MELAKA FOR FIRST-TIMERS: ESSENTIAL TIPS AND TOP ATTRACTIONS
UNESCO World Heritage, this city is the perfect destination for a day trip from Kuala Lumpur, but if you want to enjoy your visit to the fullest it is essential to be fully prepared.
Melaka or Malacca, is also called the Venice of Asia, this is because the city is crossed and divided by a river and to get from one point to the other on the bank it is also possible to do so by water taxis, just like in Venice. But its European influence does not end there, it's evident the strong influence of the Dutch, English, and Portuguese, especially in its architecture. Most attractions are within walking distance between Jonker Walk and Red Square, which makes Melaka a great day trip destination.
GETTING TO MELAKA FROM KUALA LUMPUR:
The best way to get to Melaka, if you don't have a car, and don't want to spend too much renting a taxi, is to get there by bus; or you can also opt for an organized tour, but in this guide I will explain how to reach Melaka by bus.
If you depart from Kuala Lumpur, head to TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Seletan), easily reachable with Grab, once you get to the terminal head to the counter ticket. Normally the queue for the counter ticket is endless and you could risk not finding any more seats once your turn arrives. But KL is a modern city and everything is about comfort here, so as soon as you enter, head to the left where you will find ticket machines lined up where you can buy your ticket,
and don't worry if you don't see many people queuing, it's because many aren't actually familiar with them, I've had several locals approach me to ask me to help them. Buying the ticket from the machines is pretty easy, you just enter your departing and arrival terminal, your preferred time, and the seat, but remember to bring with you your passport as you'll need it to get the ticket, as well as cash, if you don't have any, there are ATMs inside the terminal to withdraw from. Tickets for most destinations, especially the most popular ones, sell out quickly, so I suggest you arrive in advance, or you can also opt to buy the ticket online. For the same reason as above, it is better to get the return ticket from TBS, you just follow the same procedure but in reverse.
I reached the terminal around 9:30 am, but all the seats were already sold out, and the only one I could find departed at noon, which is what I ended up taking.
Normally the trip from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, the buses are generally very comfortable and spacious, depending on the company, but in my case, if the departure journey was a breeze, I can't say the same for the return. Our bus ended up being two hours late and the traffic (which can be miserable in KL) turned out to be a nightmare. We were supposed to arrive in KL at 9 pm, but due to traffic jam we were only able to reach our apartment when it was 2 in the morning, but this is for another story and I guess is also part of the all experience about traveling.
My suggestion is once you get to Melaka Sentral, call Grab to take you near Jonker Walk.
WHAT TO DO AND SEE:
JONKER WALK:
Nestled in the heart of Melaka’s Chinatown, Jonker Walk (also known as Jonker Street) is an iconic destination that encapsulates the vibrant spirit of the city and is, in my opinion, the beating heart of the city. If you come here in the evening during the weekend, it transforms into a vibrant open-air night market, yet, it remains a perpetually busy and lively street, and, whether you're looking for good food, souvenirs, or a place to escape from the heat, this is the right place. You can spend several hours among its alleys, cafès, and shops, and if after walking you start to get hungry, Jonker Walk is a food lover’s paradise. Beyond the street food, the area is dotted with charming cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
JONKER WALK WORLD HERITAGE PARK:
Are you looking for a peaceful place to relax? This small park is the perfect place to take a relaxing stroll and relax in the shade on its benches.
Jonker Walk is more than just a street; it’s an experience. Whether you're savoring a delicious snack, picking up a unique souvenir, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Jonker Walk is sure to leave a lasting impression.
DISCOVER MELAKA'S STREET ART:
Melaka’s charm isn’t confined to its historical landmarks and culinary delights; it also boasts a vibrant street art scene that breathes life and color into the city. As you wander through the streets, you'll encounter an array of murals that tell stories of the city’s rich heritage, cultural diversity, and contemporary creativity. Most of the murals are located along the banks of the river so it is not difficult to find them. Each mural adds a splash of color to the cityscape and tells a story that connects the past with the present. So, take your time to explore, and snap some photos.
DUTCH SQUARE (RED SQUARE):
A visit to Melaka is not complete without visiting Dutch Square, also known as Red Square, located no more than 5 minute walk from Jonker Walk, it is a real melting pot of culture, architecture, and history, and from here it emerges the influence of the English and Portuguese who colonized this city in past centuries, thanks to the various buildings, footprint of their passage. With its red buildings, Dutch Square is a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture, making it an essential stop on your Melaka itinerary. The area is often bustling with activity, from street performances to colorful trishaws.
RIVER CRUISE:
One of the best ways to experience Melaka's unique blend of history, culture, and modernity is by taking a leisure cruise along the Melaka River. This scenic journey offers a fresh perspective on the city's landmarks, vibrant street art, and picturesque bridges, all while providing a relaxing and enjoyable outing for visitors of all ages. As you glide along the calm waters, you’ll get to see the city’s historic buildings, colorful murals, and lush greenery from a unique vantage point.
Tickets for the Melaka River Cruise can be purchased at the ticket counters near the boarding jetties.
***This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support!