the Square, some of the landmarks here feel a bit more British than Dutch. For example, there’s also a fountain dedicated to Queen Victoria plopped right in the middle of the square. Oh, and there’re giant “I Love Melaka” letters at the edge of the square, attracting an endless line of tourists striking poses for the perfect photo op.
And now, for something truly Malaccan: You can find the wildest trishaws (pedal-powered vehicles that can transport a passenger or two) you’ll ever see in the square. These aren’t your average tuk-tuks. Each one is a mobile art installation, decked out in stuffed animals, LED lights, and blasting music. Marvel, Pokemon, Hello Kitty, My Little Pony — name your poison (fandom), there’s probably a trishaw for it. At night, they light up like electric unicorns and ride in packs. It’s ridiculous, hilarious, and somehow the picture perfectly fits the city’s vibe.
Stadthuys Museum opening hours: Tue-Sun: 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Entrance fee: 20 MYR for an adult / 10 MYR for a child
Flor de la Mar Maritime Museum
You cannot miss this one — literally. It’s a giant Portuguese galleon, docked in the middle of town like a pirate ship that took a wrong turn!
This isn’t a real ship, but a full-scale replica of the Flor de la Mar, which sank off the coast of Malacca while carrying treasure. Now it’s a maritime museum, and honestly, a pretty great one. You can simply walk the decks or explore the museum inside the ship and learn about the city’s seafaring history. Your ticket also gets you into other two parts of the museum.
The entire complex includes three parts:
- Flor de la Mar itself
- Naval Museum — this part focuses on Malaysia’s modern navy with uniforms, weapons, and even a helicopter in the atrium
- Muzium Samudera — the space that covers the non-navy-centric topics like ocean life, fishing boats, and traditional coastal living
Side note: You can get an excellent view of the ship (and the entire city) from the nearby Taming Sari Tower — 26 MYR well spent.
Flor de la Mar opening hours: Tue-Sun: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Entrance fee: 12 MYR for an adult / 6 MYR for a child; free admission for children under 6
St. Paul’s Church and A Famosa Fort
Time to head uphill. At the top of St. Paul’s Hill sits one of Malacca’s most iconic historic sites — the ruins of the 16th-century St. Paul’s Church. Right nearby is a surviving fragment of the Portuguese A Famosa Fort, built in 1511. Not much of both original structures have survived, but there’s plenty here to spark your imagination.
St. Paul’s Church had a shape-shifting history — each time a new colonial power took over the city, the church got repurposed. At one point, it even served as a weapons storage facility. Even if you’re not a history buff, this place is still worth the visit. Its location on the hill offers one of the rare free viewpoints in Malacca, giving you a look at the surrounding city.
Just a few steps down from the church is all that remains of the A Famosa fortress: A single stone gate. That’s it. A tiny, weathered gateway from a once-mighty fort. It’s surrounded by cannons polished to a shine by the hands of countless tourists. There’s something kind of poetic about it, actually.
Entrance fee: Totally free
Taming Sari Tower (Malacca Tower)
Wrap up your day with a sunset view — head to the Taming Sari Tower. Okay, it’s not the Petronas Towers, but it’s still pretty fun.
This is one of Malacca’s most popular attractions: A rotating observation deck that slowly lifts you 85 meters into the air on top of a 110-meter-high column. You’ll get a panoramic view of the city and (according to the official site) seven whole minutes of inspiration. I didn’t time it, but it felt about right.
It’s kind of like a giant amusement park ride for grown-ups — surprisingly charming and not at all scary.
Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. on weekdays; 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. on weekend
Entrance fee: 26 MYR for an adult / 18 MYR for a child (both go up by 5 MYR in case you want to visit at sunset or nighttime)
Book your tickets via Klook.com >>
Day 2
The second day in Malacca has a little bit of everything: From quaint cemetery walks to a night street market and a river cruise.
I think that you’ll start the day late — after all, simple travel exhaustion will catch up to you. That’s why my first location doesn’t open until noon, but the last activity is best enjoyed after sundown. Either way, get ready to witness Malacca in an entirely new light!
