Lago Travel

Top 11 Fun Things to Do in Malacca

Experience the charm of Malaysia’s most prominent historical site through these best things to do in Malacca!

Many people often think of far-off destinations like Europe, Australia, Korea, or China when travelling. However, they may overlook Malaysia, a fantastic destination for a quick trip that offers a blend of culture, history, and modern charm.

Which specific place is that in Malaysia, you ask? It’s Malacca, which we will introduce to you today. This city could be the perfect getaway as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

This Malaysian gem has just about everything for every type of traveller, from its rich colonial past to its bustling markets and stunning attractions – History buffs, foodies, adventure seekers, whatever you call yourself – we assure you that you will enjoy exploring the place without worrying about what things to do in Malacca!

Hop On to These 11 Best Things to Do in Malacca!

Stroll Through Jonker Street Night Market

As foodies first, there’s a reason why we place Jonker Street as the #1 item in this what to do in Melaka list! No trip to Malacca is complete without visiting this bustling spot.

By day, it’s a chill area filled with antique shops and cafes, but it transforms into a lively market at night. Feast on street food and local delicacies, shop for unique souvenirs and soak in the festive atmosphere. Don’t leave this street without trying the famous chicken rice balls and cendol!

Visit The Stadthuys at Dutch Square

Known as one of the oldest Dutch buildings in Southeast Asia, The Stadhuys is an iconic landmark in Malacca. Its bright red facade houses the History and Ethnography Museum, offering a fascinating look into Malacca’s past during colonization, apart from admiring the building’s architecture.

The surrounding Dutch Square is a lovely spot for photo-taking, thanks to picturesque fountains and colourful trishaws – a treat for Instagram fans!

Discover the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum

This private museum allows you to dive deeper into the Peranakan culture. It is a treasure trove of artefacts, from exquisite porcelain to traditional Baba and Nyonya clothing. There are guided tours that bring the history to life, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.

Explore the Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum

Want another museum place? Step back in time at the Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum!

This building is a wooden replica of the original 15th-century palace, showcasing the grandeur of the Malaccan Sultanate era. You can browse exhibits on royal regalia, traditional costumes and historical artefacts.

Take a Melaka River Cruise

Those who wish to experience the city from a unique perspective should try the Melaka River Cruise. Gliding along the river, you will pass vibrant murals, historic buildings and Malacca cafes. We recommend going for the particularly magical evening cruises with twinkling lights reflecting off the water – it’s a beautiful, relaxing way to see the city’s highlights!

Be Amazed by Encore Melaka

If you think you cannot be wowed anymore in the city, Encore Melaka at Impression City will make you think again. Encore Melaka is not just a show; we’d say it’s an unforgettable experience.

This state-of-the-art theatre presents a breathtaking 70-minute performance that combines traditional storytelling with cutting-edge technology, and the final product is truly a mesmerizing art form. You will be able to witness captivating dancing and stunning visuals atop its 360-degree rotating auditorium – Encore Melaka is a modern tribute to the city’s rich heritage that is not to be missed!

Take a Ride on the Menara Taming Sari

For more breathtaking views of Malacca, hop on the Menara Taming Sari. This revolving observation tower gives you a 360-degree view of Bandar Melaka, including landmarks like the Malacca River and the Strait of Malacca. This Taming Sari Tower is your next best spot to see the city from a unique angle above.

Climb Up St Paul’s Hill

Get a dose of history plus a panorama of Malacca by climbing up St Paul’s Hill. At the top, you’ll find the ruins of St Paul’s Church, which dates back to the 16th century. The peaceful surroundings and sweeping views make it a rewarding trip; this is also another popular photography spot.

Wander Around A Famosa

A Famosa, or Porta de Santiago, is one of Asia's oldest European architectural remains, which Malacca proudly houses. This Portuguese fortress is a significant historical site, which grants you another glimpse into the colonial period in Malacca. You can explore the ruins of the once-mighty fort and imagine its past as a busy military outpost. This is a must-go location for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Visit Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Among the many temples in Melaka, this stunning Chinese temple is the oldest functioning temple in Malaysia, a masterpiece of traditional Southern Chinese architecture. Cheng Hoon Teng Temple’s intricate carvings and serene atmosphere make it a zen spot to visit and learn about the history of the Chinese community in Malacca.

