The Majestic Malacca is an elegant luxury hotel set in a restored 1920s building with a modernized annex attached. The 54 rooms and suites are beautifully designed, with luxe marble bathrooms alongside modern amenities that include minibars and flat-screen TVs. The spa is a highlight, with menu of ancient Chinese remedies, and there's a modern gym as well. Unfortunately, the plunge pool is a bit small and the free Wi-Fi is slow. A free breakfast buffet is provided, and there’s also a stylish saloon-style bar and afternoon tea. There's few other luxury hotels in the area, and visitors seeking a boutique property in the heart of the action might want to consider the Courtyard @ Heeren Boutique Hotel, directly on energetic Jonker Walk, where rates are far cheaper.

The Settlement Hotel is a cozy four-pearl boutique property that provides a combination of history and comfort, about 15 minutes away from the city center by car. The hotel itself is a study in architecturally conscious design, with lovely old-fashioned details and artwork throughout. There are 45 modern rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen cable TVs. Bathrooms are spacious, and include deep soaking tubs. The four garden villas offer nice rustic details and spa-like bathrooms. Public amenities are equally impressive, from an on-site art gallery to an intimate spa villa, and a shuttle into town. There’s also an international restaurant, a bar, and a great rooftop spot to relax. Travelers wanting to be closer to town should check out the more modern Hatten Hotel Melaka instead.

Jonker Boutique Hotel is a three-pearl property located directly on popular Jonker Street. Decor is an interesting combination of both modern and period features, with many original Art Deco details preserved for character and ambience. The 16 rooms are pleasantly decorated, with contemporary features like hardwood floors and attractive accent walls plus flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and electric kettles. Amenities like the on-site restaurant and free Wi-Fi are nice, but more impressive features -- such as swimming pools and gyms -- are located at Jetty Suites, a 10-minute drive away. For travelers who'd prefer their amenities to be more conveniently located on-site (and for similar rates), check out the Hotel Equatorial Melaka instead. 

The 92-room Hotel Puri Melaka is cozy, distinctive, and charming all at once, even if some corners are a little bit dated. Brimming with Old-World character throughout, this value hotel’s rooms are clean and traditional, though bathrooms are small and lack space. Features include TVs, air-conditioning, and mini-fridges, though there is no in-room Wi-Fi. The on-site spa offers an extensive beauty treatment menu, and it’s one of the hotel’s most appealing amenities. Free breakfast is provided in an airy garden cafe, and there’s another, more intimate dining area as well. Bustling Jonker Street is just around the corner. Travelers who prefer a more modern hotel within the same area can check out the nearby Hatten Hotel Melaka.