1-Day Local Food and Wine Family Adventure in Malacca, Malaysia

Malacca, Malaysia

1 days

Christ church and Dutch square
Canal in the old town of Malacca
Malacca Straits mosque at sunset
Malacca eye at night
A Famosa fortress

About Malacca, Malaysia

Discover the historical city of Malacca, Malaysia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant city is a melting pot of culture, showcasing a unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences. Explore the iconic red buildings of Dutch Square, the ancient ruins of St. Paul's Church, and the impressive A Famosa fortress. Take a leisurely stroll along the Malacca River, or enjoy a scenic river cruise. Visit the bustling Jonker Street Night Market for local delicacies and unique souvenirs. Experience the rich heritage at the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum and the Maritime Museum. Malacca offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

A Day of Food and Culture in Malacca

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Jonker Street Market, a bustling local market where you can find a variety of local delicacies, antiques, and handicrafts. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.

Lunch

Enjoy a local lunch at one of the many street food stalls in the area. Try some of the local specialties like 'Nyonya Laksa', a spicy noodle soup, or 'Chicken Rice Balls', a unique Malaccan dish.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the A Famosa, a Portuguese fortress that is one of the oldest surviving European architectural remains in Asia. Next, visit the St. Paul's Church, a historic church with a beautiful view of the city. Finish your afternoon with a relaxing river cruise on the Malacca River.

Dinner

For dinner, try some of the local seafood dishes at a restaurant near the river. The 'Ikan Bakar' (grilled fish) and 'Sambal Udang' (prawn in spicy sauce) are must-tries.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Malacca River at night. The buildings and bridges along the river are beautifully lit up, creating a magical atmosphere. Don't forget to try the local dessert 'Cendol', a refreshing coconut milk-based dessert to cool down after a day of exploration.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Jonker Street Market

1
Jonker Street Market

Known as the Chinatown of Malacca, Jonker Street is famous for its night market, antique shops, and local food stalls.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
A Famosa

2
A Famosa

A Famosa is a Portuguese fortress located in Malacca. It is among the oldest surviving European architectural remains in Asia. The gate house, known as the Porta de Santiago, is the only part of the fortress that still remains today.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
St. Paul's Church

3
St. Paul's Church

Built in 1521, St. Paul's Church is the oldest church building in Southeast Asia. It offers panoramic views of Malacca city from the top of St. Paul's Hill.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Malacca River

4
Malacca River

The Malacca River is a river that cuts across Malacca town, flowing from the foot of the Titiwangsa Range. It was once an important trade route during the Malacca Sultanate era. Today, river cruises are popular, offering views of historical buildings, ancient landmarks, and colonial structures.

Attractions
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Chicken Rice Balls

Chicken Rice Balls

A unique twist on the classic Hainanese chicken rice, where the rice is shaped into bite-sized balls. It's a must-try dish in Malacca.

Cendol

Cendol

A popular dessert drink in Malacca, made from shaved ice, coconut milk, green rice flour jelly, and palm sugar syrup.

Satay Celup

A Malaccan style fondue where skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables are dipped in a spicy peanut sauce.

Nyonya Laksa

Nyonya Laksa

A spicy noodle soup dish that combines Chinese and Malay flavors, a signature of Malacca's Peranakan culture.

Durian Cendol

A variant of the classic Cendol, topped with the king of fruits - Durian. It's a must-try for durian lovers visiting Malacca.

Oyster Omelette

A popular street food in Malacca, made with fresh oysters and eggs, served hot and crispy.

Pineapple Tart

A sweet and tangy dessert, made from buttery pastry filled with pineapple jam. It's a popular souvenir from Malacca.

Roti John

Roti John

A baguette filled with minced meat, egg, and onions, then grilled. It's a popular snack in Malacca.

Otak-Otak

Otak-Otak

A grilled fish cake made from ground fish meat mixed with tapioca starch and spices, wrapped in a banana leaf.

Kuih Keria

A local doughnut made from sweet potatoes and coated with a sugary glaze. It's a popular breakfast item in Malacca.

Assam Pedas

A spicy and sour fish stew that's a signature dish of Malacca. It's typically served with rice.