The Shore Sky Tower
The view from St. Paul’s Hill, haven’t been to the Sky Tower
We ended our first day in Malacca with an observation deck — and will kick off the second one the same way. Different tower, though. And this one’s a bit higher.
The Shore Sky Tower has a glass-floored observation deck on its rooftop. Located on the 43rd floor, this spot gives you a full view of the city and beyond (assuming you’ve got good eyesight or camera zoom).
Honestly, the entire experience turned out to be way cooler than I expected. Standing on a clear glass floor, staring straight down onto the streets below… yeah, your knees might get a little wobbly, but the view is unforgettable.
Oh, and there’s a decent shopping mall right around the corner, so if you’re longing for something more than the Jonker Street night market in Malacca, make sure to drop by!
Opening hours: 3:00 p.m. – 11 p.m. on weekdays; 12:00 p.m. – 11 p.m. on weekend
Entrance fee: 25–35 MYR for an adult / 18–25 MYR for a child (aged 3 to 12 years old)
Book your tickets via Klook.com >>
Bukit Cina
photo from Wikimedia
This hill is home to one of the largest Chinese cemeteries outside of China. It takes a little effort to get here from the center of Malacca, but I found the trip totally worth it.
Your usual “Best things to do in Malacca” lists rarely include Bukit Cina, and that’s exactly why I liked it. It’s peaceful, green, and serene — like a breath of fresh air in the middle of a heat-heavy day packed with busy attractions.
- I even saw some locals jogging along the paths. Interestingly, Bukit Cina turned out to be a prime running spot for Malacca residents.
Up there are the Melaka Warrior Monument (dedicated to the Chinese victims of the Japanese occupation) and the Sultan’s Well — a historical water well sometimes thought of as a wishing well.
Villa Sentosa
A living museum tucked into Kampung Morten (an old Malay village), Villa Sentosa is a nostalgic family home that opens its doors to visitors.
A friendly family member welcomed us with sweet tea and shared stories about their lineage and this beautifully preserved house. It’s a charming stop that pairs perfectly with a stroll around Kampung Morten, where you’ll find traditional Malay houses and a few humble cafes.
Entrance fee: Free (donations are appreciated)
St. Francis Xavier Church
Built in 1856 by French missionaries on the site of a former Portuguese church, this cathedral is one of the largest Catholic buildings in Malaysia. The twin spires are striking, especially when birds circle above them in the early evening. The church is just as beautiful inside — peaceful and welcoming. Services are still held regularly, and you can attend them even as a tourist.
Side note: The church has been closed for restoration since 2023, with reopening planned for mid-2025 (however, I found no updates confirming if it’s open yet).
While you’re here, swing by the Sin Hiap Hin bar a few minutes away — a century (!) old bar that is still going strong. It’s an extremely authentic spot with charming owners.
Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum
photo from Wikimedia
A wooden replica of the Sultan’s palace, this museum is a must for history lovers. It’s packed with exhibits and artifacts from the time of the Malacca Sultanate. You’ll walk through rooms representing the royal chambers, admire traditional costumes, weapons, and ceremonial gifts. It’s a wonderful museum that doesn’t just teach you about the past — it lets you really feel the spirit of those long-gone days when the state was thriving.
Outside, there’s a small but pleasant garden that adds to the charm. The entrance fee isn’t high, and I recommend setting aside at least an hour to fully explore it.
Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Entrance fee: 20 MYR for an adult / 10 MYR for a child
Melaka River Cruise
Hop on a boat in the late afternoon and enjoy a 45-minute cruise down the Malacca River, which winds through the heart of the old town. You’ll get unique views of Malacca’s eclectic mix of warehouses, murals, colonial architecture, and bright houses from the river.
I recommend the sunset cruise when the city begins to glow — it’s romantic, nostalgic, and a little magical. As an old Chinese man told me, “This is the love hour.”
Melaka river cruise ticket prices: On average, 33 MYR for adults, 23 MYR for children
Jonker Street Night Market
On weekends, Jonker Street turns into a night market. It’s loud and very chaotic. You’ll find all sorts of goodies here — local sweets, street food (mostly Chinese), handmade crafts, clothes, accessories, perfume, and random knick-knacks from watches to headphones. It’s crowded at the entrance but thins out toward the far end, where you’ll find fewer people and better deals.
