Hotels in Malacca City

Q: What are the top Malacca City boutique hotels?

Book your stay at a stylish boutique hotel in Malacca City . The Majestic Malacca Hotel is a popular hotel with our travelers, offering guests an outdoor pool and a full-service spa as well as air-conditioned guestrooms with rainfall showerheads and deep soaking bathtubs. Another top-rated boutique property is Casa del Rio Melaka , and this upscale property has an outdoor pool and a children's pool, plus air-conditioned guestrooms with furnished balconies and deep soaking bathtubs.

Free cancellation options if plans change

Unlock travel rewards with One Key

Save more with Member Prices

Check prices for these dates

Tonight

Tomorrow

This weekend

Next weekend

Top 5 hotels in Malacca City at a glance

Hatten Hotel Melaka — 5-star hotel in Malacca City. Guest rating: 8.0/10 — Very Good.
Holiday Inn Melaka by IHG — 5-star hotel in Malacca City. Guest rating: 8.4/10 — Very Good.
Estadia Hotel — 4-star hotel in Malacca City. Guest rating: 8.2/10 — Very Good.
Doubletree by Hilton Melaka — 5-star hotel in Malacca City. Guest rating: 9.0/10 — Wonderful.
Puri Melaka — 3.5-star hotel in Jonker Walk. Guest rating: 8.6/10 — Excellent.

Where to stay in Malacca City?

Properties are selected based on real traveler reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Malacca City on Hotels.com. These Malacca City hotels consistently deliver on comfort, location and traveler experience. Last updated on June 23, 2026.

Hatten Hotel Melaka

Malacca City

Dr. Tian Loh

$56 nightly

Jun 28 - Jun 29

Total with taxes and fees

Holiday Inn Melaka by IHG

Malacca City

Ivan

$86 nightly

Jun 25 - Jun 26

Total with taxes and fees

Estadia Hotel

Malacca City

Lim

$38 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

Doubletree by Hilton Melaka

Malacca City

KUM FAI

$69 nightly

Jun 28 - Jun 29

Total with taxes and fees

Puri Melaka

Jonker Walk

Dana

$60 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

The Pines Melaka

Malacca City

Anonymous traveler

$46 nightly

Jun 28 - Jun 29

Total with taxes and fees

Courtyard by Marriott Melaka

Pengkalan Rama Tengah

Sourik

$92 nightly

Jul 1 - Jul 2

Total with taxes and fees

Casa del Rio Melaka

Taman Kota Laksamana

Erica

$222 nightly

Jun 26 - Jun 27

Total with taxes and fees

Imperial Heritage Hotel Melaka

Taman Melaka Raya

Nur Azhar

$47 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka

Malacca City

Chong

$46 nightly

Jun 28 - Jun 29

Total with taxes and fees

Moty Hotel

Malacca City

Shahirah

$31 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

ibis Melaka

Malacca City

Harry

$48 nightly

Jun 28 - Jun 29

Total with taxes and fees

Courtyard @ Heeren Boutique Hotel

Taman Kota Laksamana

Anonymous traveler

$35 nightly

Jun 25 - Jun 26

Total with taxes and fees

Junior Family Suite with Bathtub | Balcony

The Sterling

Malacca City

Maggie Chen

$35 nightly

Jun 29 - Jun 30

Total with taxes and fees

Rosa Malacca

Malacca City

Thor

$47 nightly

Jul 22 - Jul 23

Total with taxes and fees

Treasures Hotel and Suites

Malacca City

Barbara

$74 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

Asia Melaka Hotel managed by The Straits Hotel & Suites

Taman Melaka Raya

Rachel

$72 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

Bayview Hotel Melaka

Malacca City

BOBY HEIDINAZ

$25 nightly

Jun 25 - Jun 26

Total with taxes and fees

Premium King With Own Garden | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

The Nest House

Taman Melaka Raya

Gilles

$39 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

Dusit Princess Melaka

Malacca City

Don

$91 nightly

Jun 28 - Jun 29

Total with taxes and fees

View all properties

Get last-minute hotel deals in Malacca City and save more

Sign in to unlock great savings.

