7 days in Melaka, Malaysia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Melaka, a charming UNESCO World Heritage city in Malaysia, boasts a rich history, striking architecture, and delightful gastronomy. With its harmonious blend of cultures, you’ll find diverse neighborhoods such as Chinatown, the Portuguese Settlement, and Jonker Street. Stroll down the Melaka River and witness the city’s remarkable murals and colorful buildings, or experience its vibrant night markets filled with tasty treats and unique treasures.
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Melaka
Affordable: Travelers on a budget will love Melaka’s cost-effective accommodations, food, and attractions.
Cultural diversity: The city’s historical sites and neighborhoods cater to history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.
Heat & Humidity: Melaka’s tropical climate can be sweltering, so be prepared for hot and humid conditions.
Best for: Those who enjoy exploring history, foodies, and bargain shoppers.
What to Bring with You
Pack light, breathable clothes to stay comfortable in Melaka’s tropical heat. Umbrellas and sunscreen are must-haves for sun protection. Don’t forget your comfortable walking shoes, as there’s plenty to explore on foot, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The best time to visit Melaka is between April and October during the dry season. Cooler temperatures and less rainfall make for ideal sightseeing conditions, although be prepared for occasional showers.
How to Get into Melaka
1. By bus: Frequent intercity buses connect Melaka to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and other major cities. Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal serves as the main hub.
2. By car: Renting a car is a flexible option for getting to Melaka from neighboring cities. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur or 3-4 hours from Singapore.
3. By train: While there’s no direct train to Melaka, you can take a train to Tampin (also known as Pulau Sebang) and then catch a taxi or bus to Melaka city center.
7 Day City Guide Trip in Melaka, Malaysia
Day 1 – Exploring the Dutch Square
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Dutch Square where you can admire the picturesque red buildings, including the Stadthuys and Christ Church. Take a stroll around the square, and soak up the unique blend of Dutch, British, and Portuguese architecture. After that, enjoy a delicious lunch at Capitol Satay Celup, where you can try the famous local dish, satay celup.
Day 2 – Getting a Taste of Culture
Embrace the local culture today. Start your morning with a visit to the Baba and Nyonya Peranakan Museum, where you can learn about the unique blend of Chinese and Malay culture. In the afternoon, take a cooking class at Limau Limau Kitchen, where you can learn how to make traditional dishes like laksa and nasi lemak, or head to Jonker Street for some souvenirs and street food.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Kuala Lumpur
Take a day trip to the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur, only a two-hour drive away. Visit the Petronas Twin Towers, the KL Tower, and the Batu Caves. End your day with a stroll through the vibrant neighbourhood of Bukit Bintang.
Day 4 – Exploring Nature
Take a scenic drive to the Sungai Sedim Recreational Forest, a nature reserve offering plenty of hiking trails, a canopy walk, and a thrilling zipline experience. After that, head to Pantai Kundur to relax on the beach and savour a seafood dinner.
Day 5 – Visit to the Melaka Zoo
Today is all about the animals! Head to the Melaka Zoo, where you can see a varied collection of animals, including tigers, elephants, and orangutans. After that, grab lunch at Restoran Seri Muara, famous for its delicious fish dishes.
Day 6 – Day Trip to Penang
Take a day trip to the historic island of Penang. Visit Fort Cornwallis, Kek Lok Si Temple, and the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. Wander around the Georgetown UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy some of the best street food in Malaysia.
Day 7 – A Relaxing Day in the City
Spend your last day relaxing in Melaka. Head to the Melaka River for a river cruise, or visit the Portuguese Settlement for a taste of unique Portuguese-Malay culture. End your day with a sunset view at the Melaka Straits Mosque.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Melaka, Malaysia
If you have already explored Melaka, you might want to visit the nearby cities of Kuala Lumpur or Penang. Kuala Lumpur offers several world-renowned landmarks, including the Petronas Twin Towers and the Batu Caves. Penang is famous for its street art, delicious street food, and colonial architecture. To get to Kuala Lumpur, you can take a bus or a train, and to reach Penang, you can take a bus or rent a car. Both destinations are around a 2-3 hour drive from Melaka.
