Melaka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is more than just a charming city with colonial streets and vibrant markets. It’s a cultural treasure trove, filled with historical museums that echo the stories of empires, sultans, and seafarers. Whether you’re a culture buff or a curious traveler, these must-visit museums in Melaka will give you a front-row seat to the layered history of Malaysia.
1. Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum
Keyword: Baba Nyonya museum Melaka
Step into the refined world of the Peranakan Chinese community at this beautifully preserved heritage house on Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock. Explore ornate furniture, silk-embroidered panels, and unique Straits-born Chinese traditions.
Things to See:
- Thia Besar (Men-only reception hall)
- Blackwood furniture and carved screens
- Guided tours available
Hours: Tue–Sun, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Adults RM18 | Children RM13 | Guided Tour RM25
Near Jonker Street
2. Maritime Museum Melaka
Keyword: Maritime Museum Melaka
Housed in a replica of the Portuguese ship Flor de la Mar, this museum showcases Melaka’s vital role in maritime trade during the spice route era.
Things to See:
- Ship navigation systems
- Exhibits on naval battles and trade routes
- Entry includes 3 more maritime-related museums
Hours: Mon–Thu 9:00 AM–5:00 PM | Fri–Sun 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Price: RM10 (locals), RM20 (foreigners)
Jalan Quayside
3. Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum
Keyword: Melaka Sultanate Museum
This full-scale wooden replica of Sultan Mansur Shah’s palace lets you walk through the royal legacy of the Melaka Sultanate, complete with traditional Malay architecture.
Things to See:
- Eight royal exhibit chambers
- Traditional costumes, weaponry, and music instruments
- Lush gardens surrounding the museum
Hours: Tue–Sun, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Price: RM10 (locals), RM20 (foreigners)
At the foot of St. Paul’s Hill
4. Villa Sentosa, Kampung Morten
Keyword: Kampung Morten museum
A living museum in a real Malay kampung, Villa Sentosa offers an intimate look at traditional Malay lifestyle, family heirlooms, and centuries-old artefacts — including Ming dynasty ceramics.
Things to See:
- Guided tours by descendants of original owners
- Traditional wooden house and interior
- Located beside Melaka River
Kampung Morten
Best to schedule via Facebook Page
5. Submarine Museum, Klebang
Keyword: Submarine Museum Melaka
For something unique, explore an actual Agosta-class submarine used by the Malaysian Navy. Great for families, this site also includes a fighter jet and horse-riding area.
Things to See:
- Full access to submarine interiors
- Naval training equipment
- Outdoor exhibits and rides
Hours: Mon–Thu 9:00 AM–5:00 PM | Fri–Sun 9:00 AM–6:30 PM
Price: RM10 (locals), RM20 (foreigners)
Dataran 1Malaysia, Klebang
6. Cheng Ho Cultural Museum
Keyword: Cheng Ho museum Melaka
Explore the voyages of legendary Chinese explorer Admiral Cheng Ho, who played a key role in Melaka’s early trade relations with China during the Ming dynasty.
Things to See:
- Ship replicas, ancient wells, and maps
- Miniatures and crockery from the 15th century
- Chinese–Malaccan cultural exhibits
Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: Adults RM10–15 | Children RM5–8
Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock
7. History and Ethnography Museum (Stadthuys)
Keyword: History museum Melaka
Located in the iconic Dutch Square, this museum captures Melaka’s colonial past with extensive displays of ethnic traditions, governance, and ancient artefacts.
Things to See:
- Dutch architecture and lifestyle
- Artefacts from the colonial era
- Bonus access to 3 other museums with your ticket
Hours: Tue–Sun, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Price: RM10 (locals), RM20 (foreigners)
The Stadthuys, Dutch Square
Where to Stay Nearby
- The Majestic Malacca – Luxury boutique hotel with colonial charm
- Casa del Rio Melaka – Riverside 5-star resort near Jonker Walk
- Jonker Boutique Hotel – Budget-friendly and centrally located
How to Get There
- By Car: 2 hours from Kuala Lumpur via the North–South Expressway
- By Bus: Frequent coaches from KL, Johor Bahru, and Singapore to Melaka Sentral
- Getting Around: Use Grab, Panorama Melaka Bus, or walk/bike around the Heritage Zone
Nearby Attractions
- A Famosa Fort
- St. Paul’s Church Ruins
- Jonker Street Night Market
- Melaka River Cruise
- Menara Taming Sari
Best Food Near the Museums
Top Food Spot: Nancy’s Kitchen
Taman Kota Laksamana
Must-try: Ayam Pongteh, Pai Tee, Cendol
Open: 11:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed Wed)
Other Recommendations:
- Capitol Satay Celup
- Restoran Selvam
- The Daily Fix Café
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to experience Malaysia’s diverse heritage, Melaka’s museums offer some of the best storytelling through architecture, artefacts, and immersive exhibits. Whether it’s Peranakan culture, naval trade history, or royal Malay traditions, these museums will leave you with a deep appreciation of Malaysia’s roots.