Presidential Suite, 1 King Bed, Partial Sea View | Balcony

Asteria Melaka by Attic Suite

Malacca City

$137 off

$101 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Executive Suite | Laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

OYO 90899 Tube Hotel Melaka

Malacca City

$39 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Amber Cove Residence By I Housing

Malacca City

We have 1 left at

$46 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

VIENTO RedHouse Melaka by Rest Collection

Bandar Hilir

We have 2 left at

$147 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Courtyard @ Heeren Boutique Hotel

Taman Kota Laksamana

$67 off

$66 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Asteria Melaka by Attic Suite

Malacca City

$143 off

$98 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

OYO 90899 Tube Hotel Melaka

Malacca City

$35 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

VIENTO RedHouse Melaka by Rest Collection

Bandar Hilir

We have 4 left at

$110 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Amber Cove Residence By I Housing

Malacca City

We have 1 left at

$46 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Courtyard @ Heeren Boutique Hotel

Taman Kota Laksamana

$70 off

$65 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Comfort Apartment, Multiple Beds | Living area | 42-inch Smart TV with cable channels, Netflix, streaming services

Amber Cove Melaka Sea View by Stayrene

Malacca City

$65 off

$47 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

OYO 90899 Tube Hotel Melaka

Malacca City

$37 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

VIENTO RedHouse Melaka by Rest Collection

Bandar Hilir

We have 3 left at

$79 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Amber Cove Residence By I Housing

Malacca City

We have 1 left at

$38 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Courtyard @ Heeren Boutique Hotel

Taman Kota Laksamana

$11 off

$69 nightly

Total with taxes and fees

Check out hotels with a pool in Malacca City

Mabohai Resort Klebang

Tanjung Kling

$12 nightly

Jun 25 - Jun 26

Total with taxes and fees

Amber Cove Residence By I Housing

Malacca City

$38 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

Amber Cove Melaka Sea View by Stayrene

Malacca City

$36 nightly

Jun 24 - Jun 25

Total with taxes and fees

View all properties

Go beyond your typical stay in Malacca City

Pool

Apartment

Our prices for hotels in Malacca City are cheapest in June

Top neighborhoods in Malacca City

Bandar Melaka

The Bandar Melaka neighborhood is loved for its riverfront and coffeehouses, and has lots of things to do and see including Jonker Street Night Market.

See properties

Jonker Walk

The Jonker Walk neighborhood is known for its cafes and has lots of places to visit including Malacca Heritage Centre.

See properties

Bandar Hilir

Malacca City's Bandar Hilir neighborhood is known for its entertainment and restaurants, and entices visitors with attractions including A Famosa and Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall.

See properties

Taman Kota Laksamana

Malacca City's cultural Taman Kota Laksamana neighborhood is loved for its riverfront and spas, and visitors often enjoy its varied attractions including No 8 Heeren Street Heritage Centre and Straits Chinese Jewellery Museum.

See properties

Tanjung Kling

The Tanjung Kling neighborhood is known for its beaches and has lots of places to visit including Pantai Kundor.

See properties

Top landmarks in Malacca City

Jonker Street Night Market

8.4/5 (791 reviews)

Jonker Street Night Market is a place to shop in Jonker Walk. Splash some more cash at Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall, Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall, and Hatten Square.

See properties

Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall

7.8/5 (506 reviews)

If you like shopping, take time out to go to Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall when in Malacca City. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. Splash some more cash at Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall, Hatten Square, and Jonker Street Night Market.

See properties

Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall

8.0/5 (563 reviews)

If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall in Bandar Hilir. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. Splash some more cash at Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall, Hatten Square, and Jonker Street Night Market.

See properties

Learn more about Malacca City

Malacca City is well-known for its riverfront and rich culture, featuring attractions such as Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall and Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall. This family-friendly city has something for everyone including its festivals, restaurants, and sights like Hatten Square and A Famosa.

See all hotels in Malacca City

Check out reviews of Malacca City hotels guests love

Moty Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"👍"

Dusit Princess Melaka

10/10 Excellent

"Breakfast was delicious. Location was fantastic - only about a 15 minute walk to Jonker Street. Rooms were spacious and very comfortable. Our only "gripe" was that we were unable to get a connecting room even though we made a request for it on our application. This would have made the stay near perfect. That being said, we were able to get rooms next to each other on the same floor. I would suggest having the option for connecting rooms as that would allow more families to choose to stay here."

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Malacca City?

