macau famous tourist spots

12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Macau

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated May 11, 2023

Authors Lana and Michael Law love visiting Macau for the sights, sounds, and tastes of this wonderful island.

Macau is a little slice of Portugal deep in the heart of the Far East. It seems hard to fathom that only 60 kilometers from the urban jungle of Hong Kong, well-preserved colonial architecture and cobbled streets exist and wait to be explored.

Take a stroll through the bustling streets up to the ruins of the cathedral, and you'll see the city's rich past everywhere. It's no surprise that the historic center of Macau has been included in the list of China's most significant World Heritage Sites .

The main attractions and tourist-focused things to do are primarily located on the mainland and relatively close to one another. Getting around here is easy, and you can explore many of the sites on foot, walking through the twisty streets.

The entertainment areas and massive hotels are clustered along the waterfront and also on the island of Cotai. Be sure to pick up a tourist map of Macau to orient yourself, as the streets rarely run on a grid pattern, and it's easy to get turned around.

With the recent opening of the new 55-kilometer Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, the world's longest, you now have the choice to drive or take a high-speed ferry to Macau from Hong Kong . You can visit Macau from Hong Kong as a day trip, but it's best to plan a night or two to fully explore the region. Find the best places to visit with our list of top attractions in Macau.

1. Visit the Ruins of St. Paul's

2. stroll through senado square, 3. a-ma temple, 4. fortaleza do monte: home of the macau museum, 5. the maritime museum and fisherman's wharf, 6. jump off the aj hackett macau tower, 7. take the family to the giant panda pavilion, 8. explore the guia fortress, 9. coloane island and hac sa beach, 10. take a day trip to taipa island and taipa house, 11. kun iam: the temple of the goddess of mercy, 12. ride the free skycab at wynn palace resort, best time to visit macau.

Highlights : Incredible views, the remains of a 17th-century church, a fun and lively vibe

All that remains of St. Paul's Cathedral, once considered the finest Christian building in the Far East, is its imposing Renaissance façade , a Macau landmark standing at the top of a broad flight of granite steps. After the destruction of the first church by fire in 1601, a new one was completed in 1637, modeled on the church of the Gesù in Rome and constructed by Christians driven out of Japan.

The church was destroyed by a typhoon and fire in 1835, but its remaining façade still displays a little of the cathedral's former glory. Notable features include an inscription above the doorway dedicating the church to the Mother of God, figures of Jesuit saints, and a profusion of relief ornaments.

Just around the corner is the beautiful Travessa da Paixao, also known locally as Love Lane . This is a narrow street, with beautifully restored pink-colored buildings, and a favorite of photographers.

Highlights : A UNESCO World Heritage site, Neoclassical buildings, street markets, unique patterned pavement

In the historic heart of Macau, Senado Square (Senate Square) is a delightful pedestrian area and where you will likely start your visit to Macau. Highlights include the impressive old Senate building, now occupied by the Municipal Council and widely regarded as the finest example of Portuguese colonial architecture in Macau.

Built in 1784, the building's exquisite façade was added in 1870, and the whole building was completely restored in 1940. Interior highlights are the Council Chamber with its rich wood paneling and the Senate Library with its more than 50,000 rare manuscripts, some more than 500 years old.

The square is also a great place to visit for shopping and dining in restaurants featuring European and Chinese cuisine. It's also home to a number of other tourist attractions, including the 17th-century St. Dominic's Church .

Highlights : The oldest Taoist temple in Macau, amazing sculptures, wonderful view from the top

Dedicated to the goddess Matsu, the splendid A-Ma Temple (Templo de A-Má) was built on the Macau Peninsula in 1488 and was the inspiration for the renaming of the city by the Portuguese a few decades later. Part of Macau's UNESCO Historical Center, this Buddhist temple is one of the city's most important religious sites and is well worth exploring.

Divided into six easily accessible sections — the Gate Pavilion, Prayer Hall, Memorial Arch, Hall of Benevolence, Zhengjiao Chanlin, and Hall of Guanyin — this temple features numerous interesting things to see, from its many fierce-looking stone lions and statues of the goddess Matsu to shady spots to stop and contemplate the serenity of the temple grounds, as well as spectacular views over the bay.

A-Ma temple is a short cab ride or about a 20-minute walk from Senado Square. A visit here can be combined with a stop at the Maritime Museum.

Fortaleza do Monte: Home of the Macau Museum

Highlights : Wonderful views, a 16th-century fort that's fun to explore, a museum showcasing Macau's past

Built in 1626, Fortaleza do Monte was for many years the hub of Portugal's military presence in this part of China, eventually serving as the governor's residence, a role it performed until 1749.

Today, this former fortress houses the three-story Macau Museum , dedicated to the archaeology and anthropology of Macau with an emphasis on how the Chinese, Portuguese, and Macanese have come to live and work together.

Also worth visiting is the Mount Fortress Garden , a welcome respite with its pleasant moat-like pond and flower beds, and the Moorish-style Mansão Evocativa de Sun Yat-Sen , a mansion built in memory of Sun Yat-sen, founder of the first Chinese Republic. Another related site is Sun Yat Sen Park with its beautiful gardens, a Victorian greenhouse, and an aviary.

Address: 112 Praceta do Museu de Macau, Macau

The Maritime Museum and Fisherman's Wharf

Highlights : Interactive and interesting displays plus a restored dragon boat, sampan, and fishing smack

Occupying a modern building opposite the A-Ma Temple , the excellent Maritime Museum (Museu Marítimo de Macau) hosts numerous displays, including a comprehensive collection of material on Macau's maritime history, model ships, and fishing equipment.

Also of interest are exhibits illustrating the development of nautical and meteorological instruments, including a number of dioramas portraying important events in the city's seafaring past.

In front of the museum is the Inner Harbour (Porto Interior) through which runs the frontier between Macau and China, where you'll see a restored Chinese dragon boat, a sampan, a flower boat, and a fishing smack used by people fleeing from Vietnam.

Also worth a visit is the nearby Macau Fisherman's Wharf (Doca dos Pescadores), a fun theme park encompassing numerous shops, restaurants, and rides built to resemble such famous coastal cities as Amsterdam and Venice.

Address: 1 Largo do Pagode da Barra, Macau

Highlights : The chance to do the world's highest bungee jump, popular restaurants, fantastic views

Part of the massive Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Centre , the Macau Tower is easily one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, as well as a popular tourist attraction.

Standing 338 meters tall and built for telecommunications and broadcasting, the tower's fun side includes an observation deck boasting phenomenal views over the city, as well as a number of restaurants, theaters, and shopping opportunities.

For thrill-seekers, there's the Macau Tower Skywalk, a breathtaking walk along the outer rim of the observation level, or you can experience the world's highest bungee jump at the 233-meter mark.

Highlights : Giant Pandas, red pandas, and monkeys housed in an architecturally stunning building

The Giant Panda Pavilion is located on Cotai and is a bit out of the way, but this means crowds are often sparse. It's also one of the best things to do in Macau for families. Step inside the architecturally unique building and marvel at the translucent roof in the shape of a giant seashell. In the wildlife pavilion are several giant pandas, cute red pandas, and an assortment of monkeys.

The animals are most active and easiest to see in the morning, but they also come around about 2pm, which is feeding time. The facility has beautiful koi ponds, gardens, and a children's playground. Entry to the park area is free, but a nominal fee is charged to view the pandas.

Highlights : Historical fort offering great views, tunnels to explore, 17th-century frescoes

Guia Fortress is an oasis of green in the center of Macao and only a short distance from the high-speed ferry terminal. Access is via hiking paths or a short cable car ride. At the top, you'll find impressive views out over Macau, along with old cannons, a small chapel with nicely preserved frescoes dating from the 1600s, and a 91-meter-high lighthouse (closed to entry).

Go underground and explore the series of tunnels in the fortress open to the public; some are near the lighthouse, and some are near the cable car entrance. Located throughout the fortress are exhibits and photos detailing the military history of the area.

Highlights : White sand beaches, pine forests, historical architecture, and the Tam Chin Temple

Joined to the mainland by a bridge and causeway, the island of Coloane lies to the south of the Macau Peninsula, beyond the island of Taipa , and should be included in your Macau itinerary.

Visitors are often pleasantly surprised to learn Coloane is an island of pine forests, eucalyptus groves, tropical vegetation, and farmland, as well as boasting a number of beautiful beaches of fine white sand.

Of these beaches, the best known is Hac Sa Beach on the east side of the island. Part of Coloane Park with its Chinese pavilions and tropical flora, the beach area includes a recreation complex with facilities for swimming, tennis, mini-golf, and other fun amusements.

Another beach of note is Cheoc Van Beach at the south end of the island. Also of interest is the Tam Chin Temple , noted for its whalebone model of a ship with a wooden dragon's head, and Coloane Village , a mix of old Chinese and colonial buildings with a charming little chapel dedicated to St. Francis Xavier, in front of which is a monument commemorating a successful Portuguese action against pirates in 1910.

Highlights : A notable Buddhist shrine, Taoist temples, the Taipa House Museum, traditional Macanese cuisine

The island of Taipa, to the south of Macau and linked to it by an imposing high-arched bridge, makes for a great day trip. Formerly a Chinese customs post for vessels putting in at Macau and for decades the traditional site of fireworks factories, the town itself contains large numbers of Chinese shops and Portuguese colonial buildings, along with a popular horse-racing track.

Other highlights include the Buddhist Shrine of the Four Faces and Pak Tai Temple , built in 1844 and notable for its rich decoration and its two life-size guardian figures. Of the island's many smaller temples, Tin Hau is the best known and was built some 180 years ago (it's notable for its highly ornamented shrine containing a figure of the goddess).

A must-see is the fully restored colonial Taipa House, home to the Taipa House Museum with its interesting displays of furniture typical of old Macau homes.

Highlights : A beautiful courtyard, quiet gardens, three notable figures of Buddha

Dedicated to the goddess of mercy, the current Kun Iam Temple was built in 1627, although references to a temple on the site can be traced back to the Yuan dynasty of the 13th and 14th centuries. In the entrance hall are three figures of Buddha representing the Past, Present, and Future, while another hall contains a figure of the goddess of mercy flanked on either side by nine Buddhas.

Also of note is the temple's beautiful courtyard garden where on July 3rd, 1844, the first-ever treaty between the US and China was signed. Other interesting features include porcelain reliefs and roof turrets with figures dating from the Ming period, and a unique gilded Buddha statue said to resemble famed Venetian, Marco Polo.

Behind the temple is a large Chinese garden with its Tree of the Loving Couples, where young lovers offer prayers for good fortune in their future lives. Also worth a visit is Lin Fong Miu Temple , a Taoist site built in 1592 that long served as a staging point for travelers to China.

