Dutch Square (Red Square) Melaka image

Dutch Square (Red Square) Melaka

Tourist attraction

Historic square featuring maroon-colored structures in the Dutch colonial style. People often mention Dutch, Melaka, square, Square, historical, visit, buildings, beautiful, Church, Malacca,


Address

Banda Hilir, 75200 Malacca, Malaysia

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (3.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Dutch (46) Melaka (32) square (26) Square (26) historical (18) visit (17) buildings (16) beautiful (16) Church (14) Malacca (13)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 MS A. 1 year ago on Google
    After the covid pandemic in 2020 till 2021 this tourist attraction is back alive again and many tourist local and international starts crowding the dutch square. Many interesting places and historical things are available that would interest anyone coming here. Trishaw rides and many others awaiting for you.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ike I. 3 months ago on Google • 321 reviews New
    One of Historic place in Melaka City. The vibes of this place is like the Portuguese Dutch colonial era. Very popular for tourist destination. Visitor can learn about history of Melaka or simply enjoy and relax the atmosphere. The building color is dominantly red, which is why it is also called 'Red Square'.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sony W. 5 months ago on Google • 116 reviews
    Dutch Square (also known as Red Square) is a historic square in the heart of Melaka City, Malaysia. It is named after the Dutch who ruled Melaka from 1641 to 1795, and is surrounded by several iconic Dutch-colonial buildings, including: • The Stadthuys, a former Dutch administrative building that is now a museum • Christ Church Melaka, the oldest Dutch Reformed church in Malaysia • The Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower • Queen Victoria's Fountain The square is also home to a number of other historical landmarks, such as the ruins of St. Paul's Church and A Famosa, a Portuguese fort that was built in the 16th century. Dutch Square is a popular tourist destination, and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and its many cultural attractions. Visitors can learn about the history of Melaka at the Stadthuys Museum, admire the Dutch-colonial architecture, or simply relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The square is also a popular spot for shopping and dining, with a number of shops and restaurants located nearby. Visitors can find everything from traditional Malay cuisine to international fare, as well as a variety of souvenirs and handicrafts. Here are some of the things you can do at Dutch Square: • Visit the Stadthuys Museum to learn about the history of Melaka and the Dutch colonial era. • Admire the Dutch-colonial architecture of the Stadthuys, Christ Church Melaka, and the other buildings in the square. • Take a walk around the square and enjoy the lively atmosphere. • Visit the ruins of St. Paul's Church and A Famosa. Do some shopping and dining at the shops and restaurants located nearby. Dutch Square is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of Melaka. It is a vibrant and atmospheric place, with something to offer everyone.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fahd Batayneh فهد �. 2 months ago on Google • 350 reviews New
    This square is central to many other must-explore attractions in Melaka such as Jonker Street, Melaka Fort, Muzium Samudera, Museum of Royal Malaysian Marine, Melaka Tower, Museum of Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Stadhuys, Melaka Church, Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum, A Famosa, and many other museum and attractions. This place has a mix of Portuguese and Dutch history since both lived in this city. The place can be quite crowded with tourists and locals, and is very clean and well-served with restaurants, cafes, and stores. You can also walk through the river or even take a cruise ride across the river.

