Macau is a beautiful destination, exotically blending Portuguese and Chinese cultures. Located at the mouth of the Pearl River Delta in southern China, Macau is a great place to explore and discover. From vibrant nightlife and historical sites to tranquil beaches and cultural festivals, there is something for everyone in Macau. So whether you plan a romantic getaway or a family trip, Macau has something for you.
This guide will introduce Macau, detailing what you need to know before you go and the best things to do and see in the region.
Overview of Macau
Situated on the southeastern coast of China and surrounded by the rolling South China Sea, Macau is a melting pot of cultures. It’s been touted as the world’s only ‘true cultural center,’ and it’s easy to see why. From its fascinating historic Portuguese architecture, ancient Chinese temples, and fascinating food markets to its modern casinos and malls, Macau has something for everyone.
Travelers come from all over the globe for some serious sightseeing and many an opportunity for exploration. Some highlights of Macau include:
- The Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral – Explore this 16th-century Catholic church that was destroyed by a fire in 1835 but remains an iconic landmark in downtown Macau despite now being only ruins;
- Senado Square – Don’t miss this gorgeous cobblestone Portuguese square downtown featuring European-style architecture dating back to 1784;
- A-Ma Temple – Visit this famous Taoist Temple (also known as Kun Lam Temple), built in the late 16th century which is still regarded as one of the oldest buildings on this small peninsula;
- Casinos – Wander around one or more of the ever-lively casino resorts that have given rise to Macau is known as ‘Las Vegas’ Asia;
- Coloane Village – Take a stroll around what may be one of the last few traditional villages left on the Macau Peninsula;
- And more! There is something for everyone here, so don’t miss out!
History of Macau
Macau has been a crucial link in maritime trade since the Song dynasty, connecting people and goods between Asia, Europe, and other destinations worldwide. In addition, it is often referred to as a “melting pot” due to its eclectic culture influenced by various past civilizations. It can be seen everywhere – from its landmarks, architecture, cuisine, and people who call Macau their home.
Historically, Macau was administered first by Portugal in the 1550s under a trading monopoly that lasted until 1999, when it reverted to Chinese rule. During this period of Portuguese control, Macau developed an economy focused on tourism and gambling since legal betting arrived around 150 years ago. As such, it remains one of the most popular gambling locations worldwide today.
Today’s visitors will find much of the city remains unchanged – cobblestone streets crosscut with excellent restaurants and luxurious boutique hotels wait on every corner for passerby travelers seeking adventure or restful respite from modern life. Whether you’re interested in natural beauty, architectural grandeur, or culinary exploration, you can find it all here in Macau; history buffs will no doubt revel in this unique blend of Eastern-Western cultures present throughout this small yet vibrant city!
Accommodation
When visiting Macau, choosing suitable accommodation can make all the difference. Accommodation options in Macau range from luxurious 5-star resorts to cozy and affordable hostels, so no matter your budget, there is sure to be something that suits your needs.
This section will discuss the best places to stay in Macau and tips for finding the right accommodation.
Hotels
Macau is home to many hotels, from four-star international brands to affordable local hotels. Hotels near most attractions offer packages, including ferry tickets and/or discounts at nearby amenities. Most hotels are based around the Cotai Strip, but if you’re looking for quieter surroundings, Coloane Village is the perfect getaway.
Four-Star Hotels
Four-star hotels are the way for those who want the true luxury experience in Macau. High-end facilities such as spa treatments and personalized service are customary at these establishments. Famous names such as MGM Grand Hotel, Sands Grand Macau, and Grand Lisboa are all located in Cotai Strip with easy access to other main tourist spots in Macau.
Budget Hotels
Travelers on a budget will find plenty of affordable options across Macau, ranging from guesthouses to local chain hotels. Amongthemot the popular are Rainbo Hostel Macau, B Real Guesthouse, and Metropole Hotel – all situated within walking distance of Senado Square or the Ruins of St Paul’s. Most budget accommodations offer basic amenities, including shared bathrooms, WIFI connection (in some cases), continental breakfasts, and 24-hour receptionist services.
Hostels
Hostels in Macau offer a budget-friendly yet comfortable accommodation option to travelers. Featuring dorm-style rooms and shared bathroom facilities, they tend to be the most affordable type of lodging while providing basic amenities. Hostels typically don’t provide as many services as hotel establishments, such as personal laundry care, room service, and entertainment; however, most provide basic cooking facilities, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning in the common areas.
