About This Activity
Melaka, often known as Malacca, is a historical state in Malaysia with a diverse cultural legacy and colonial influences. Its strategic location on the west coast of the Malay Peninsula made it a major trading port for centuries, attracting traders from China, India, and Europe. Our 8-hour Historical Malacca Tour promises to immerse you in the rich history, vibrant culture, and captivating appeal of this UNESCO World Heritage city.
Upon pickup from your hotel lobby in Kuala Lumpur, sit back and relax in your comfortable vehicle as you embark on a 2-hour scenic ride from Kuala Lumpur City Centre right to Melaka. On your way there, your guide shares insights into the city’s rich history while pointing out famous sites and buildings along the way. Once you’ve arrived at Melaka, you will begin your adventure by visiting St. Peter’s Church, which was established in 1710 and is noted for its Baroque architecture and significance in Malacca’s colonial history.
After having a quick photo stop at St. Peter’s Church, you move on to exploring the Dutch Square. The Dutch Square, or the Red Square, with its prevalence of red-colored buildings, narrow roads, and various objects of historical importance, recalls recollections of the past when the Dutch dominated Malacca. You will witness the Stadthuys, which was built between 1641 and 1660 and functioned as the official residence of Dutch administrators. Nearby, the Queen Victoria Fountain, built in 1901, serves as a symbol of British colonial power.
Next, you’ll walk your way to the Christ Church of Melaka, which was built by the Dutch in 1753 and features beautiful red bricks and a distinct Dutch colonial design. This Dutch-built Anglican church, formerly Dutch Reformed, exemplifies Malacca’s historic legacy. As Malaysia’s oldest functioning Protestant church, it has a significant place in the country’s religious history.
Along the way, you’ll notice several little souvenir stalls at the Dutch Square, as well as many rental tricycles parked along the road, which are a popular method to tour the sites of Melaka as the driver plays loud music. The trishaws are colourful and embellished with several cartoon characters. At the local craft and souvenir shop, you may browse and purchase unique traditional crafts and souvenirs to remember your visit.
Climbing St. Paul’s Hill, you’ll come to the ruins of St. Paul’s Church, which was originally built by the Portuguese in 1521. From this vantage point, we have panoramic views of Malacca’s skyline and surrounding countryside. The views of Melaka from here are stunning, as are the ruins of this historic church situated on the summit of St. Paul’s Hill. In addition to the ruins, there is a statue of St. Francis Xavier at the top.
After visiting the ruins of St. Paul’s Church, you can then ascend downwards to see the iconic A’ Famosa, the renowned remains of a 16th-century Portuguese stronghold. The fortress, constructed by the Portuguese in 1511, was formerly part of a larger fortress complex. It was taken by the Dutch in 1641 and substantially destroyed by the British in the 18th century. This historical landmark provides insight into Malaysia’s colonial history.
After having a quick stop at A Famosa and listening to the historical insights given by your guide, we pause at a picturesque overlook to see the majestic Straits of Malacca and important landmarks such as the Independence Building and Memorial Club House. Next, you make your way for a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Malacca River, where you can admire the charming riverside scenery with decorated bridges, cafés, and shophouses and historic buildings along the way.
You walk your way into the bustling Jonker Street in Chinatown, famous for its vibrant atmosphere, antique shops, and delicious street food. The area is rich with historical structures and stores providing local goods and food. There are many restaurants, cafes, and modern shops, which are really intriguing to observe in an authentic old street or building. Historical landmarks such as Chinese temples and the Hang Kasturi Mausoleum are roughly in the middle of the street.
Our trip ends with a delicious lunch of local Malaccan dishes, offering authentic flavors and culinary traditions. You get the chance to savour a great meal of native Malaccan cuisine made with fresh ingredients and unique flavors before you get back in the vehicle and enjoy the 2-hour ride back to your hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
