08:00 Be picked up from the hotel for a full-day city tour of quaint Malacca. Steeped in history as a trading post due to its vital location along the Malacca Strait, the town is a melting pot of cultures resulting from distinct history from the rest of Malaysia notable due to the substantial Portuguese and Dutch influences.
Best explored on foot (a trishaw can be used for this tour at an additional cost), meander through areas steeped in history starting at the oldest remaining example of European architecture in Southeast Asia, A Famosa, before climbing St Paul’s Hill to visit St Paul’s Church and descending to one of the best examples of Dutch colonial architecture, the Stadthuys - the former Dutch City Hall which is flanked by flamboyantly decorated trishaws.
Sample food at Peranakan style restaurants in Malacca. This style of food is influenced by the Cantonese, Portuguese and Malay ingredients and methods. Taste a delicious warm Portuguese tart from one of the many nearby vendors.
Next, head to Temple Street, named for the multicultural range of temples and mosques that have lined the street since the early 18th century. This is the perfect place to get a taste of the area’s uniquely diverse local culture. Visit Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Kampong King Mosque and Sri Vinayagar Temple to better understand Indian, Chinese and Malay religious customs.
Continue to see restored Peranakan buildings (a cultural mix of Han-Chinese and Malay that forged its own style, known as the Baba-Nyonya, from the 15th century).
Visit the excellent Baba-Nyonya Museum along the way to learn more about the unique Peranakan culture before exploring some interesting antique stores and cafes along the famous Jonker Street.
Stop by a traditional Malay house to learn about distinctive Malay customs and take a river cruise along the newly developed key side for a unique view of the city.
Overnight Kuala Lumpur.
NOTES
Suggested departure time: 08:00
Tour duration: 08 hours
