When my sister asked if I wanted to join her on a trip to Melaka, I was like, why not! It’s nice to be back again. The last time we went was about 3 years ago, right after things reopened post-COVID, so it was still pretty quiet. Glad to see it’s lively again now, though maybe still not quite like pre-COVID days.
This time went for 4 days 3 nights, and explore different area of Melaka. Sharing our Melaka itinerary, Melaka kid-friendly places and food.
Our Family Friendly Hotel In Melaka – Bayview Hotel
For this trip, we stayed at Bayview Hotel Melaka. They have a family room that can accommodate my family of six. The room is similar to a connecting room, but with only one entrance and a Jack and Jill bathroom. We requested a baby cot from the reception at no additional charge, though it’s subject to availability.
Although the hotel is quite old, their service makes up for it. Reception staffs are very friendly and helpful. The room cleaner also packed my kids dirty clothes on the toilet floor into a laundry bag. So nice of them! They also offer family-friendly activities like a mini kids’ room, board games, and table tennis.
Melaka Food We Ate
香江茶室 Siang Chang Cafe
We set off at 430am from Singapore and headed straight to Melaka, which is about a 3-hour drive. Our first breakfast stop was at Siang Chang Cafe, a very old-school local coffee shop with 60 years of history. They have also opened a new outlet in Melaka – Kota Laksamana , but we visited the original one.
We started seeing a queue forming around 9am, so it’s better to go before that!
Their kaya butter toast and coffee are pretty good. Personally, I also recommend the Nyonya laksa and kolo mee.
Address:
香江茶室 Siang Chang Cafe
59, Jalan Munshi Abdullah, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia
Closed on Friday, Saturday to Thursday: 7am to 2pm
Kopi Harian
Kopi Harian is a Nanyang-style cafe right in the heart of Jonker Street. Surprisingly, the food is pretty good especially the kaya toast and matcha toast. The butter is thick and generous, and the kaya has a nice gula Melaka fragrance. The nasi lemak is also not bad, and the portion is really generous! I read that their laksa is also really good and huge portion, unfortunately, I just had laksa in the morning, so I didn’t order that.
We also tried the beef noodles. Not bad, but it’s not the Taiwanese-style, if that’s what you’re looking for.
The prices may be slightly on the high side, but they’re reasonable for the quality and generous portions.
By the way, the queue can get quite long during peak hours, so plan your visit accordingly!
Address
Kopi Harian
61, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
9am to 530pm, Daily
Christina Ee Nyonya Cendol
After lunch at Kopi Harian, we walked over to Christina Ee for chendol, it’s just a 1 minute walk from Kopi Harian.
When you walk in, it looks like they are mainly selling local delicacies and snacks for tourists but they actually sell chendol too. The store has limited seating, and lucky us, we were the only customers when we arrived, just before the crowd started coming in.
Their chendol is really good! What I especially love is the gula melaka, it has a lovely fragrance. I liked it so much that I even bought some to bring home. My hubby also tried their pineapple tarts, which were really nice too, but since we are on a long road trip, we didn’t buy any.
Address:
Christina Ee Nyonya Cendol
29, Jalan Hang Lekir, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
930am to 6pm, daily
Tai Zi Satay Celup
While we were walking to the place, the kids kept asking if I got the location right because Tai Zi Satay Celup is tucked inside a village.
Back in the 80s, their store was located at Tanjung Kling Beach. Now, they have set up their business at their home, which is really big and spacious and I actually like the vibes here too. We reached at around 630pm, and we are the 2nd customer, usually they get crowded around 8pm onwards.
Satay Celup originated from Melaka. It’s similar to lok lok, but not quite the same. You pick the skewers you want and dip them into a hot pot filled with satay sauce. The sauce isn’t spicy, it’s slightly more watery than the usual satay sauce and has a hint of sweetness, so kids can enjoy this delicacy too.
We had more than 150 skewers, and it cost around RM300+. It may look like we ate a lot, but each skewer doesn’t have that much on it. Still, for the price, it’s pretty reasonable!
Address:
Tai Zi Satay Celup 太子沙爹朱律
10, Jalan Tun Sri Lanang, Kampung Durian Daun, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia
This stall doesn’t really have a name. It’s a small setup in a hawker centre, just a 3 minute walk from Tai Zi Satay Celup. We stumbled upon it earlier in the day while walking past. An elderly uncle was grilling chicken wings over charcoal, and the aroma was so good, so it caught our attention!