Highlights : Dancing fountains, music, a dragon surprise, views out over the Coati Strip

One of the fun and free things to do in Macau is a cable car ride at the Wynn Palace . The Skycab ascends over Performance Lake, and if you time it right, you'll be able to see the dancing fountains in their full majesty. A narration, complete with music, explains the sights as you glide along.

The most dramatic time to ride the Skycab is in the evening, as the neon lights of the Coati Strip are in their full glory. Be sure to watch out for the giant dragon and his glowing red eyes when the ride takes a sudden turn.

The trip takes about five minutes and ends inside the hotel. You can ride as many times as you want but will need to queue in line each time. The ultra-modern Skycabs seat six people and are fully air-conditioned.

The best time to visit Macau is in the fall in the months of October, November, and early December. At this time of year, the humidity is low and the days are warm and sunny but not too hot. You can count on high temperatures of about 26 degrees Celsius. The city is busy with marquee events including the Macau Grand Prix and the Macau International Fireworks Display Contest .

The early spring months of March and April are also good times to visit, with cooler temperatures and generally dry conditions. May is the wettest month, and September tends to be risky, with the chance of typhoons.

Summer, which includes June, July, and August, is peak season in Macau despite it being hot and humid. The city is crowded and accommodation prices are at their highest, but if you want to hit one of the beaches on Coloane Island, it's perfect.

Winter, generally regarded as January and February, is surprisingly cool with temperatures in the range of 12-18 degrees Celsius.

Destinations

Travel Guide

Top 12 Must-visit Macau Attractions

What to see and do in Macau? A LOT!

Macau , a former Portuguese colony dating back to year 1670, is now famous for its range of casinos, gourmet and fine dining and historical architecture. As one of the world’s developed cities, Macau offers unique experiences to visitors such as Venetian Macau, Senado Square, Ruins of St Paul’s Cathedral, Macau Tower, A-Ma Temple, etc.

While, a side trip to Hong Kong is worth your time and money . In Hong Kong you could experience Victoria Peak, bustling shopping areas, dynamic street markets, peaceful fishing villages, star ferry, tramways, Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park, etc. Learn more about Top 20 Attractions in Hong Kong >>

Besides, many more featured activities with lots of fun are waiting for you… Just come to find what your own Macau is!

Macau Tourist Map
Macau Attractions
Featured Activities

No.1: Ruins of the Church of St Paul

Type: Architectural Buildings, Historic Sites, Landmarks/ Points of Interest, Ancient Ruins

Recommended Length of Visit: About 1 Hour

Built in 1602, Ruins of St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most recognizable, dramatic and popular icons of Macau City. With its statues, portals and engravings that effectively make up a “sermon in stone” and a Biblia pauperum, the church was one of the greatest monuments to Christianity in Asia. In 2005, the Ruins of St. Paul’s were officially enlisted as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Centre of Macau.

2 Days Hong Kong & Macau Highlights Tour (by Ferry) 3 Days Hong Kong & Macau In-depth Cultural Tour

No.2: Macau Tower

Macau Tower is landmark of Macau. The tower measures 338m in height from the ground level to the highest point. It is the tenth tallest sightseeing tower in the world. Taking one of the three high-speed glass-fronted lifts to the 233 meters high observation deck, visitors will be amazed by the wonderful view of the Macau in all directions. Besides, the 360°Café is Macau's highest revolving restaurant, offering a sumptuous buffet that caters to all tastes. Besides, it offers restaurants, theaters, shopping malls and the Skywalk X, a thrilling walking tour around the outer rim.

No.3: Macau Museum

Type: Museums

Recommended Length of Visit: 1~2 Hours

Macau Museum, opened in 1998, presents the history of the city and territory of the former Portuguese colony of Macau. The setting itself is impressive, as it is built into the fortress. Displays are arranged in chronological order and logically laid out. There are many fine displays that you can walk through, reproduction of Macanese buildings, lots of information, and you can easily spend a few hours here. In addition, as part of the museum, Monte Forte (Fortaleza do Monte) , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also worth visit.

No.4: A-Ma Temple

Type: Temples

If you are interested in history and local religious customs, you should pay a visit to A-Ma Temple. A-Ma Temple, with a history of over 500 years, is the oldest temple among the three ancient temples in Macau (The other two are Kun Iam Temple and Lin Fong Temple). This temple is dedicated to Matsu, the goddess of seafarers and fishermen.

The name Macau is thought to be derived from the name of the temple. It is said that when the Portuguese sailors landed at the coast just outside the temple and asked the name of the place, the native replied “Jyutping”. The Portuguese then named the peninsula “Macao”. In 2005, the temple became one of the designated sites of the Historic Center of Macau enlisted on UNESCO World Heritage List.

No.5: Historic Centre of Macau

Type: Historic Sites

Recommended Length of Visit: 2~3 Hours

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005, the Historic Centre of Macau comprises a Zone of culturally significant buildings scattered in the southwestern corner of the Macau peninsula.

Popular stops in the Historic Centre include the 15th century A-Ma Temple , where devotees of this Goddess of seafaring come to burn incense and pray for safe passage. You may also want to climb atop the old walls of Monte Fort where cannons which once defended against invading Dutch sailors now point towards glitzy casinos. Down on the street level the classic, pastel façades of Portuguese buildings give areas such as Senado Square and the Church of St. Dominic a fairytale appearance. Other stops like the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral show that history isn’t always kind, in that even the grandest of buildings are still susceptible to fire and disaster.

No.6: Kun Iam Temple

Type: Religious Sites

Considered to be one of Macau’s finest Buddhist temples, Kun Iam Temple is larger and less crowded than A-Ma Temple. The original temple can date back to the 1400s and is one of only two temples in the city to pre-date the arrival of the Portuguese in Macau.

Dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Kun Iam features three main worship halls: Daxiong Grand Hall, Longevity Buddha, and Bodhisattva Hall. The temple is also known for its gardens, terraces and four gnarled banyan trees with interlacing branches known as the Lovers Tree.

No.7: Venetian & Parisian Macau

Type: Casino

As you know, Macau is the “Monte Carlo of the Orient”. Macau really earns its reputation with several world famous casinos. Said to be one of the 10 largest buildings in the world, Venetian Macau features 3,000 hotel suites, countless restaurants and shops and has a gaming floor measuring in at over 46, 451 square meters. Here you could shop in over 350 international shops, may be dazzled by the street performers, or you could take a ride on an authentic Venetian gondola. Parisian Macau , on the other hand, is the latest new shopping mall, hotel, casino and has its own Eiffel Tower. There are also several other casinos. You can take free shuttle bus to these hotels from Macau International Airport, Taipa Ferry Terminal, etc.

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No.8: Grand Prix Museum

Opened 1993 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Macau Grand Prix featuring a number of automobile and motorbike races and taking place every year in November. The sport started in 1954 due to the enthusiasm of a group of Macao residents and the support of the authorities. Today it is an international sports event that attracts thousands of tourists and racing enthusiasts to Macao, to watch the classic "Guia Race" and the "Formula 3 Grand Prix". The Grand Prix Museum contains exhibits that are related to Grand Prix worldwide including photos, videos, illustrated articles, cups, records of champions and some commemorative items. You could also experience the feelings of a real racer by taking the driving simulator. Near the museum, there is also a Wine Museum , where you could learn about the culture of wines and try a cup of it.

No.9: Macau Giant Panda Pavilion

Type: Panda, Parks

Your kids must love China’s panda and maybe you too. If you come to Macau, you must go to Macau Giant Panda Pavilion. The pavilion comprises two 330 square meters indoor activity quarters and a 600 square meters outdoor yard for the inhabitation of the giant pandas and a 900 square meters indoor exhibit area. Two viewing paths of different elevations align along the front edge of the fan-layout indoor activity area, accessible to two streams of visitors. Here you could see both the cute baby panda and big adult pandas. Look out for exhibits and lectures where you can learn about panda behavior and natural habitat.

No.10: Macau Maritime Museum

When viewed from a distance, the exterior of the museum’ s uniquely designed exhibition hall looks like a boat. Occupying an area of 800 square meters (about 0.2 acres), the Macau Maritime Museum was built on the site where the first group of Portuguese explorers landed on Macau in 1553. Enlarged in 1990, the museum follows the typical museum layouts of a European style. The exhibits explore major themes in the history of the maritime industry in Macau, China and Portugal. On the way out you will cross a gallery of aquariums showing a riverbed, the harbour waters, a coral reef and last of all the seabed with the remains if an ancient shipwreck. Outside the museum you will find several real size exhibits, among which a dragon-boat similar to those raced during the Dragon Boat Festival.

No.11: Fisherman’s Wharf

Type: Theme Park, Restaurant, Hotels

Fisherman’ s Wharf is a large (111,500 square meters) theme park, with various port 'towns' among them - Miami, New Orleans, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Venice, the Italian Riviera and Cape Town. The Wharf has a total of three themed areas: Dynasty Wharf, East Meets West and Legend Wharf. The area, within walking distance of the ferry terminal, features shops, restaurants, nightlife, an amusement park and amphitheatre. Being situated at the outer harbor, Fisherman’ s Wharf Macau also offers a beautiful view of the marina and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao bridge. If you are fond of adventure activities and water sports, here is a good choice for you. In addition, you could also have a delicious lunch here or experience the luxury hotels. During morning or night, it would be a nice tour to walk around this area and appreciate the scenery along roads.

No.12: Guia Hill

Type: Nature, Historical Site

Guia Hill, the highest mountain in Macau Peninsula Macau, is one of off-the-beaten-track places in Macau. From the top of the hill, you could overlook Macau. The hill is also the home to the UNESCO heritage site – the historical Guia Lighthouse and Fortress . The lighthouse built in 1865 is the oldest one on the Chinese coast. It is 91 metres high and its beams can be seen from up to 20 miles away in clear weather conditions. At the summit is a circular observation platform with a lantern. The charming chapel right next to the lighthouse was built in 1526, and was used in the past as a storm warning as it would peal its bells to alert Macau citizens of impending bad weather. The Guia Fortress is used for defending Macau from invaders in 17-th century. In addition, you could find Macau’ s largest park - Flora Garden at the base of Guia Hill.

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Macau, Seng Pan Coffee, Calçada Do Quartel

The 31 best things to do in Macau

From exploring a blend of Portuguese and Chinese heritage to indulging in diverse culinary cuisines, there’s so much more to this city than just casinos

Known as the Las Vegas of the East, Macau is compact yet just as colourful as its sister SAR, Hong Kong. Having been a former Portuguese colony for over 400 years, the city presents a unique blend of East-meets-West characteristics evident in its architecture and fusion cuisine. Following a period of closure due to the pandemic, the city has reopened its doors, attracting both locals and tourists keen on experiencing its sights, cuisine, and new offerings.

Whether you’re taking a quick ferry trip from Hong Kong, gearing up to test your luck at the casino, shopping ’til you drop, enjoying delicious food and drinks, or exploring its rich Portuguese and Chinese heritage, this guide to Macau is a must-read. Remember to bookmark these recommendations for your bucket list.

