Chicken‑Rice Fever in Malacca:
Ever feel that sudden urge to gobble up some chicken rice and find yourself day‑dreaming about those legendary chicken rice balls in Malacca? Don’t even think about Singapore—this pint‑sized Malaysian gem is just a 3½‑hour hop away, and it’s a haven for hungry wanderers.
Why Malacca? Because it’s the real foodie playground:
- Local flavors: Authentic, mouth‑watering dishes that make your taste buds sing.
- Price tags: No need to burn a hole in your pocket—think cheap, not cheap.
- Vibe: Nice and relaxed, far from the usual Singaporean family casseroles.
Getting There (and Back) on a Budget:
Grab a shuttle or a bus that’s not just a ride but an adventure. Skip the expensive trains and go the scenic way.
Where to Eat, Sleep, and Thirst (the rest of your short weekend):
Stay in a cozy, budget‑friendly hotel or a cute guesthouse. Make sure you have a good spot for the next meal—because the second day is not for the faint of heart.
Quick Note on Currency:
All figures in this guide are in SGD, unless otherwise mentioned—so you’ll know exactly how much you’re spending.
Plan Your 3‑Day, 2‑Nite Malacca Escape Now!
Think of it as a fun, low‑cost, high‑flavor trip that’s just a few hours away. Grab your friends, pack a little snack, and head to Malacca for a weekend of endless deliciousness. Cheers to good food and great memories!
Chasing Malacca on a Budget: From Singapore to the Causeway and Back
If you’re a serial airline flyer, imagine this: the only way to get to the charming town of Malacca is by bus. Direct flights? None. So, strap in for a quick rideshare adventure, a bit of money‑saving savvy, and a lot of foot traffic.
Finding the Cheapest Coach
Skip the first bus you see at Golden Mile Complex. Ticket prices for Malacca can flip-flop wildly. Do a little homework on BusonlineTicket or redBus before you commit.
Starmart Express and 707 Inc usually score the lowest fares—$15 or $16 one‑way.
A round‑trip can dip as low as $8.50 if you’re early, but max out under $13 to stay sane.
Try not to shell out more than $28 for return, and you’re good to go.
The journey takes about three to four hours (maybe a bit longer on public holidays when the causeway gets jammed).
Bus fare: $28
Sleeping on a Tight Budget
Malacca is indie‑travelers’ dreamland. Even with a stingy purse, you’ll discover hostel corners, quirky guesthouses, or boutique spots in the historic heart — right near Jonker Walk.
A half‑duplex, shared room ticks your boxes at ~$15.
A 3‑star room with air‑con & a private bath costs about $38 to $45 per night.
Agoda deals are sweet: a room at Timez Hotel might be $45 (vs. the $194 walk‑in) right now. Don’t miss 2019 promos if you’re booking.
Grab a friend, split a room, and pocket $10 to $20 each night in the heritage district.
Accommodation: $19/night or $38 for a 3‑star two‑night stay
Getting Around in Malacca
Once you’re in the miasma of the historic centre, walk it—most spots are walking distance from Jonker Walk. The river is a short stroll away.
If you must hop in a cab, demand the meter. Singapore‑style surcharges win’t hit you; expect around half the Singapore price.
Heading from Melaka Sentral, take a 15‑minute bus fare RM1.50 (~$0.50). Find Gate 17 at the domestic terminal; if you spot other tourists, you’re likely on the same ride. Look out for the brick‑red Christ Church – iconic, especially in our photo snapshot.
A Grab ride is a safer bet and hovering at less than $10–12 for a short trip.
Local transport: RM30 (~$10)
Seen, Heard, and Cheered No‑Cost Attractions
- Jonker Walk Night Market – Free
- Cheng Hoon Teng Temple – Free
- Christ Church & Dutch Square – Free
- Porta de Santiago – Free
- Melaka River – Free
Shopping? Dupe those two malls: Mahkota Parade and Dataran Pahlawan Megamall. Nothing to eat, but cool to browse in AC. Shopping budget is user‑dependent—shopping’s not mandatory.
Cost: Free (except personal spendings)
Eating Out: Budget‑Friendly and Delicious
You’re going to enjoy both street food and family bungalows. Prices range from RM4 (~$1.30) up to RM8 (~$2.65). “Famous stall” tag might add a tad. For a “big appetite” or upscale menu, hold back at RM20 (~$6.64). Tourist spots can boost your bill—better keep it RM30 (~$9.95) or less.
Sweet treats: the famed Durian Chendol at Jonker 88 costs only RM5.
Hipster coffee parties: a regular latte runs around RM12, while an all‑day breakfast plate can hit RM18.
Rough per‑day food budget: S$20 a day per person.
Daily food cost: 20×3 = 60
All‑In‑All: 3‑Day Trip, 2 Nights in Malacca
Total: $136 – Foods gobble up most of the numbers.
If you’re a minimal eater or skip the cafe culture, give yourself a $100 ceiling. Want to splurge? Fire it up at a fancy spot.