The uncle grills his chicken wings over charcoal, so you will need to wait a bit. But it’s worth it because the skin turns out crispy and not oily at all, and the best part is, the meat stays juicy and tender.
Address
Wong Kok Food Court 88 旺珓名食小馆
Melaka, 75000 lot227,Jalan Tun Sri Lanang, Malacca, Malaysia
Wild Coriander Melaka
My sister said she wanted to eat Peranakan food on this Melaka trip, so Wild Coriander Melaka is one of my go-to places for Peranakan cuisine. The environment is very nice and comfortable, and the staff’s service is excellent. They even gave small gifts to our kids, a flower hair clip for the girls and a toy car for the boys.
We ordered quite a lot of food, but personally, I recommend their rendang, pineapple prawns, and sago pudding. The rest of the dishes were okay. Overall, I feel their food leans more towards a home-cooked style. As for their Nyonya chap chye, according to my husband (who is Peranakan), it was quite different from what he grew up eating, so he didn’t find it as good but I thought it was nice.
Overall the food and environment is good. Total we spent about RM317. It’s advisable to make reservation before hand.
Address:
Wild Coriander Melaka
40, Jalan Kampung Pantai, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Yi Yuan Dim Sum House 億源点心之家
We went to this place for lunch after our Prison Museum tour, which is just a 5 minute drive away. They serve dim sum in the traditional push-cart style. I found the food to be a mixture of good and average, but the environment is family-friendly so still worth coming here for dim sum.
Their xiao long bao has a rather thick skin, but the soup and meat inside are quite good. Although I didn’t try their lou mai kai but my kids like it.
Address:
Yi Yuan Dim Sum House 億源点心之家
3 & 5, Jalan Tamby Abdullah, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Bulldog Malacca
I would say this is my favourite food place of the trip. They serve fusion Peranakan cuisine, and it’s amazing. Although the prices may be on the higher side given the portion size, the quality and freshness of the food truly make up for it.
We had to make a reservation and pre-order our food in advance, as they don’t accept walk-in customers. This might explain why they prefer to operate this way. This allows them to prepare only the necessary ingredients and ensure freshness. Of course, there’s no issue with ordering more dishes on the spot.
All their food was really good, we even ordered extra oyster omelette and tofu salsa. And honestly, they serve the best chendol! I still miss it even now. It was really delicious, and their green jelly had a lovely pandan fragrance that many other places lack of.
Address:
Bulldog Malacca
145, Jalan Bendahara, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia
Melaka Attractions We Went
Cheng Ho Museum
This was our first day and first attraction stop. Since we arrived early, we took a short walk nearby to snap some photos and check out the Fan Bing Bing mural. This area is actually just a stone’s throw away from the Cheng Ho Museum.
Cheng Ho Museum opens at 930am, and you can purchase the the ticket at the counter.
For non-Malaysian: RM15/adult, RM8/child
For Malaysian: RM10/adult, RM5/child
In-house tour: RM10/pax, minimal 5 pax
The Cheng Ho Museum showcases exhibits about Admiral Cheng Ho from the Chinese Ming Dynasty, his voyages to Melaka, and the crucial role he played in Melaka’s trading history.
Once we entered, right in the middle of the museum was a large model of Cheng Ho’s ship. Inside the ship, it showcased what his team brought along during their voyages, including various goods, tools, and cultural items.
On the left side is a small room that plays a short film about Cheng Ho’s history and how he contributed to Melaka’s trade. The show runs every 15 to 20 minutes and is available in both English and Chinese. There’s a timetable posted outside the room, so you can check it and plan your visit accordingly.
The museum has 2 levels and they have a lot of amazing artifacts. The history of Cheng Ho, trading and artifacts are all very detailed and impressive. The kids also went to find the 3 wells that are mentioned in the show too.
The whole area is very spacious and clean, so is very suitable for family to visit!
Address:
Cheng Ho Cultural Museum
Muzium Budaya Cheng Ho, 51, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Malacca, Malaysia
Melaka Straits Cultural Museum
After finishing the tour at the Cheng Ho Museum, we walked to the Melaka Straits Cultural Museum. Entry is free, and the place is a mix of a cafe and a mini museum. When you walked in, it looks like a temple but actually behind is the cafe and museum.
We came here mainly for the batik painting activity for the kids. It’s RM35 per piece, and there is staff to teach them how to paint. It takes about 30-45mins for the kids to paint finish.
While the kids doing their painting, we took this time to have a coffee break and had ice stick! I choose the sour plum with lime flavour is very nice and refreshing. Right behind the cafe, there is a mini museum, show casing Peranakan wedding culture.
