Malacca is one of Malaysia's heritage towns, well known for its long history, rich culture and local cuisine.
The city's past is intricately intertwined with that of the colonial powers in the region, and even today, visitors can still see the legacy of the British, Dutch and Portuguese influences in the architectural variety across Malacca.
Far from only a town for history buffs though, this UNESCO World Heritage site has plenty to offer foodies, as well as those looking to get some shopping in.
You might also want to explore the other parts of Malaysia while you visit Malacca, such as Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi.
What to eat
What's visiting Malacca without having some traditional Nyonya fare? Restoran Nyonya Makko (123 Jalan Merdeka, Taman Melaka Raya, Off Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 75000) has served up authentic Nyonya cuisine for four generations and is still going strong.
Even for the less food adventurous, if you stick to the restaurant's popular dishes and you can't go wrong. Look for staples such as ayam pong teh, assam fish, udang sambal petai and cendol.
If there's a "must-eat" place in the town though - and if you're fine with a non-restaurant setting - Capitol Satay Celup is the place to try. Expected to queue here, whether it's the weekend or a weekday, as the food here is just that good. The secret lies in the boiling pot of sauce, which replaces your usual steamboat broth that boils your satays.
Where to visit
Christ Church, one of the most symbolic architectural buildings in Malacca, was constructed back when the Dutch took possession of the city from the Portuguese. It was only of the only places of worship in the city besides St. Paul's Church. Post Dutch-rule, the British transformed the Protestant church into an Anglican one.
Religious history aside, Christ Church is a remembrance of the area's cultural past, decorated with plagues in honour of Dutch soldiers that were stationed there, as well as in memorial of notable locals who lived there during the Dutch occupation some 200 years ago.
Christ Church, Jalan Kota, Bandar Melaka (p. Jawa) 75000, +60 6 284 8804
Where to shop
Jonker Street is where all the action is on weekend evenings - bustling with activities starting at sundown. The night markets forces the street to close to traffic and the people (locals and tourists alike) take over.
If shopping for cheap thrills and snacking on street foods are not enough amusement, check out the bars that pop up along sidewalks for a drink, and listen to the live music that inevitably starts up in the area. Think of this market as a weekly mini-street party.
