How to Get to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur: A Complete Guide
Leave the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur and step into the historic town of Melaka.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking to escape into a unique getaway, the journey from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka promises you a fun-filled day of exploration.
Read this article to find out how to get to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur, different transportation options, sights to see along the way, food options, and our accommodation recommendations.
Time Zone
Malaysian Standard Time (UTC+8)
Best Time to Go
Melaka has two primary seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, spanning from November to March, is undoubtedly one of the best times to explore this charming town.
Meanwhile, if you’re a fan of vibrant festivals and cultural events, April and May are fantastic months to visit Melaka.
The town comes alive with energy and excitement, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the fusion of traditions that define Melaka.
However, if you want to visit Melaka at a more relaxed pace, consider planning your visit during the mid-week and outside of peak holiday periods.
Things to Know
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (check the current exchange rate)
Language: Malay, English, Mandarin
Calling Code: +60
How to Get to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur
Bus: Take the subway to Bandar Tasik Selatan station on the KMT Line 1 going to the TBS Bus Terminal.
From there, you can catch the long distance bus to Melaka Sentral Bus Station. Expect to pay around RM30 to RM40 for around two hours.
You can also choose to ride the Transnasional and StarMart Express bus lines. Tickets to the Transnasional costs RM 24.6, while the StarMart Express is more expensive at around RM32 and travels less frequently.
Train: There are no direct train routes from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka, but you can take the Komuter train to Tampin and then ride a public bus or taxi going to Melaka Sentral.
You can also opt to ride the ETS train from KL Sentral to Tampin. Tickets on the Komuter train will cost RM14 and the ETS train will depend on what kind of reserved seating you choose.
Expect the train ride to last for around two to three hours. Make sure to check the train schedule before heading out so you won’t miss your ride.
Car Rental: The estimated travel time if you are traveling via a rental car is around two hours for a distance of 140 kilometers.
Make sure to purchase a Touch n’ Go card at convenience stores or gas stations as there will be several toll stations along the way. Car rental rates in Malaysia start at around RM100 per day.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available and offer a comfortable and direct way to get to Melaka. It will cost around RM 230 to RM 280.
Ride-Hailing Service: Utilize ride-hailing apps such as Grab or inDrive to book a private ride to transport you to Melaka.
Sights to See On Your Way to Melaka
Colmar Tropicale
Location: KM 48 Persimpangan Bertingkat, Karak Expy, Bukit Tinggi, 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia
Operating Hours: Daily 24 hours
The Colmar Tropicale is a place where kids can see and interact with rabbits! Your small kids can even feed the the rabbits in this family fun destination,
Aside from petting the fluffy rabbits, your kids can also experience the thrill of horse riding or take part in cute little tea ceremony activities in the Japanese Village and Botanical Garden!
Petting the animals can be very therapeutic and will boost those endorphins!
Local Tip:
- Entrance fee is RM14 for adults and RM7 for children.
- There’s also an indoor playground for your kids to enjoy!
Batu Caves
Location: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia
Operating Hours
- Temple (Main Cave): 6AM-9PM
- Ramayana Cave: 9AM-6:30PM
- Dark Cave: Monday to Friday 10AM-5PM, Saturday to Sunday 10:30AM-5:30PM
- Cave Villa: 8:30AM-5:30PM
Explore the Batu Caves, a unique collection of cave temples in Gombak that stands at nearly 100 meters from the ground.
Here, you’ll find a towering 140-foot statue of the Hindu deity Lord Murugan that serves as a guardian at the entrance of Batu Caves.
Interestingly, it holds the record of being Malaysia’s tallest depiction of a Hindu deity and ranks as the world’s third tallest of its kind—impressive, right?
Within the Batu Caves temple complex, there are three primary caverns alongside numerous smaller caves. Exploring here feels like entering a magical world where huge limestone cliffs meet colorful Hindu shrines.
Climbing the stairs, you’ll find a massive golden Murugan statue, and inside the cave, sunlight shines through openings above, creating a special feeling.
You can see ancient formations and playful macaques too. It’s a place where nature and spirituality come together in a unique way.
Local Tip:
- Looking for more adventure? You can go rock climbing in Batu Caves as there are several climbing routes scattered across the Damai Wall, which rises up to 150 meters.
Petronas Twin Towers
Location: Petronas Twin Tower, Lower Ground (Concourse) Level, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9AM-9PM
Ticket Prices:
Standing at 452 meters, the Petronas Twin Towers are the tallest twin towers in the world.
Conceived by architect Cesar Pelli, this 88-storey skyscraper complex stands as Kuala Lumpur’s crowning glory. No visit would be complete without a glimpse of this architectural marvel.
Beyond its physical grandeur, the towers embody Malaysia’s global ambitions, perfectly encapsulating the nation’s aspirations through their design and magnificence.
A highlight of the experience is undoubtedly the engaging tour, complete with interactive displays that unveil the towers’ journey from a mere idea to their awe-inducing completion.