After the batik painting, there are some table games provided, so the kids had fun playing while waiting to go for our lunch.
Address:
马六甲海峡文化馆 Melaka Straits Cultural Museum
17, Jalan Tukang Besi, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Mamee House
Definitely not my kids’ first time playing this, but somehow, every time we come to Melaka, we just have to go through it again. Even now, my kids still get excited about making their own instant noodles maybe because it’s the only time they’re allowed to eat instant noodles!
It costs RM15 per cup. Previously, parents were allowed to accompany their kids throughout the process, but now you can only join them at the packaging station, after they’ve finished their drawing.
Address:
Mamee Jonker House
46 & 48, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Melaka River cruise
Another must-do when you are in Melaka is taking the Melaka River Cruise! The last time, I went at night, this time, we took the cruise in the evening and managed to catch the sunset.
You can buy the tickets from trip.com as it’s cheaper to buy online compared to buying onsite. You just need to go to Taman Rempah Jetty to redeem your tickets at the counter.
While we were cruising, the guide mentioned that our tickets included free entry to the new theme park – Sigua Mini Park. You have to keep your cruise ticket and used them within 24 hours.
I think they are still doing some upgrading or adding new facilities, I’m not sure. The area seems quiet, area and equipment all seems very new but the ferries wheel is not there anymore.
The kids immediately went into the arcade room, inside have 2 helicopter VR, it’s free to play but only one play per pax. Me and my sister went for the massage machine, RM2 for 6 mins.
The Upside down museum was amazing, there’s 2 floor and each level has more than 6-7 scenes where you can really take lots of photos. The kids spent like almost 45mins to an hour inside the house. Showing you guys some of the photos
Address:
Melaka River Cruise Jeti Taman Rempah
Jalan Persisiran Bunga Raya, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia
Sigua Mini Park
Jalan Tun Ali 4, Kampung Bunga Paya Pantai, 75300 Melaka, Malaysia
Melaka Butterfly & Reptile Sanctuary
I would say this is the best butterfly park for anyone who loves butterflies. You can buy tickets on the spot, or online through the official website there’s no price difference between the two.
When you arrive, be sure to check the show timings because you can get a chance to get up close with bugs and reptiles. This part was definitely my kids’ favourite, as they got to touch and hold the bugs and reptiles.
We bought feeding pack, RM8 for 1 packet, for the kids to feed the animals.
As for the butterfly park, I didn’t expect there to be so many butterflies in one area. I actually have a phobia of butterflies, but I still bring my kids to butterfly parks and so far, it’s been manageable, as long as the butterflies don’t fly too close or land on me. Usually, the parks don’t have as many butterflies as the one in Melaka!
The feeding pack actually comes with a butterfly release activity inside the cage, so that also explain why there are so many butterfly inside. Can watch my video to check out.
The whole park is very educational, especially the butterfly section, the information about butterflies is very detailed. About 80% of the park is sheltered, so you don’t really feel the heat. We spent almost 3 hours inside, it’s a great place for kids to play and explore.
Address:
Melaka Butterfly & Reptile Sanctuary
Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, 75450 Ayer Keroh, Melaka, Malaysia
9am – 530pm, daily.
Melaka Crocodile & Recreational Park
Melaka Crocodile Farm is just a few minutes away from the butterfly park. I’m not sure if it was because we went on a weekday, but the park was very quiet, and the haunted house wasn’t open. The good thing is, you can see a lot of crocodiles up close, and there is also a water park.
We didn’t expect to stay long, so we didn’t bring extra clothes or swimwear which we kind of regretted, since we finished walking through the park earlier than expected. The kids still had fun playing in the water, trying their best not to get their clothes wet though some of them did. So we walked around the park afterward to help them dry off before heading back to the car.
You can buy the tickets from klook which is cheaper than buying on the spot. 🙂
Beside the crocodile park, there’s a Mcdonald, so you can have your lunch or break here!
Address:
Melaka Crocodile and Recreation Park
Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, 75450 Ayer Keroh, Melaka, Malaysia
9am – 5pm, daily
Jonker Street Night Market
Honestly, every tourist loves visiting Jonker Street Night Market. To be honest, I just find it okay but for the kids, it’s exciting to walk around and soak in the vibes. Of course, I know what they really want is to shop and eat! Having said that, Jonker Street Night Market is still very crowded!