You can find top hotels in Malacca City from $11 with options to suit your budget and needs. Sleepy Nomad Hostel and La Mamasita Hostel are a couple of low-cost options that are popular with our travelers. To find an affordable hotel in Malacca City that meets all of your requirements, just apply filters on Hotels.com and sort hotels by "Price: low to high".

How can I find deals and earn rewards at Malacca City hotels?

Discover great deals on Malacca City hotel stays with Hotels.com. You can also look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season to find off-peak deals. And make sure to check out our last-minute deals on Malacca City hotels.

Can I book Malacca City hotels with free cancellation?

It's easy to book a refundable Malacca City hotel on Hotels.com. Simply filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". Many hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.

What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Malacca City?

Some of the most popular luxury hotels in Malacca City are Hatten Hotel Melaka, Holiday Inn Melaka by IHG, and Noble Resort Hotel Melaka. Hatten Hotel Melaka is a luxury hotel with a high guest rating amongst our travelers, and it offers an outdoor pool, a full-service spa and a sauna. Holiday Inn Melaka by IHG and Noble Resort Hotel Melaka are two more favorite luxury stays in great Malacca City locations.

What are some of the best hotels in Malacca City for couples?

Enjoy your couple's retreat with a stay at a top-rated Malacca City romantic hotel. Our travelers love The Majestic Malacca Hotel, a hotel with a restaurant as well as in-room massages. Another romantic hotel with top reviews is Casa del Rio Melaka. This hotel offers a restaurant and an outdoor pool for a perfect stay. Use the "Traveler experience" filter in your search and select "Adults only" or "Romantic" to find even more hotels in Malacca City for couples on Hotels.com.

What are some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Malacca City?

Some of the most well reviewed Malacca City hotels for kids include Courtyard by Marriott Melaka, Doubletree by Hilton Melaka, and Birkin International Hotel. Courtyard by Marriott Melaka is a kid-friendly hotel with a guest score of 9.2 out of 10 offering family-friendly amenities like an outdoor pool and free pool cabanas, plus free cribs in guestrooms. Check out Doubletree by Hilton Melaka with a guest score of 9. This popular hotel has an outdoor pool and a poolside restaurant as well as free cribs in the guestrooms. Birkin International Hotel is another good option with a free children's club and an outdoor pool, plus children's robes in the guestrooms. Explore more kid-friendly hotels in Malacca City by using our "Family friendly" filter in your search on Hotels.com.

What are the top Malacca City hotels with a pool?

For some added luxury, discover the best Malacca City hotels with a pool. Amadel Residence is a great hotel with an outdoor pool and a children's pool, and a guest rating of 10 out of 10. Plus, you can make the most of its outdoor tennis court and spa services. Asteria Melaka by Attic Suite is a popular hotel that features an outdoor pool and a children's pool along with a sauna and free parking. To find more stays in Malacca City with a pool, use the "Amenities" filter on Hotels.com in your search and select "Pool".

What are some of the best Malacca City hotels with free parking?

If you're arriving by car, choosing a great Malacca City hotel with free parking is a plus. Our travelers' favorites include:

Amadel Residence: A hotel with an average guest rating of 10 out of 10
Asteria Melaka by Attic Suite: A hotel with an average guest rating of 10
Ideal Mahkota Apartment: A hotel with an average guest rating of 10

What are the top Malacca City boutique hotels?

Book your stay at a stylish boutique hotel in Malacca City. The Majestic Malacca Hotel is a popular hotel with our travelers, offering guests an outdoor pool and a full-service spa as well as air-conditioned guestrooms with rainfall showerheads and deep soaking bathtubs. Another top-rated boutique property is Casa del Rio Melaka, and this upscale property has an outdoor pool and a children's pool, plus air-conditioned guestrooms with furnished balconies and deep soaking bathtubs.

What are some popular hotels in central Malacca City?

For hotels in central Malacca City, check out Puri Melaka and Hatten Hotel Melaka. Travelers love Puri Melaka for its location, as well as the coffee shop/cafe and room service this hotel offers. Hatten Hotel Melaka is another popular central hotel with an outdoor pool, a children's pool and a full-service spa. When you stay at one of these central hotels, you'll be in easy reach of top sights including Jonker Street Night Market. Jonker Walk and Bandar Melaka are some of the most central neighborhoods for your Malacca City vacation.

Where can I find free parking at my hotel in Malacca City?

