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"12 Amazing Things to Do in Malacca: A Complete Travel Guide"

Writer's picture: Roman OnillonRoman Onillon
Jan 215 min read

Malacca (or Melaka), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a vibrant city that blends history, culture, and modern attractions. Known for its rich colonial past, iconic landmarks, and delicious food, Malacca offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you're here for a day trip or a weekend getaway, this guide will take you through the top 12 things to do in Malacca that you simply can’t miss!



 


1. Visit the A Famosa Fort


Address: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 78000 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: Free

Built in 1511 by the Portuguese, A Famosa Fort is one of the oldest European architectural structures in Southeast Asia. Although much of it has been destroyed, the iconic Porta de Santiago gate remains. It’s a must-visit spot for history buffs and those seeking an excellent backdrop for photos. Surrounding the area, you’ll also find information boards detailing the fort’s significance during the colonial era
Melaka

Built in 1511 by the Portuguese, A Famosa Fort is one of the oldest European architectural structures in Southeast Asia. Although much of it has been destroyed, the iconic Porta de Santiago gate remains. It’s a must-visit spot for history buffs and those seeking an excellent backdrop for photos. Surrounding the area, you’ll also find information boards detailing the fort’s significance during the colonial era




 


2. Explore St. Paul’s Hill and Church


Address: Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: Free

Take a short but steep climb to St. Paul’s Hill and discover the ruins of St. Paul’s Church, originally built in 1521 by Portuguese colonists. The site is home to old tombstones and relics of a bygone era, and the hilltop offers spectacular panoramic views of Malacca’s skyline. This historic spot is an ideal blend of history and natural beauty, perfect for an afternoon visit.
Explore St. Paul’s Hill and Church


Take a short but steep climb to St. Paul’s Hill and discover the ruins of St. Paul’s Church, originally built in 1521 by Portuguese colonists. The site is home to old tombstones and relics of a bygone era, and the hilltop offers spectacular panoramic views of Malacca’s skyline. This historic spot is an ideal blend of history and natural beauty, perfect for an afternoon visit.





 


3. Walk Down Jonker Street


Address: Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: Free

Jonker Street is the bustling heart of Malacca’s Chinatown, famous for its vibrant night market every Friday and Saturday. During the market, the street is alive with vendors selling everything from street food to antiques and handmade crafts. Try local delicacies like chicken rice balls, coconut shakes, and durian cendol while exploring the lively street packed with shops and cultural charm.
Walk Down Jonker Street

Jonker Street is the bustling heart of Malacca’s Chinatown, famous for its vibrant night market every Friday and Saturday. During the market, the street is alive with vendors selling everything from street food to antiques and handmade crafts. Try local delicacies like chicken rice balls, coconut shakes, and durian cendol while exploring the lively street packed with shops and cultural charm.





4. Cruise Along the Malacca River


Address: Jalan Laksamana, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: RM 25 (Adult), RM 15 (Child)

Experience Malacca’s beauty from the water by taking a river cruise. The ride offers a scenic tour of colorful murals, quaint cafes, and historic bridges that line the riverbanks. The cruise lasts about 45 minutes and is especially enchanting during the evening when the river is illuminated with vibrant lights. It’s a relaxing way to explore the city’s charm from a different perspective.
Cruise Along the Malacca River

Experience Malacca’s beauty from the water by taking a river cruise. The ride offers a scenic tour of colorful murals, quaint cafes, and historic bridges that line the riverbanks. The cruise lasts about 45 minutes and is especially enchanting during the evening when the river is illuminated with vibrant lights. It’s a relaxing way to explore the city’s charm from a different perspective.



 


5. Admire the Red Square (Dutch Square)


Address: Jalan Gereja, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: Free

Dutch Square, or the Red Square, is one of Malacca’s most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by bright red colonial buildings like the Stadthuys and Christ Church, this square exudes charm and historical significance. The area is also home to a lovely fountain and trishaws decorated with colorful themes that you can ride for a tour around the city. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos!
Admire the Red Square (Dutch Square)

Dutch Square, or the Red Square, is one of Malacca’s most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by bright red colonial buildings like the Stadthuys and Christ Church, this square exudes charm and historical significance. The area is also home to a lovely fountain and trishaws decorated with colorful themes that you can ride for a tour around the city. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos!






6. Visit the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum


Address: 48 & 50 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: RM 16 (Adult), RM 11 (Child)

Step into the fascinating world of Peranakan culture at the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum. This well-preserved townhouse features antique furniture, intricate décor, and artifacts that showcase the lifestyle of the Peranakan (Straits Chinese) community. Guided tours provide detailed insights into their customs, traditions, and daily lives, making it an enriching cultural experience.
Visit the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

Step into the fascinating world of Peranakan culture at the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum. This well-preserved townhouse features antique furniture, intricate décor, and artifacts that showcase the lifestyle of the Peranakan (Straits Chinese) community. Guided tours provide detailed insights into their customs, traditions, and daily lives, making it an enriching cultural experience.