RECOMMENDED: The most incredible historical landmarks to see in Macau

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it on Instagram with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @timeouthk .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Macau

1. feast on macanese cuisine.

What is it? Macanese cuisine is a cool fusion of Chinese and Portuguese flavours that'll have your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Why go? Macau is a real mix of different cultures and cuisines. You can find anything from street munchies to fancy Michelin spots. But, if you really want to get the authentic Macau experience, you've got to give Macanese cuisine a try.

Don’t miss: Almost every local Macanese restaurant offers minchi on their menu, but to sample one of the most traditional – and arguably one of the best – versions of this delicacy, you'll need to visit La Famiglia in Taipa Village or the canteen-style restaurant Riquexó on Sidónio Pais. Click here for more local eats.

2. Explore Macau's Historic Centre

Things to do

What is it? A collection of over 20 historically significant landmarks – covering religious structures, public squares, and military barracks – which represent Macau’s unique Chinese-Portuguese heritage.

Why go? You’ll see Macau’s beautiful historical landmarks, learn about the city’s lengthy colonial era, and hit all the neighbourhoods mentioned in this guide in one go. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason.

Don’t miss: Aside from famous landmarks, there are a lot of delicious snacks available in shops throughout the area. You can also check out various stores offering souvenirs, silver jewellery, shoes, apparel, and assorted trinkets.

3. Visit the Ruins of St Paul’s at night

What is it? One of Macau's busiest attractions is the remnants of the Church of St Paul, which was destroyed by fire in 1835. The towering granite facade and the grand staircase of 68 stone steps leading up to it continue to draw crowds of visitors daily.

Why go? Though the morning sunlight beautifully illuminates the structure, prepare to manoeuvre through the crowd, capturing their Instagram shots, not to mention enduring the blistering heat. An evening visit offers a unique experience, unveiling a different aspect of the ruin under dramatic lighting that accentuates the Baroque design. Additionally, the cooler temperature makes the crowded scene more manageable.

Don’t miss: There are plenty of dining options in the area to recharge, but for authentic Portuguese treats, settle in at MacauSoul for a delightful spread of wine and cheese.

4. Stroll through the alleys of Taipa Village

What is it? Once a rustic fishing village, Taipa’s profile has risen over the years, with esteemed restaurants and cool independent shops popping up between colonial museums and ancient Chinese temples.

Why go? Check out the seafoam-green Taipa Houses Museum for a crash course on colonial Macau, or try Portuguese fine dining at Antonio. Trendy Taipa attractions include the Taipa Village Art Space (and its Instagram-friendly murals) and the café/gallery/shop Quarter Square.

Don’t miss: Looking for tasty souvenirs? Don't miss Rua do Cunha, where you can discover a variety of Macau street food and packaged snacks to bring back home.

5. Wine and dine in MacauSoul

What is it? MacauSoul is one of the best places in Macau for tasting Portuguese wines. The extensive menu consists of over 400 labels that are reasonably priced.

Why go? Owned by a charming British couple, David and Jacky Higgins, this iconic spot is located just a few steps away from the symbolic Ruins of St Paul. Guests can enjoy a homely atmosphere while sipping glasses of Portuguese wine and pairing them with cheese.

Don’t miss: If you happen to catch David at the restaurant, ask him for recommendations with the wine selection. The wine prices are the same or even less expensive than what you'd find at retail. You can wine and dine here or choose wines to take home.

6. Snack at Rua do Cunha

What is it? This small, pedestrian-only street in Taipa is famed for being a culinary hotspot, with snack stalls, specialist food stores, traditional bakeries, and more to choose from.

Why go? To fill your belly with local snacks. Besides the usual egg tarts, don’t miss the serradura (sawdust pudding), almond cookies, pork jerky, pork chop buns, and peanut candies.

Don't miss: Check out Cunha Bazaar, a four-story shop offering a wide variety of local products and exclusive gifts with unique designs.

7. People watch in Senado Square

What is it? Part of the Historic Centre of Macau inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Senado Square is a popular tourist destination in the city, featuring a diverse array of eateries, shopping venues, and picturesque spots for Instagram.

Why go? Senado Square is usually one of the initial stops on the way to the ever-busy Ruins of Saint Paul's. It's a prime spot for people-watching, street photography, or simply observing the vibrant hustle and bustle of the area. Don’t miss: Don't miss the Golden Dragon Parade during Lunar New Year celebrations to mark the auspicious occasion.

8. Eat crab congee at One Brother Food

What is it? Macau, surrounded by water, boasts an abundance of seafood, and one iconic dish is crab congee. While many restaurants serve this comforting congee, a local favourite is One Brother Food (一哥美食), near the historic Portas do Cerco border in northern Macau.

Why go? One Brother Food is one of the most renowned crab restaurants in Macau, cherished by both locals and visitors for its slow-cooked porridge that combines rice and crab, resulting in a rich, creamy and aromatic broth.

Don't miss: For a springy contrast, order a side of fried dace balls to complete the experience.

9. Take snaps for the ‘gram at the Travessa da Paixão

What is it? Just a few steps from the bustling Ruins of St Paul's is a charming stone-step alley known as 'Romantic Lane' in Macau, Travessa da Paixão. Why go? Lined with pastel-coloured Portuguese-style houses and potted flowers, it offers a glimpse of old Macau. Along the lane, you'll find Cinematheque‧Passion housed in a revitalised building, showcasing locally produced independent films.

Don’t miss: The staircase leading to the alley from the ruins features a wall with a circular window, providing a unique backdrop for capturing pictures.

10. Shop around Senado Square

What is it? In addition to being a bustling hub for visitors on their way to the Ruins of St. Paul's, Senado Square features a variety of shops that cater to every taste and interest.

Why go? It's a great destination for sneakerheads and shopaholics, featuring a diverse array of shopping options that include discounted sports and sneaker brands, souvenirs, silver jewellery, affordable clothing, as well as watches and eyewear.

Don't miss: Explore the selection of shoes, along with Korean and Japanese cosmetics shops. If you’re into jewellery, visit Love Story Silver, a homegrown brand that has been operating since 2012, with two locations in the area. The larger shop near the Ruins of Saint Paul offers a wider range of options and features silversmiths at work creating handmade silver jewellery.

11. Experience teamLab SuperNature Macao

What is it? The Tokyo-based digital art collective has established its permanent exhibition, teamLab SuperNature, at The Venetian Macao, spanning a vast 5,000-sq-m area with towering cavernous ceilings. It features fully immersive artworks, including rooms filled with infinite light points and dreamy spaces with large floating lights that change colour with a tap.

Why go? In addition to the opportunity to capture numerous Instagram-worthy photos for your album, the exhibition also provides a unique immersive experience with vibrant lights, blooming flower displays, artistic graffiti forests, and engaging elements.

Don’t miss: Regular tickets are priced at MOP288 for ages 13 and above and MOP208 for ages three to 12. Visitors can also purchase add-ons to experience the Floating Flower Garden and EN Tea House.

12. Cool off with handcrafted ice cream

What is it? For a taste of authentic Macanese ice cream, skip the typical ice cream shops and seek out the classic handmade treats offered by a few long standing local stores. Why go? A great way to cool off, especially during the summer months. Stop by Lai Kei Sorvetes, one of the city's oldest ice cream shops known for its signature red bean popsicles and a range of flavours like peanut, coconut, and sesame, available in scoops or sandwiches. Over in Taipa, head straight to the renowned Mok Yi Kei for their famous durian ice cream and agar jelly that has delighted patrons for decades.

Don’t miss: Coconut lovers can visit Cocos Hung Heng on Rua da Tercena, a beloved establishment since 1869, popular for its homemade coconut ice cream and other coconut-based treats.

13. Sip a dram of whisky from Independent Bottlers in Two Moons

What is it? Two Moons is a quaint cafe by day and a bar by night. The bar was co-founded by Frankie Leong, a whisky enthusiast and former bartender at London’s oldest independent whisky specialist, Milroy’s of Soho.

Why go? Expect rows of IB whiskies housing hundreds of bottles – so many that Frankie can’t even count the exact number. Guests can choose from various drams by award-winning independent whisky bottlers, including Artful Dodger Whisky Collective, Whisky Sponge, Hidden Spirits, and Jack Wiebers’s Great Ocean Liners series, among others. The bar also serves classic cocktails. Just tell the bartenders what you’d like to drink, and they’ll whip it up based on your preferences.

Don’t miss: The bar frequently invites bartenders from all over the world to do special bar shifts. Follow them on Instagram so you won’t miss the schedules.

14. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants

What is it? While it’s fun to sweep the streets for Macau’s famous street food , consider indulging in the culinary delights offered by Macau’s 16 Michelin-starred restaurants for an elevated experience.

Why go? Come here for special occasions or if you simply wish to dine on exceptional food at restaurants with outstanding culinary achievements. From Chinese and Italian to French and Japanese cuisines, these establishments provide diverse dining options to cater to your every craving.

Don’t miss: Ready to splurge? Treat yourself to a dining experience at one of the two three-Michelin-starred restaurants in Macau: the French restaurant Robuchon au Dôme located atop the Grand Lisboa hotel, and Jade Dragon, a Chinese restaurant serving exquisite Cantonese cuisine at City of Dreams.

15. Relive movie magic at Rua da Felicidade

What is it? Once Macau's red-light district, Rua da Felicidade is now a top spot for photography, leisurely strolls, shopping at quaint stores, tasting local snacks, and buying souvenirs.

Why go? The old brothel buildings, red doors with Chinese shutters, and terraces adorned with traditional signboards all lend Rua da Felicidade a distinctive look and feel. This unique scenery has attracted the attention of several local films like Isabella (2006) and Wong Kar-wai's In the Mood for Love (2000), as well as foreign films like Hotel Imperio (2018) and Now You See Me 2 (2016). Don’t miss: The Macau government announced the pedestrianisation of Rua da Felicidade, which commenced in September 2023 to coincide with the Mid-Autumn festivities. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements and additional revitalisation efforts in the area.

16. Visit the Macau Museum of Art

Art and design

What is it? This five-storey building is Macau’s only museum of art, with exhibitions on Macanese artwork from all eras, visiting collections from international organisations, and a library dedicated to the visual arts.

Why go? It’s an interesting (and free) way to spend a few hours in Macau. The permanent exhibitions tend to have a historical slant, while temporary exhibitions often feature thought-provoking contemporary art from local and international artists.

Don’t miss: On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, you can book guided tours to view the ongoing exhibitions.

17. Snack on a pork chop bun

What is it? Also known as the Macanese hamburger, the pork chop bun is one of the town’s favourite snacks. You can find it done in different styles at different spots, but mostly, they cook up a seasoned, crispy-on-the-outside-juicy-on-the-inside fried pork chop and slap it between a simple bun or baguette.

