Melaka: One Day Itinerary

Our Malaysian getaway comprised of two locations only, Kuala Lumpur and Melaka. We spent two days in the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur. The city made us run with it. It is a fast active and vibrant city. We loved it! On the third day, we wanted to relax a little and spend a few hours in a quieter place. With just 24 hours left to our departure flight, the little town of Melaka that smoothly blends history into the modern world was our choice to unwind away from the crowd.

Here is what kept us busy while we were in Melaka… a cheat sheet to help you plan a day in Melaka.

Malay bride and groom getting a photoshoot at Melaka

Cruise on Melaka River

The Melaka river cruise runs from 9 am to 11:30 pm along the Melaka river. Whether you are here for a day or for a few hours, you must not miss this activity. We went for the 9 pm river cruise on a rainy evening and enjoyed the pitter patter raindrops. The night cruise was particularly interesting as little bridges across the Melaka river light up. The entire town twinkles with little lights and their reflection in the river makes the night cruise a preferable choice.

Cruising on the Melaka river

The Stadthuys

Any and every post on Melaka will surely display this bright red building – Stadthuys. Stadthuys was the city hall when Melaka was a Dutch colony and was built in 1650 as the office of the Dutch Governor and Deputy Governor. In 1825, Melaka became a British colony who added a school in the vicinity.

Church at Stadthuys

The Stadthuys transports you from Asia to Europe, as it would have been a few centuries ago. If you are in Melaka, do spend a couple of hours at the Stadthuys and its complex. If history does not fancy you, we would still recommend spending a few minutes at the small garden of the Stadthuys, even if to stop and smell the flowers! Or maybe, take a ride on one of the bright trishwas – ‘Hello Kitty’ and ‘Spongebob’ seem to be the in thing these days.

Spongebob on the streets of Melaka!

A’Famosa Fort and St Paul Church

The A’Famosa fort was built in the 1600’s. As of date, there really isn’t much left of it except for the Santiago Gate. We would add the fort to the list of must see places in Melaka. However, we would recommend that you trek beyond the Fort uphill to St Paul’s Church. The church offers some great views of the entire town and the sea beyond. Melaka is always hot and humid – carry a bottle of water along with you and wear comfortable footwear.

View from St Paul’s Church

Jonker Street Night Market

Strolling along the Jonker Street Night Market was a feast for the senses… great street food, interesting sights, lingering aroma and shopping excursions. Held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, the market is worthy of your time if you are a seasoned traveller keen on seeing real Malaysia. Click here to read our post on the Jonker Street Night Market.

Colourful slippers at Jonker Street Night Market

Other things to do

There is the famous Baba Nonya Museum in Melaka which showcases the Chinese and Islamic culture that have resulted in Melaka’s unique culture. There is Nonya food in Melaka for the foodies, though not much for the vegetarians. If the Jonker Street Night Market isn’t enough for you and you wish you grab a drink in the more conventional way, there is a Hard Rock Cafe with a selection of beverages and food. The town also has a bird and butterfly park to keep the tiny tots busy.

At A’Famosa Fort

Is there any other attraction that you recommend in Melaka? Do let us know so that we can add it to our list.

Our trip to Melaka was made possible by Casa-del-Rio, the lovely resort by the Melaka river… our home away from home. Click here to read our review of the hotel.

Any other queries… send me an e-mail! Glad to help!

Let the travellers’ tribe grow!