  • 5/5 Muhammad Athallah A. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice surroundings. Great place to take some pictures and appreciate the colonial architecture. A lot of areas to sit and gain new perspective on the square including near the fountain and surrounding areas. Food and merchandise stalls are available adjacent to the square. I had hoped for more historical information as both the Church and the buildings are not accessible to visitors during the time of visit. Definitely the highlight of Melaka and a Must-Visit.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessil Ray A. 5 months ago on Google • 47 reviews
    So why is the Red Square at Melaka colored red? Nobody really knows, what we do know is that it was originally colored white. The red paint was introduced not by the Dutch during their 300-year rule, but by the British in the early 20th century. A popular theory is that locals spat so much red betel nut onto the walls -- out of disrespect for the Dutch -- that the British eventually just painted them red to avoid additional maintenance costs. 🤣🇲🇾💕
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 kusumawati S. 5 months ago on Google • 47 reviews
    It would have been a pleasant visit if not for a certain group of tourists. They were running amok all around the area, cutting queues and hogging photo spots. Two of them even climbed over the railings and did not pay for the RM2 to gain entry into the cleanest more lovely toilet around the area. Some were taking pictures with NK regards for traffic and blocked walkways. Such a sad situation it was. Other than that, it was a nice place to be and to see the Christ church with my own eyes..and even being there was so surreal!. PLEASE VISIT The souvenir shop ran by an elderly couple round the corner. They were the most patient and sweetest people around and their prices were not overpriced!. The trishaw uncles were nice and they don't force you in your face to avail their services. And do try the chendol and watermelon juice(in a legit whole watermelon! 🍉 . Maybe I went at the wrong time but nonetheless it was great to be there!. Do come and visit to see and take in the sight and sounds of the area!.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 macedonboy 4 years ago on Google
    Visited back in Feb. This is pretty much the centre of all the attractions in Malacca. Called both the Red Square and Dutch Square because all the buildings are painted red and for the Dutch inspired architecture. There’s even a mini windmill on the north side of the square next to Tan Kim Seng Bridge. No question the area is very touristy, but no visit to Malacca would be complete without a visit to this historic square.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 milan s. 4 months ago on Google • 58 reviews
    Dutch Square, also known as Red Square, stands as a vibrant and historically significant focal point in the heart of Melaka, Malaysia. This iconic square is a testament to the rich tapestry of Melaka's history, where different cultures and colonial influences have interwoven to create a unique and captivating urban landscape. The square's distinctive name is derived from the prominent Dutch architectural influence that dominates the area. Enclosed by terracotta-red colonial buildings, the square exudes a nostalgic charm that harks back to the period of Dutch occupation in the 17th century. These well-preserved structures, including the Stadthuys (the former Dutch town hall), Christ Church, and other administrative buildings, stand as tangible relics of Melaka's colonial past. At the heart of Dutch Square stands the imposing crimson facade of Christ Church, an enduring symbol of Melaka's status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constructed in the 18th century, this Protestant church boasts a distinctive Dutch design, characterized by its red bricks and an impressive wooden ceiling adorned with hand-carved pews. The church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a living museum, narrating the tale of Melaka's historical evolution. Adjacent to Christ Church, the Stadthuys presents an architectural marvel with its striking coral-red exterior. Once the seat of Dutch administration, this massive edifice now houses the Melaka Museum Complex, where artifacts and exhibits unfold the chronicles of the city's diverse heritage. The Stadthuys, with its massive doors and arched windows, provides a glimpse into the colonial governance that shaped Melaka's destiny. Wandering through Dutch Square, visitors encounter an array of vibrant trishaws adorned with colorful decorations and catchy tunes. These whimsical modes of transportation offer a delightful and nostalgic tour of Melaka, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the square. The lively energy of street vendors, selling local snacks and souvenirs, adds a touch of authenticity to the experience, making Dutch Square not only a historical site but a lively cultural hub. The square serves as a meeting point for locals and tourists alike, offering a respite from the bustling city life. Whether one seeks to immerse themselves in history, indulge in local delicacies, or simply bask in the picturesque surroundings, Dutch Square provides a multifaceted experience that caters to diverse interests. In conclusion, Dutch Square in Melaka stands as a captivating testament to the city's rich and diverse heritage. The interplay of Dutch colonial architecture, historical landmarks, and the lively ambiance of the square encapsulates the essence of Melaka's journey through time. It remains a must-visit destination, inviting all who step into its terracotta embrace to embark on a captivating exploration of history, culture, and the vibrant spirit of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Robert J. 1 year ago on Google
    🟥 is a very beautiful place. It’s smaller than what I thought it would be, but definitely worth visiting. Very close to St. Paul Cathedral
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 banan o. 1 year ago on Google
    A very beautiful place to visit and walk in have lots of photos suitable to visit all the day Morning, noon, afternoon and evening The best time for me is at sunset you must go up the hill (not too much hiking) and see all the city view You can walk, eat, take snacks, take the river tour, visit the historical places and have a nice day
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Suresh P. 7 months ago on Google
    Love the cendol here. Situated at the river across the red Square. Brings nostalgic feel.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Retsaj i. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful historical architecture! It wasn’t too crowded on a weekday! It’s a must stop for tourists!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chow Hon K. 2 years ago on Google
    This historical site is located right in the heart of Melaka Historical City. Numerous Dutch and British historical buildings are located around this location. The night views are beautiful too. A boat terminal serving the Melaka River Cruise is also located nearby. The Night Melaka River Cruise is highly recommended. On the weekends, there is a beautiful night market in the nearby renowned Jonker Walk. Nearby here, there are numerous restaurants and food stalls serving authentic Baba Nyonya and local foods. There are also numerous souvenir stalls. A haven for souvenir hunters. Overall it is a place that brings you back in time and also gives you a modern feeling too..
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeremiah S. 1 year ago on Google
    The historical square of Malacca, containing all the remnants of the colonial days. It is very well kept by the State government. Stadhuys, Christ Church, Victoria Water Fountain, the Clock Tower, Bastion Middleburgh are all located here, within walking distance. It is very happening especially at night and on the weekend. Jonker street is just across the bridge over the Melaka river.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Karen Leong Z. 4 years ago on Google
    Historical place with bright red coloured buildings! Wish we were here earlier, that is earlier than the foreign tourist! So hard to get a nice photo without so many people getting in the way!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sanusi Z. 5 years ago on Google
    I loved the place, though crowded, the place is such a good spot for taking photos. With the emblem of "I love Melaka" in the middle of it, its a must place for taking selfies and photos. The spot is also a place for Pokemon Go players, there's 2 big gyms around there, with good high level raids.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Shiva B. 5 years ago on Google
    A very hep and colorful place which I would definitely recommend for a visit when in Malaysia. The place has it's own vibrant colors, gift items, autos and rickshaw which are decorated and looks beautiful. A simply culture heart in the city of Malacca. Do collect some of the cheap items available when you are moving around hopping from stall to stall. There are several items that you can pic for gifting back home. Worth spending an hour in the market.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Shinichiro Y. 2 years ago on Google
    Travel back in time to the 17th century Dutch era. What a the Dutch inspired beautiful architecture. I found Dutch style windmill on the north side square. No question this area is very touristly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ekawati F. 4 years ago on Google
    Dutch square is the centre of malacca historical heritage recognised by UNESCO. Many activities tourist around here. So grateful to have a chance visiting the beautiful Malacca city.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Min Seong K. 4 years ago on Google
    The picturesque centre of the old Melaka. I enjoyed walking along the river on a sunny weekday before the crowd poured in.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 DEON C. 6 months ago on Google • 91 reviews
    Dutch Square is a very beautiful historical place. There is a Church of Christ with Sunday's services. Climb the hilltop of St Paul's Church to see the city view.