Why go? Just like how you can’t miss the Portuguese egg tart, the pork chop bun is another street food essential you’ve gotta try in Macau. Don’t miss: Located in Taipa Village, Tai Lei Loi Kei, a local cafe with over 50 years of history in Taipa Village, is one of the most beloved spots for delicious pork chop buns in Macau, popular with locals and tourists, and was even recommended by the late Anthony Bourdain.

18. See cultural activities in Tap Seac Gallery

What is it? Tap Seac Gallery is located in the historic red and yellow building that once served as the residence of an affluent family in Macau, situated in Tap Seac Square. Why go? Within the gallery's exhibition space, a rich array of cultural activities, concerts, and performances take place. Its striking architecture, characterised by Roman arched doors and wooden shutters typical of the era's design, serves as an excellent backdrop for colourful Instagram feeds.

Don’t miss: The gallery is open every day, including public holidays. Visit from 10am to 7pm.

19. Indulge in afternoon tea at the Raffles Lounge & Terrace

What is it? The magnificent architecture of Raffles at Galaxy Macau offers breathtaking views of Macau's picturesque landscape. At the heart of the hotel's lobby is the stunning Raffles Lounge & Terrace, where you can indulge in a traditional European afternoon tea experience.

Why go? The venue transports you to an opulent European lounge with Italian marble pillars and an exclusive Champagne, caviar, and oyster bar. Enjoy tasty creations by award-winning pastry chefs, including savoury treats and desserts like luscious éclairs in tempting flavours. Don’t miss: As the sun sets, guests can enjoy soothing piano melodies, while sipping on glasses of Champagne along with delectable oysters. Be sure to treat yourself to a glass of their iconic Singapore Sling, a heritage concoction crafted by Raffles bartender Ngiam Tong Boon in 1915.

20. Visit the quaint fishing village of Coloane

What is it? This picturesque, pastel-hued village on the southern coast of Macau may seem quaint in comparison to the bright lights of Cotai, but its old-world charm and cobblestone streets consistently draw crowds.

Why go? To explore the traditional side of Macau. Plus, photo opportunities are everywhere, from colourful buildings to the black sand of Hac Sa Beach, as well as the old dockyard.

Don’t miss: While here, make sure to check out the original shop of Lord Stow’s Bakery, which is said to have the best Portuguese egg tarts around.

21. Sip artisanal cocktails at Wood House

Cocktail bars

What is it? Located in an alley on Rua Central, Wood House is an artisanal cocktail bar led by local bartender Sola Wong, whose passion for mixology shines through in a cocktail selection that competes with the city's top establishments. Why go? The bar offers a diverse cocktail programme ranging from classic to innovative flavours. With years of bar experience, the proprietor ensures you are in capable hands, while the friendly bartenders are eager to chat and tailor a drink to your preferred flavour profile.

Don’t miss: Keep an eye out for their seasonal menus that pop up from time to time.

22. Watch the Galaxy Macau Diamond Show

Luxury hotels

What is it? Situated at the centre of the Diamond Lobby in Galaxy Macau, this stunning fountain-based attraction operates every 30 minutes, offering a free spectacle for all visitors to enjoy.

Why go? It is a sight to behold. The show features a roulette-shaped fountain decorated in a peacock feather motif, boasting an impressive sound, light, dancing waters, and video performance. Don’t miss: Stay for the grand climax as a stunning mirror-faceted diamond emerges from the cascading waters.

23. Listen to live music at The St. Regis Bar

What is it? Recognised as the Best Bar in Macau and placed at #22 on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2024 , The St. Regis Bar is a leading destination in Macau's cocktail scene. Helmed by mixologist Kevin Lai, this branch of The St. Regis hotel's renowned bar offers meticulously crafted cocktails in a luxurious setting, complemented by live jazz music for a soothing ambience.

Why go? One of the most energetic places to experience live jazz music in Macau, it epitomises the bespoke service that the hotel is renowned for and offers guests a cocktail experience that could easily become the benchmark for a fun evening out. Don’t miss: Explore their selection of wines and spirits and indulge in New York-inspired cocktails, including their version of the Bloody Mary, the Maria Do Leste (MOP148), made using spices that celebrate Macau’s diverse cultural history.

24. Watch a concert on the Cotai Strip

What is it? The expansive venues at integrated resorts on the Cotai Strip frequently host concerts showcasing acclaimed artists, pop acts, and groups. The main show venues in local resorts include Galaxy Arena at Galaxy Macau seating 16,000 and Cotai Arena at The Venetian Macao with a capacity of 15,000. Smaller venues with capacities under 10,000 include Studio City Event Centre, MGM Theatre at MGM Cotai, Londoner Arena at The Londoner, Broadway Theatre at Broadway Macau, and more.

Why go? The city aims to be a hub of performing arts in the region, so expect upcoming shows to grace its performing centres. Past performances have included K-pop sensations such as Blackpink and Seventeen, international stars like Bruno Mars, and Cantopop legends from Hong Kong such as Jacky Cheung and Eason Chan. Don’t miss: Follow our regularly updated guide to catch the biggest shows coming to Macau.

25. Zipline at Lisboeta Macau

What is it? Zipcity offers a 388-metre zipline that combines ziplining with extra-sensory audio-visual experiences.

Why go? The exhilarating experience is perfect for all ages. You and four friends can zip along at speeds of up to 34 mph, surrounded by over 100,000 LED lights and a killer soundtrack. Plus, AI-powered cameras will snap all the action and deliver your ride footage right after you land.

Don’t miss: Ziplining during the day gives you an overview of Macau's urban landscape, but nighttime exploration is a bit more special because of the illuminated lights.

26. Watch the Changing of the Guard at The Londoner Macao

What is it? Along with the many British-themed attractions at The Londoner Macao integrated resort is the ritual that recreates the dramatic display of London’s famous Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Why go? Watching the Instagrammable ceremony is a thrill, especially with over 20 artists collaborating to create this spectacular show. The performance features a choreographed ritual by the Scots Guards, trumpeters, and drummers, enhanced with special effects, upbeat music, and dynamic images of the guards on 12 moving LED displays across three levels.

Don’t miss: This show happens at the Crystal Palace six days a week. Make sure to catch the schedule: Tuesday to Thursday 7.30pm and 9.30pm, and Friday to Sunday 4pm, 7.30pm, and 9.30pm.

27. Enjoy hand-beaten coffee in Hon Kee Café

What is it? If you’re visiting Coloane and making a trip to Lord Stow’s Bakery, be sure to take a short detour to check out Hon Kee Cafe. The establishment has been around for decades and uses a very special ‘hand-beating’ method of brewing coffee, which involves whisking it for over 400 times.

Why go? The exceptionally smooth coffee is sure to keep you energised for your day of exploring Macau.

Don't miss: Depending on your preference, you can request it to be served iced or hot.

28. Bungee jump at Skypark by AJ Hackett

What is it? Macau Tower is home to Macau’s only commercial bungee jump facility, Skypark Macau by bungee jumper AJ Hackett. The location offers one of the world's highest bungee jumps, allowing you to leap from a height of 233 metres (764 feet).

Why go? If you’re not content to commemorate your visit with the usual tchotchkes and selfies, consider bungee jumping from one of the highest commercial facilities available – you’re never going to forget that.

Don’t miss: Not quite ready to take the leap? Soak in the views without jumping off! For MOP 2,688 , you can climb to the very summit of the Macau Tower.

29. Try your luck at Macau's casinos

What is it? Macau is one of the world's top gambling hubs and is home to some of the biggest casinos globally, with some even larger than those in Vegas.

Why go? It wouldn't be a trip to the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’ without trying your luck at those slots and card games.

Don’t miss: Whether you're eager to play table games like blackjack, poker, roulette, or craps, or try your luck at the slot machines, the best places to do so would be The Venetian Macao, City of Dreams, Galaxy, MGM Macau, Wynn Macau, Sands Cotai Central, Casino Lisboa, and City of Dreams.

30. Experience the Macau skyline at Sky 21 Bar & Restaurant

What is it? In case the name didn’t make it clear enough, Sky 21 is high up. It’s popular for the same reason any urban rooftop bar is: it’s got great views.

Why go? Come for the views of the skyline, stay for the wide variety of wine, spirits, and cocktails. Prices are reasonable for a rooftop bar, which is to say they’re only a bit pricey.

Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the last hour before sunset to get the perfect light to capture stunning photos.

31. Explore the wizarding world of Harry Potter

What is it? Situated within The Londoner Macao, Harry Potter: The Exhibition is a touring showcase that pays homage to the memorable scenes, characters, locations, and creatures from the Harry Potter film franchise and its enchanting Wizarding World.

Why go? It's the closest we've got to stepping into Hogwarts. Harry Potter fans can select their preferred Hogwarts house and immerse in various interactive zones, where they can choose their own Patronus, practice spellcasting, showcase their Quidditch skills, and concoct magical potions.

Don’t miss: Be sure to pick up some merchandise at the end of your tour; they offer everything from mugs and clothing to various Harry Potter-themed trinkets.

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Top 18 Macau Tourist Spots We Visited for FREE

We’ve been to Macau twice already – the first one was just a day trip from Hong Kong . But the next time, we decided to stay longer to visit the best Macau tourist spots and fully immerse in its culture and people, and we didn’t regret the decision.

Macau Tower is one of the top Macau tourist spots

Macau is tagged as the “Las Vegas of Asia” with its sheer number of upscale malls, state-of-the-art casinos, and top-quality entertainment. This led us to believe that Macau is only for the crazy rich Asians.

However, we were surprised to find out that we didn’t have to spend a fortune to have a grand vacation in Macau. In fact, there are so many places to visit in Macau for free. Yes, that’s right, and we’re sharing this list with you. You’re welcome!

Top places to visit in Macau for free

We explored more than 20 heritage sites that are part of the Historic Centre of Macau , which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. Admission is free for all these sites, and here are the top ones we recommend you visit.

1. Senado Square

First on every Macau itinerary is Senado Square or Largo do Senado . This 3,700 sqm square is full of pastel-colored buildings, shops, and restaurants reminiscent of Europe. Macau was a Portuguese colony for more than 400 years, after all.

As it is centrally located, we made it as our jumping-off point for our Macau exploration.

2. Ruins of St. Paul’s

From Senado Square, we walked our way to Ruins of St. Paul’s , one of the most famous Macau tourist spots, if not the the most famous. Perched on top of a hill, this iconic landmark used to be a religious complex that has a school and a church. Today, you can only see the remains of the 17th-century church facade.

Prepare to climb up some stairs before reaching the site. There could be throngs of tourists walking their way up, especially during the peak travel season, so manage your expectations.

3. Mount Fortress

The Mount Fortress or Fortaleza do Monte is just beside the Ruins of St. Paul’s, so we immediately proceeded to visit it. It used to be the base of Macau’s military activities, but now, it is one of the top Macau tourist spots frequented many visitors.