Kopi O

Kopi O

A traditional black coffee served in most kopitiams (coffee shops) in Malacca. It's strong, aromatic, and usually sweetened with sugar.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Malacca, Malaysia is between April and October. During this period, the weather is relatively dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, it's important to note that Malaysia's climate is tropical and can be unpredictable, so light rain is possible even in the dry season. The months of November to March are typically the monsoon season with heavier rainfall, but Malacca is less affected compared to the east coast of Malaysia.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day (regional holiday)

January 14

Sun

Birthday of Yang di-Pertuan Besar (Negeri Sembilan)

January 15

Mon

Birthday of Yang di-Pertuan Besar observed (Negeri Sembilan)

January 25

Thu

Thaipusam (regional holiday)

February 1

Thu

Federal Territory Day (regional holiday)

February 8

Thu

Isra and Mi'raj (regional holiday)

February 10

Sat

Lunar New Year's Day

February 11

Sun

Lunar New Year Holiday (regional holiday)

February 11

Sun

Second Day of Lunar New Year (regional holiday)

March 4

Mon

Anniversary of the Coronation of the Sultan of Terengganu (Terengganu)

March 12

Tue

First Day of Ramadan (regional holiday)

March 23

Sat

Birthday of the Sultan of Johor (Johor)

March 28

Thu

Nuzul Al-Quran (regional holiday)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday (regional holiday)

April 10

Wed

Hari Raya Puasa

April 11

Thu

Hari Raya Puasa Day 2

April 15

Mon

Declaration of Malacca as Historical City (Malacca)

April 26

Fri

Birthday of the Sultan of Terengganu (Terengganu)

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 17

Fri

Birthday of the Raja of Perlis (Perlis)

May 22

Wed

Wesak Day

May 22

Wed

Pahang State Holiday (Pahang)

May 30

Thu

Harvest Festival (regional holiday)

May 31

Fri

Second Day of Harvest Festival (regional holiday)

June 1

Sat

Gawai Dayak (Sarawak)

June 2

Sun

Gawai Dayak Holiday (Sarawak)

June 3

Mon

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong's Birthday

June 3

Mon

Gawai Dayak Holiday observed (Sarawak)

June 16

Sun

Day of Arafat (regional holiday)

June 17

Mon

Hari Raya Haji

June 18

Tue

Hari Raya Haji (Day 2) (regional holiday)

June 30

Sun

Sultan of Kedah's Birthday (Kedah)

July 7

Sun

George Town World Heritage City Day (Penang)

July 7

Sun

Muharram/New Year

July 13

Sat

Penang Governor's Birthday (Penang)

July 22

Mon

Sarawak Independence Day (Sarawak)

July 30

Tue

Birthday of the Sultan of Pahang (Pahang)

August 11

Sun

Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Hol Day (Johor)

August 24

Sat

Birthday of the Governor of Malacca (Malacca)

August 31

Sat

Malaysia's National Day

September 16

Mon

The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

September 16

Mon

Malaysia Day

September 29

Sun

Birthday of the Sultan of Kelantan (Kelantan)

September 30

Mon

Birthday of the Sultan of Kelantan (Day 2) (Kelantan)

October 5

Sat

Birthday of the Governor of Sabah (Sabah)

October 12

Sat

Birthday of the Governor of Sarawak (Sarawak)

October 31

Thu

Diwali/Deepavali (regional holiday)

November 1

Fri

Birthday of the Sultan of Perak (Perak)

December 11

Wed

Birthday of the Sultan of Selangor (Selangor)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Trishaws, also known as beca, are a popular way to get around Malacca. These are essentially bicycles with a sidecar attached, and they can take you around the city's main attractions. They are also a unique way to experience the city's heritage and culture.

The public bus service in Malacca, known as Panorama Melaka, operates several routes that cover most of the city's main attractions. The central bus terminal is at Melaka Sentral.

Taxis are readily available in Malacca. They can be hailed from the street, or you can book one through your hotel. They are metered, but some drivers may negotiate a flat rate.

Ridesharing services such as Grab are available in Malacca. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group. You'll need to download the app and have an internet connection to use this service.

Renting a car can be a good option if you're planning to explore beyond the city center. There are several car rental companies in Malacca, and you can pick up and drop off your car at convenient locations.

Many of Malacca's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the UNESCO World Heritage Site area. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in the cooler early morning or late afternoon.

There are several places in Malacca where you can rent a bicycle for the day. This can be a fun and eco-friendly way to get around, especially in the city's more scenic areas.

A river cruise is a relaxing way to see some of Malacca's sights. The cruise takes you along the Malacca River, and you can hop on and off at various points along the way.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyRM MYR

Time zoneUTC+8

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 999; Fire: 994; Police: 999

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type G

Voltage240 V

Things to know about Malacca, Malaysia as a first time visitor

1

Malacca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich history and culture.

2

The official language is Malay, but English is widely spoken and understood.

3

The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller establishments.

4

Malacca has a tropical rainforest climate, so it's hot and humid throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C).

5

Malacca is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take care of your belongings.

6

Malaysia has a conservative culture, so it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

7

The local food is a blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. Don't miss out on trying local dishes like Nyonya Laksa and Chicken Rice Balls.

8

Tipping is not customary in Malaysia, but it is appreciated. Most restaurants include a 10% service charge in the bill.

9

Public transportation is available, but it's not very reliable. The best way to get around is by taxi or ride-sharing apps like Grab.