Opening hours: Friday to Sunday, 6 p.m. to midnight
Day 3
The previous two days of our Malacca itinerary were chock-full of exciting adventures and wonderful sights. So, I decided to keep the third (and last day of our Malacca guide) pretty chill: There will be no engaging tours or activities, just a walk through the more laid-back version of the street market, a museum, and a few quaint mosques and churches.
Jonker Street by day
Yesterday we checked out Jonker Street during the night market madness — today, it’s time to enjoy it without the crowds and chaos (or, at least, with less chaos).
This street is the heart of Malacca’s Chinatown, filled with a kaleidoscope of historical buildings, lovely little shops, and small temples. It’s where colonial architecture meets Chinese flair in a burst of color and character. The deeper you go, the more charming it becomes. The crowds fade, the side alleys get more interesting, and cafes become cheaper and more inviting.
Side note: The Daily Fix Cafe was my go-to place for a cup of excellent coffee. Didn’t try their food because of the huge lines, but a regular latte for takeaway was always top-notch.
Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum
This beautifully restored townhouse gives you a vivid glimpse into the lives of the Straits Chinese (also known as Peranakan) elite.
With a guided tour (absolutely worth it), you’ll hear stories about one prominent family and their traditions under Dutch and British colonial rule. The Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum is rich with antiques, ornate furniture, and elegant tableware. Tickets include a guidebook with a map of the house. Make sure to remember they don’t work Tuesdays!
Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. on weekdays; 10:00 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. on weekend
Entrance fee: 25 MYR for an adult / 15 MYR for a child
Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia. It’s rather small but richly decorated with incense coils, red lanterns, and intricate wooden carvings. Nestled right into the residential neighborhood, it’s an important piece of the cultural and religious mosaic that defines Malacca. The temple architecture, paired with the color palette of dark wood gilded with gold, reflects both Buddhist devotion and Chinese artistic tradition. I personally loved how serene it felt and how kind the people there were.
Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 7:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Entrance: Free
Kampung Kling Mosque
This charming mosque, built by Indian Muslim traders in the 18th century, is one of the most architecturally unique in the region. Here, Islamic, Chinese, and Hindu influences blend together — the roof tiles are Chinese, the minaret looks more like a pagoda, and inside you’ll find carpets and a peaceful inner courtyard with a fountain. It’s still a functioning mosque, and its historical layers are visible in every corner.
The mosque is situated in the Jalan Tukang Emas, also known as Harmony Street because of its proximity to the the oldest existing Hindu temple in Malaysia and the aforementioned Cheng Hoon Teng Temple.
Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 5:00 a.m. – 9:15 p.m.
Entrance: Free
Melaka Straits Mosque (Masjid Selat Melaka)
Zipping away from the city center, there’s Melaka Straits Mosque, perched on a man-made island, that appears to float during high tide — a truly mesmerizing sight. It’s a rather new attraction in Malacca. Interestingly, the mosque’s 30-meter minaret doubles as a lighthouse, guiding ships through the Strait of Malacca at night.
I recommend taking a Grab to reach it. This area feels somewhat deserted, with the mosque standing as the sole attraction amidst a landscape of abandoned buildings. The surroundings suggest a commercial project that didn’t quite take off.
Before entering the Melaka Straits Mosque, visitors are provided with modest attire, as appropriate dress is required. However, I discovered a more photogenic spot slightly off the main path, which, unsurprisingly, was also popular among other tourists. I highly recommend visiting the rocky shoreline near the mosque at sunset. It truly is a beautiful experience and a great way to end your Malacca adventure.
Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. on weekdays; 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. on weekend (mind the prayer times, when tourists are not permitted to enter the mosque)
Entrance: Free
Where to stay in Malacca?
Now that you’ve dipped your toes into our ultimate Malacca itinerary, I hope you’re already picturing your own dream trip. And of course, the big question when planning you adventure is: Where to stay in Malacca? Well, I’ve got you!
