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
- Alor Gajah
- Klebang
- Ayer Keroh
- Masjid Tanah
- Melaka Straits Mosque
- Jasin Hot Springs
- Tanjung Kling
- Pulau Besar
- Pulau Upeh
- Red Square
- 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
3. Klebang
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
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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If you wish to indulge in some breathtaking 360° bird’s eye views of the city of Malacca, then you must get to the 43 storied Sky Tower that will let you see as far as 50 kilometers into the distance in all directions from a great height. And the best part – it’s super easy to reach this spot since it is located just a short walk away from the UNESCO World Heritage district beside the riverbank that faces the delightful Morten village.
Further Read: Malaysia Honeymoon Guide To Answer All Your Travel Queries
Now that you know all about this gem called Malacca, book a trip to Malaysia at the earliest and share your offbeat experience with the world. These places will provide you with a unique and awesome experience on your trip. Make sure to stop by as many places to visit in Malacca that we’ve shortlisted as you can. You will have the time of your life here amidst beautiful sunsets and scenic views of the beach.
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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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