  • 5/5 Mark M. 1 month ago on Google • 57 reviews New
    Very nice place. The streets were clean and the garden was well taken care of. The only downside are the bicycle taxis, they have flashy lights and loud music. Kind of kills the historical vibe.

  • 4/5 Thành Minh N. 7 months ago on Google
    There are quite a few attractions in this palace, the buildings look quite new and not ancient

  • 4/5 Ong Eng C. 4 years ago on Google
    The best place to be if you are visiting Malacca. Many tourists gather around the clock tower. The iconic red buildings, and the windmill represent the Dutch history in Malacca.

  • 5/5 Grace T. 4 years ago on Google
    The city is clean. The view was great. Just across the church, you can eat at jongger street. It's like a china town. You can also try the river tour with MYR 30/person.

  • 4/5 BD L. 4 years ago on Google
    A good charming spot in the town. It’s nice to walking around the Dutch Square. Next to the Dutch Square is Jonkers Street (China town). There is a tricycle service if you don’t wanna work but they love to turn loud music it's annoying if you don't like loud noise.

  • 5/5 Allen L. 2 months ago on Google • 21 reviews New
    A well kept historical area that is quite nice. Loved the red buildings. Definitely a tourist spot but not very aggressive or expensive.

  • 4/5 Tammy C. 4 years ago on Google
    The square is fairly small but is very picturesque. If it's not too hot, take a stroll down the side of water. It's very close to Jonker street. Plan your trip for a Friday, Saturday or Sunday to catch the night market.

  • 5/5 Camille Tra Nguyen (. 5 months ago on Google
    I loved the harmonious and colorful picture of historical cultures of Melaka, the root home town of Malaysia.

  • 5/5 Kong Yong F. 1 year ago on Google
    Revisit this historic place after 22 years, I brought back the old memories and the young self of me 😂 Kudos to those have been doing the preservation to keep those monument as it before.

  • 5/5 Jeff S. 1 year ago on Google
    Just walk. You will see old Malacca come into life. The music by these trishaw were deafening. However, most tourists liked them. A Famosa, the famous in English, by the Portuguese. But there is the Dutch alteration to the facade figurines, look at the shield held by the king. Will you be able to see VOC? Which was Dutch East India. The demolition by British. The roosters story from the Christ Church. The centipede like road layout of the Jonker Streets. The phrase used to the Chinese community, take one to Holland, literally means screw up.

  • 5/5 Eric T. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice place to sit, relax and take photos.

  • 5/5 Luiz L. 1 year ago on Google
    I wonder why the dutch painted it red but it really looks good till now. It is really a hot spot for Malacca.

  • 5/5 Trinh M. 6 months ago on Google
    This is a must-visit place you must visit when coming to Melaka. The square has a red tone so it is very beautiful when taking photos. This is the central place where you can visit other tourist attractions such as taking the River Crusie train, Jonker walk food street...

  • 5/5 Sasitha I. 8 months ago on Google
    Centre of Malacca city historical area. Crowded in most of the time in public holidays.

  • 5/5 Hạnh D. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful place to visit, everything is historic, we booked the hotel nearby this dutch square, easy to walk jonker street food. But only thing need attention about the travel bicyle, they treated us to visit 3 places but only 1. They told it was closed.

  • 4/5 Jasmine.C 1 year ago on Google
    Pretty church. But try avoiding visit here during Weekends if you want a nice photo due to the crowd.