These hotels offer the perk of free parking: Heeren Street Hotel at Jonker Walk Melaka, Gingerflower Boutique Hotel and Hallmark Hotel Leisure. You can check out all 18 choices on our site.

Can I book refundable accommodations in Malacca City?

If you want the flexibility to change your travel plans to Malacca City, most properties provide refundable* bookable rates. You can see these accommodations by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.

Find out more about Malacca City

Whispers of the River: Unveiling the Timeless Charm of Malacca City

Nestled along the historic Straits of Malacca, Malacca City is a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and charm. This UNESCO World Heritage site dazzles with its colorful colonial architecture, from the iconic Stadthuys to the majestic A Famosa fortress. Meander through the bustling Jonker Street, where tantalizing street food and unique souvenirs await. Explore sacred temples like Cheng Hoon Teng and the serene riverside, perfect for a leisurely stroll. With its rich blend of Malay, Chinese, and Portuguese influences, Malacca offers travelers an enchanting glimpse into Malaysia's past, making it an unforgettable cultural escape.

Discover great hotels in Malacca City

Malacca City offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxurious hotels. You can find charming boutique hotels in the historic districts, modern establishments with amenities, and cozy guesthouses that reflect the city's rich culture. Whether you're seeking comfort or unique character, Malacca has you covered. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Malacca City:

Capital O 90558 My Daddy Farm ChaletOpens in a new window: This inviting hotel offers a comfortable lodging experience enhanced by entertainment options such as Satellite TV, Flat Screen TV, and Cable TV. Travelers appreciate the emphasis on modern amenities that cater to relaxation and leisure, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a cozy retreat after a day of exploration in Malacca City.
Hotel Sri RembiaOpens in a new window: As a 2.5-star hotel, Hotel Sri Rembia provides a delightful blend of affordability and quality. With a charming restaurant on-site and entertainment options like LCD TV and Cable TV, this hotel stands out for its welcoming ambiance. Leisure travelers often highlight the convenience of its dining options and the enjoyable atmosphere, making it a perfect base for discovering local attractions.
JK RoomstayOpens in a new window: This stylish hotel offers an excellent lodging experience with complimentary WiFi in both rooms and public areas, alongside convenient parking options including self-parking. Known for its contemporary design and thoughtful amenities, it creates a perfect setting for leisure travelers who value connectivity and comfort during their stay. The property’s commitment to providing a high-quality experience resonates strongly with visitors looking for a memorable getaway in Malacca City.

Top locations to stay in Malacca City

Some of the best areas to stay in Malacca City are Ayer Keroh, Tranquerah, and Kampung Jawa. Ayer Keroh offers family-friendly attractions like a zoo and theme parks, while Tranquerah is rich in cultural heritage with vibrant local cuisine. Kampung Jawa showcases traditional architecture and local charm. For first-time visitors, Ayer Keroh is the most appealing choice due to its variety of activities.

Ayer KerohOpens in a new window: Ayer Keroh is a fantastic choice for families and animal lovers, as it’s home to the Malacca Zoo, where you can see a variety of wildlife up close. This area also features the Ayer Keroh Recreational Forest, perfect for those who enjoy nature walks and picnics. With its peaceful environment, Ayer Keroh offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city, while still being conveniently close to Malacca's historic attractions. You can explore the nearby Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary for a unique experience, making it a great base for those looking to blend relaxation with some fun family activities.
TranquerahOpens in a new window: Tranquerah is a vibrant locale known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Staying here places you in the heart of Malacca's diverse food scene, where you can sample local delicacies and traditional dishes. The area is also close to several cultural attractions, including historic mosques and local markets. This neighborhood is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying a lively atmosphere filled with the sounds and sights of daily life.
Kampung JawaOpens in a new window: Kampung Jawa is a charming area that offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Malacca. This neighborhood is known for its quaint streets and friendly locals, making it a great spot for visitors wanting to experience the local way of life. You can stroll through the area to admire the unique architecture and visit local shops that sell handmade crafts and souvenirs. The close-knit community vibe here is inviting, and you’ll find it easy to connect with the culture, making your stay truly memorable.

Things to do in Malacca City

Malacca City offers a vibrant mix of riverside charm and rich cultural heritage. Stroll along scenic paths, explore colorful markets, and indulge in lively festivals. With opportunities for leisurely walks, boating adventures, and enjoying the coastal breeze, this destination promises a delightful escape for every traveler.