As we wandered around the fort, we saw remains of watchtowers and canons and felt like we time-traveled to the old times. We also enjoyed a panoramic view of Macau as we waited for the sunset. It was such a surreal experience.

4. Museum of Macau

Museum of Macau is one of the top Macau tourist spots to enter for free

The Museum of Macau is located within Mount Fortress so we decided to visit it as well. Here, we learned more about Macau’s history through the displays, artifacts, and collections.

The museum is open from 10am to 6pm, but the last entry is at 5.30pm. Admission is free so take advantage of this free educational experience.

5. Casa Garden

Casa Garden is one of the best Macau tourist spots to visit for free

Built in 1770, Casa Garden used to be the residence of Manuel Pereira, an affluent Portuguese merchant. It was later rented out to house the British East India Company’s high-ranking officials. Today, it serves as the headquarters of the Oriental Foundation where an art gallery is housed.

When we entered the magnificent casa (house), we immediately felt like we stepped inside a European mansion. Outside, we strolled around the lovely garden where we spotted a cute little turtle on the fish pond.

6. Camões Square

Camões Square is one of the best Macau tourist spots

From Casa Garden, we walked towards Camões Square as they are adjacent to each other. Here, we saw locals chatting, exercising or doing Tai Chi. We found some free public workout facilities as well.

We could not help but think how nice it is to have such an outdoor space to burn those calories or simply unwind with nature for free.

7. Sir Robert Ho Tung Library

Sir Robert Ho Tung Library is one of the best Macau tourist spots

Built before 1894, Sir Robert Ho Tung Library was originally owned by Dona Carolina Cunha, but Sir Robert Ho Tung bought it in 1918. Now, it is converted into a public library in Macau where everyone can study, read books, or have some peace and quiet for free.

We did get a chance to enter the mansion-turned-library and explore the garden area. We must say that people here are very lucky to have an idyllic space for self-study and research.

8. A-Ma Temple

Built in 1488, A-Ma Temple is Macau’s oldest temple in honor of the Chinese goddess of the sea Mazu, also known as A-Ma. Macau’s early settlements can be traced back to this site so it’s truly worth exploring for history buffs.

We had to climb up stairs and stone pathways to reach the different parts of the temple. So when coming here, dress appropriately and prepare for a bit of cardio.

9. Maritime Museum

Opposite A-Ma Temple is the Maritime Museum , one of popular museums and tourist spots in Macau you can enter for free. Aside from the exhibits, be sure not to miss the Little A-Ma Theatre where the legend of the sea goddess is shown. We got so engrossed watching it.

We really spent a significant time learning about Macau’s history and culture here, and we highly recommend that you include it in your Macau itinerary.

10. Moorish Barracks

Moorish Barracks is one of the top Macau tourist spots to visit for free

Built in 1874, the Moorish Barracks is a unique historical site that stands out with its brick and stone neoclassical design with Mughal influences.

While we didn’t get to enter the building as it was already closed, just seeing the magnificent structure from the outside already made us stand in awe.

Top Macau attractions for shopping and luxury

We included these luxury establishments as top places to visit in Macau for free since you can just go window shopping or casino hopping like we did. We actually visited these Macau tourist spots in Cotai Strip because we also wanted to know what it’s like to be at the center of Macau’s glitz and glam without blowing a hole in our wallets.

Tip: There are free hotel shuttle services in Macau that hop from one hotel to the other and even go to the airport, border gate, and ferry terminal. So if you don’t want to spend for transport, you can ride a free shuttle service from any of the major hotels in Macau. We took advantage of the free shuttle service from The Venetian Macao to the airport on our departure day.

11. The Venetian Macao

One of the most postcard-worthy Macau tourist attractions is The Venetian Macao . This 39-storey Italian-themed casino resort features opulent facilities, a grand casino, and an IG-worthy mall where you can ride a Venetian gondola .

RIDE A GONDOLA

12. The Parisian Macao

If you can’t go to Paris just yet, The Parisian Macao will do for now. This Frenched-themed casino resort features 3,000 luxurious rooms, a high-class mall, and an exciting water park. While you’re here, strike a pose at the Eiffel Tower replica or enter their mall for some window shopping.

13. City of Dreams

Enter City of Dreams in Macau and you’ll think that you are in a dream with its ultra-luxurious features — from its Michelin-starred dining and designer-brand shopping to world-class gaming and entertainment where you can watch the famed House of Dancing Water show.

WATCH HOUSE OF DANCING WATER

14. Galaxy Macau

The glistening golden facade of the Galaxy Macau will surely catch your attention. This 5-star integrated resort houses the largest Skytop Wave Pool and the longest Skytop Rapids in the world at their Grand Resort Deck.

15. Grand Lisboa Macau

It’s hard to miss the Grand Lisboa Macau because of its towering lotus flower structure that stands out from Macau’s stunning skyline. This 5-star integrated resort has a huge casino, exquisite dining options, and elite wellness facilities that’ll give you a truly grand vacation in Macau.

16. The Plaza Macao

Live the ultra-opulent life at Plaza Macao , where you’ll find the luxurious Four Seasons Macao and The Grand Suites at Four Seasons . This luxury complex also houses the Sands Shoppes , Macau’s largest indoor shopping mall with over 850 duty-free outlets.

Places to visit in Macau to immerse in the local life

We also visited these places which allowed us to immerse in the locals’ way of life.

17. Old Taipa Village

Old Taipa Village is one of new Macau tourist spots

After all the mall and casino hopping in Macau, we visited the Old Taipa Village . It is just right across the Galaxy Macau and a 15-minute walk from the casino strip.

We walked past unique shops and restaurants that gave us a truly local experience in Macau. It was a breath of fresh air from the luxe life in Cotai.

18. Coloane Village

Coloane Village is one of the underrated Macau tourist spots

We dedicated a day to explore the laid-back Coloane Village off the southern tip of Macau. This is one of the less explored Macau tourist spots and a perfect place if you want to escape the busy city life in Macau.

Here, we strolled along the coastal area, dropped by a temple, and walked through narrow alleys where locals reside. And we didn’t miss the chance to try the famous egg tarts from Lord Stow’s Bakery.

There’s still tons of Macau tourist spots to visit for free, and these are just a few of them.

Did we miss your favorite Macau attractions? Let us know on our social media channels: Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , or YouTube .

Macau is visa-free for Filipinos , so why not take advantage of this to build your travel history? Then, you can then apply for a tourist visa to countries like Japan , Korea , and Australia .

18 Top Things to Do in Macau: The Ultimate Macau Itinerary

The very first time I learned of all the incredible things to do in Macau, I was accompanied by an overwhelming assumption that the name was synonymous to gambling and casinos.

Several years ago, we had been traveling through China and arrived in Hong Kong, when we planned to take a day trip to check out all the things to do in Macau.

The weather had other plans for us when a large storm blew in and all the ferries were canceled.

Fast forward 4 years and we were given the opportunity to visit Macau. It was this trip that made us realize our previous assumptions were way off.

Yes, Macau has casinos and is the gambling capital of the world, but it also has an amazing history, beautiful culture, food and architecture that tells its heritage of Portuguese and Chinese influences.

Our words to you, don’t underestimate Macau. It’s an incredible destination to visit with so many wonders around every turn. We spent 3 days leaving no rock unturned, discovering its best sights, secrets and everything in between.

Everything you need to plan your own Macau itinerary can be found in this article. Are you ready?

Don’t leave home without: Pocket Rough Guide Hong Kong & Macau (Travel Guide)

Day 1: Things to do in Macau

Table of Contents

After arriving and checking into our hotel the night before, we woke up ready to hit the ground running and find the best Macau attractions that have made this destination a must-visit. Naturally, we headed straight for the cultural heart of the city, the Historic District of Macau.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the whole of this district is full of beautiful European style buildings, temples, and market streets. Ducking down side streets while out exploring is part of the fun as you make your way between the iconic sites.

You could easily spend two to three full days just exploring this area and not get bored, however, we’re going to share the highlights and some of our favorite places to visit in the Macau Old Town.

1. Senado Square

thins to do in Macau - Senado Square - Lina Stock

The heartbeat of Old Town Macau, Senado Square is an architectural wonder. I’ll never forget the first time I laid eyes on the street tiles laid in wave formations of white and black that lead you through the center of the square.

Used from the 16 th to 18 th centuries as a meeting place for the Chinese and Portuguese, the square presents a blend between Asian and European influences. The best time to visit is at night when the lights illuminate off the ground and buildings giving it an addicting vibe. It’s also a haven for night photography.

2. Ruins of St. Paul’s

things to do in Macau - Ruins of St Paul - Lina Stock

The most recognized of all the sites in Macau is the Ruins of St. Paul’s cathedral. Dating back to the 17 th century, all that remains of the complex that once housed a cathedral and college is the façade of the entrance against a modern-day backdrop.

While it is essentially a ruin with not much to look at beyond the standing front, it is worth taking the time to admire the intricate details on the building that still stands. If you are into history and like to see crypts, you can purchase an admission ticket in the back and enter the excavated area under the church.

3. Fortaleza do Monte

things to do in Macau - Fortaleza do Monte - Lina Stock

This ended up being one of our favorite spots in Old Town Macau for the simple fact that it gives epic views of the surrounding area. Occupying 8,000 square meters adjacent to the Ruins of St. Paul the fort features 32 muzzle-loading canons pointed out over Macau.

It is free to enter the fort and once you reach the top you can enjoy panoramic views of Macau below you. Be sure to pay a visit both during the day and at night to get the perfect contrast of the city.

It is a sight to behold when you can see all the casinos lit up at night from the fort.

4. Macau Museum

things to do in Macau - Macao Museum - Lina Stock

Housed on the inside of the Fortaleza de Monte, the Macau Museum is a must-visit place that walks you through the entire history of the city of Macau, the territory of the former Portuguese colony of Macau and now the Special Administrative Region of China.

It’s a fascinating journey to take and gives some incredible insight into the influences that have graced this tiny area. There are several displays of authentic artifacts and plaques in both Chinese and English to accompany them.

5. A-Ma Temple

Things to do in Macau - A Ma Temple - Lina Stock

Thought to be the island’s namesake, the A-Ma Temple was built in 1488 and is one of the oldest temples in Macau. As far as temples in Macau go, this one is massive, featuring several worship areas and staircases that weave throughout the complex.

It’s free to enter and open to the public. It is an active place of worship, so be sure to be respectful during a visit. If you’re traveling independently of a tour group, I highly recommend a late morning visit to avoid big groups.

Day 2: Macau Itinerary

With the first day a wrap, it’s a good time to move on to some other areas of Macau. This is the part where I prove to you that Macau is a destination that is deserving of more time than a 7-hour day trip from Hong Kong will offer. It’s a wonderous place with much to discover and experience.

