With a history of Dutch architecture, Portuguese ancestry, British colonial infusions, and even Chinese influences, Melaka is a real melting pot. Not only that, but this coastal city in Malaysia boasts row upon row of beautiful heritage buildings, and a whole lot of historical sights to soak up. This rich tapestry of cultures also means a fantastic array of food to eat throughout the city; even Indian culture is a big part of Melaka, adding to the food scene.
Staying in Melaka means you might actually be able to reside in one of the gorgeous heritage houses that make strolling its streets so charming. This means you will be able to experience history for yourself from the inside out. Alternatively, if you want something more modern, Melaka boasts many towering luxe hotels set next door to malls.
8. Swiss Hotel Heritage Boutique Melaka
This hotel is a cool and contemporary option that mixes traditional Melakan style with modern features. It’s located in the heart of Jonker Street where all the action is. You’ll be close to the historic Melaka Clock Tower and the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple – there is a lot going on in the nearby area. Rooms are decorated with Chinese inspired furniture, with an elegant boutique style, and come with polished ensuite bathrooms. Set in a traditional shophouse, this family-friendly hotel serves a buffet breakfast every morning, as well as a selection of local dishes throughout the day. The heritage building means you get to soak up the authenticity of the area firsthand.
7. Hotel Arissa
Set in a modern building away from the historic area of Melaka, Hotel Arissa provides contemporary, clean rooms with lots of straight lines, greys, and soft lighting; it’s unfussy, comfortable, and relaxing. The hotel provides bicycle hire free of charge, so you can explore the surrounding area at your own pace. It is also located near the Plaza Hang Tuah and the Baba and Nonya Heritage Museum. The staff are friendly and serve breakfast each morning, plus there’s an onsite restaurant for evening meals and lunch. In case you’re driving, there’s free parking provided by the hotel.
6. Ohana House HQ
Located inside a truly charming old shophouse and decorated with heritage Baba and Nonya interiors, there are delicate touches throughout Ohana House HQ. The rooms feature eye-catching four-poster beds, real hardwood floors, and shuttered windows that look out onto the streets below. There are various seating areas throughout the hotel where you can relax, musing over the traditional artwork on the walls. This is a budget-friendly option where you can learn more about the culture of the area from the multilingual staff. You can also walk to the Cheng Ho Cultural Museum and St John’s Fort from this hotel.
5. Estadia Hotel
A modern hotel which has incorporated the Chinese culture in the local area, the Estadia Hotel has been beautifully planned, with elegant touches of design – from ornate, wood-carved walls to Peranakan style tiling. The rooms at this hotel are sultry, with bright color pops and high ceilings. There is a restaurant on site where you can try local dishes, as well as a lounge bar for an evening drink or two. For shopping enthusiasts, the nearby Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall is within easy walking distance and can satisfy all your retail needs. The exciting Jonker Street is around 15 minutes on foot, too. But bicycle rental is available free of charge.
4. Hatten Place Melaka
The striking and stylish Hatten Place Melaka is a towering hotel packed with urban design. Guests can enjoy a cool rooftop terrace, perfect for sunning yourself and gazing out across the city; there’s also an amazing infinity pool! The hotel sits atop the Elements Mall – meaning great shopping on your doorstep – plus, it’s just steps away from Portuguese Square and St John’s Fort. Guests can make use of the hotel’s city shuttle service and be whisked to whatever sight they want. Rooms are clean and comfortable and are elegantly furnished, with sea views and chic bathrooms.
3. Hatten Hotel Melaka
Situated right in the middle of the city, Hatten Hotel Melaka is just 15 minutes on foot from the cool Jonker Street. Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall is connected to this hotel by a bridge link, which makes a spot of shopping a very convenient option. The stylish rooms at this hotel are decorated in a relaxed, laid-back style, with neutral taupe tones and views of the city. There is an outdoor pool on the 12th floor, where you can cool off from the heat of the day. You can feed your appetite at the hotel restaurant or order room service at any time of day.
2. Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka
Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka is perched on the banks of the Melaka River and boasts two Olympic-sized swimming pools. If that’s not enough for you, there is also a tennis court and even a sky garden with its very own rooftop bar. The location of this upscale hotel means you have direct access to the Shore Shopping Mall. Interesting sights like St Peter’s Church are also mere moments away on foot. Rooms range from suites with plush furnishings, leather detailing and great views, to more standard rooms, still decorated with a high finish. There is also a restaurant on site for hungry guests, though there are many restaurants on the doorstep.
1. Majestic Malacca Hotel
This hotel is gorgeously situated inside a Peranakan style building – a sumptuous mansion that dates back to the 1920s. The beautifully restored mansion boasts porcelain tiled floors and teak wood furnishings for a supremely luxurious stay. Set on the banks of the river, guests can spend time lazing next to the outdoor pool or enjoying treatments at the hotel spa. The hotel’s restaurant serves Kristang (mixed Malaccan-Portuguese) cuisine, where you can enjoy meals surrounded by antiques and artifacts. If you can tear yourself away, the Hang Tuah Plaza, amongst other sights, are within easy walking distance.
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