Melaka nightlife and bars - night life guide
Al fresco drinking is lovely on warm evenings
Nightlife in Melaka is never going to rival the big cities, but there are plenty of traditional drinking holes around town where visitors can enjoy a tipple or two. Melaka bars can be found around tourist-friendly Chinatown and also in prime spots overlooking the river. Melaka Raya is where the city's relatively limited nightlife can be found with a smattering of discos, pubs and karaoke lounges. Another neighbourhood to head for nightlife in Melaka is the Portugese Settlement.
Centred on Portugese Square, this area is the focal point for the city's Southern European descendants and is host to many different restaurants, pubs and food stalls with Saturday evenings particularly lively. Sit in open air cafés with a beer and listen to live music whilst absorbing the utterly unique pseudo-Continental atmosphere.
Recommended Melaka bars, pubs and nightlife venues
Libra Restaurant and Cocktail House
Wide selection of cocktails and beers can be found at this traveller-friendly Melaka bar in the heart of the tourist district. (Jonker Street, daily open 18:00 to 01:00)
Relax with a cocktail by the glistening river
11 Bistro
Stylish Melaka bar with late opening and chilled tunes. Drinks are reasonably priced and the outdoor seating area is a relaxing place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. (11 Jalan Hang Lekir, open daily 18:00 to 02:00)
Honky Tonk Haven Café
Lovely little Melaka pub in Chinatown with a view onto the river which is run by a Kiwi expat and his wife. Tasty pub grub in the evening and convivial atmosphere. (Jalan Lorong Hang Jebat, open daily midday until late)
Discovery Café
Lively bar with pool table, draft beer and live music every night of the week. Its shabby chic ambience is half the appeal. (3 Bunga Raya)
Sparks
This hip hangout is frequented by younger locals patrons and is a vibrant yet debonair Melaka nightclub. There are some sofas and tables to relax at featuring waitress service with rock and dance music played. (39 Jalan Melaka Raya, Tel: +60 (0)6 281 8618, open daily 20:30 to 01:30)
Geographer Café
Height of colonial class with wicker furniture and ceiling fans. There's evening entertainment, good food and a friendly vibe. (83 Jalan Hang Jebat, Open daily 09:00 – 01:00)