  • 5/5 Ruscan C. 9 months ago on Google
    Must visit if you go to Melacca, what a historic place

  • 5/5 Bervin H. 9 months ago on Google
    Nice beautiful place all tourist will come here to take photos and walk around nearby attractive places

  • 5/5 Deepak K. 10 months ago on Google
    The highlight of the heritage city Malacca is this point where you can find a beautiful church and its surrounding buildings. It is very crowded place during the weekend. The church is maintained well and is an amazing spot to take beautiful pictures. Paid parking is available in nearby areas, and the location is close to the Jonker walk.

  • 5/5 tube with vimal v. 1 year ago on Google
    It is because of the red buildings standing high at the center of the town that the place is named the Red Sqaure, and also the Dutch Square. I took a good number of snaps as these Dutch inspired buildings looked exquisitely beautiful at night looking colorful with the lights on.

  • 4/5 Tay T. 11 months ago on Google
    This is the Iconic Landmark of Maleka and a very popular tourist attraction for Photo taking.

  • 5/5 Duy N. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice place, you should take the cab to the other side of Jonker street then walk to the square. You might capture a lot of instagram pics while walking.

  • 4/5 Era D. 10 months ago on Google
    Located near with other sight seeing olace, free and bit crowded dueing the day and night. There are many tricycle with cute accesories and bit loud sound.

  • 4/5 Arun K. 11 months ago on Google
    Dutch Square or Red Square, is a must-visit destination when exploring the heritage city of Melaka in Malaysia. This historical site is a beautiful area filled with eye-catching Dutch colonial architecture just opposite the Malacca river, making it the perfect spot for taking memorable photographs. The most striking feature of the Dutch Square is the bright terracotta-red Christ Church. Its distinctive architecture and decorations make it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Another prominent building nearby is the striking clock tower. Aside from the beautiful buildings, it is also a popular spot for street performers and vendors selling local souvenirs and delicacies. Visitors can stroll around the square, take a walk around the beautiful Malacca river, take in the sights and sounds, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. One of the best times to visit Dutch Square is during the evening when the buildings are beautifully illuminated. There are also numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding area where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink. In conclusion, Dutch Square is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Melaka with its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere.

  • 5/5 Audrey L. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s always a place to hanging around, come here either day or night will have a different kind of view.

  • 4/5 Hung H. 1 year ago on Google
    Dutch Square is one of the main tourist attractions in Melaka. Located right smack across Jonker Walk, just a bridge away, it is an umistakable sight you have to see. That being said, there isn’t much to do here- other than visit the Stadthuys museum located at the Red Sqaure. Pros: + A icon landmark in Melaka. + There’s the Stadthuy museum here. A terrific museum in my opinion. I reviewed it elsewhere, go check it out for sure! + There are a lot of souvenir shops here- selling all kinds of tourist knick knacks. This is not for everyone, but I know some people who love collecting t-shirts, ratten items, magnets and others so it’s up to you + There are a lot of touristy rickshaws here available for hire Cons: - It might be me but I feel that the dutch square itself does not have much to offer 😢. There just isn’t much signs to see what exactly it’s known for. Perhaps you need a tour guide to tell you it’s history? Or something. - You can settle it in 30 minutes. Maximum. Children might be bored.

  • 3/5 Galib Bin M. 1 year ago on Google
    Old average square made by Dutch during colonial era. Well maintained but nothing wow. Worth to spend an hour time if you are history lover.


Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Tourist attractions nearby

Jonker Street Night Market image
1
Jonker Street Night Market
Night market
Bustling open-air market on weekend nights with an array of food & souvenirs, plus entertainment.
4.30 (25K reviews)
Taming Sari Tower (Malacca Tower) image
2
Taming Sari Tower (Malacca Tower)
Tourist attraction
Opened in 2008, this modern tower features a rotating observation deck that ascends to 80 meters.
4.30 (21.5K reviews)
A Famosa image
3
A Famosa
Fortress
👍👍 Visit this place at night. Up the hill there's an old Portuguese church. Ancient Historian mentioned that it was a Portuguese fortress built in 1512. The keep was destroyed following the Battle of Malacca 1641 and the occupation of both the Dutch and British much later destroyed most of the fortre...
4.40 (17.4K reviews)
Melaka River Cruise Jeti Taman Rempah image
4
Melaka River Cruise Jeti Taman Rempah
Tourist attraction
Day & night riverboat tours that pass by vivid murals, century-old bridges & floodlit monuments.
4.40 (8.3K reviews)
Melaka River Cruise Jeti Quayside image
5
Melaka River Cruise Jeti Quayside
Tourist attraction
Day or night river cruises through the city & past historic buildings, shops & houses of worship.
4.30 (7.6K reviews)
Last updated:
()