I have to recommend this store that sells smelly tofu. They taste almost like the Taiwan style, only issue is getting a table is not easy, just got to wait for awhile! I can’t get the actual address, so just follow the smell!
The famous cartoon trishaw!
This time, we didn’t ride it since we had done it before. Riding in the evening and at night gives totally different vibes, but personally, I prefer the evening. It’s not too hot, you can still take nice photos while they bring you around, and the trishaws are already lit up!
Address:
Jonker Street Night Market
Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Malacca Prison Museum
This is the first time I have been to a prison museum that feels so real and unfiltered. Melaka Prison is an actual prison built in 1860 by the British.
They showcase real photos, criminal records, and even health data of the prisoners. Some of the cells are preserved in their original condition, complete with drawings by the inmates. You can see scribbles of messages to God, family portraits, and words expressing how much they miss their loved ones.
Because it feels so real, it does give off some eerie vibes, but I appreciate how they have tried to preserve its authenticity and educate people on the consequences of committing a crime. They have a room that shows a documentary about the prison and its history. They also invited staff who had worked in the prison to share their experiences. Definitely worth watching.
They have a rotten caning session, but I’m not sure what time it actually starts. Based on Google reviews, it was supposed to be at 11am, but when I arrived, the staff said 1130am. We waited, but even by 12 pm, there was still no sign of the demonstration. You may want to check with them through social media before heading down.
Ticket price
Malaysia – RM3/adult, RM1/Child (7-12)
Foreigners – RM6/adult, RM3/Child (7-12)
Free admission for children aged 6 and under and people with disabilities.
Address:
Malaysia Prison Museum
Jln Parameswara, Kampung Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Closed on Monday, Tues – Sunday: 9am to 5pm
The Shore Oceanarium
The Shore Oceanarium is located inside a shopping mall. When we visited previously, it was closed, so I’m glad we had the opportunity to go this time. It’s not very big, but it’s interactive and informative enough for the kids to play and learn. To them, this place is a lot of fun!
Tickets have to buy on the spot, standard pricing.
Weekday (Mon-Thur): RM28/adult, RM28/child
Weekend (Fri-Sun): RM33/adult, RM33/child
The ticket comes with a free magnet and a 3D glasses. The 3D glasses is for a 3D show which is in a dark room near the entrance.
Even though it’s small, the kids still spent almost 2 hours inside.
Address:
The Shore Oceanarium
2F-01, Pinggiran @ Sungai Melaka, The Shore Shopping Gallery, 193, Jalan Persisiran Bunga Raya, Kampung Bunga Paya Pantai, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia
Daily 1030am – 7pm
Wonderland Park
We actually been to this Wonderland Park before, it’s at the same level with The Shore Oceanarium. Can see they have actually upgraded the theme park with lots of activities like VR, claw machine etc all free to play.
It’s cheaper to get tickets from klook, so you can buy before you go down! You can check their website what are the new activity and facilities included, because we adults didn’t went in, we dropped the kids and went for coffee break.
Address:
Wonderpark Melaka
Lot 2F-02B & 2F-02C, Level 2, The Shore, No.193 Pinggiran @ Sungai Melaka, Jalan Persisiran Bunga Raya, 75100, Melaka, Malaysia
Open daily 10am to 10pm.
Melaka Itinerary
Here is my Melaka Itinerary for your reference.
Day 1
730am Breakfast – 香江茶室 Siang Chang Cafe
930am – Cheng Ho Museum
1030am – Melaka Cultural Village Centre
1130am – Lunch – Kopi Hiram
1245pm – Dessert Chendol – Christina Ee Chendol
130pm – Mamee Jonker House
3pm – Check in Bayview Melaka
6pm – Melaka river cruise
730pm – Tai Zi Satay Celup / Wong Kok Food Court 88 (Chicken wing)
Day 2
930am – Butterfly & Reptiles Park
1230pm – Lunch nearby at Marybrown
130pm – Crocodile park
530pm – Sigua Mini Park
7pm – Dinner – Wild Coriander Melaka
8pm – Jonker Street Night Market
Day 3
10am – Prison Museum
12pm – Lunch – Yi Yuan Dim Sum House
130pm – The Shore Oceanarium
3pm – Wonderpark
6pm – Bulldog Melaka
8pm – Jonker Street Night Market.
Wrapping Up..
Both times we visited Melaka, we stayed in the central area. Hopefully, on our next trip, we will get to explore other parts of Melaka too.
After leaving Melaka, we headed straight to Kuala Perlis for our Langkawi trip! Stay tuned for my Langkawi post!