6. Fisherman’s Wharf

One of the most fun areas you can visit in Macau is Fisherman’s Wharf. While we went there expecting a stinky fish market and traditional practices, we were pretty shocked to arrive and find a theme park.

The massive complex features more than 70 stores and restaurants built in a world tour style experience that takes you from Africa to Europe and everywhere in between along Legend Boulevard. Of course, you cannot miss the Roman Amphitheatre either.

7. Macau Tower

This one is hard to miss and is definitely one of the top things to do in Macau. With a space needle construction, the Macau Tower features a revolving restaurant that offers panoramic views of Macau, as well as both indoor and outdoor observation levels.

It is also the place for all things adrenaline in Macau including the world’s highest commercial Bungy jump, where you can jump from the top of the Macau Tower at 233 meters. If you’re looking for something softer, they also offer a SkyJump, Skywalk and Tower Climb.

If none of that interests you (no judgment here!) then I highly recommend you set aside time to have lunch and enjoy the views. The buffet features a variety of global and local cuisine with a fantastic view.

8. Taipa Village

things to do in Macau - Taipa Village - Lina Stock

A hop, skip and a jump from the Cotai Strip is the Old Taipa Village. A hidden gem that is often overlooked in favor of the historic area and the casinos, this area blends many of the very things you came to experience in Macau.

The village area features a seamless blend of Portuguese and Chinese architecture lining the streets with intermittent sprinklings of trendy, new places just across the street.

Taking the time to wander this area will reward you with small temples, colorful buildings, traditional food opportunities and a feel of the Macau of old. It’s a gem and it was virtually empty of tourists during our visit. Don’t miss it.

Things to do in Macau - Coloane - Lina Stock

Lastly, if you’re looking to get into the nitty-gritty of Macau than we recommend a visit to the more overlooked than Taipa Village, Coloane.

Located far south of the Cotai Strip, this area features the modest Tam Kung Temple, colorful Chapel of St. Frances Xavier and the only beach in Macau, Hac Sa Park.

The streets here are quieter than any other you’ll find in the city and it’s a beautiful place to connect with the local life.

The most popular place to visit in Coloane is the Lord Stow’s Bakery, the very site that the first Macau-style egg tart was invented. This area is no stranger to the foodies that seek out the bakery stop, but if you continue to wander you will be highly rewarded.

You can visit the area independently by taking the local bus or hiring a taxi to the area. It is also possible to visit Coloane on a tour .

things to do in Macau - Grand Lisboa - Lina Stock

Day 3: More Things to Do in Macau

10. Casino Hopping in Cotai: Resembling the Las Vegas Strip, a rite of passage in Macau is a wander along the main street in Cotai. Take your time, enjoy the massive complexes and don’t forget to pop into a few of them along the way. Each one represents a massive complex with fine dining options and great shopping.

11. Visit the Grand Lisboa: Officially the oldest casino resort in Macau, this place is an icon and it would be remiss if you stroll through the iconic hotel on your visit. You’ll also notice the building from just about every vantage point in Macau as it also holds the title of the tallest building in the city.

12. Relax at the Pool of your Resort: Don’t spend all your time on the streets! Be sure to take some time to yourself and enjoy the lavish facilities on offer. Part of the fun in visiting Macau is indulging in luxury. You’ll find that no matter what resort you choose, you’ll be treated to a massive pool area.

13. Hike up Guia Hill: The perfect place to feed your outdoor adventure needs in the city. Enjoy some of the green space on offer while being rewarded with some fantastic views at the top.

14. Go Shopping: If it’s high-end fashion and designers you seek, then Macau is your answer. You’ll be hard-pressed to wander anywhere without labels like Gucci and Tiffany peering at you from the storefronts. All the stores feature authentic merchandise with Macau being the hot spot in Asia to obtain such brands.

Things You MUST Eat in Macau

what to eat in Macau - Egg Tarts - Lina Stock

15. Macanese Egg Tarts: no trip to Macau would be complete without trying one of its highly praised egg tarts. An icon to the city, you haven’t truly visited until you have tasted the rewards that this tart can offer you. While they are literally available everywhere, we would recommend a visit to Lord Stow’s Bakery in Coloane, a place that sells more than 13,000 egg tarts a day.

16. Pork Chop Buns: consisting of a massive bone-in pork chop marinated in five-spice powder, garlic, sugar, salt, soy, white and black pepper fried then served on a buttered Portuguese bun, the Macau Pork Chop Bun is a must-try during your visit. While they can be found in a few different places, the best is found at Tai Lei Loi Kei in Taipa Village.

17. Almond Cookies: tender and crumbly, Macau-style almond cookies are produced from almond and mung bean flour making them both sweet and savory. Second, to egg tarts, these almond cookies are one of the most purchased items on Macau by visitors and you’ll easily find a Koi Kei shop on the streets to purchase them during your visit. Not sure if you like them? No worries! Every shop offers tastings, of all their offerings, so be sure to stop in for samples.

18. Macanese Minchi: a blend of ground beef and pork, flavored with molasses and soy sauce, this dish is served with a fried egg on top and always served with white rice on the side. Depending on where you order it, you may also find potatoes and vegetables mixed into it. A staple of Macau since it was first settled, every family has their own recipe. We gave the iconic dish a try at the Litoral Restaurant, located near the A-Ma Temple. It’s a small place but one of the best to eat Minchi in Macau.

If you’re a foodie and want to plan your visit around food, check out this guide to explore more about the unique cuisine options available in Macau.

Macau Travel Tips

One of the things that are overlooked is how to get around once you arrive in Macau. If you’re not visiting on a tour, you will need to figure out transportation. Something that surprised us about Macau is how big it actually is.

It is an easy assumption that you can walk everywhere, but this is not the case.

Getting Around in Macau

Free Shuttle Transport: if you are staying on the Cotai Strip in one of the lavish casino resorts like we did, you won’t be able to walk to most of the best sites in Macau. However, the upside is that the resorts offer an impressive schedule of free shuttle services to various drop points in Macau. Each resort has a different timetable and different drop points but will cover most of the areas that we’ve mentioned or at least drop you close to them. While we did utilize this a couple of times, we ultimately found the schedules to limiting and sought transportation in other ways.

Taxis: we ended up mostly using taxis during our three days in Macau. They are everywhere and regulated. Every cab has a meter and can offer a receipt. The only thing we struggled with was that not all drivers spoke English or knew the English names to places we wanted to go. As we had cellular service, we were able to use Google Maps to enter the destination and it would automatically translate for us, which was very helpful. Otherwise, taxis, albeit the most expensive option, are safe and a great way to get around Macau.

Public Bus: if you’re visiting on a budget than the public bus is a great option. There are hundreds of stops all-around Macau that will get you where you need to go. The challenge comes in the navigation of the bus routes, which is not easily done. We used the bus twice and despite ‘clear’ instructions from the hotel on where to get off, missed our stops. If you can find a bus stop map, this will help immensely, we were never able to locate one, as all the bus stops are labeled with a name and number.

Walking: once you arrive in the areas you want to explore, by foot is your best option. This allows you to experience Macao from the street level. We found all the areas very walkable and safe once we were in the area we wanted to explore.

where to stay in Macau - Studio City -Lina Stock

Accommodation in Macau

While there are hotels and resort complexes all throughout Macau, there are two main areas that people stay during a visit. Both offer their advantages so it really comes down to budget and personal preference.

Cotai Strip: the ‘new’ Macau and home to the most luxurious Macau casino hotels, this is where we stayed during our visit. It is an area with impressive buildings that take you around the world in a 20-minute stroll. Our room at Studio City was on the 18 th floor and overlooked the impressive Parisian next door. Yes, our room had a view of the Eiffel Tower de Macau.

Cotai offers resort-style, mega-complex accommodation options for the ultimate vacation experience. Each resort has a built-in casino, pool area, shopping and dining at your fingertips.

Old Macau Strip: if you want to be closer to Old Town and get a more vintage feel for Macau than this area might be the perfect fit. The casino resorts on this site are also impressive buildings that offer a great vacation experience. It’s an opportunity to stay in places like the Grand Lisboa and original Sands properties.

Budget accommodation: it IS possible to stay in Macau on a budget and the destination offers a wide variety of hotels, and even some hostels, if you look at your options beyond the casino resorts. Don’t let the price of accommodation deter you from giving Macau the time it deserves, at least 3 nights.

Arriving in Macau from Hong Kong by Ferry

While Macau does have an international airport, flights typically cost significantly more than if you fly into Hong Kong, so chances are pretty high that you are visiting Macau from Hong Kong and the best way to do this is by taking the ferry.

Macau has two ferry terminals, the Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal and the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal. Both terminals are used regularly and which one you buy your ticket for depends solely on where your accommodation is located.

If you’re staying in Cotai, you’ll want to book to the Taipa Ferry Terminal and all of the resorts offer a free shuttle from there to the resort.

The Hong Kong to Macau Ferries operate throughout the day, every day, from the two main terminals Hong Kong Sheung Wan and Kowloon China. The one you leave from will again depend on where you are staying in Hong Kong.

While we arrived at the Macau International Airport, we departed from the Hong Kong Airport after our trip. We had no issues booking and using the Turbo Jet Ferry from the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal directly to the Hong Kong Airport.

Travel Tips for First Time Visitors

While Macau is technically part of China, you do not require a China Visa to visit. Many countries are offered visa-free or visa on arrival when traveling to Macau. As Americans, we were issued a 30-day visa-free entry. Be sure to check the Macau visa conditions that apply to your passport before traveling.
You need a passport to travel from Hong Kong to Macau and will pass through immigration on both sides.
Macau has its own currency, the Macau Pataca, although Hong Kong Dollars and US dollars are widely accepted.
Macau casinos operate all gambling in Hong Kong Dollars only. Macau currency is not accepted at any casino.
When using the ATM in any casino, you are only able to dispense money in Hong Kong Dollars. If you wish to withdraw Macau Pataca, you have to look for ATM’s outside of the casinos.
If possible, travel to Macau during the week and avoid weekends. Many people travel from China to Macau on the weekends making the city chaotic and very busy.

Disclosure: This post was made possible in partnership with Expedia and iAmbassador. For more information on planning your Perfect Blend trip to Macao, be sure to check out the Expedia Macao microsite for useful information. All opinions are 100% mine, as always.

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

20 BEST Places to Visit in Macau (2024)

Macau is a tiny little peninsula that has a big personality. A short boat ride from Hong Kong, it attracts travelers from all walks of life, most of whom want to try their luck at the casinos.

But there’s more to Macau than gambling. It also has a rich culture and history which means there are some really fascinating places to visit in Macau.

If you’ve only heard about Macau in connection with the casinos, you might wonder why you would want to go there. And if you like gambling, you probably won’t want to leave the bright, noisy floors of the casinos.

