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The Only 3-Day Road Trip from Singapore to Malacca Guide You’ll Ever Need!
- How long is the drive from Singapore to Malacca?
- Day 1: Arrival at Malacca and Heritage Tour
- Visit the colonial Dutch Square
- Learn about Malacca’s history at the History and Ethnography Museum (Stadthuys)
- Visit the Portuguese fort A Famosa
- Visit the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum
- Day 2: Chinatown and River Cruise
- Explore the vibrant Jonker Walk
- Learn about Chinese Malay history at Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum
- Visit the ornate Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
- Go on a river cruise with Melaka River Cruise
- Day 3: Scenic Views and Departure from Malacca
- Enjoy 360-degree views from the Taming Sari Tower
- Get up close and personal with a colonial ship at Muzium Samudera
- Where to Eat in Malacca
- The Daily Fix Cafe
- The Baboon House
- Hoe Kee Chicken Rice Balls
- Wild Coriander Cafe
- Bikini Toppings
- Where to Stay in Malacca
- Rosa Malacca
- The Majestic Malacca
- The Rubber Escape
When I think about Malacca, I imagine colonial squares, age-old relics, traditional homes, and a vibrant food scene. It’s been a while since I was last there, but the memories of the heritage city are still ingrained in my head.
Luckily, it’s only a 3-hour drive from Singapore, and if I ever get the biggest urge to step out of the city’s cosmopolitan bubble, Malacca is the first thing that pops into my head.
So, if you’re thinking about doing the same, here’s a detailed 3-day road trip from Singapore to Malacca guide so you don’t have to build an itinerary from scratch. Happy travels!
How long is the drive from Singapore to Malacca?
The drive from Singapore to Malacca usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, factoring in traffic conditions and the time required to cross the border between Singapore and Malaysia.
Day 1: Arrival at Malacca and Heritage Tour
Visit the colonial Dutch Square
From gratiamikha
Address: Banda Hilir, 75200
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Average Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Pricing: Free
Also known as the Red Square, this colonial area of Malacca is one of the most recognisable attractions in the city. In fact, if you’re staying near the area, it’ll probably be the first thing that will catch your eye once you start exploring the city.
This square was built during the Dutch colonial era from 1641 to 1845. Many buildings here are beautifully preserved and painted in bright red, such as the Malacca Clock Tower, Victoria’s Fountain, and Christ Church Melaka.
You can spend a few minutes taking postcard-worthy photos around the square and against the backdrop of the colonial buildings. This is an essential tourist stop in the historic city!
Tips:
- If your feet are feeling tired from walking around the square, you can hail a trishaw and ask the driver to take you around the block. There are also some trishaw drivers that offer tours for a small fee.
- The square is a really popular tourist destination, so expect a lot of tourists all day. I suggest arriving at Malacca as early as you can to catch the square just a bit less crowded between 7:00 am and 9:00 am.
Learn about Malacca’s history at the History and Ethnography Museum (Stadthuys)
From melakacity
Address: Jalan Kota, Banda Hilir, The Stadthuys
Contact Details: +60 6282 6526
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Pricing:
Adults: RM 2.00
Children and Students: RM 0.50
The history of Stadthuys dates back to the early 1600s, making it one of the oldest Dutch buildings in the East Indies. The building used to be the seat of government during the colonial era, but it now stands as a massive museum.
The building was turned into the History and Ethnography Museum in 1982 and houses a rich collection of artworks, and artefacts dating back 400 years ago. The museum complex also houses the Melaka Literature Museum and the Education Museum.
In my opinion, this is the best place to learn everything about the Dutch colonial period, the history of Malacca in the spice trade, and the culture of its people over the years.
Tips:
- The admission fee to the Stadthuys includes admission to the other museums within the complex. You don’t have to visit the other museums if you’re short on time, but as much as possible, take your time reading and viewing the artefacts inside the Stadthuys.
- The museum has a lot of artefacts that are displayed as is (such as furniture), so be careful when bringing your children inside. Don’t touch or use flash photography when roaming around, as these relics are very very old.
- Some areas of the museum require shoe removal. Be prepared to walk barefoot!
Visit the Portuguese fort A Famosa
From shanti.says
Address: Jln Parameswara, Banda Hilir
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Average Duration: 15 minutes
Pricing: Free
Not only was Malacca colonised by the Dutch, but it was greatly influenced by Portuguese merchants and explorers who set foot in the city during the spice trade. One of the most prominent Portuguese remnants from that time is the A Famosa fortress.
This fortress was built in 1511, making it nearly a century older than the Stadthuys and one of the oldest surviving European structures in Asia.
Much of the fortress’ surrounding structures are in ruin, but the area is well-maintained to provide tourists with great backdrops for photos. Don’t miss out on a few minutes to visit this place!