10

Malaysia uses the Type G plug, the same as in the UK. The standard voltage is 240 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

11

Malaysia has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 6%, which is often included in the price of goods and services.

12

Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country, so it's important to respect local customs and traditions, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

13

Malacca is known for its night markets, especially Jonker Street Night Market, where you can find local food, clothes, and souvenirs.

14

Malaysia's healthcare system is good, but it's recommended to have travel insurance in case of emergencies.

15

Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8).

16

Malaysia has strict laws against drugs. Possession of illegal substances can lead to severe penalties, including death.

17

Tap water in Malaysia is generally safe to drink, but most locals and tourists prefer to drink bottled water.

18

Malaysia has a zero-tolerance policy towards drunk driving. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.08%.

19

Malaysia's emergency number is 999 for ambulance, fire, and police services.

20

Malaysia has strict laws against littering. Offenders can be fined up to MYR 1,000 or jailed for a maximum of six months.

Basic Malay to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hai

Hi

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Selamat tinggal

Se-lah-mat ting-gal

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

Terima kasih

Te-ri-ma ka-sih

Expressing gratitude

You're welcome

Sama-sama

Sa-ma sa-ma

Responding to thank you

Please

Tolong

To-long

Making a request

Excuse me

Maaf

Ma-af

Getting attention or apologizing

Yes

Ya

Ya

Affirming

No

Tidak

Ti-dak

Negating

I don't understand

Saya tidak faham

Sa-ya ti-dak fa-ham

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Anda boleh bercakap Bahasa Inggeris?

An-da bo-leh ber-ca-kap Ba-ha-sa Ing-ge-ris?

When you want to communicate in English

Where is the bathroom?

Di mana tandas?

Di ma-na tan-das?

When you need to use the bathroom

How much does this cost?

Berapa harga ini?

Be-ra-pa har-ga i-ni?

When you want to know the price of something

I would like to order

Saya mahu pesan

Sa-ya ma-hu pe-san

When you want to order something

Help

Tolong

To-long

When you need help

Can I have the bill, please?

Boleh saya minta bil?

Bo-leh sa-ya min-ta bil?

When you want to pay at a restaurant

Where is...?

Di mana...?

Di ma-na...?

When you are asking for directions

Water

Air

Ai-r

When you want to order water

Food

Makanan

Ma-ka-nan

When you want to order food

Good morning

Selamat pagi

Se-lah-mat pa-gi

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

Selamat malam

Se-lah-mat ma-lam

Saying goodbye in the evening or before going to bed

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat or cap

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toothpaste

  • Toothbrush

  • Travel-size shampoo

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Bottled water

  • Travel guidebook

  • Map of Malacca

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • First aid kit

Weather Conditions

Malacca, Malaysia is known for its tropical rainforest climate, which means it's warm and humid throughout the year. The average temperature usually ranges between 77°F (25°C) and 95°F (35°C). It's important to pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in these conditions. Rainfall is a common occurrence in Malacca, with the wettest months typically being April, May, October, and November. If you're planning to visit during these months, it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat. Despite the rain, these months can still be a good time to visit as the rain often comes in short, heavy bursts, rather than all-day drizzles. The driest months are usually January and February, making them a popular time for tourists. However, even during these months, occasional showers can occur, so it's always a good idea to be prepared. Regardless of when you visit, it's important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen regularly, as the sun can be quite strong. Also, remember to take advantage of the early mornings and late evenings when the heat is less intense for outdoor activities. Lastly, always check the local weather forecast before planning your day's activities, as weather conditions can change rapidly in tropical climates. Enjoy your visit to the beautiful and historic city of Malacca!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

32° / 23°

January is one of the cooler months in Malacca, with occasional rainfall. It's a great time to visit if you prefer less heat.

February

33° / 23°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still relatively cool with less rainfall.

March

34° / 24°

March marks the beginning of the hot season, with temperatures rising slightly. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the heat.

April

35° / 24°

April is one of the hottest months in Malacca, with high humidity. Make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

May

35° / 24°

May continues the hot trend with high temperatures and humidity. It's a great time for beach activities, but remember to apply sunscreen.

June

35° / 24°

June is also hot and humid, but with less rainfall. It's a good time to explore the city's historical sites.

July

35° / 24°

July is similar to June, with high temperatures and less rainfall. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the heat.

August

35° / 24°

August is hot and humid, with occasional rainfall. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy tropical weather.

September

34° / 24°

September sees a slight decrease in temperature, but it's still hot. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less heat.

October

34° / 24°

October is similar to September, with slightly cooler temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the heat.

November

33° / 23°

November sees a further decrease in temperature, with occasional rainfall. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

December

32° / 23°

December is one of the cooler months in Malacca, with occasional rainfall. It's a great time to visit if you prefer less heat.

Did you know?

Did you know that Malacca, Malaysia is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich historical background?

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