Going up the tower via elevator is a thrilling experience in itself. Stepping onto the Skybridge, the remarkable connecting structure between the two towers and the world’s highest two-story bridge, was a moment of wonder.
But the adventure didn’t stop there. Ascending further to level 86, the observation deck opened up a breathtaking panorama of Kuala Lumpur.
Witnessing the city from this vantage point was an experience that words can barely capture.
For anyone eager to be immersed in the monumental vision that is the Petronas Twin Towers, a journey to this iconic landmark is an absolute necessity.
Local Tip:
- It is best to plan your visit at night time, so you can see the beautiful view of Kuala Lumpur illuminated by the city lights! You won’t see anything from the deck if it’s rainy or cloudy, so be sure to visit on a clear day!
- Book your tickets in advance as weekends can be very crowded.
Menara Kuala Lumpur
Location: 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Operating Hours: Daily 9:30AM-10PM
Standing at 421 meters, the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower, or simply known as the Kuala Lumpur Tower, is yet another majestic skyscraper and stands as a testament to Malaysia’s architectural prowess.
Stepping into its domain, you’ll be treated to a panoramic spectacle that will take your breath away.
From the tower’s pinnacle, which houses an observation deck soaring at 276 meters, you’ll find a remarkable 360-degree view of the city below! The experience is enhanced by the sky deck and a revolving restaurant, each offering its own unique vantage point.
Local Tip:
- There’s a mini zoo at the ground floor of the KL Tower! Exotic animals such as squirrel monkeys, rabbits, meerkats, sugar gliders, and more call it their home. It’s perfect for animal lovers and kids to visit!
Aquaria KLCC
Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Operating Hours: Daily 10AM-7PM
Ticket Prices:
Covering an expansive 60,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art aquarium is an absolute marvel, housing a staggering 5,000 aquatic creatures.
One of the highlights at Aquaria KLCC is the transparent underwater tunnel, an immersive journey that makes you feel like you’re truly submerged with the marine wonders.
Walking beneath this tunnel, you’ll be surrounded by the graceful movements of creatures such as Green Sea Turtles, Sand Tiger Sharks, and Giant Groupers.
Aquaria KLCC is known as the best aquarium in Southeast Asia. And guess what? They kick it up a notch.
If you’re feeling brave, you can dive with the sharks – talk about an adrenaline rush!
It’s an extraordinary chance to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures, adding an unforgettable dimension to the overall experience.
Local Tip:
- The shark dive costs RM400 and lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. Make sure to pack a sweater or jacket afterwards as the dive is chilly with the water temperature going as low as 24-25 degree celsius!
Alamanda Shopping Centre
Location: Jalan Alamanda, Presint 1, 62000 Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya, Malaysia
Operating Hours: Daily 10AM-10PM
If you’ve been feeling stressed out, try retail therapy in Alamanda Shopping Centre! Your wallet won’t be happy but you will!
If you happen to forget a few things on your way to Melaka, no worries! The Alamanda Shopping Centre has it all in one place – from electronic stores, to groceries, clothes, and more.
Local Tip:
- If you’re planning to do a lot of shopping, consider bringing a reusable shopping bag with you.
Some stores might not provide bags, or they might charge for them. Having your own eco-friendly bag handy can be convenient and environmentally friendly.
Chinatown Kuala Lumpur
Location: Jalan Petaling, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Operating Hours: Daily 9AM-10PM
The colorful and lively Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur is where you’ll experience the best of Chinese-Malaysian culture at its best.
It’s a bustling night market that offers a wide array of food and goodies such as clothes and other trinkets.
During the lively night market, you can feel the excitement in the air. There’s a mix of tasty foods, different clothes, and cool stuff to buy—it’s a place that really shows the special feeling of this unique area.
Local tip:
- Don’t miss out on trying their street food, nasi lemak, pisang goreng, and teh tarik!
Where to Stay in Melaka
Hatten Hotel Melaka
Location: Jln Merdeka, Banda Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Contact Details: +60 6-286 9696
Pricing: $$$
Book Now
The Hatten Hotel Melaka is a fancy 5-star spot right in the heart of Melaka. It’s seriously big with 704 suites and a massive ballroom for up to 1,000 people – that’s grand!
They’ve also got an infinity pool, a gym, and an office space for people who need to do some work.
But what’s really cool is that this hotel is located near history spots, lots of shopping, tons of food places, and fun things to do. It’s like a fancy oasis surrounded by all the good stuff!
Local Tip:
- Tired from traveling? The Hatten Hotel Melaka offers an indulgent spa treatment with goat’s milk!
- You can also relax and enjoy the city view from the sky bar on the 22nd floor.
5 Heeren
Location: 5, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Taman Kota Laksamana, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Contact Details: +60 12-274 4670
Pricing: $$-$$$
Book Now
The 5 Heeren Hotel flawlessly blends Chinese-Malay/Indonesian culture, offering a captivating journey back in time.
The perfect blend of hospitality and museum-like charm, this boutique hotel’s courtyard and communal spaces are beautifully adorned with Peranakan antiques that transport you to another era.
