Malacca, also spelt as Melaka, has changed a lot since the lockdown and the next time you find yourself in this historical town while on your trip to Malaysia, be sure to check out some of the best, most interesting bars, including a 100-year-old one.
Malacca is known for many things, especially being home to a rich and culturally diverse environment. With travel back in full swing now, a short trip here is always a good idea. There is plenty to discover, from heritage hotels to cafes. And since the historic city is also known as one of the best places to visit to eat to your heart’s content, you might forget that it also has plenty of great bars.
The bar scene in Malacca has recently upped its ante, with names like BUDI that offer more than just potent cocktails. Others, like the 100-year-old Sin Hiap Hin, well, let history do the talking.
There are also plenty of old-school bars readily available, featuring the background of the rich history of one of Malaysia’s oldest states. Checking out these best bars in Malacca may be the perfect reason to plan a trip.
8 best bars in Malacca to visit:
Jonker Street is one of the more livelier places within the city of Malacca and rightfully so, as there is always something going on. However, Jonker Street is also popular mainly due to the Geographer Café, which cannot be missed as it’s one of the biggest bars around the area. It embodies the term ‘east meets west’ while maintaining its warm ambience and old charm. The Geographer Café also serves up a wide array of dishes, which ranges from your classic Western dishes as well as local delicacies. It also has plenty of beer choices on tap as well as wine and other liquors.
Address: 83, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Phone: +06-2816813
Hatten Hotel is considered to be one of the more luxurious stays you can find when in Malacca. The hotel is set against a picturesque vista of Malacca’s most famous historical landmarks and on the 22nd floor lies Alto Sky Lounge. It brings a whole new definition to the term “a new height of luxury” with a breathtaking view of the cityscape right before your eyes. Alto Sky Lounge also offers a wide variety of drinks, from cocktails to fine wines. Be sure to dress appropriately as Alto Sky Lounge does have a strict ‘smart casual’ dress code.
Address: Hatten Square, Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Phone: +60 6-286 9696
It appears Malacca has also caught up with the times with its very own speakeasy bar known as The Old Merchant. From a first glance, The Old Merchant carries a heavy oriental vibe to its atmosphere as it was evolved from an ancient private bank that dates back to the 1920s. The speakeasy is also located along Jalan Kampung Pantai, which was the original Chinatown back in 15th-century Malacca. The Old Merchant also sticks true to the heritage of being a speakeasy as it will be a bit of a task to locate.
Address: 88, Jalan Kampung Pantai, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Phone: +60 19-627 9020
Image credit: The Old Merchant 滙庄/Facebook
If you’re looking to liven up your evening, the Hard Rock Cafe in Malacca is the place to be. The franchise has been around since the 1970s with its rock & roll themed memorabilia that adorn its walls. Fans of old-school rock & roll are in for a treat as Hard Rock Cafe has plenty of that and more. It also offers a wide spread of dishes and drinks for one to pick from while you go back through the golden years of rock & roll. You can also walk away with Hard Rock Cafe souvenirs from its gift shop, located within the premises.
Address: 28, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Phone: +606-2925188
Image credit: Hard Rock Cafe Melaka/Facebook
Inspired by the golden days of Dondang Sayangs clubs, BUDI Melaka is a hidden bar that offers more than just a good ol’ Old Fashioned. Sin See Tai cafe by day, and BUDI Melaka by night, the bar serves a bevvy of unique cocktails made using local produce including a vegetable-forward menu that incorporates homegrown ingredients like bittergourd, eggplant, corn and sweet pea into its concoction. The multi-level bar is eccentrically designed, giving a sense of mystery and cosiness at the same time. We recommend that you make a reservation before heading over because seats are pretty limited.
Address: 16, Kampung Jawa, 75100 Melaka
Phone: +6017-7188269
Image credit: Budi/Facebook
If you’re looking for something authentic and old-school, your visit to Melaka will not be complete without a drink at the 100-year-old vintage bar at Java Lane. This drinking hole is a living heritage and is managed by Aunty Doris, the bartender in charge of serving and pouring you some of the most unconventional spirits in the market. She’s been with the bar for over 40 years, and it is raved about for its rustic saloon-style bar that’s unpretentious yet charming. When visiting the oldest bar in historical Melaka, you’ll get more than cocktails and shots, but anecdotes of good ol’ Malacca from the owner herself.