When booking a hostel in Macau, it is important to check if the location is convenient for you since some might be located in less desirable spots away from major attractions. Also, check if you prefer mixed or single-gender dormitories and reviews from previous visitors so that you can have an idea of what to expect from your stay. All around Macau, there’s a good range of hostels with high ratings, popular among travelers seeking budget accommodation yet with the assurance of comfort and cleanliness.
Airbnb
Airbnb is an increasingly popular accommodation option in cities throughout the globe. In Macau, many listings are available so travelers can find a comfortable place to stay within their budget. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly guest house or a luxurious high-end apartment, Airbnb can help make your trip more enjoyable.
One of the main advantages of staying in an Airbnb rental is the price. With some research, you can often find larger, more luxurious accommodations at significantly lower prices than hotels. Most listings will also include essential amenities such as washing machines and kitchen appliances that might not be available from other accommodations.
Another advantage is that Airbnb rentals offer travelers total privacy; many options even come with independent entrances, which ensures that nobody else will enter your premises unless you ask them to do so. It allows for extra peace, which some regular hotel rooms may struggle to provide due to thin walls or loud neighbors.
In Macau, many Airbnb rentals are conveniently located near attractions such as major museums and casinos or near transportation hubs like bus and train stations. Having easy access to these important places while staying in an Airbnb rental means that travelers can get the most out of their visit without needing to book an expensive hotel room right next to one of these destinations.
Finally, when booking through Airbnb, you gain access to reviews from previous guests who have had first-hand experience with particular rentals/listings, meaning it makes it easier for travelers to make informed decisions rather than relying solely on photos or text from the website descriptions alone.
Attractions
Macau is a beautiful destination full of interesting attractions to explore. From the stunning golden beaches of Coloane to the stunning architecture of the old churches and temples, Macau has something to offer for all tourists. In addition, the city is home to various cultural attractions, historical monuments, casinos, and even modern shopping malls.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top attractions in Macau:
Casinos
Macau is known for its Vegas-style casinos, which attract international visitors year-round. Casinos are the largest entertainment option in Macau and account for over 80% of yearly revenue. This demand has led to some of the world’s most luxurious casino resorts opening in Macau, featuring high-end shopping and dining, star-studded shows, huge gaming centers, and lavish spas.
On offer are over 40 casinos located in Macau’s three main gaming zones – Cotai Strip, Taipa’s Cotai Strip, and the old quarter of the Macanese city – with various games available to anyone aged 21 or above. The bigger casinos offer traditional tables with baccarat, blackjack, Chinese poker, roulette, sic bo, and fan tan; dozens of slot machines; video and electric games; VIP halls where massive amounts can be wagered more. Some also run dedicated tournament events for those who want to test their luck against other players worldwide.
Seeing that gambling in Macau is a huge source of tourist revenue, there are options available that appeal to all budgets: while big spenders can always try their luck at high-end VIP tables at exclusive clubs like The Venetian Macao or Wynn Palace, others can always visit one of the smaller casinos such as Casino Taipa or Gold Fish Casino Slots where low stakes gambling is much more prevalent; foreign tourists without any local currency do not need to miss out either as many establishments accept credit cards as payment method.
Cultural Attractions
Macau is a city with a fascinating cultural diversity that dates back hundreds of years. With influences from the east and the west, Macau is much more than just an exciting destination. It has unique museums, historical attractions, and cultural performances. Unfortunately, with so many cultural attractions, it’s easy to get lost in all the culture that Macau can offer you!
Among the top cultural destinations in Macau are the UNESCO world heritage sites:
- Ruins of St. Paul’s
- The Historic Centre of Macao
- A-Ma Temple
- Mount Fortress
- The Sam Ka Tsuen Traditional Paddy Field System
- Guia Lighthouse
- Grand Lisboa Casino and Hotel
- Monte Forte Fortaleza do Monte
- Dom Pedro V Theatre
- Camoes Garden
- Lao Song Gate
Museums in Macau offer visitors an insight into its rich history, such as:
- Grand Prix Museum, which depicts traditional street races from its past.
- Taipa Houses Museum brings to life how immigrant families used to live through exciting exhibitions and activities for both adults and children.
- Wine Museum explores how wine was made during Portuguese colonization.
