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Just before we left Singapore, one Friday lunchtime, I rang my husband at work and said, “Hey… how about I pick you up in a couple of hours and we drive to Malacca for the night?” We’d wanted to go for years but had never quite squeezed it in. So in true to us from, two hours later we were in the car, snacks, passports and overnight bags packed, heading north to Malaysia for a last-minute adventure.

The Drive From Singapore to Malacca

We somehow timed it perfectly, the Tuas crossing took less than 30 minutes, which felt like a small miracle. Once over the border, it was an easy, mostly empty highway run through palm and rubber plantations. The odd petrol station dotted the route for bathroom breaks, and just before sunset we rolled into Malacca, the sky turning a warm tropical gold.

Where We Stayed in Malacca

We checked into The Majestic Malacca, a gorgeous, colonial-style hotel right on the river and just a short walk from the centre of town.

It has a colonial front, with modern rooms tucked behind it. Our adjoining rooms had dark wood floors, roll-top baths, and views across the rooftops. Breakfast was such a treat too, served in an old world cozy Peranakan style dining room that made you want to linger, fresh fruit, kuih, and all the things you want on a quiet hotel morning.

First Impressions of Malacca

Malacca surprised me in the loveliest way. It has this “Venice of Asia” charm with its river running straight through the centre. Cobbled lanes wrap around the water, little bridges arch over it, and cafés spill out onto the riverside paths. Colourful, slightly worn, a bit whimsical, the kind of place that feels made for wandering without a plan.

Things To Do in Malacca (Melaka)

1. Take a River Cruise

The river is the heartbeat of the city, so it makes sense to start on the water. We passed old ferris wheels, traditional kampongs, riverfront restaurants and beautifully faded buildings.

Tip: Ask your hotel to point out the boarding points — it wasn’t very clear and we did a few loops before working it out.

2. Wander Jonker Street and the Historic Centre

Malacca’s Dutch heritage still pops up everywhere, windmills, red buildings, cow statues and a design style that feels delightfully out of place in Southeast Asia.

3. Explore the Street Art

Not as abundant as Penang, but still plenty to find if you go exploring. Some murals are tucked down alleyways, others stretch across riverside facades. We loved the little unexpected ones.

4. Find a Cute Café and Eat Your Way Through Town

When we visited (still post-COVID), some places were closed, but we found a handful of sweet, cosy cafés to stop in for iced drinks and snacks. Food here can be such a comfort with laksa, Nyonya dishes.

5. Visit the Floating Mosque

Unfortunately it was closed for renovations when we visited, so we couldn’t even get a peek, but I’d recommend checking ahead as it’s supposed to be beautiful.

6. Drop Donations at a Local Charity Shop (If You Have Them)

We were just a couple of months from moving back to the UK and had items to donate. Singapore charity shops are always overflowing, but the ones here were genuinely grateful. It felt good to leave something useful behind.

And Just Like That… Back to Singapore

After 24 hours of wandering, eating, boating and exploring somewhere new, we hopped back in the car and headed south again. It was the perfect tiny escape, easy, spontaneous and full of memories that still make me smile.

Would I Do a 24-Hour Trip to Malacca Again?

100% yes. It’s close, it’s easy, and it felt familiar yet different to Singapore. For an impromptu escape, new scenery, good food, river walks, and a little adventure, Malacca is such a great option.

If you’re based in Singapore you might also enjoy 11 Island Holidays just a Short Hop Away from Singapore, South East Asia or 9 Things to do on a Weekend in Singapore.