Address: 5, Kampung Jawa, 75200 Melaka
Image credit: tripadvisor
They say the best way to explore Malacca city is by foot. If you happen to be around the heritage zone, Tipsy Bridge is a must-go for a tipple. It’s tucked in an alleyway off the main road, along Jalan Kampung Pantai across Kampung Jawa Bridge (where Sin See Tai or BUDI Melaka is). Its neon-lit signage is quite hard to miss. The little street here is quite happening at night, with upbeat music and neighbouring cafes like Tuju Cafe and The Bridge Cafe.
Address: Jalan Kampung Pantai, Dalam Lorong Jabatan, 75200 Melaka
Phone: +6011-2682 3038
Image credit: tipsybridgeauthentic/Instagram
Located adjacent to the famous Jonker Street, Reggae on the River is a riverside bar that allows you to chill al-fresco style while having a pint of beer or tequila shots. It’s a popular drinking place among the locals and offers a nice view of the vibrant Melaka River.
While Malaysia is known for its beaches, its hill stations are some of the most beautiful locations of the country. From the adventure parks of Genting Highlands to the verdant locales of Kelabit Highlands, and from the endless hiking trails of Bukit Tinggi to the birdwatching opportunities at Fraser Hill, hill stations in Malaysia offer travellers unforgettable adventures. Join us on a voyage across some of Malaysia’s finest hill stations as we explore their pleasant climates and natural attractions.
Best hill stations in Malaysia
Genting Highlands
Image credit: panlertb/Shutterstock
Genting Highlands offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and urban amenities, making it one of the most popular hill stations in Malaysia. Located on Mount Ulu Kali’s summit at an elevation of 1800 metres, it is home to Resorts World Genting, a popular integrated resort featuring casinos and theme parks.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Ride the Genting SkyWay cable system, and visit Sky Casino Restaurants to try: Burger & Lobster Genting, Tavern in the Sky, and Spice Garden Hotels to stay: Resorts World Genting, Genting SkyWorlds Hotel, and Grand Ion Delemen Hotel
How to reach
By air: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is approximately 42 km away By train: Batang Kali KTM Station is approximately 78 km away
Cameron Highlands
Image credit: Ravin Rau/Unsplash
Known for its lush rolling hills and valleys, Cameron Highlands is one of the top hill stations in Malaysia. Home to picturesque walking trails, butterfly farms, verdant tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and charming strawberry farms, it is one of the most visited hill stations in Malaysia by locals and tourists alike.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: February to July Things to do: Hike across Mossy Forest, visit Lavender Garden, and shop at the local markets Restaurants to try: Scott’s Cafe, Singh Chapati, and Sri Brinchang Hotels to stay: Cameron Highlands Resort, Strawberry Park Resort, and Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites
How to reach
By air: Ipoh Airport is approximately 33 km away By train: Tapah Road Railway Station is approximately 68 km away
Penang Hill
Image credit: Jakub Specjalski/Shutterstock
Located in the heart of Penang Island, Penang Hill is a popular hill resort. Also known as Bukit Bendera, it is considered the oldest colonial hill station in Southeast Asia. Several lookout points across its multiple peaks offer breathtaking views of lush forests, the azure blue sea, sandy beaches, and magnificent sunsets.
Location: Air Itam suburb Best time to visit: December to February Things to do: Visit Penang Botanic Gardens and Penang Butterfly Farm, ride the iconic Penang Hill funicular, and spend a day at the Wonder Food Museum Restaurants to try: David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace, Hillview Cafe, and Marrybrown Hotels to stay: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton, DeView Hotel, and Berjaya Penang Hotel
How to reach
By air: Penang International Airport is approximately 16 km away By train: Butterworth Railway Station is approximately 26 km away
Bukit Tinggi
Image credit: Najmi Arif/Shutterstock
Home to the popular Colmar Tropicale, a beautiful French-themed village resort and theme park, Bukit Tinggi is a quaint hill station in Pahang. One of the best hill stations in Malaysia, it is also home to the Berjaya Hills Resort, a major attraction for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur, which is less than 60 km away. Located on the scenic Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway connecting it to Genting Highlands, Bukit Tinggi is a popular stopover for locals and tourists.