My advice is to live in the city center — anywhere near Jonker Street or the Taming Sari Tower is ideal. This area is rich with cafes, attractions, and is within walking distance to shopping centers with great food courts. Yes, hotels here might be a bit pricier than in the outskirts, but you’ll save on taxi rides — and more importantly, you’ll save time. Time you can spend wandering into one more hidden antique shop or shoving in one more delicious Portuguese tart into your mouth.
Here’re my top-5 hotels in Malacca, Malaysia:
- 3* Hotel Puri Melaka (from $60 a night) — a beautifully restored historic house turned boutique hotel. The architecture reflects traditional Peranakan style. With numerous interesting interior details, it’s a pleasure to be inside. It’s very close to the heart of the city, with great breakfast providing both Asian and Western options.
- Our choice: 3* MIO Boutique Hotel (from $50 per night) — I stayed here during my first time in Malacca and returned when I visited Malaysia again, which speaks volumes. Perfectly located right by the river (with a small convenience shop in the same building!), it’s a pleasant walk to the historic center. The rooms are spacious, reasonably priced, and the breakfast is delightful with lots of — mostly Asian — options.
- 5* DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka (from $90 a night) — a five-star hotel with breathtaking views, awesome service AND a panoramic pool for less than a hundred bucks? You heard me right. The rooms are modern, stylish and truly huge. The breakfast area and lobby are on the 12th floor, with the pool on the 13th. The only downside (easily solved with downloading Grab, though) — it’s about a 20-minute walk to the city center.
- 5* Casa del Rio Melaka (from $200 a night) — this is one of the more expensive hotel options in Malacca — a beautifully designed colonial-style hotel with matching furniture and ambiance. Casa del Rio is super aesthetic: Perfect if you’re into places with an old movie vibe. Most rooms have a river view and there’s a river cruise pier literally steps from the entrance, and the hotel staff will happily help arrange everything for you.
- LEJU 79 樂居 Heritage House (from $115 a night) — this house (yep, you get the whole place to yourself — a perfect way to feel like a local) is cozy and thoughtfully designed. One of the best parts? It’s right in the center of the old town, yet on a quiet street away from tourist crowds. If you’re staying a bit longer, you’ll appreciate amenities like a washing machine, detergent, ironing board, and iron. Oh, and the host is super kind, responsive, and genuinely thoughtful.
Activities you shouldn’t miss while in Malacca
Though the attractions I’ve listed above are more than enough to fill your Malacca itinerary with, sometimes a unique activity is all that you need to keep yourself continuously enchanted with a new place. Consider booking a tour or an outing if you know that museums and mosques tend to bore you when overdone in one day.
These are the things to do in Malacca that I would consider experiencing the next time I’m in the city:
Historical Walking Tour
If you’re coming to Malacca for more than just Insta-worthy shots (although you’ll definitely get plenty of those), consider diving deeper into the city’s rich history and cultural fusion. I highly recommend booking a walking tour with a local guide to truly understand the city’s past and immerse yourself in its culture. Totally worth it if you want the full, layered history rather than just snapping photos of nice buildings.
Side note: Historical tours usually last about 3-4 hours (and, as the name suggests, involve a fair amount of walking, so wear comfy shoes).
Actually, some of these tours don’t even require you to be in Malacca beforehand — there’re solid ones departing from Kuala Lumpur like this option on Klook.com. It’s perfect if you want to skip the hassle of getting to Malacca yourself. Shared tours cost $40 per person (lunch included!).
A’Famosa Theme Park
Need a break from the heat or just craving something a little wild? Then this is one of the best things to do in Malacca if you’re tired of all the history — head over to A’Famosa Theme Park, where you can meet tigers, reptiles, monkeys, lemurs, and even a hippo.
After the Safari Wonderland, cool off at Water World with its twisty slides and refreshing pools for all ages. If you’re traveling with family, put A’Famosa Theme Park on your list! This combo of wildlife and water activities is one of the best things to do in Malacca with kids.