Melaka International Trade CenterOpens in a new window – Start your journey at the Melaka International Trade Center, a civic hub where you can experience local events and exhibitions. It’s a great spot to get a feel for the community and discover the vibrant culture of Malacca.
Klebang BeachOpens in a new window – Head over to Klebang Beach, where expansive sand dunes meet the sea. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or indulge in some local snacks from the nearby stalls. The beach is perfect for a relaxing day under the sun.
A FamosaOpens in a new window – Explore the historic fort of A Famosa, one of the oldest surviving European architectural remains in Asia. Walk through its ancient walls and imagine the stories of the past that have unfolded within this iconic structure.
Malacca RiverOpens in a new window – Take a scenic boat ride along the Malacca River, where you’ll witness charming riverside views and colorful murals. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you glide through this picturesque waterway.
Menara Taming SariOpens in a new window – For a bird’s-eye view of Malacca, make your way to Menara Taming Sari. This modern tower offers a rotating observation deck that provides stunning panoramas of the city and its surrounding landscapes. Don’t miss the chance to snap some memorable photos!

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Malacca City

Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Malacca City are July, October, and November, as hotel prices may drop during this time. For a great value for money experience, it’s recommended to stay for at least 2 to 3 days to fully enjoy the city's historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and vibrant local life. You can explore family-friendly activities, indulge in shopping and dining, take scenic walks along the river, and visit temples and other historical sites. This way, you'll have ample time to immerse yourself in Malacca City’s rich heritage and lively festivals.
Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore last-minute deals to Malacca City, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could find out about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your stay. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're aware of any price drops or room availability. This way, you’ll be the first to know about last-minute opportunities for your getaway.
Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a hotel in Malacca City. If you're seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we can recommend alternative dates that could help you find a better deal.
Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Malacca City's excellent public transportation, you can often find a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that still has great connections. If you’re interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, you can often find excellent value. Opting for these alternative destinations may provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
Become a Member: Join for free today and unlock incredible savings on your next stay in Malacca City! As a member, you'll gain access to exclusive prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. Enjoy the benefits of quick tier progression, which includes perks like complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on these fantastic offers—book your stay now and experience the advantages of membership!

Best time to go to Malacca City

Malacca City experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 79.5°F (26.4°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.6°F (28.1°C). November tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Malacca City are September, November, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to frequent rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and May are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

Keep exploring

Book Hotels in Malacca City on ms.hotels.com

Hotels in Malacca City

Free cancellation options if plans change

Unlock travel rewards with One Key

Save more with Member Prices

Check prices for these dates

Top 5 hotels in Malacca City at a glance

Where to stay in Malacca City?

Hatten Hotel Melaka

Holiday Inn Melaka by IHG

Estadia Hotel

Doubletree by Hilton Melaka

Puri Melaka

The Pines Melaka

Courtyard by Marriott Melaka

Casa del Rio Melaka

Imperial Heritage Hotel Melaka

Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka

Moty Hotel

ibis Melaka

Courtyard @ Heeren Boutique Hotel

The Sterling

Rosa Malacca

Treasures Hotel and Suites

Asia Melaka Hotel managed by The Straits Hotel & Suites

Bayview Hotel Melaka

The Nest House

Dusit Princess Melaka

Get last-minute hotel deals in Malacca City and save more

Asteria Melaka by Attic Suite

Asteria Melaka by Attic Suite

OYO 90899 Tube Hotel Melaka

Check out hotels with a pool in Malacca City

Mabohai Resort Klebang

Go beyond your typical stay in Malacca City

When is the best time to visit Malacca City?

Price trends for hotels in Malacca City

Typical weather for Malacca City

Top neighborhoods in Malacca City

Bandar Melaka

Jonker Walk

Bandar Hilir

Taman Kota Laksamana

Tanjung Kling

Top landmarks in Malacca City

Jonker Street Night Market

Learn more about Malacca City

Check out reviews of Malacca City hotels guests love

Moty Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about Malacca City

Whispers of the River: Unveiling the Timeless Charm of Malacca City

Discover great hotels in Malacca City

Top locations to stay in Malacca City

Things to do in Malacca City

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Malacca City

Best time to go to Malacca City

Keep exploring