Location: Bentong, Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple, explore the Japanese Tea House, and spend a day at the Rabbit Farm. Restaurants to try: La Flamme, La Blason, and Fantasy Valley Restaurant Hotels to stay: Colmar Tropicale, Berjaya Hills Resort, and The Chateau Spa & Wellness Resort
How to reach
By air: Minangkabau Airport is approximately 54 km away By train: Batang Kali Railway Station is approximately 75 km away
Fraser Hill
Image credit: Neoh Chee Kong/Shutterstock
Fraser Hill, known as Bukit Fraser in Malay, is popular for its verdant forests, walking trails, and diverse birdlife. Still relatively unexplored, it offers plenty of hiking opportunities that lead to waterfalls, lakes, dams, and rolling meadows. The forested areas are home to Malay tigers, harbour panthers, and sun bears.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: April to September Things to do: Visit the Jeriau Waterfall, go for a walk on the Pine Tree Trail or the Bishop Trail, and go on a paddle boat ride across Allan’s Water Lake Restaurants to try: Aida Daniya Restaurant & English Teahouse, Ye Olde Smokehouse, and Restoran Ratha Raub Hotels to stay: The Pines @ Fraser Hills, Puncak Inn, and Fraser’s Silverpark Resort
How to reach
By air: Kuala Lumpur International Airport is approximately 155 km away By train: Kuala Kubu Bharu Railway Station is approximately 41 km away
Bukit Larut
Image credit: KCEmperor/Shutterstock
A quaint little hill station in Malaysia, Bukit Larut, formerly known as Maxwell Hill, is famous for its rolling hills and meadows adorned with a variety of flowers, including petunias, roses, tulips, marigolds, dahlias, daisies, and pansies. Located on the Bintang Mountain Range, Bukit Larut is one of the most biodiverse regions in Malaysia, hosting more than 20% of the country’s plant species.
Location: Perak Best time to visit: March to October Things to do: Enjoy the Taiping Zoo & Night Safari, spend an evening at Taiping Lake Gardens, and enjoy a short hike at Kaki Bukit Larut Restaurants to try: Taiping Seven Village Noodle House, Carson Grill, and The Mask Cafe Hotels to stay: Novotel Taiping Perak, Flemington Hotel, and Hotel Casuarina
How to reach
By air: Taiping (Tekah) Airport is approximately 8 km away By train: Taiping Railway Station is approximately 9 km away
One of the most unexplored hill stations of Malaysia, Kelabit Highlands boasts magnificent mountain ranges, lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages. With its pleasant weather and diverse flora, it offers options through forests and rice fields, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Location: Sarawak Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Attend the annual three-day Bario Food Festival in July, visit the natural salt springs of Pa Umor, trek through jungles and villages Restaurants to try: Boon Kee Restaurant, Cloude Town Cafe, and Chan’s Restaurant Hotels to stay: The Ngimat Ayu House and Bulan and Daud Homestay
How to reach
By air: Marudi Airport is approximately 6 km away By train: Bandar Tasik Selatan Railway Station is approximately 2,949 km away
-What is the best time to visit Malaysia’s hill stations? It is best to avoid the monsoon seasons when visiting Malaysia’s hill stations. Visit the east coast from March to October, and the south coast from November to March.
-What are the things to do at Malaysian hill stations? You can enjoy trekking, adventure activities, spa therapies, birdwatching, and more at Malaysia’s hill stations.
-Are there any unique attractions in Cameron Highlands? The Time Tunnel Museum is one of the most unique attractions in Cameron Highlands. This museum showcases historical memorabilia and artefacts of the country.
-Can I experience a cool climate at Malaysia’s hill stations? Yes, Malaysia’s hill stations experience cool and pleasant weather almost all through the year.