Opening hours:
- Safari Wonderland: 9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Wednesday to Monday)
- Water World: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on weekdays (closed on Tuesdays), 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on weekends & public holidays
Ticket prices:
- Safari Wonderland: 59 MYR for adults, 49 MYR for kids
- Water World: 49 MYR for adults, 39 MYR for kids
Book your tickets via Klook.com >>
Skytrex Melaka
If you think of yourself as more of a daredevil and are still on the hunt for something to do in Melaka for a day (granted that walking around its cozy little streets isn’t adventurous enough for you), then Skytrex Melaka is your choice!
Just remember that this outdoor adventure park is certainly not for the faint of heart. It offers an adrenaline-pumping sky-trekking experience with activities like the Skybike, UFO, and Tarzan Bungee Swing. For thrill-seekers, the park also offers night adventures — a rare option for this kind of activity. There are several different routes — from beginner to advanced — and you have to complete each one from start to finish.
First departure is at 9:00 a.m., last one at 3:00 p.m. daily.
Tickets:
- Beginner course: 70 MYR
- Advanced warrior: 90 MYR
Book Skytrex adventure in advance through the official website or via Klook.com to secure your spot — walk-ins risk being turned away.
Where to eat in Malacca and what to try? My picks
What is Melaka famous for apart from its rich history and culture? For being Malaysia’s gastronomic capital! Food here is delicious, diverse, and affordable. And here’s a big bonus for me: Most of it isn’t overly spicy.
The diversity is largely due to the country’s ethnic composition. About 22% of Malaysia’s population is Chinese, another 9% are Indian, so you get a ton of influence from both cuisines all over the country. On top of that, it’s pretty common to stumble across Japanese and Korean restaurants too.
We saw a few dishes here that we didn’t see anywhere else. One of the most impressive? A watermelon cocktail. And I don’t mean a cocktail with watermelon — I mean a cocktail IN a WHOLE watermelon. The vendor skillfully carves out the top, blends the inside right there with a mixer, sticks in a straw, and hands it to you.
But that’s just one example. You’ll find an overwhelming variety of dishes on nearly every corner in Malacca, so here are just a few highlights to give you a taste (pun fully intended) of what’s out there:
- Chicken Rice Balls — originally brought to Malaysia by the Chinese immigrants, this dish quickly became a local favorite and is now extremely popular here. The tender, moist rice balls soaked with chicken stock infused with garlic and ginger are typically paired with steamed or roasted chicken and chili sauce.
- Durian Puffs — these puffs are ubiquitous on Jonker Street. We ordered two puffs at 2,50 MYR each and while I personally couldn’t get past the smell (durian just isn’t my thing), my friend happily consumed both hers and mine.
- Portuguese Tarts — in Portugal, they’re called Pasteis de Belem. In Asia, they’re known as Egg Tarts. The two look similar, yet don’t really taste the same. Several locals told me that in Malacca, they actually make the real deal — Pasteis de Belem — following a traditional Portuguese recipe, not the Japanese-style egg tarts. I haven’t tried the originals in Portugal (yet!), so I had to take their word for it.
There’s also a delicious variety of these pastries with cream cheese available at the Hokkaido chain. They’ve got the classic ones (about 6 MYR), of course, but also a ton of wild variations… including one with durian. I grabbed it by accident and would not recommend. Unless you want your dessert to smell like regret, of course.
- Coconut Shake — fresh coconut juice, coconut pieces, and vanilla ice cream served in one delicious cup. An absolute must-try in Malacca, Malasyia. They’re sold all over Malacca, but the best ones — in my humble opinion — are made at the Coconut Shake Kampung Hulu right by the riverside.
- Kuih Keria — these puffs are ubiquitous on Jonker Street. We ordered two puffs at 2,50 MYR each and while I personally couldn’t get past the smell (durian just isn’t my thing), my friend happily consumed both hers and mine.
- Nasi Lemak — speaking of coconuts; if you haven’t tried this dish in the capital, it’s time to savor it in Malacca. Considered Malaysia’s national dish, nasi lemak is fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with peanuts, fried anchovies, and a boiled egg. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite local treats ever since I’d given it a try on Langkawi.