- The maritime museum tells stories about maritime works of art from the China Sea focused on fish resources from coastal fishing villages.
Performance art lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Macau as there are nightly performances with shows such as House of Dancing Water by City of Dreams which transports you into a watery realm full of daring stunts and feats performed in, over, and even on top of 3 million gallons of water or Wonders by Sands, where experience a larger-than-life digital spectacle like you have never seen before, full multimedia projection mapping show featuring state-of-the-art special effects.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the culture or participate in exciting interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone regarding Cultural Attractions in Macau!
Shopping
Macau is a shoppers’ paradise, with its abundance of shopping opportunities, from luxury boutiques to local markets. Whether one’s tastes lean towards designer labels, traditional Chinese crafts, or anything in between, it will not take long to find the perfect souvenir or piece of jewelry. The varieties of goods are virtually endless, and Macau is sure to appeal to shoppers from all budgets and preferences.
Popular shopping options include:
- Luxury outlet malls such as The Venetian Macao, where exclusive fashion brands including Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton tempt customers;
- Lifestyle shopping venues including Cotai Strip Macao and City of Dreams Mediterranean;
- Specialty stores like Studio City Shops;
- Night markets like Rua da Tercena, the Binondo Chinese Commercial Center, and Ruins of St Paul streetside market;
- Chinese traditional product stores such as Nam Van Lake Creative Centre; and
- Numerous street vendors sell snacks and local treats in many areas throughout Macau.
Additionally, Chinese goods often arouse shoppers’ curiosity in Macau. Chinaware outlets like Ocean Grand (Taipa Square) offer jade bracelets with intricate designs custom-made according to desires. At the same time, Xiabuxiabu – Hua Yuan Liang Pin sells delicacies that can make wonderful gifts for friends or family back home. Branded products like electronics and branded goods for discounted prices over the border in Zhuhai are worth checking out if you have extra time before returning home after sightseeing in Macau.
Eating and Drinking
Macau is known for its amazing food and drink scene, with an array of options for visitors to explore. From traditional Cantonese flavors to Portuguese-inspired dishes, visitors will be spoilt for choice. Macau’s food and drink scene also offers a variety of local dishes reflecting Macau’s cultural diversity.
To help you get the most out of your trip, here’s a guide to some of the best places to eat and drink in Macau:
Restaurants
Macau is a foodie’s paradise – hundreds of restaurants offer cuisines from all over the world. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual and budget options, you can find whatever food you want. Cantonese seafood is popular and can be found at many beach-overlooking seafood restaurants on the Coloane and Taipa Islands. Portuguese dining options are also available throughout Macau. Be sure to try the delicious egg tarts!
When it comes to drinks, you won’t be disappointed either – Macanese pubs offer local craft beers, unique cocktails, and even fresh fruit juices. Also, visit one of Macau’s famous tea houses – they offer traditional tea and mouthwatering snacks such as pork chop buns and sesame rolls.
Bars and Nightlife
Macau may not immediately come to mind when thinking of nightlife. However, the city takes on a different perspective when daylight fades. With both upmarket and casual bars scattered across the city, you can find a place to socialize with locals or foreigners and taste their flavors.
Bar-hopping is one of Macau’s favorite pastimes, especially during weekends and holidays. Bars here often come in different shapes and offer a variety of environments, such as:
- Sauna bars with karaoke machines
- Beach bars with live music performances
- Gastro-style bars with craft beers and barbecues
- Chinese traditional-style pub restaurants that serve small snacks, spirits, and vintage wines
- Classic bars
Nightclubs are on top of Macau’s nightlife agenda as the city provides great options, from boutique open-door venues to glamorous dance floors playing mainstream dance music. Several choices offer EDM sounds plus light shows for clubbing fans who prefer rave tunes to house beats. However, it would give visitors more choices if they wanted to enjoy a fun-packed evening outside the casino floors.
Visitors should keep an eye out for happy hour promotions all day long in some venues, which means drinks are cheaper during these periods – this also applies to late-night offerings such as exquisite snacks served at lower prices.
Local Cuisine
Macau has a vibrant culture and dining scene, with Cantonese cuisine being the most predominant. Dishes featuring seafood, pork, beef, noodles, and rice are very popular. Some popular seafood dishes include clams with garlic sauce, fried garoupa, and shrimp cake.
