Choose from 3 Fun Things to Do in Melaka
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Jonker Street
Jonker Street runs through the heart of Chinatown in Melaka’s city center and was once known primarily for its antique dealers. Those on the hunt for Malaysian artifacts and relics—authentic and otherwise—will still find these rare items, but the area has evolved to include clothing boutiques, craft shops, and restaurants as well.
The Basics
For foodies, bargain hunters, and people watchers, Chinatown’s Jonker Street—aka Jonker Walk—deserves a prominent place on the itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage–listed city (sometimes spelled Malacca) is a popular day trip destination from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, and most sightseeing tours include a visit to Jonker Street. Evening tours on the weekends include a visit to the street when it’s in full night-market mode and often feature an evening cruise along the Melaka River as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jonker Street is a must-see for foodies, shoppers, and people watchers.
- Don’t forget to bring cash, especially for purchasing food at the night market.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to spend some time on your feet.
- Jonker Walk is accessible to wheelchair users though some small shops and narrow aisles are tricky to get into, especially when crowded.
How to Get There
Most travelers coming to Melaka arrive at Melaka Sentral Station. From there, bus 17 departs regularly from the domestic bus terminal to Jonker Street. The trip takes anywhere from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic.
When to Get There
Lively throughout the week, Jonker Street truly comes alive on Friday and Saturday nights during the must-see night market. Complete with street performers and hawker stalls, you can easily piece together a satisfying meal and fun night out on the cheap.
What to Eat on Jonker Street
Many a visitor comes to Jonker Street to fill up on delicious, inexpensive street food. While many dishes are inspired by cuisines from around Asia, they almost always have a Melaka twist. Chicken rice balls put a spin on a traditional Malaysian dish, while the Nyonya-style laksa is a fiery version of the national favorite. For a lighter snack, grab a skewer of grilled corn flavored with curry, black pepper, or wasabi. On a hot night, cool down with some cendol, an Indonesian-style shaved ice made with coconut milk and local sugar.
Address: Jalan Hang Jebat, Melaka, Malaysia
From $ 28
Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple, first built in 1673, remains an active place of worship for the Chinese Buddhist community in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Melaka. Everything from the ornate roof to the painted murals within this temple dedicated to Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) have been restored using traditional techniques.
The Basics
As one of Melaka’s most popular landmarks and a hub of the local Chinese community, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple often features in city sightseeing tours, including day trips from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Those curious about the Chinese heritage of Melaka can opt for a guided tour catered to this interest. Historical-themed walking tours often include the temple, along with Stadthuys, Christ Church, and Jonker Street.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a must-see for history buffs and spiritual travelers.
- This is an active place of worship, so remember to dress and act with respect.
- The temple is free to enter, but donations are accepted.
How to Get There
The temple is located just off Jonker Street within walking distance of Stadthuys in Red Square. You can catch Bus 17 from the Melaka Sentral Station to Jonker Street and then continue on foot.
When to Get There
The temple is open daily throughout the year, including extended hours for Lunar New Year. To see the temple at its liveliest, plan to visit during the daily prayers each afternoon.
Festivals at Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
As a prominent community gathering place, the temple comes alive during a host of annual festivals. The biggest is Lunar New Year, when the complex stays open throughout the night. The winter solstice marks another important date on the Chinese calendar. During Dong Zhi Festival, families gather at the temple before staying up long into the night.
Address: 25, Jalan Tokong, Melaka 75200, Malaysia
From $ 28
Melaka Portuguese Square
Sometimes referred to as "Mini Lisbon," Melaka Portuguese Square is a hub of Portuguese culture and community in the city—a symbol of Portuguese–Malay heritage. Bars, a few small museums, and restaurants serving up Portuguese fare line the courtyard and surrounding Eurasian village (kampung).
The Basics
As one of many notable landmarks in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Melaka Portuguese Square is typically a stop on sightseeing tours and day trip from Kuala Lumpur, which also usually include Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, St. Paul’s Church, Stadthuys, Christ Church, and the Kampung Kling Mosque.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The square is a must-see for foodies and those with an interest in Malaysia’s colonial history.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the surrounding neighborhood.
- Come hungry; the neighborhood is known for its excellent seafood and Portuguese cuisine.
How to Get There
Melaka Portuguese Square is situated east of the city center. The best way to get there and back is by taxi or with an organized tour.
When to Get There
The square is open all the time, but it’s at its liveliest in the evenings and on weekends when locals and visitors alike come to dine out and take in traditional performances in the square. A bulletin board in the square lists upcoming cultural events.
Festivals in Portuguese Square
Each year, the Portuguese community in Melaka celebrates the Feast of Saint Peter (San Pedro) on June 29 with live music, food, and dancing in the square. Another good time to visit is during Christmas season, when local residents decorate their homes and streets with nativity scenes and colorful lights.
Address: Portuguese Square, Jalan Daranjo, Melaka 75050, Malaysia
From $ 28