Covering up Top 19 Things to Do in Malacca with the Best Experiences in the Historic City
Malacca, which is also called Melaka, is a symbol of Malaysia‘s long past and wide range of cultures. The Portuguese, Dutch, and British all left their mark on this beautiful city on the Malacca Strait, which also has a strong Peranakan community. There are many things to do and see in this city. There are lots of fun things to do in Malacca, from trying the city’s unique Peranakan food to learning about its rich cultural history and street art. Here is a hand-picked list of the 19 best things to do during your trip:
1. The Best Things to Do in Malacca: Cruise along the Malacca River:
You don’t have to look any further than the Malacca River to start a fun river trip. As you float along the calm water, you’ll feel like you’re back in time to when the river was a busy trade route that was very important to the economy of the area.
As you drive by sites like Kampung Morten today, you can still get a sense of how important they were in the past. Whether you choose a tour during the day or at night to see the city’s lights, the trip usually lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy Malacca’s charming atmosphere.
A river tour is more than just a way to see the sights; it’s also a way to learn about the city’s history. As you travel, knowledgeable guides will be with you and share interesting stories and historical facts that will help you learn more. So, if you want to see Malacca from a different angle, take a river cruise and let the gentle currents show you the city’s secret gems. It’s an exercise that will both relax you and teach you something new, so everyone who visits this beautiful Malaysian place should do it.
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2. Visit St Paul s Hill.
Malacca has a lot of history that you should learn about. Climbing to the top of St. Paul’s Hill is a great way to start. On top of this beautiful hill, you can see the historic ruins of St. Paul’s Church, which was built by Portuguese colonists in the 1600s. This famous spot gives you more than just stunning views of the city; it also gives you an interesting look into Malacca’s colonial past, making it one of the most important things in Malacca for both history buffs and intrepid travellers.
The building that became known as Saint Paul’s Church is an important part of Malacca’s past. It was first built in 1567 as a fortress, but after the Dutch siege of Malacca, it was turned into a church. While its original name, Our Lady of Annunciation, still rings true, this change marked the start of its religious importance. A Dutch cemetery is right next to the church.
The old tombstones of people who made the hard trip from the Netherlands to Malacca hundreds of years ago give visitors a chance to connect with the past. One has to climb a small hill to get to this historical site, but the effort is worth it because it gives you a glimpse into the past and beautiful views of the charming town. This is the perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage that defines Malacca. To get the most out of your time in this lively Malaysian city, make sure you include stops at St. Paul’s Hill and Saint Paul’s Church in your plans.
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3. Visit the Sultan Mansur Shah Palace.
If you want to learn more about Malacca’s history and culture, look for things to do there. Just go to the Sultanate house. It’s a beautiful copy of the wooden home that Sultan Mansur Shah owned when he was in charge of Malacca from 1456 to 1477. This beautiful building is now a museum that tells interesting stories about the royal history of Malacca. The Sultanate Palace is set in beautiful fields and is a great example of how skilled and creative Malay people can be.
One thing that makes this museum stand out is the amazing way it was built. Inside is another place, which is the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum in Melaka is a captivating reconstruction of the 15th-century palace of Sultan Mansur Shah. This museum offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Malay sultanate, showcasing traditional Malay architecture, cultural artefacts, and historical exhibits.
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4. Admire the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple.
Want to know what to do in Malacca? You don’t have to look any further than the Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple. It is the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia, having been built in the 1600s. This historic site is an important place of worship for the Buddhist Chinese people in Malacca, and it gives visitors a deep understanding of their culture and history. When you go, don’t forget to look at the amazing old writing that dates back to 1685. It shows how this holy place has been important for a long time. Also, don’t forget to honour the statue of Guanyin, the revered Goddess of Compassion. Her appearance makes the temple even more spiritually appealing.
Explore the Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple to become immersed in Malacca’s rich cultural mix. Learn more about the past of the Buddhist Chinese community as you walk through this amazing building. Whether you’re interested in history or spirituality, a trip to this holy place will be an unforgettable experience that will give you a glimpse into beliefs and customs that have been around for hundreds of years. This temple is a reminder of Malaysia’s rich cultural history.
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5. the Menara Taming Sari Revolving Tower.
Add the Menara Taming Sari Revolving Tower to your list of places in Malacca if you want to see the city from a view that can’t be beaten. It’s an easy-to-spot landmark that stands 110 meters tall and offers a unique view of the city and its beautiful shoreline. This tower, which can hold up to 66 people at once, provides an exciting experience that is hard to miss. It takes about seven minutes to ride the attraction and get to the top. From there, you have five minutes to enjoy the amazing views before going back down to earth.
From the top of the tower, you can see a beautiful view of Malacca from above. As far as the eye can see, the cityscape is huge and stretches out to meet the blue sea of the coast. Whether you’re interested in history or nature, the Taming Sari Revolving Tower will give you a memorable experience. It combines modern engineering with Malacca’s timeless beauty.
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6. Go shopping at Jonker Walk Night Market.
The lively Jonker Walk Night Market is located on Jalan Hang Jebat, which is the beating heart of Chinatown. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Malacca, a lovely city. This busy market comes to life every Friday through Sunday as the sun goes down, offering a treasure trove of shopping treats and culinary adventures. Its busy streets are lined with a wide range of goods, from traditional gifts to one-of-a-kind antiques and handmade goods made by locals. All of them are beseeching you to bargain for the best deals.