Tips:
- A Famosa features an uphill climb to what used to be a church during the colonial era. You’ll need to climb up 90-ish steps to get to the top. Only the grounds near the entrance are wheelchair-friendly.
- At the top of the hill where the church used to be lies tombstones of Portuguese settlers, missionaries, and merchants. Do show some respect and refrain from leaning, sitting, or stepping on them when visiting the fort.
Visit the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum
Address: Jalan Kota, Banda Hilir
Contact Details: +60 6282 6526
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Pricing:
Adults: RM 10.00 (locals), RM 20.00 (foreigners)
Children and Students: RM 5.00 (locals), RM 10.00 (foreigners)
If you’re looking for a museum that’s completely dedicated to Malacca culture, the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum is the place to go.
Built in 1986 out of hardwood and traditional Malaccan architecture, this museum showcases the history of the city’s royal households.
Much of the artefacts you’ll find here are centred in Malacca heritage, from pottery to attire. The structure is only a replica of sultanate palaces, but it does a great job in projecting the beautiful non-colonial heritage of the city and its people.
Tips:
- There is a beautiful garden area out in the front of the building where you can spend a few minutes strolling or taking pictures.
- The building closes at noon for prayer, and guests are not allowed to enter the premises during that time. I recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as it opens or in the afternoon (around 2:00 pm).
Day 2: Chinatown and River Cruise
Explore the vibrant Jonker Walk
From visit.melaka
Address: Jalan Hang Jebat
Contact Details: +60 6333 3333
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Average Duration: 1 hour
Pricing: Free
Locally known as Jalan Hang Jebat Street, this vibrant street sits within Chinatown and right across the Dutch Square with the Malacca River dividing the two areas. I reserved Jonker Walk for day 2 because there’s a lot to take in here that may require a whole day.
One of the best things to do at Jonker Walk is to explore the street’s Chinese shophouses. There are many eateries, stores, and hotels that line up the whole road, so take your time exploring each structure.
Tips:
- Visit the street from 6:00 pm onwards on weekends if possible because it turns into a night market. You can snag great deals on food and drinks here and watch the shophouses put up lights all over the street.
- The whole street is crowded daily, with peak hours in the late afternoon, so I slotted this early on day 2 to skip the crowds.
Learn about Chinese Malay history at Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum
Address: 48-50, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock
Contact Details: +60 6282 1273
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:15 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour to 2 hours
Pricing:
Adults: RM 18.00
Children: RM 13.00
Tour without activity pack: RM 24.00
Another worthy museum trip in the city is the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum. This beautifully decorated museum houses Chinese Malay artefacts and artworks in a preserved Nyonya shophouse.
The house itself was owned by a Peranakan family dating back to 1861, and many of the items here are personally owned by them. All antiques are beautifully preserved in this house, so keep your hands off them!
It’s only a short walk away from the main Jonker Walk entrance, so a stop here is a must. You’ll learn a lot about the Peranakan heritage of Malacca, including viewing of ornate furniture, woodwork, and porcelain that the people are known for.
Tips:
- Be prepared to remove your shoes in some areas of the house as a sign of respect. Tours for families are available at the museum, with activities set for children below 12 years old.
- Each tour activity pack costs RM 10 per child, which also includes access to the house’s collection of traditional Peranakan games.
Visit the ornate Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
From 3iling
Address: 25, Jalan Tokong, Kampung Dua
Contact Details: +60 6282 9343
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday, Saturday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Friday and Sunday, 7:00 am to 8:30 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour to 2 hours
Pricing: Free
Built in the 1640s, the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Malaysia still in operation. The ornate temple, clad in colourful tiles, woodwork, and lanterns, was awarded the Outstanding Architectural Restoration award from UNESCO.
While it is a place of worship, guests are allowed to roam around the temple and admire its structural beauty. You’ll find red pagodas, a stone garden, and statues of dragons decorated with fans, knives, flutes, and lotuses.
Overall, a trip here is a must because it’s a remarkable work of art, and the fact that it’s been beautifully restored to match its glory days 400 years ago is worth global attention.
Tips:
- While admission to the temple is free, you are encouraged to leave donations at the boxes or staff members situated at the entrance. You can give as little or as much as you want!
- The best time to visit the temple is on a weekday. If you plan this trip over the weekend, be prepared for big crowds, especially in the afternoon.
Go on a river cruise with Melaka River Cruise
From visit.melaka
Address: Jalan Graha Maju Aras 9, Graha Maju Building
Contact Details: +60 6281 4322
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 11:00 pm
Pricing:
Adults: RM 25.00 (locals), RM 30.00 (foreigners)
Children: RM 15.00 (locals), RM 25.00 (foreigners)
One of the best ways to explore the city is through a river cruise. This cruise can be done during the day, but I highly recommend doing it at night to cap off Day 2 of the itinerary.