But there’s a lot to see in this area of the world. And to help you find it all, I’ve created this useful list of things you should see, do, and experience.

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Macau Peninsula

The Macau Peninsula neighbourhood is without a doubt the most interesting district for travellers. It’s packed with historical Macau attractions and heritage landmarks, as well as interesting streets, intriguing shops and plenty of delicious restaurants. You’ll also find many of Macau’s most famous casinos located at the southern end of the district. Also, it's easily accessible from the Macau Ferry Terminal in Hong Kong.

Climb to the top of Penha Hill and enjoy excellent views of Macau.
Go for a stroll through colourful Senate Square, a typical Iberian town square.
Visit the A-Ma Temple, one of the oldest and most famous temples in Macau.

Before diving in on all the fun below, check out where to stay in Macau to make sure your accommodation needs are sorted and close to all your favourite Macau attractions. Alternatively, you can stay in Hong Kong and venture over for day trips from the Macau Ferry Terminal , which is only an hour’s boat ride.

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#1 – Camões Garden – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Macau

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This is the oldest public garden in Macau.
If you enjoy people watching, this is the best place to visit in Macau!

Why it’s so awesome: There are other parks in Macau, most notably Senado Square, but if you want to get off the beaten track then this is the park to see.

This is where you’ll see the everyday residents of Macau going about their daily routines. And it’s a stunning park in spring and summer when the flame-red Delonix regia trees are in bloom.

What to do there: If you want a break from the city, then head down to the Phoenix Hill to find this park. Take a snack or a drink, find a shady spot, and just watch the people go by.

It’s particularly good in the morning when you’ll see the locals walking their caged birds and doing their morning stretches. But at any time of day, this park is a treasure trove of everyday activities and culture, which is why it’s one of the most interesting points of interest in Macau.

#2 – St. Paul’s Cathedral

These ruins, properly known as Sam Ba Sin Tzik, are one of the most popular attractions in Macau.
It’s one of the most important historical structures in the area.

Why it’s so awesome: Tourists flock to the ruins of St. Paul, and for good reason. This important historical site is deliberately ornate. When it was built, it was meant to signify the might of the Catholic Church and was the largest church in Asia at that time. It was built between 1602 and 1640 by Jesuit priests.

What to do there: There’s a lot of history behind these ruins. Originally, the church was made of food but it was burned down to the stone in 1835, leaving only the beautiful granite behind.

Make sure you take the time to admire the façade of the building. The complex images reflect the Japanese, Portuguese, and Chinese influences that shaped and created it.

And afterwards, walk around the historic center and enjoy an egg tart or two. You can even walk down to the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt at the bottom of the ruins, where you’ll see several sacred artifacts.

Just down the road is Senado Square which is another fine example of Portuguese architecture bought to the city. This is a great place to relax in and sit back with a coffee.

#3 – Coloane Village – One of the nicer places in Macau to sightsee!

A small, traditional village in southern Macau.
The old-world charm of this village ensures that it’s one of the most popular hotspots in Macau year-round.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to see the more traditional side of Macau, away from the casinos and bright lights, then head down to Coloane Village. The pastel-hued houses and cobblestone streets are a welcome reminder of the past, and you’ll get some of the most amazing photographs of your trip in this village.

What to do there: It’s only a short drive from the heart of Macau to Coloane village, so you can easily do a day trip there. Take your camera along with you and capture the pastel-colored buildings and the black sand of Hac Sa Beach. Also, make sure that you stop by Lord Stow’s Bakery, where they make incredibly delicious Portuguese egg tarts.

#4 – Happiness Street – One of Macau’s coolest historical sites!

This is where Macau’s red-light district used to be and it’s bursting with old charm.
There are some great restaurants and dessert houses in the area, so stick around until you get hungry.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a less popular area of Macau and yet it’s brimming with old-world charm that you must experience when you’re visiting Macau. Happiness Street is a small street with colorful wooden houses that look great in photos and contain a variety of interesting stores and eateries.

What to do there: Wander the streets and duck into the stores whenever you see something interesting. Keep your camera close for photo ops as well and try to stay until after dark. Once the sun goes down, the street is lit by lanterns that give it an atmospheric, old-world feel that can’t be beaten.

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#5 – Senado Square – A great place in Macau if you love to shop!

One of the busiest and most popular streets in Macau.
This area is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular shopping and eating destination.

Why it’s so awesome: You’ll find numerous shops, restaurants and cafes in this area, which is why it’s the center of tourist and local life in Macau.

However, it should also be on your Macau itinerary because it holds tightly to Macau’s long history. The buildings, park, and fountain all show the influence that Europe had upon the city, touched by a uniquely Chinese sensibility.

What to do there: You’ll probably need close to a day to enjoy everything this Macau must-see has to offer. The square hosts festivals and events throughout the year, so make sure that you know what’s on while you’re in the city.

Other than that, just enjoy the great shopping malls and eateries. There are several authentic Chinese restaurants surrounding the square, so find one of them and prepare for a great meal.

#6 – IN Portuguese Food – A must-see for foodies!

One of the best places to visit in Macau for amazing Portuguese food.
A somewhat less crowded restaurant that still offers distinctive Portuguese flavors.

Why it’s so awesome: There are a few restaurants in Macau that offer Portuguese food, but this is one of the quietest. Despite that, the food is great, and the rooftop position offers amazing views, particularly at sunset.

What to do there: Show up for a meal as the sun is going down and enjoy your food against the colors of the sunset. One of the most popular dishes on the menu is the clams with a cream sauce but they also have an amazing shrimp with garlic dish.

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#7 – Macau Tower

The Macau Tower is one of the most important and interesting landmarks in Macau.
The views from the top of the Macau tower are simply spectacular.
There’s also a lot to do at this tower, even for adrenalin junkies!

Why it’s so awesome: Built by Gordon Moller, the Macau Tower is a 338-meter-tall construction that offers the best views in the city. It also contains a range of things to do on a quiet day such as observations decks, a café, a revolving deck, and an adventure zone. You can also bungee jump off the tower, which is one of the tallest jumps in the world.

What to do there: If you want incredible views of the Macau Peninsula and surrounding islands, make sure you visit the tower at sunset. Grab your spot on the observation deck and watch the changing colors set the horizon on fire.

Before sunset, you can spend your time watching a movie at the cinema or getting your adrenalin pumping by jumping off the tower! There is also a range of stores in the tower but they’re expensive and you’ll need a healthy credit rating to make the most of them.

#8 – Taipa Village – A very cool place in Macau to go for a day

This was once a fishing village but has become a hip and upcoming tourist destination.
If you enjoy the combination of independent stores and ancient temples, this is a Macau must do.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s a lot to see and do in this village on Taipa island when you’re looking for Macau vacation ideas. There’s a museum where you can learn about colonial Macau, independent shops where you can pick up souvenirs, and lots of restaurants that are really making their mark in Macau’s food scene. So, whatever you like to do, you’ll find something to occupy you at Taipa Village.

What to do there: Put aside most of a day to explore if you have the time. Wander the streets and take in the contrast of the temples with the cool shop fronts. Make sure you check out the Taipa Village Art Space, with murals that will look great on your Instagram feed.

And then when you get hungry, head towards the café and boutique Quarter Square for a snack or some more shopping. And if you’re looking for more great food, make sure you head down to Rua do Cunha. This pedestrian-only street is quickly getting a reputation for having the best food options on Taipa island!

#9 – The House of Dancing Water

This is the world’s biggest water-based stage show.
If you want to experience a true spectacle, then make sure you get tickets for this show.

Why it’s so awesome: Sometimes, you just want to experience a real spectacle, and that’s exactly what this show is. It’s a water-based staged show created by Cirque du Soleil director Franco Dragone that uses acrobatics, theater, and a pool to tell an epic love story.

What to do there: This is an interesting tourist attraction, so make sure that you buy tickets early . Make a night of it by dressing up, going out to a nice restaurant, and then doing a bit of gambling afterwards if you enjoy that. Just don’t miss out, because this is truly a Macau must-see.

#10 – Pou Tai Monastery – One of the most underrated places to see in Macau

Pou Tai is a 19th century Monastery founded by Buddhist monks.
This is less crowded than the better-known A-Ma Temple and still one of the most fascination points of interest in Macau.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to see a Buddhist temple without the crowds of tourists, then Pou Tai is a great option. It contains 3 important Buddhist statues as well as a gorgeous, ornately carved wooden Buddha that will make you marvel at its artistry.

What to do there: This is still a working Monastery, so be respectful of the monks and the space. Explore the Monastery itself and then head down to the vegetarian veranda café. It’s run by the monks and some of the produce comes from the monks’ vegetable garden, so the food is fresh and delicious!

#11 – Cotai Strip

You can’t travel to Macau without at least seeing the strip that makes it the gambling capital of the world.
This area is filled to the brim with luxury casinos and resorts.
If you want to spend some serious money, this area will help you do it!

Why it’s so awesome: Most people travel to Macau to gamble, and this is where they do it. This area contains more clubs, casinos, and restaurants then you would think could fit in such a small stretch of land. But they do, and the bright lights and flashing signs that vie for your attention are proof of that.

What to do there: Even if you don’t like to gamble, you should wander into one of the casinos and look around. Some of them are like a city in themselves and hold everything you could want for days of gambling and drinking.

So take the time to do some gambling if you want, check out the shows, or try one of the restaurants. Some of the most interesting casinos to explore are the simply enormous Venetian and the Studio City, which has a lucky figure-8 Ferris Wheel.

Cotoi Island has a lot of cool tourist attractions so even if you’re not into casino’s, it’s still worth a visit. If you enjoy beaches, the Hac Sa beach on the south of the island is a really nice and family-friendly beach to enjoy.

#12 – Albergue 1601 – One of the most romantic places to visit in Macau!

This bright yellow villa houses a great Portuguese restaurant, an art gallery, and an art store.
This is one of the best places in Macau if you’re celebrating or want to have a trip defining meal.
If you’re looking for a restaurant where you can have a romantic meal with your partner, then look no further.

Why it’s so awesome: One of the best places to visit in Macau is this stunning yellow villa. It’s designed in colonial style and houses an upscale Portuguese restaurant with a sophisticated and delicious menu option.

What really makes this one of the best places to eat in Macau is the courtyard. There’s nothing better than taking your meal out under the campor trees there.

What to do there: Try to choose a clear night to eat out at this restaurant so you can get a table in the courtyard and eat under the trees. This makes the experience even more amazing. While you’re there, check out the art gallery and the store as well because you never know where you’ll find an iconic souvenir of your trip!

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#13 – Macau Museum of Art – A perfect place to visit in Macau if you are on a budget!

The only museum of art in the city, which is why this is a Macau must do.
This free museum contains a combination of local and international artwork.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in art, then this museum will help you understand the creative soul of Macau. It contains both permanent and visiting collections from overseas and a library where you can learn more about visual art.

