Sadly, nothing of the Melaka Sultanate remains in its original form in the city. Instead, a Palace of that period has been reconstructed based on the writings in the "Sejarah Melayu" (The Malay Annals). The wooden replica situated at the foot of St. Paul’s Hill, another landmark from the distant past houses the Cultural Museum of Melaka.

To gain insight into the history of the state, one should not miss the Light and Sound Show at Padang Pahlawan in Bandar Hilir. Based on similar show at the the Pyramids of Gaza and Acropolis of Athens, the Light and Sound Show re-enacts events from the past by means of lights, music and narration.

Perhaps the most photographed building in Melaka is the Stadhuys, built in 1650 as the official residence of the Dutch Governor. This building, perhaps the best preserved colonial structures that still stands strong.

A short distance away is the A’ Famosa, built by the Portuguese. It suffered severe damage during the Dutch invasion. Thus, today, one can only see the entrance to what was once an imposing structure that was once defended the city.

The Proclamation of Independence Memorial, was once the clubhouse of Melaka Club, is where the nation’s first Prime Minister read the historical document in February 1956. Constructed in 1912 now housing exhibits of the country’s struggle for independence.

During the Melaka Sultanate, there were several warriors and trusted knights of the various sultans. Among them was the famous five – Hang Tuah, Hang Jebat, Kasturi, Hang Lekir and Hang Lekiu. Hang Jebat, who was considered a champion of justice, but who met with a tragic end. A mausoleum stands where this great warriors lies buried.

At the height of the Melaka Sultanate, the links with the Imperial China were very close. In fact, the Princess Hang Li Poh was sent to marry the Sultan. Her entourage settled at Bukit China. Today, Bukit China is considered the largest Chinese cemetery outside China, with many tombs dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

Hang Li Poh’s followers built a well in 1459 that is said to have never dried up, even in times of drought. Now, better known as Hang Li Poh’s Well, and as the story goes, those who toss coins into it will return to Melaka.

Several other historical landmarks one should visit are the Hang Tuah’s Well located in Kampung Duyong. St. Francis Xavier Church, a 1849 gothic architecture; St. John’s Fort, a once Portuguese chapel rebuilt as a fort by the Dutch; Kampung Hulu Mosque, said to be one of the oldest in the country; the Sam Poh Kong Temple dedicated to the Chinese Admiral Cheng Ho; St Peter’s Church, the only church in the country with a life-size alabaster statue of the Dead Lord Before The Resurrection.