The Melaka River Cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes and passes through the Dutch Square, Jonker Street, Kampung Morten, The Shore Shopping Gallery, Eye on Melaka, and the Rhythmic Water Fountain, which is only available at night.
There will be a tour guide sharing insights about the attractions you’ll pass through during the cruise. Feel free to ask questions!
Tips:
- I recommend purchasing your tickets on the website to secure your slots. Just note that the tickets are only valid during the date of purchase.
- You have the option to purchase tickets at the quay counter, but they only accept cash there.
Day 3: Scenic Views and Departure from Malacca
Enjoy 360-degree views from the Taming Sari Tower
Address: Jalan Merdeka, Banda Hilir
Contact Details: +60 6288 1100
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 11:00 pm
Average Duration: 15 to 30 minutes
Pricing:
Adults: RM 20.00 (locals), RM 26.00 (foreigners)
Children: RM 15.00 (locals), RM 18.00 (foreigners)
Also known as the Malacca Tower, this 80-metre-tall building has a rotating observation deck at the topmost floor that visitors can visit to get 36-degree views of the city below.
Though I’m not fond of heights, ascending this tower is worth it for the stunning views. From the top, you can see the Independence Memorial Building, Dataran Pahlawan, St. Paul’s Hill, Samudera Museum, the ship Flor De La Mar, and the Straits of Malacca.
I’d recommend any first-time visitor to head to the observation deck at least once. It’s also extra beautiful first thing in the morning!
Tips:
- Children under 2 years old can enter the observation deck free of charge! I suggest purchasing your tickets online instead of at the counter to avoid waiting in line. Are the online tickets sold out?
- No worries! You can still purchase tickets at the tower’s ticket office on the day of your visit. I recommend coming early to avoid the line, though!
Get up close and personal with a colonial ship at Muzium Samudera
From imagesofmalaysia
Address: Jalan Merdeka, Banda Hilir
Contact Details: +60 6282 6526
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Average Duration: 30 to 45 minutes
Pricing:
Adults: RM 20.00 (locals), RM 26.00 (foreigners)
Children: RM 15.00 (locals), RM 18.00 (foreigners)
Have you ever seen a colonial trade ship up close? At Muzium Samudera, you get the chance to see a life-sized replica of a Portuguese trading ship named the Flora De La Mar which sank in the 1500s.
The museum highlights the city’s maritime activities and trading history. Although the ship is a replica, seeing it up close gives a clear sense of the massive ships that once moored on the city’s shores.
Tips:
- There are professional photographers in the museum area that offer to take photos of you next to the ship. Be prepared to pay them a hefty fee, though, so if you’re on a budget, I recommend politely declining their offers.
- Each ticket you purchase also gives you access to the Royal Malaysian Maritime Museum. Take the time to visit it to get the best value out of your purchase!
Where to Eat in Malacca
The Daily Fix Cafe
Address: 55, Jalan Hang Jebat
Contact Details: +60 13290 6855
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:45 am to 5:30 pm
Pricing: $ to $$
A stop along Jonker Walk isn’t complete without a taste of local coffee from the Daily Fix Cafe. This quaint cafe is one of the most popular coffee joints in the city.
Housed inside a shophouse, this cafe’s ambience exudes nostalgia because the decor makes you feel like you’re having coffee at someone’s home. The best things to get here are their House Blend coffee and the pandan pancakes made with coconut.
Tip:
- Stop by the cafe’s souvenir shop that sells all sorts of Peranakan and Malaccan knick-knacks like purses, jewellery, and the like.
The Baboon House
Address: No. 89, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Taman Kota Laksamana
Contact Details: +60 16766 7898
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Pricing: $ to $$
After exploring Chinatown and Malacca Peranakan culture, end the day with dinner at the famous The Baboon House. It’s my favourite restaurant and cafe in the whole city because it exudes Studio Ghibli vibes but with a Southeast Asian twist.
The shophouse decor is a must-see, but the food is the real star! Their homemade Aloha Cheeseburgers and Baboon green salads are worth the 3-hour drive from Singapore (I’d eat them every week if I could).
Order sides like fries and wash them all down with a bottle of craft beer (lemon ginger beer is my fave).
Tips:
- The Baboon House is actually a hidden art gallery. If you take a look around the cafe, you’ll notice artworks, sculptures, and even furniture of the Peranakan families that lived in the complex.
- Take some time to roam around before leaving! The cafe becomes very crowded in the afternoon, so before making your way here to end your trip, I suggest giving them a call to reserve a table for dinner!
Hoe Kee Chicken Rice Balls
From patriciaknudsen
Address: 468, Jalan Hang Jebat
Contact Details: +60 6283 4751
Operating Hours: Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
Pricing: $
This is not the same as Singapore’s chicken rice. At Hoe Kee, chicken rice is actually roasted or braised chicken paired with rice balls.
