Melaka: Getting There

Situated about 150 kms away from Kuala Lumpur towards the southern-west of Peninsular Malaysia, Melaka is easily accessible by bus, train and car. Air travel is also possible but not very convenient as there isn’t an airport in Melaka and you still need to transfer two hours from Kuala Lumpur Airport.

By bus
Travelling to Melaka by bus is very convenient and is the most popular means of transport from nearby areas. There are many long-distance buses connecting Melaka state with major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and other cities in Peninsular Malaysia. Located about 3kms from the historic city centre, Melaka City’s Melaka Sentral is a major bus station that receives express buses from several locations in the state and other neighbouring countries.

Getting to Melaka by train can be very slow but the experience is truly rewarding as travellers can admire scenic views of lovely countryside along the way. However, the nearest station to Melaka is at Tampin, which is about 38kms to the north of Melaka City. From there, passengers can easily take a bus or wave down a taxi to their destination in Melaka.

By car, simply follow the signboards on the North-South Highway and choose to exit at the Alor Gajah-Tampin (Simpang Ampat), Ayer Keroh or Lipat Kijang (Jasin). Ayer Keroh exit is the nearest to Melaka City. Melaka City is located on the Coastal Trunk Road (Federal Route 5) so if you are on the Main Trunk Road (Federal Route 1), turn off at Simpang Kendong or Tampin, which is about 40 kms from Melaka City.

Without its own airport, travelling by plane to Melaka is not very easy. The nearest airport is Batu Berendam Airport which is about 10kms from Melaka City. There are no domestic flights but Riau Airlines operates flights to Pekabaru and Sumatra.

The best way to travel around in Melaka is on foot as you can take time to admire this charming city. Cycling is also another good option while taking a trishaw ride to major tourist attractions is enjoyable and eye-opening (with a trishaw rider being your guide). Those who want to take a bus, make sure you have exact amount of money for tickets as the drivers do not give change.