-Is Genting Highlands suitable for family vacations? Yes, Genting Highlands is a popular destination for family vacations.
-Are there hiking trails in Malaysian hill stations? Most hill stations in Malaysia are home to verdant hiking trails suitable for people of all age groups.
-Are there cultural experiences in the hill stations of Malaysia? From temples to food festivals, museums to historical sites, hill stations in Malaysia are home to several cultural experiences.
Experience paradise underwater at these top 15 best dives sites In Malaysia.
Malaysia has long been a notable destination for diving, renowned the globe over for clear waters, diverse marine life and competitive dive rates.
Whether you want to try diving yourself or already an experienced diver, we’ve gathered these destinations below, that’ll truly appeal to the underwater adventurer in you.
Here are our top picks according to the overall experience. Discover and target your next diving destination, let’s discover one of the best short trips from Singapore!
15 Best Dive Sites In Malaysia
1. Sipadan Island & Mabul Island
The east of Malaysia, not to be confused in reference to diving in the East Coast of Malaysia, sits the lush island of Borneo, home to the top trio.
Our number one pick of best dive sites in Malaysia is hard to dispute as the trio of islands holds immense beauty above and underwater; we’re sure these islands will get you snorkelling and diving in no time after your arrival.
Accessibility: Fly into Tawau, Sabah or into Kota Kinabalu, Sabah then a land transfer is required to Semporna before a boat into the islands. Boats between the islands are available via resorts and the local dive operators, or if you’re staying in Semporna, day trips are available as well.
Good to know: You can visit these islands all year round, though special permits are required
2. Kapalai Island
Kapalai island isn’t far from Sipadan, with a mere 15km between them. This island isn’t at all big and has one resort operating on it.
A big bonus to Kapalai is that you get to snorkel and shore dive for free, not inclusive of any equipment, making it great if you’ve a party mix of divers and non-divers.
Image Credits: Leisure Tan
Accessibility: Similar route to Sipadan and Mabul above Good to know: The island is technically a sand bar, and walking along the sand is possible during low tide.
3. Layang Layang Island
Layang Layang proudly takes our third spot as the island is known for spotting of hammerhead and whale sharks, as well as its history; it was a former marine base.
What you won’t find here are beaches but the island more than makes up for it with the 12 dive spots around it.
Diving in Layang Layang however does not require permits and currently there is only one dive resort operating on the island.
Accessibility: Access point is via a chartered flight on board small cargo plane into the island from Kota Kinabalu. Do check weight limitations if you’re bringing along your diving gear and other equipment. Good to know: Island is open from March to August; remainder months closed during monsoon season
4. Pom Pom Island
A small gem, measuring less than 3 km in circumference, Pom Pom Island holds its own, largely due to its white sandy beaches and being a hatching ground for Hawksbills and Green turtles, and even one resort on the island doubles up as a turtle sanctuary and conservation centre.
If you’re visiting during turtle hatching season, ask locals how you can lend a hand.
Accessibility: Fly into Tawau and a land transfer to Semporna before taking a boat out to Pom Pom Good to know: Pom Pom North Point is also known as ‘Mini Sipadan’
5. Mataking Island
Also in Sabah, Mataking is known for having the one and only underwater post office in Malaysia.
Image Credits: aeriazlan
It is a base for turtle hatching with an active team running an eco-conservation program.Diving here is possible under the Sipadan diving permit.
Accessibility: Find your way by land transfer from Semporna and hop on a 40 minute boat ride inland Good to know: Mataking has a peacock sanctuary, open for visitors
6. Tenggol Island
Tenggol Island which is situated in the state of Terengganu, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia. One of best diving in Malaysia here is you can see the whale shark if you’re very lucky.
Image Credits: rattachain
This island is popular among more experienced divers as the waters surrounding it are wreck dive spots, and has only one resort on it. Consider the option to book via individual dive operators for best all-inclusive packages.
Diving sites are Tokong Timur, Mini Highway, Tanjung Api & many more.