With such a variety of local delicacies to try, now it’s time to put together a list of great places to eat them while in Malacca:
📍 Geographer Cafe — a laid-back hangout with lots of greenery right in the heart of Melaka’s old town. We tried the chicken parmigiana (25 MYR) — melty cheese, super tender meat, totally hit the spot. My friend couldn’t stop raving about the house wine, and I totally understand her excitement. Despite being smack in the middle of Jonker Street, the prices were totally in line with other cafes in Malacca. And because it’s on a busy street corner, it’s a prime spot for some casual people-watching.
📍 Sin See Tai — this place is my pastry heaven. Great coffee, cozy vibes, and beautifully crafted pastries. The upstairs seating is perfect for relaxing with a book or catching up with a friend. And yes, the croissants are as good as you might’ve heard.
📍 Peranakan Place — consider visiting this place for an authentic Malacca experience. It offers you a real taste of the Nyonya culture and cuisine, a blend of Chinese and Malay influences. I highly recommend trying one of their platters, especially the Peranakan Platter. It combines several signature dishes: Sambal petai prawn (spicy prawns with chili paste and stink bean), grilled chicken, ju hu char (stir-fried yam bean with dried cuttlefish, served in lettuce wraps) and grilled fish. For just 30 MYR, it’s enough to feed two people.
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📍 Limau Limau Cafe — located by the Kampung Kling Mosque, it’s every vinyl-lover’s dream and one of the coziest places to eat in Malacca. The owners are incredibly warm and welcoming, and the interior has a certain artsy charm. The menu is full of homemade stuff like fresh bread, smoked bacon, and even homemade root beer. They’ve got a massive vinyl collection, too, and are always willing to chat about music.
How to get to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur?
The most popular way to get to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur is by bus. Buses leave from the massive Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) which is located a bit outside the city center but is easily accessible via the metro. The journey takes about two hours and costs 12–15 MYR.
There are buses going straight from the airport to Malacca, too. To catch a bus to Malacca from KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) head downstairs from the arrival hall to the bus terminal — just take the elevator near the taxi area. The airport has plenty of signs, and you’ll find your way just by following them. There are also direct buses back from Malacca to Kuala Lumpur Airport, which is super convenient if you’re heading straight to the airport.
Upon the arrival, you will notice that Malacca’s central bus terminal looks and feels like a market: You’ll see rows and rows of clothing, shoes, and backpacks, broken up by little stalls selling tea and sandwiches. The terminal itself is not exactly in the heart of the city, but it’s easy to get into town: Just grab a Grab for around 10 MYR.
Buses run in both directions every 30-60 minutes or so, so you don’t have to worry too much about schedules. However, I’d recommend getting your tickets in advance on 12GoAsia (I didn’t — and when I showed up at the terminal, my bus was already fully packed, so I had to wait an hour for the next available one).
Pro tip from experience: I’d actually suggest doing what I did on my first visit — come to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur and continue onward to Singapore. It’s a perfect midway stop between the two capitals. The ride from KL to Malacca takes around two hours, and from there to Singapore, it’s another three or four depending on the time you spend at customs. That way, if you want to visit both Malaysia and Singapore, you’ll conveniently break up what would otherwise be a long haul across half the country. Plus, you get to explore a city that feels completely different from both super modern capitals.
Best time to visit Malacca and Malaysia
Curious about the best time to visit Malacca, Malaysia? Avoid the Chinese New Year period (the second time I went to Malacca, it was right after Chinese New Year and the place was CROWDED. The beautiful red lanterns kind of made up for the chaos, but not entirely). Instead, go in any other period between December and March (high-season months) for better weather while avoiding traveling during the rainy season — roughly May to November. Same goes for the other parts of the country.
Personally, I’d say Malacca is one of the most charming small cities I’ve ever visited. It might not win awards for the world’s most picturesque or comfortable destination — it’s not the kind of place I felt like lingering in for a whole week — but there’s something undeniably special about it. So special, actually, that I came right back — I first visited Malacca two years ago and returned on my very next visit to Southeast Asia.