But Jonker Walk isn’t just for shopping; it’s also a great place for foodies who want to try some of Malaysia’s best dishes. Amidst the many stands, tempting smells fill the air, making you want to try a wide range of tasty street food. You can eat soft pancakes and crispy waffles, or you can enjoy the taste of chicken wrapped in rice balls. Cendol is a delicious treat made of jelly and coconut milk that people with a sweet tooth should try.
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7. Take a trishaw ride.
A ride in a trishaw through the beautiful scenery is one of the most popular things to do. Take a relaxed tour of the city’s highlights on one of the trishaws, which are decorated in a way that reminds you of Penang’s lively transportation culture. In Malacca, as in other Malaysian cities, riding a trishaw gives you a unique view that lets you take in the city’s past and culture.
The trishaws, which are often decorated with complex patterns that show off the drivers’ individual tastes, are a fun way to get to know Malacca in a way that most people don’t. This slow way to get around lets you find secret gems and go through areas that aren’t on the main tourist routes. A lot of the trishaw drivers are also excited tour guides who are happy to share stories about Malacca’s interesting past and exciting present.
8. Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.
The Baba & Nonya Heritage Museum should be at the top of your list of things to do if you want to learn about the city’s history. You can learn a lot about the Peranakan culture, which is also called Straits Chinese culture, at this museum. The Peranakans came from China and settled in Malaysia. They mixed their traditional practices with Malay ones to create their own unique way of life. The museum is in a well-kept Baba & Nonya home and is a real link to the past. It is decorated with beautiful antiques that take you back to Malacca’s bygone era.
A guided tour of the residence adds to your knowledge of the Peranakans’ long and interesting past. It gives you a full picture of their way of life, their traditions, and how their culture has changed over time. As people walk through this museum’s halls, they can imagine how people used to live in Malacca and experience the mix of Chinese and Malay influences that made up the Peranakan culture.
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9. Visit the Melaka Zoo.
Want to know what to do in Malacca? You might want to go to the Melaka Zoo, which is in Ayer Keroh, not far from town. Many people in Malaysia think this is the best zoo in the country, even though it is the second biggest.
The zoo is set in a forest, and its cages are carefully made to look like the natural homes of the animals that live there. There is a lot to see and do here, from native species to well-known species from around the world. Take your time walking around the beautiful lake in the middle of the complex. It’s a peaceful place to spend the afternoon. For a one-of-a-kind experience, choose a special night visit and stay at the zoo until 11 pm to see the animals that come out at night.
Melaka Zoo is a great place for people of all ages, so make the most of your family trip there. Immerse yourself in enclosures that were built to look like the natural habitats of different species. Everyone can enjoy a fun day at Melaka Zoo, whether they are interested in animals or just want to spend time with friends and family.
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10. Discover Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock 75200
Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, located in the heart of Malacca, is a street steeped in history and culture. It offers a blend of colonial architecture and local heritage, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
11. 78000 Alor Gajah
Alor Gajah, a quaint town in the state of Malacca, Malaysia, is an area steeped in historical significance and cultural diversity. Located approximately 24 kilometers north of Malacca City, the town’s postal code, 78000 Alor Gajah, signifies its unique identity within the region. Alor Gajah is known for its serene landscapes, traditional Malay villages, and historical sites that reflect its rich past.
12. Visit the Shore Sky Tower
The Shore Sky Tower offers panoramic views of Malacca and beyond. At 163 meters high, it provides a breathtaking perspective of the cityscape and the Malacca Strait, making it a must-visit for those who love stunning vistas.
13. Indulge in Vanilla Ice Cream at Jonker Street
Jonker Street is not only famous for its night market but also for its delectable treats. Indulge in a scoop of vanilla ice cream as you explore the vibrant market, enjoying the bustling atmosphere and unique finds.
14. Explore Mamee Jonker House
Mamee Jonker House is a fun and interactive experience for families. Learn about the history of the famous Mamee noodles, create your own noodle cup, and enjoy various Mamee-themed activities
16. Visit the Floating Mosque
The Malacca Straits Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque, is a stunning architectural marvel built on stilts above the sea. Its unique design and serene location make it a beautiful place to visit and photograph.
17. Have Fun at the Water Theme Park
End your trip with a splash at one of Malacca’s water theme parks. Whether it’s the A’Famosa Water Theme Park or the Melaka Wonderland Theme Park, you’re sure to have a fun-filled day with family and friends.
18. Local Food
Malacca’s culinary scene is a delightful reflection of its rich cultural tapestry. The city offers a gastronomic journey that blends Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan influences. Must-try dishes include the famous Chicken Rice Balls, where the traditional Hainanese chicken rice is served in unique, bite-sized portions. Another local favourite is Satay Celup, a fondue-style meal where skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables are dipped into a rich, spicy peanut sauce.
19. Christ Church Melaka
Christ Church Melaka is an iconic landmark that beautifully encapsulates the city’s Dutch colonial heritage. Built between 1741 and 1753, this vibrant red church is the oldest functioning Protestant church in Malaysia. Its striking exterior, complete with a large white cross, is a prominent feature in Malacca’s historic district. Inside, the church exudes a simple yet elegant charm, with original Dutch tombstones embedded in the floor and a 200-year-old handmade pew. Historical artefacts, including a brass Bible stand and a replica of the Dutch Bible, add to the church’s rich historical narrative.
In conclusion, Malacca is a treasure trove of activities for tourists wanting to explore Malaysia’s history and culture. From trying Peranakan food to visiting historical buildings, taking guided tours, or just soaking up the city’s lively atmosphere, Malacca promises an unforgettable journey full of discovery and adventure
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