Melaka

On this page

Melaka (also spelled Malacca) was one of the great trading ports of Southeast Asia. The Portuguese, Dutch and British all ruled it at different times, and each left something behind. Today its old town shares UNESCO World Heritage status with George Town in Penang.

It’s an easy trip from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, and works as a weekend away.

Why go

History you can walk through. Colonial buildings, old churches, Chinese temples and mosques, all close together.
Peranakan (Baba-Nyonya) culture. The mixed Chinese-Malay heritage shows up in the architecture and especially the food.
Compact. You can see the highlights in a day or two.

What to do

The Dutch Square and St Paul’s Hill

Start at the red buildings of the Stadthuys and Christ Church, then climb St Paul’s Hill to the ruined church at the top. On the other side, A Famosa’s Porta de Santiago gate is what’s left of the Portuguese fort.

Jonker Street

The main street of Chinatown, lined with shophouses, antique shops and cafés. On weekend nights it turns into a busy night market with street food and souvenirs.

Melaka River cruise

A short boat ride along the river past murals, old warehouses and the Kampung Morten village. Good in the evening when the lights come on.

Peranakan houses

Visit a restored Baba-Nyonya house to see how wealthy Peranakan families lived. The detail in the woodwork and tiles is incredible.

What to eat

Dish	What it is
Chicken rice balls	Hainanese chicken rice, but the rice is shaped into balls
Nyonya laksa	Rich, coconut-curry noodle soup
Ayam pongteh	Peranakan chicken stew with fermented soybean and gula Melaka
Cendol with gula Melaka	Melaka’s palm sugar makes its cendol a must
Satay celup	Skewers dipped in a pot of hot peanut sauce

Getting there and around

From Kuala Lumpur: About two hours by bus or car. Buses run often from TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan).
From Singapore: About four hours by bus, depending on the border.
Getting around: The old town is walkable. Grab is cheap for anything further. You’ll also see heavily decorated trishaws, which are fun but mostly for show.

Where to stay

Stay in or near the old town so you can walk to Jonker Street and the river. Weekend prices go up and rooms fill fast, so book early for Friday and Saturday nights.

Compare hotels in Melaka

When to go

Hot and humid all year. Go for a weekend if you want the night market, or midweek if you want it quieter.