 


7. Climb Up the Malacca Straits Mosque


Address: Jalan Pulau Melaka 8, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: Free

Situated on a man-made island, the Malacca Straits Mosque appears to float on water during high tide. Its stunning Islamic architecture, complete with intricate calligraphy and stained glass, makes it a breathtaking sight. Visit in the late afternoon to witness the mosque glow beautifully under the setting sun. This serene spot is perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
Climb Up the Malacca Straits Mosque

Situated on a man-made island, the Malacca Straits Mosque appears to float on water during high tide. Its stunning Islamic architecture, complete with intricate calligraphy and stained glass, makes it a breathtaking sight. Visit in the late afternoon to witness the mosque glow beautifully under the setting sun. This serene spot is perfect for photography and quiet reflection.




8. Explore Cheng Hoon Teng Temple


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

Entrance Fee: Free

As the oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia, Cheng Hoon Teng is a masterpiece of Southern Chinese architecture. The temple, dedicated to Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist practices, features intricate carvings, detailed roof tiles, and serene prayer halls. Visitors can learn about the rich cultural heritage while marveling at the temple's beauty.
Explore Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

As the oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia, Cheng Hoon Teng is a masterpiece of Southern Chinese architecture. The temple, dedicated to Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist practices, features intricate carvings, detailed roof tiles, and serene prayer halls. Visitors can learn about the rich cultural heritage while marveling at the temple's beauty.





9. Discover History at the Maritime Museum


Address: Jalan Quayside, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: RM 10 (Adult), RM 6 (Child)

Housed inside a replica of the Portuguese ship Flor de la Mar, the Maritime Museum tells the story of Malacca’s role as a thriving port city during the spice trade era. The museum is packed with maritime artifacts, historical maps, and models of ancient ships. It’s an educational and engaging stop for history enthusiasts and families.
Discover History at the Maritime Museum

Housed inside a replica of the Portuguese ship Flor de la Mar, the Maritime Museum tells the story of Malacca’s role as a thriving port city during the spice trade era. The museum is packed with maritime artifacts, historical maps, and models of ancient ships. It’s an educational and engaging stop for history enthusiasts and families.




 


10. Taste Local Delicacies at Restoran Capitol Satay


Address: 41 Lorong Bukit Cina, Kampung Bukit China, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: Varies by order

A food lover’s paradise, Restoran Capitol Satay is famous for its satay celup, where skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables are dipped into a communal pot of bubbling peanut sauce. The flavorful experience is both unique and interactive, making it a must-try when in Malacca. Be prepared to queue, as it’s a popular spot!
Taste Local Delicacies at Restoran Capitol Satay

A food lover’s paradise, Restoran Capitol Satay is famous for its satay celup, where skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables are dipped into a communal pot of bubbling peanut sauce. The flavorful experience is both unique and interactive, making it a must-try when in Malacca. Be prepared to queue, as it’s a popular spot!



 


11. Visit the Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum


Address: Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: RM 5 (Adult), RM 2 (Child)

This wooden replica of a Malay Sultan's palace is a beautifully constructed museum showcasing Malacca’s royal history and Malay culture. The exhibits include traditional costumes, weaponry, and replicas of royal artifacts. Wander through the stunning gardens outside for a complete royal experience.
Visit the Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum

This wooden replica of a Malay Sultan's palace is a beautifully constructed museum showcasing Malacca’s royal history and Malay culture. The exhibits include traditional costumes, weaponry, and replicas of royal artifacts. Wander through the stunning gardens outside for a complete royal experience.



 


12. Snap a Photo at the Melaka Sky Tower


Address: Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

Entrance Fee: RM 23 (Adult), RM 15 (Child)


For breathtaking panoramic views of Malacca, head to the Sky Tower. Located atop a shopping mall, the observation deck lets you admire the city’s skyline, historic landmarks, and even the Straits of Malacca. It’s a perfect spot for those who love capturing epic cityscape photos.
Snap a Photo at the Melaka Sky Tower

For breathtaking panoramic views of Malacca, head to the Sky Tower. Located atop a shopping mall, the observation deck lets you admire the city’s skyline, historic landmarks, and even the Straits of Malacca. It’s a perfect spot for those who love capturing epic cityscape photos.




 

Conclusion: Malacca is a destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and fun. Whether you’re a foodie, history enthusiast, or simply looking for Instagram-worthy spots, this city has it all. Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local culture and try the delicious food while exploring its rich heritage. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the charm of Malacca today!



 

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