One Day Trip to Melaka from KL: 10 Best Things to Do

Planning a day trip to Melaka is one of the best ways to escape the hectic lifestyle of Kuala Lumpur and immerse yourself in Malaysia’s rich history, multicultural heritage, and legendary food scene. If you're planning a one day trip to Melaka from KL, this charming UNESCO World Heritage city offers more than enough attractions to fill a rewarding itinerary from morning until night.

Located approximately 145 kilometres south of Kuala Lumpur, Melaka is compact, walkable, and filled with colonial architecture, museums, street art, and authentic Peranakan cuisine. If you’re considering a day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca, this detailed guide will help you plan your journey efficiently.

Travel Options for a Day Trip from KL to Melaka 

To make the most of your one day trip to Melaka, it is highly recommended to leave Kuala Lumpur early, ideally between 6:30am and 8:00am. Morning departures help you avoid heavy traffic and allow you to enjoy a full day of sightseeing.

1. By Car (Most Flexible Option)

Driving is the most convenient way to organise a day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via the North-South Expressway (PLUS Highway), depending on traffic conditions. Car rental is a popular option for those who want independence during their day trip to Malacca.

2. By Bus

You can take a bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) in Kuala Lumpur to Melaka Sentral. The journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. From Melaka Sentral, you can use Grab or local buses to reach the city centre.

3. By Flight

Melaka does have Batu Berendam Airport, but flights from Kuala Lumpur are extremely limited and generally not practical for a short day trip to Melaka.

Read How to Get to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur by Bus & Flight here.

10 Best Things to Do in Melaka

1. Visit Dutch Square (Stadthuys) & Christ Church

Image Source: Commons Wikimedia 

Begin your day trip to Melaka at Dutch Square, the city’s most iconic landmark. The bright red buildings immediately capture attention and reflect Melaka’s strong Dutch colonial influence.

The Stadthuys, built in 1650, is one of the oldest surviving Dutch buildings in Southeast Asia. It originally served as the administrative centre of the Dutch government. Today, it houses the History and Ethnography Museum, where visitors can explore exhibits detailing Melaka’s transition from Malay Sultanate to Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule.

Just opposite The Stadthuys stands Christ Church, built in 1753. It is the oldest functioning Protestant church in Malaysia. The church’s red exterior matches the surrounding Dutch architecture, while the interior features antique wooden pews, handcrafted beams without nails and Portuguese tombstones.

Address: Banda Hilir, 75200 Malacca

Opening Hours: Daily, 9am to 5pm 

2. Explore A Famosa Fort & St. Paul's Hill

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A Famosa was built by the Portuguese in 1511 after they conquered Melaka. Although the majority of the original fortress was destroyed, the Porta de Santiago gate remains as a powerful symbol of the city’s colonial past.

Climb St. Paul’s Hill for panoramic views of the Melaka Strait and the city skyline. The church ruins date back to 1521 and were originally built by the Portuguese. This stop combines history and light physical activity, making it a memorable highlight of your one day trip to Melaka.

Address: Jalan Kota, Banda Hilir, 75000 Melaka

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

3. Walk Along Jonker Street

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Jonker Street is the main highlight of your day trip to Malacca. Explore a vibrant street filled with heritage shops, cafés, dessert stalls, and boutique hotels. During the day, you can browse antique stores, shop for traditional crafts, and try local snacks like pineapple tarts and cendol.

Address: Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka

Opening Hours: Daily, 10am to 6pm

4. Take a Melaka River Cruise

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A Melaka River Cruise offers a different perspective of the city. The Melaka river played a crucial role in trading many years ago. During the cruise, you’ll be able to see colourful murals, traditional Malay houses, riverside cafés and historical bridges. It’s a relaxing way to rest your feet during your day trip to Melaka.

Address: ARAS 9, GRAHA MAJU BUILDING, JALAN GRAHA MAJU, Banda Hilir, 75300 Melaka

Operating Hours: Daily, 9am to 11pm

Book Melaka River Cruise tickets here.

5. Try Authentic Peranakan Cuisine

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One of the biggest highlights of any day trip to Melaka is the food. The city is famous for Peranakan cuisine, a unique blend of Chinese and Malay flavours. Signature dishes to try include Ayam Pongteh, Asam Pedas and Nyonya Laksa. Peranakan cuisine is known for its rich spices, coconut milk, and slow-cooked techniques. Arrive early to avoid long queues.

6. Visit Malaysia Heritage Studios

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Malaysia Heritage Studios features cultural performances that tell the story of Melaka’s past through theatre, music, and advanced stage technology. The show includes rotating audience platforms, special effects, live actors and cultural storytelling. If your one day trip to Melaka extends into the evening, this attraction adds a memorable cultural experience to your itinerary. 

Address: Impression City, 75200 Melaka

Opening Hours: Daily, 10am to 6pm

Book Malaysia Heritage Studios tickets here.

7. Explore Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

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This beautifully preserved townhouse offers insight into Peranakan family life during the 19th century. You can explore things like antique porcelain, intricate wooden carvings, traditional wedding attire and more. Guided tours provide a deeper understanding of Straits Chinese culture, making this a meaningful stop during your day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca.

Address: 48 & 50, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, 75200 Melaka

Opening Hours: Daily, 10am to 4:30pm

8. Hunt for Street Art & Murals

Image alt text: Best Things to Do in Melaka Hunt for Street Art & Murals

Image Source: Commons Wikimedia 

Melaka’s street art scene adds a modern touch to the historical vibe. Along the Melaka River and Kampung Hulu, you’ll find colourful murals depicting cultural themes, folklore, and everyday life. Street art is free, family-friendly and offers many IG-worthy spots.  It adds a great way to capture memories during your one day trip to Melaka.

9. Shop at Jonker Walk Night Market

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If your day trip to Malacca falls on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, the Jonker Walk Night Market runs from approximately 6pm onwards. The street becomes a lively market at night filled with street food stalls, handmade crafts, souvenirs and live performances. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique gifts and enjoy local snacks before heading back to Kuala Lumpur.

Address: 108, Jalan Tokong, Kampung Tiga, 75200 Melaka

10. Taste Famous Melaka Chicken Rice Balls

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Chicken rice balls are one of the most famous dishes during a day trip to Melaka. Unlike regular chicken rice, the rice is shaped into compact balls, making it convenient for traders in the past. Served with tender poached or roasted chicken and flavourful chilli sauce, this simple yet iconic dish is a must-try before ending your day trip.

Conclusion 

A one day trip to Melaka offers the perfect balance of history, culture, architecture, and food. Melaka provides a rich travel experience in just a single day. 

If you’re arriving in Melaka by flight, consider renting a car in Melaka with MelakaBook for a smooth and convenient journey. Visit our website to book tickets to popular attractions in Melaka at the best prices today!