The historical city of Melaka (Malacca) gives its name to the State of the same name and is situated two-thirds down the west coast, 150km south of Kuala Lumpur and 245km north of Singapore, commanding a central position on the Straits of Melaka.

Melaka is rich with heritage buildings, ancient landmarks and colonial structures. The city centre is the Portuguese Square, located within the Portuguese Settlement and is the culmination of Portuguese culture in the region in its full splendour and colours.

A Famosa, a fortress gate, is among the oldest surviving European architectural remains in Asia. This tiny gate (called the Porta de Santiago) is all that is left of a once-mighty fortress.

Al Azim Mosque is the state mosque located at Bukit Palah, 2 km from Melaka city whilst Melaka Zoo is located about 13 km from the city and is the second largest zoo in the country covering and area of 54 acres with about 1,200 animals made up of 200 different species of animals found in Southeast Asia and Africa roaming amidst natural settings. It is the first zoo in the region with the almost extinct Sumatran rhinoceros and Seladang on display.