Unwind at Klebang Beach

Klebang Beach is more than just a coastal retreat – it’s a picturesque spot known for its unique white dunes that create a desert-like landscape, which explains why it quickly becomes a favourite spot for both locals and tourists for a quick beach getaway.

Just chill and unwind while walking along the shore leisurely, enjoy a picnic, or sip on the famous Klebang coconut shake. This beach is an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is also an excellent place for catching stunning sunsets, so be sure to ready your camera for it!

Best Shopping Spots in Malacca

Now, this is a section dedicated to shopping kakis! Malacca is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from traditional handmade crafts to trendy cultural fashion. Some of the must-visit shopping destinations in Melaka include:-

Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall:

A popular modern shopping complex among locals and tourists with many of your favourite international brands and local retailers selling Malaysian-made products like beautifully crafted batik and artisanal snacks. Cultural exhibitions and live performances are occasionally hosted here, so don’t miss checking out this place.

Mahkota Parade:

A mix of modern and traditional, Mahkota Parade is an excellent spot for family shopping. Alongside your usual retail stores, it features unique specialty shops offering local chocolates, traditional herbal remedies, and more, so this could be a good checkpoint from which to grab gifts. Its central location makes it an easy stop during your city tour.

The Shore Shopping Gallery:

Beyond its sleek building design, The Shore is home to premium boutiques and lifestyle stores. One highlight is the aquarium and rooftop Sky Deck, where you enjoy panoramic city views as you take a break from shopping, giving you that nice blend of entertainment with retail therapy.

How to Get to Melaka

Going to Malacca by car from Singapore typically takes about 3 to 4 hours’ drive, depending on the traffic. Drive along the North-South Expressway (NSE) and take the Ayer Keroh exit, which leads directly to Malacca’s city centre. Ensure you have a Touch ‘n Go card for tolls, and bring your passport for the border crossing.

The best option is to choose LAGO Travel’s curated tour packages and travel stress-free! These quick tours cover accommodation and transportation in Free-and-Easy mode, which gives you more time to enjoy Malacca’s beauty than worrying about the technical details.

LAGO Travel’s Malacca Tour Packages

2/3D Hatten Hotel

Stay in style at the luxurious Hatten Hotel, which is strategically located near Malacca’s key attractions, such as the Jonker Street Night Market, Baby and Nyonya Heritage Museum, and Stadhuys. Choose between a Deluxe Suite or a Junior Suite, and this package comes with complimentary breakfast and optional add-ons like city tours or spa treatments.

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2/3 Days Baba House Melaka Free and Easy Package

What better way to go with the cultural flow than staying at the charming Baba House to immerse yourself in the Peranakan culture? As a Free and Easy tour, you can plan your itinerary and explore Malacca at your own pace. Highlights include the hotel’s authentic Peranakan heritage design and the proximity to Jonker Street.

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2/3D ibis Hotel Malacca Free And Easy Package

Great for budget travellers, this 3D2N trip includes a comfy stay at ibis Hotel, known for its modern amenities and friendly service. Located within close walking distance of popular sites such as the Stadhuys at Dutch Square, A Famosa and even Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, this is a good choice for solo explorers and families.

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Muslim Tour 2D1N – Putrajaya & Malacca Tour

Feeling greedy and wanting to cover as many grounds as possible in a trip? Then this halal tour is for you!

This specially curated tour combines visits to Malacca’s top attractions like A' Famosa Portuguese Fortress, Jonker Street, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, St. Peter's Church and Malacca Museum, with a tour of Putrajaya, Malaysia’s administrative capital. You are in for a hassle-free journey with a knowledgeable guide and halal meals while ticking iconic landmarks like Putra Mosque and Malacca hotspots off your travel checklist.

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Let’s Travel to Malacca with LAGO Travel!

Malacca is a beautiful city that combines historical, modern and cultural elements in the best possible way. From indulging in local foods and adventuring into the heritage sites, there is no shortage of things to do in Malacca city here.

What’s more, with LAGO Travel’s free and easy Malacca tour packages at your disposal, planning a trip to this heritage city is a breeze. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and go on a wholesome trip to Malacca!