The dish is simple, tasty, iconic, and very unique to the city, so a serving is a must-have before leaving.
Pro Tip:
- This restaurant is notorious for its long queues, especially in the late afternoons. I recommend dropping by for an early lunch, just before noon to snag a seat inside!
Wild Coriander Cafe
From dear.estfood
Address: 40, Jalan Kampung Pantai
Contact Details: +60 12380 7211
Operating Hours: Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday, 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Pricing: $ to $$
Wild Coriander Café is an excellent choice for delicious and visually appealing food.
They serve a range of rice dishes on traditional enamel trays as well as options like laksa and various Nyonya specialties such as Devil’s Curry (vindaloo), prawn and pineapple curry, and otak-otak (fish cake).
Their dessert menu includes Malaysian favourites like cendol durian, pandan salted egg custard layer cake, and kueh ketayap (coconut pancake) with coconut ice cream.
Tips:
- This restaurant is completely pork-free, so don’t worry if you are particular about eating pork or meat in general. The meals here are halal-friendly!
- I highly recommend making a reservation by calling the restaurant to snag a table. Queues tend to be long by dinner time (around 5:00 pm), so make the call in the morning or even the day before your visit.
Bikini Toppings
Address: 46, Lorong Hang Jebat
Contact Details: +60 12316 6426
Operating Hours:
Monday to Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
Saturday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Pricing: $
Nothing beats beating the heat than sipping on ice-cold coconut-flavoured drinks at Bikini Toppings. This quant drink stand is famous among tourists for its shakes, fruity refreshments, and ice cream, especially on hot summer days.
The best thing about them is that everything is homemade, including their signature coconut ice cream. If you’re not big on coconut, there’s also fresh fruit shakes like mango, strawberry, and more.
Tips:
- The drink stand doesn’t have air conditioning, so be ready to really beat the heat with as many cold desserts and drinks here.
- If you’re thinking about visiting Jonker Street in the evening, this stand is a great starting point. Finish your refreshments and head straight down the street where the famous murals are located.
Where to Stay in Malacca
Rosa Malacca
Address: 212, Jln Parameswara, Kampung Bandar Hilir
Contact Details: +60 6281 9888
Check In: 3:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $$
Rosa Malacca’s brownstone facade gives off New York vibes. Located in a quieter area, this 60-room hotel has an industrial design with red bricks and concrete walls, balanced by minimalist yet cosy furniture.
The rooms are modern, and Bica, the in-house courtyard restaurant, offers alfresco dining under a glass ceiling topped with fairy lights.
I love staying here. The award-winning hotel collaborates with artists and designers, making it perfect for capturing memories and photos, even if it’s just for one night!
Tips:
- To fit the overall aesthetic of the hotel, mood lighting is placed in every room. This makes the rooms pretty dim, and there are no windows in most bathrooms either. I recommend asking the staff members for an extra lamp or light source in case you need extra lighting inside your room.
- There’s a secret rooftop that’s only open for guests at the hotel. I love visiting it by sunrise or sunset!
The Majestic Malacca
Address: 188, Jln. Bunga Raya, Pengkalan Rama
Contact Details: +60 6289 8000
Check In: 3:00 pm
Check Out: 11:00 am
Pricing: $$
Built in 1929, the Majestic Hotel Malacca stands as one of the city’s finest boutique accommodations, with original Victorian tile flooring and teakwood fittings that remind me of its Straits Settlement history.
Each of the 54 rooms features a porcelain tub and a king-size four-poster bed. Staying here is a refined experience steeped in history and culture, complete with preserved architectural features like porcelain tile flooring and stained glass windows.
Tips:
- I love sampling the exquisite Kristang cuisine made by Chef Melba Nunis and indulging in Peranakan-style treatments at the renowned Spa Village. If you book the Malacca Romance package or Kristang Discovery experience, you’ll get exclusive discounts and promos for each of these amenities in the hotel.
- Don’t make too much noise when staying here. The walls are very thin, so hush hush!
The Rubber Escape
Address: Jalan Lendu Bakti 8, 78000 Alor Gajah
Contact Details: +60 17678 3611
Check In: 3:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $$
Nestled in a former rubber plantation, The Rubber Escape literally transports you to a serene oasis near the heart of the history city. Although a little further away, this boutique hotel has everything you need to stay relaxed after a whole day of exploring.
There are a total of 12 rooms with lots of privacy and relaxing amenities like an infinity pool, archery grounds, lounges, gardens, and country-like decor.
Tip:
- If you want to unwind in your room, don’t forget to switch on the TV. Netflix is installed in all units, giving you hours of unlimited HD streaming of your favourite movies and shows.