Traditional pork dishes consist of congee (rice porridge), usually with sides such as steamed buns or noodles. Typical beef dishes are stir-fries with peppers and onions served over white rice.
The unique mix of Chinese and Portuguese cultures has brought about its style of cuisine, consisting of various snacks that captured the locals’ hearts centuries ago. Many canteens serve up Hong Kong-style dim sum throughout the day – try steamed siu mai dumplings stuffed with pork or fish paste for breakfast!
For snacks or light meals in Macau, grilled beef jerky on a stick can be found at most night markets; two popular places to try it are Taipa Village’s Casa Garden Night Market and Nocturne Street on Coloane Island. Sweet will find plenty of sugary treats like almond cookies and coconut tarts– all best enjoyed with a cup of local coffee typically served in cafés around town.
Transportation
Whether you are visiting Macau for a few days or an extended stay, getting around the city can be challenging due to the language barrier and unfamiliar cultural customs. The good news is that there are plenty of transportation options for tourists to get around Macau easily.
From taxis to public buses and even ferries, we’ll go over each option so you can find the best way to get around this beautiful city:
- Taxis
- Public buses
- Ferries
Getting to Macau
Getting to Macau is straightforward, with many transport options depending on your desired budget and convenience. The traditional way to travel from Hong Kong to Macau is by ferry; it departs daily from multiple terminal locations in Hong Kong, including Sheung Wan, Tsim Sha Tsui, or the SkyPier at the Hong Kong International Airport.
The journey by ferry typically takes around one hour, and there are both high-speed catamarans and slower hydrofoils options from several companies, namely TurboJet, Cotai Jet, and New World First Ferry Services. The cost of a single-trip ferry ticket varies between companies – typically between $180-280MOP ($22-35 US dollars), and you can often take advantage of discounts when purchasing return tickets.
For those who want even more comfort in their travels, there are direct helicopter services offered by Sky Shuttle, which run several times per day between Central’s Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 2 and the Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal. This mode of transport only takes 15 minutes but will set you back upwards of $1700HKD ($219 US dollars).
For budget travelers, local buses offer more economical options that take around 3 hours depending on traffic conditions from Hong Kong’s China Ferry Terminal in Kowloon. Alternatively, you can catch a bus to other Chinese cities like Guangzhou or Zhuhai, followed by a short taxi ride into Macau. For those coming from mainland China, visas must be obtained before arriving in Macau; there are no visa exemptions for Chinese citizens in force right now despite their national origin.
Getting Around in Macau
Finding your way around Macau is an adventure in itself. The densely populated city is separated from mainland China by water and connected to Hong Kong by bridges, so getting here can take many forms of transport.
- By air: Visitors arriving in Macau will find that the only way to get there is to fly into the international airport, Taipa. Once there, there are several transport options available, including public buses and private companies providing shuttle services.
- By land: If you’re up for an adventure, you can rent a car or even take a bus from anywhere in China. Remember that although driving conditions may be much better than in other parts of Mainland China, driving on very small streets on the wrong side of the road could lead to disaster – seek out guided tours if you prefer not to be behind the wheel yourself!
- By sea: Among the most convenient ways of getting around Macau are its extensive ferries, allowing visitors and locals alike to cross from one side to another quickly and often cheaply. These boats frequently run between specific piers located all over Macau, including routes from cities such as Taipa and Cotai and locations abroad such as Hong Kong or Guangdong Province. Be sure to check with local travel agencies for details about rates and schedules!
Taxis, Buses, and Ferries
Taxis, buses, and ferries are the main modes of transportation for locals and visitors in Macau.
Taxis are available for hire 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can be found at most major hotels or flagged down from the street. Most taxis only accept cash payments in either Macanese Patacas or Hong Kong Dollars.
Buses are inexpensive to travel around Macau from the major districts on its two islands, Macau Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane. A free shuttle bus service also connects many popular tourist attractions, including A-Ma Temple, Senado Square, Ruins of St. Paul’s, and Venetian Macao hotel & casino.
Ferries provide a convenient connection between Hong Kong and Macau, with several boats running twice daily between Taipa in Macau to Sheung Wan in Hong Kong Island, as well as hourly service between China Ferry Terminal (Hong Kong) and Municipal Pier (Macau). All ferries run by Cotai Water Jet are equipped with the following:
- air conditioning lounge cabins
- seat reservation facilities
- shops & café etc.