Image Credits: zahryl
Accessibility: Drive up or fly into Terengannu and head on to Dungun pier, then a ferry or boat across Good to know: If hanging out at the beach, bring coconut oil to deter sand flies
7. Perhentian Island
Still in Terengganu, the two Perhentian islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil.
Accommodation choices are aplenty on both islands, from budget right up to luxury stays with the bulk of budget accommodation located on Perhentian Kecil, which is livelier come nightfall, and is the choice island for backpackers.
These islands are closed during the monsoon on the East Coast from November through to February.
Accessibility: Option to fly into Terrenganu, drive up, or take overnight busses to Kuala Besut jetty for the morning ferries Good to know: Travellers from Singapore can opt to hop on the Transnasional business class overnight bus
8. Redang Island
This island is also under Terrenganu state administration, and almost all accommodation here are resorts. While snorkelling and scuba diving is a must, other than water based activities why not enjoy Redang’s beaches which are perfect to simply relax the day away.
Image Credits: goproprojek, Janice Tan
Accessibility: Fly, drive or bus it into into Kuala Terengganu then travel to Shahbandar jetty or Merang jetty Good to know: Marine fees apply for entry into island
9. Tioman Island
Tioman Island in the state of Pahang is a duty free island, and an abundance of resorts around the island, with a jungle and forestation in the middle or the island.
A small Malay village with shops and eateries is in Kampung Tekek; and to get here is only by water taxis.
Image Credits: Kai Lukoff
Accessibility: Direct flight from Subang airport via SAS airline, drive up, hire taxis and overnight busses Good to know: One ATM machine in Tekek, but does not accept all cards- do bring sufficient cash
10. Lankayan Island
Back to Sabah Borneo, Lankayan is quite the secret among divers, and less visited due to its location in the Sulu sea.
But if you make this trip, you won’t regret it anytime soon especially if you’re lucky to spot some whale sharks!
Image Credits: fotograferen.net
Accessibility: Head to Sandakan Sabah then hop on a speedboat Good to know: March- May for whale sharks sightings
11. Dayang Island
Situated in Johor, this island is practically unknown even to most Malaysians. The island is picking up in popularity in recent years so if you ask us, the best time to go is now!
Dayang Island attracts divers and sport fishermen namely for the Black Marlin which are native around its waters.
Accessibility: From Johor, travel to Mersing jetty and then a boat in Good to know: Open season is from April to September
12. Pemanggil Island
Pemanggil Island is a haven for divers and fishermen, as most fishing competitions are held here and also a spot to catch Black Marlins and mackerels.
Being small, electricity on Pemanggil Island is controlled, and switched on from 1930- 0730 daily.
Accessibility: Get in to Johor then to Mersing jetty and a boat transfer Good to know: Best to visit from March to June
13. Labuan Island
Labuan in Miri Borneo is an island with its own appeal, firstly it’s duty free throughout and offering two notable wrecks from World War II and other wrecks spots as well.
Image Credits: adlertours.files.wordpress.com
Divers with sufficient logged wreck diving experience or are certified would be able to visit some wreck spots here.
Accessibility: Fly in directly from Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu Good to know: Great deals on duty free pearls
14. Langkawi Island
Malaysia’s largest duty free island is way up north in the state of Kedah neighbouring Thailand. There’s a lot to do in Langkawi it’s best to spend a few days, up to a week here.
Diving in Langkawi, Malaysia takes place mostly at the Marine Park and three other islands nearby.
Accessibility: Plenty of direct flights into Langkawi Good to know: Year round diving
15. Kapas Island
Belonging to the state of Terengganu, this less visited island is a magnet for wreck dive enthusiasts, as its home to a Japanese World War II ship wreck, and offers a chance to glimpse reef sharks and turtles who favour the waters around here.
Accessibility: Fly, drive or bus it into Terengganu and on to Marang jetty followed by boat transfer Good to know: Open year round but gets a lot of rain during monsoon season
[…] the main reasons people flock to Melaka is for its food. The city is famous for its unique blend of cultural and colonial cuisine, which can be found right in the heart of the […]
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[…] the main reasons people flock to Melaka is for its food. The city is famous for its unique blend of cultural and colonial cuisine, which can be found right in the heart of the […]