Location: Dutch Square, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Also known as: Red Square Melaka
About Dutch Square, Melaka
Welcome to Dutch Square, one of Melaka’s most iconic and Instagram-worthy landmarks. Situated in the heart of the city, this eye-catching square is lined with vibrant red colonial buildings, historical monuments, and charming cobblestone walkways. A legacy of the Dutch colonial era, Dutch Square is also known as Red Square, and serves as a gateway to Melaka’s rich multicultural past.
This central location, directly opposite Jonker Street, makes Dutch Square an essential stop on any Melaka itinerary—perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and cultural explorers alike.
Highlights of Dutch Square
Melaka Clock Tower
Built in 1886, the 50-foot Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower stands tall beside the Stadthuys and Queen Victoria Fountain. A tribute from Tan Jiak Kim to his late father, this tower still ticks to this day and is a popular meeting point and photo spot.
Queen Victoria Fountain
Constructed by the British in 1901 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, this antique fountain is a colonial symbol and still flows gracefully today. The elegant structure bears the inscription:
“Victoria Regina 1837-1901. Erected by the people of Malacca in memory of a great queen in 1904.”
The Stadthuys
The Stadthuys, meaning “city hall” in Dutch, is a massive red building built between 1641–1660, known as the oldest Dutch building in the East. Once the Dutch administrative centre, it now houses the History and Ethnography Museum, which explores Melaka’s journey from the Malay Sultanate to European colonisation.
Museum Entry Fees:
- Malaysian Adult: RM 10
- Foreigner Adult: RM 20
- Malaysian Child: RM 5
- Foreigner Child: RM 10
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Fri–Sun: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Christ Church Melaka
Built in 1753, this is one of the most photographed buildings in Dutch Square. Its bright red facade, large white cross, and hand-carved pews are examples of authentic Dutch architecture. It remains an active Anglican place of worship.
Things to Do at Dutch Square
- Take pictures with the iconic red buildings and floral trishaws.
- Enjoy a trishaw ride around the heritage zone.
- Explore Stadthuys Museum to uncover Melaka’s colonial history.
- Visit Christ Church Melaka and St. Paul’s Church ruins.
- Shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs at local stalls.
- Hike up St. Paul’s Hill for sweeping city views.
- Combine your visit with a Melaka River Cruise.
How to Get to Dutch Square
By Bus:
Take Melaka Town Bus No.17 and alight at Jonker Street, then walk 3 minutes.
By Car:
Parking is available around Jonker Walk and Dataran Pahlawan. It’s best to visit in the morning or evening to avoid peak tourist hours.
On Foot:
From Jonker Walk, it’s only a 3-minute walk across the bridge to Dutch Square.
Top Places to Stay Near Dutch Square
1. Casa del Rio Melaka
5-star riverside hotel offering luxury and direct access to Jonker Street and Dutch Square.
+60 6-289 6888
2. The Majestic Malacca
Boutique heritage hotel with a spa and colonial elegance.
+60 6-289 8000
3. Jonker Boutique Hotel
Affordable comfort located right on Jonker Street.
+60 6-282 5151
4. Timez Hotel Melaka
A stylish modern hotel with historical-themed decor. +60 6-288 1234
Nearby Attractions
- Jonker Street Night Market – Street food, antiques & entertainment.
- St. Paul’s Church – Ruins with sea views and colonial graves.
- A Famosa – Portuguese fortress remains.
- Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum – A wooden replica of a Malay palace.
- Cheng Hoon Teng Temple – Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple.
Top Food Spots Near Dutch Square
Restoran Famosa Chicken Rice Ball
Try Melaka’s signature dish—fluffy chicken rice rolled into bite-sized balls.
Jonker 88
Famous for Nyonya Asam Laksa, Cendol, and Baba Nyonya dishes.
The Daily Fix Cafe
A hidden gem serving pandan pancakes, coffee, and local brunch favourites.
Calanthe Art Cafe
Offers a variety of Malaysian state coffees in a colourful, artsy setting.
Kedai Kopi Chung Wah
One of the oldest chicken rice ball outlets—expect long queues!
Final Thoughts
Dutch Square Melaka isn’t just a tourist photo spot—it’s a cultural and architectural time capsule that reflects the soul of Melaka. From Dutch and British colonial legacies to Portuguese church ruins and vibrant local life, Dutch Square offers an immersive journey through centuries of rich history. Make it your first stop in Melaka—you won’t regret it.