Meanwhile, the rooms are equally captivating, boasting intricately carved four-poster beds and period furniture that instantly immerse you in the charm of the past.
Local Tip:
- Don’t forget to try their traditional Peranakan breakfast. It will give you a taste of Melaka flavors from Nyonya nasi lemak to the laksa!
Timez Modern Heritage Hotel Melaka
Location: 31, Jalan Hang Kasturi, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Contact Details: +60 6-281 2109
Pricing: $$
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The Timez Modern Heritage Hotel is situated in Jonker Street and is an intimate hotel with 15 uniquely themed rooms.
This quaint hotel, with its 15 thoughtfully designed rooms, truly encapsulates the essence of Melaka’s history.
Each room tells a different story, with themes ranging from the vibrant British-inspired Pop Art Suite to the elegant Chinese Lattice Room. It’s as if every corner of this hotel is a tribute to the rich heritage that Melaka holds dear.
Liu Men Hotel
Location: 46-56, Jalan Tokong, Kampung Dua, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Contact Details: +60 6-288 1161
Pricing: $$$
Book Now
If you’re looking for a true home away from home, check out Liue Men Hotel.
This unique hotel is a captivating transformation of six pre-World War 2 shop-houses into a welcoming haven.
Stepping inside, its architectural marvel unfolds, seamlessly blending colonial elegance with heritage charm. The fusion of art deco and Peranakan designs in its architecture is truly a sight to behold as well, as it beautifully celebrates the harmony between Eastern and Western cultures.
It’s a place where traditions coexist, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the heart and soul of Melaka.
Local Tip:
- Don’t forget to bring earplugs! This hotel is near Chinatown, and it can be quite noisy at night.
The Rucksack Caratel
Location: 107, Jalan Banda Kaba, Banda Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Contact Details: +60 6-292 2107
Pricing: $$
Book Now
Escape the city buzz and discover the serene haven that is The Rucksack Caratel. This boutique hotel is cocooned within lush green surroundings, offering a truly rejuvenating experience.
The hotel’s 25 guest rooms and the presence of an American Diner provided all the comforts one could desire.
However, what’s truly fascinating is the interior design, which artfully drew inspiration from Melaka’s diverse culture and its historical influences – the Peranakan, Portuguese, and Dutch heritage.
Staying here was more than just accommodation; it was an immersive journey into the very fabric of Melaka’s past and present.
Where to Eat in Melaka
Donald and Lily’s
Location: No 16 (Ground Floor) Jalan KSB 1 The Bendahari, Melaka 75200 Malaysia
Contact Details: +606-284 8907
Operating Hours: Daily 9AM-4PM
Pricing: $-$$
Established in 1980, Donald and Lily’s is a treasure trove of Nyonya cuisine. Its reputation reached new heights when it garnered the esteemed attention of the New York Times magazine – a testament to its exceptional offerings.
Don’t miss out on their star dishes, as they didn’t disappoint! The laksa, a harmonious blend of curry and coconut milk, was a flavorful delight that left a lasting impression.
The taukwa rojak, a medley of pineapples, cucumber, tofu, and more, presented a symphony of textures and flavors that pleased the palate. Try out the curry chicken rice as well if you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that truly hits the spot!
Geographer Cafe
Location: 83, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Contact Details: +606-281 6813
Operating Hours
- Monday to Friday 10AM-1AM
- Saturday to Sunday 9AM-1AM
Pricing: $$-$$$
The Geographer Cafe is a great place to unwind while sipping your favorite coffee!
Their standout offerings include the invigorating ginger beer and an array of delectable pasta dishes. However, don’t hesitate to explore the wider menu and discover other culinary delights.
Ban Lee Siang Satay Celup
Location: 53-C, Jalan Ong Kim Wee 75300 Melaka, Malaysia
Contact Details: +6012-651 5322
Operating Hours: Daily 4PM-12:30AM
Pricing: $$
One of the oldest original satay celup restaurants in Melaka, Ban Lee Siang Satay Celup is known for their piping hot peanut sauce everybody craves and loves!
Other mouthwatering dishes you shouldn’t miss out on are their blood cockles, century egg, and fish balls!
Kedai Kopi Juat Lye
Location: 371G, Taman Peringgit Jaya, 75400 Melaka, Malaysia.
Contact Details: +606-283 3619
Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 8AM-2PM
Pricing: $
Don’t miss out on Juat Lye Restaurant’s homemade nyonya laksa,a seemingly simple dish stands out brilliantly due to its exceptional quality. The secret lies in the rich and creamy broth, elevated by the addition of flavorful red chili oil that adds just the right amount of heat.
It’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of Nyonya cuisine and is not to be missed.
What to Expect from Melaka Weather
Dry Season (March to October): The dry season in Melaka brings warm and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F).
Rainy Season (November to February): Rainy season in Melaka with occasional heavy showers and thunderstorms, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F).
Apps to Download
Grab: Ride-hailing, electric bikes and motorized scooters, food delivery
iOs | Android
inDrive: Ride-hailing car
iOS | Android
Google Translate: Word translation with offline capabilities
iOs | Android