What to do there: This museum is free, which makes it the perfect way to offset any money you’ve lost in the casinos. There’s a permanent exhibit, which explores the history of art in Macau, and the museum also hosts temporary exhibits as well. So, find out what’s on at the museum while you visit Macau and show up for a free afternoon of education.

#14 – Live Music Association – A great place to visit in Macau at night

The best underground music venue in Macau.
If you get tired of the popstars on the Cotai Strip, then check out the alternatives at this venue.

Why it’s so awesome: Macau has a reputation for being all flash and no substance, with bright casino lights and very few alternatives. But this music venue reveals another side, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit in Macau.

It plays host to a range of the biggest and best alternative music acts from Macau and the rest of the world, so you never know what you’ll see until you get there.

What to do there: Find out what’s on at this music venue before you arrive in the city. You could be treated to folk music, post-punk, or even get to see an alternative film. Visiting this venue is also the best way to support Macau’s indie arts scene, so show up and do your part!

#15 – Sun Yat-Sen Memorial House – A fascinating educational place to visit in Macau

A faux Moorish style house that was the home of the first Chinese man to practice medicine in Macau.
The house itself is lovely, with wide and ornate verandas and spacious courtyards.

Why it’s so awesome: Dr. Sun is often known as the Father of Modern China. He was the first man to practice western medicine in Macau, which is why his house is one of the best places to visit in Macau. If you’re interested in learning more about Chinese history and what made it what it is, then you need to explore this landmark building.

What to do there: Dr. Sun’s house is open to the public and contains a wide range of artifacts and personal belongings from his life.

This includes books, photos, letters and newspaper cuttings of his life as well as of the Chinese Republican Revolution which led to the overthrow of the Qing dynasty in 1912. This is an essential part of Chinese history and pivotal in the creation of China as it is today.

#16 – Riquexo – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Macau!

This unassuming store sells the best home cooking in Macau!
It’s one of the best and most authentic places to eat in Macau!

Why it’s so awesome: if you’re tired of the fancy restaurants and want to try some traditional home cooking, then you can get it at this venue. Run by 102-year-old Aida de Jesus, this canteen-style restaurant sells the best and tastiest that Macanese home cooking has to offer.

What to do there: Macanese food has been influenced by a lot of different cultures, which is why their food tends to be varied. At this restaurant, you’ll notice touches of India, Africa, and Malay cuisines, all combined into a tasty and harmonious whole.

So, don’t be put off by the simplicity of the restaurant. Head into try the curries, stews, a codfish casserole or even minchi, a popular home-style dish with potatoes, ground meat, and rice.

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#17 – Venetian Macau Casino

If you only visit one casino in Macau, then let it be this one!
The Venetian is the biggest casino in the world and offers a huge range of places to gamble and things to do.

Why it’s so awesome: To be quite frank, you can’t travel to Macau and not check out the casinos. And if you only have a look at one of them, then the Venetian is the best choice. It contains over 800 gambling tables, thousands of slot machines, 3,000 luxury suites, huge event rooms, and over a million square feet of retail space. You could, quite literally, live there.

What to do there: When you explore Macau, you’ll notice this casino right away. It’s one of the landmark buildings and offers something for everyone. Try the gaming tables, check out the slot machines, which are all themed, and find out what shows are on while you’re visiting. You’ll find plenty to do at this casino, no matter what you enjoy.

#18 – Guia Hill – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Macau

Take your camera along to take advantage of the amazing views from this hill.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, there are hiking trails that lead into the surrounding hills and will give you the chance to enjoy Macau’s natural landscape.

Why it’s so awesome: When you’re deciding what to do in Macau, you’ll get a better idea if you know its layout. And you can get this bird’s eye view from Guia Hill. The fort and lighthouse on the hill were built in 1865 and were an observation post during colonial times. The buildings are well preserved, and you’ll enjoy the best views in the city from various points.

What to do there: You’ll have to pay a small fee to take the cable car up to the top of the hill. Once you’re there, check out the views, take pictures, and then explore the buildings.

They include barracks, a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Guia, a water cistern, and the commander’s house and storeroom. There are also some lovely hikes that lead away from the hills if you want to get some exercise while you’re up there.

#19 – Fisherman’s Wharf – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Macau

There are endless shopping and entertainment options in this area, so be prepared to take your time.
This is also a great place to have dinner, as it contains some of the best places to eat in Macau.

Why it’s so awesome: This area was once a quiet fishing village but has been turned into a huge theme park. It features various port ‘towns’ that include some of Macau’s best shops, entertainment venues, nightlife, restaurants, an amphitheater, and an amusement park. You could spend hours or even a whole day or night exploring everything, which is why this area is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Macau.

What to do there: If you’re in the mood for some shopping, then this area rivals the world’s shopping capitals with more than 150 stores available for your convenience.

You should also check out what’s on at the amphitheater, an outdoor Colosseum that hosts the city’s best shows and events. And once you’re ready to eat, check out the huge range of restaurants and cuisines on offer. No matter what food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find a restaurant to satisfy your hunger.

#20 – Macau Maritime Museum

A place where you can learn just how pivotal the sea is and was to Macau.
This museum is one of the most important in Macau if you want to understand it.

Why it’s so awesome: Macau is, of course, surrounded by ocean, and that link has defined its past and its future. This museum explores that rich history and how it led to the Macau of today, including the Portuguese colonization and Chinese maritime history.

What to do there: This museum is located close to the port and was rehomed in 1990 to include all new exhibits. It includes models, videos, and parts of vessels from Chinese and Portuguese maritime history that are fascinating pieces of the past. There are also some amazing archaeological discoveries that were dug up during reclamation work for the airport.

If you have time after visiting the Maritime museum, you should take a stroll over to the Grand Lisboa Casino for a view of the Nam Van Lake. There is also a lot of cool museums and historical sites in this district, such as the Grand Prix Museum and A Ma temple.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Macau

Is Macau a safe place to visit?

Overall, Macau is a pretty safe place to visit compared to other major cities in Asia. As with all places, petty crimes are common, but more serious crimes are rare.

What is there to do in Macau besides gamble?

There are a lot of historical monuments and tourist attractions from the Portuguese colonial era such as St. Paul’s Cathedral that are worth checking out.

What is a free place to visit in Macau?

The Macau Museum of Art is a free museum with a lot of cool and interesting exhibits, as well as being one of the most popular tourist attractions.

What is an unusual place to visit in Macau?

The Venetian Macao is a casino/hotel that is a little Venice, where you can take a gondola ride like you would in the Italian city. It’s definitely one of the more quirky tourist attractions in Macau.

Macau is an island known for its casinos and its high life and yet there’s a lot more to it. This densely populated area has a rich and vibrant culture all its own once you get away from the glitz and glamor.

So, if you’re ready to visit Macau, get away from the casinos and explore the many exciting tourist attractions in the city.

If you start with this list of the most interesting places to visit in Macau, you’ll start to understand why this small area has so much appeal, even if you don’t like to gamble.

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Top 10 Things to Do in Macau

Macau is one of the four gambling towns in the world, as well as an exotic place in China for the over 400 years’ colonial history under Portugal. With the Portuguese architecture, splendid casinos on a par with Las Vegas, and the delicious food, Macau is a sought-after destination for travelers. This article will tell you the most popular things to do in Macau that are widely recognized.

Ruins of St. Paul's

Fisherman’s Wharf

Senado square.

Macau Tower

Venetian macau-resort-hotel.

Rua da Cunha

The Museum of Macau

Coloane Island

A-ma temple.

Guia Fortress & the Lighthouse

14 Places to Visit in Macau + Things To Do

Macau is a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. The city-state is a famous melting pot of different cultures, nicknamed the “Las Vegas of Asia.”

The bulk of Macau’s attractions lies on its strip of top-rated hotels and casinos. But beyond the sparkling lights of those establishments, especially at night, there’s more to Macau than being the gambling capital of the East. One of the things you can’t miss in this urban jungle is its well-preserved Portuguese-colonial vibe. There are cobbled streets and cathedral ruins to remind you of Macau’s storied past, and they are well worth a visit. The Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral, with its imposing Renaissance façade, is an important landmark. Other notable sites include Fortaleza do Monte, Senado Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, Macau Museum, Guia Fortress, Taipa House, and A-Ma Temple.

Macau’s attractions are concentrated on the mainland, relatively close to one another. And while Macau International Airport is the main gateway, you may also access it via ferry and land travel from Hong Kong, which is about an hour away. That makes it a worthy side trip that will add more value to your journey.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Macau travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Macau Hotels Tours + discounts Flights WIFI Internet/Data SIM

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Gondola Rides at The Venetian Macau

Macau Tower Admission Ticket

Macau Eiffel Tower at the Parisian Macao Observation Deck Ticket

Hong Kong-Macau-China 4G Pocket WIFI – HK Airport Pickup

Private Macau International Airport (MFM) Transfers for Macau by Luxury MPV

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

View all travel tips on: Macau .

Where to stay in Macau:

Four Seasons Hotel (Upscale / Cotai / Compare Rates )

The Venetian Macao (Upscale / Cotai / Compare Rates )

Caravel Hotel (Mid-range / Macau Peninsula / Compare Rates )

Macau Masters Hotel (Budget Hotel / Macau Peninsula / Compare Rates )

Hou Kong Hotel (Budget Hotel / Macau Peninsula / Compare Rates )

1. Ruins of St Paul’s Cathedral

Location : Santo António, Macau peninsula, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

See rates & book online

Macau Open-Top Bus Tour

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2. Macau Tower

Location : Sé, Macau peninsula, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

Macau Tower Bungy Jump Admission Ticket

Macau Tower Skywalk X Admission Ticket

Macau Tower entrance ticket

See discounts online

3. Venetian Macao

Indoor Italian-inspired canals and gondolas at The Venetian Maca

Location : s/n Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperanca, Cotai, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

Venetian Macau Bambu Buffet

Venetian Macao Resort Hotel

View room rates

4. Parisian Macao

Location : Lote 3, Strip, SAR, P.R. China, Estr. do Istmo, Cotai, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

Parisian Macao hotel

5. The House of Dancing Water show & City of Dreams

Location : City of Dreams, Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperanca, Cotai, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

The House of Dancing Water Macau Admission Ticket

The House of Dancing Water Show Ticket in Macau

Grand Hyatt Macau at City of Dreams

6. Senado Square

Location : Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, Macau peninsula, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

7. Fortress Hill (Fortaleza do Monte)

Monte Forte (Fortaleza do Monte), Macau, China

Location : Caminho dos Artilheiros, Macau peninsula, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

8. Macau Museum

Location : Fortress Hill (Fortaleza do Monte), Caminho dos Artilheiros, Macau peninsula, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

9. Macau food

Macau buffet & food discounts

Tours + discounts

10. St. Dominic’s Church

Location : Largo de São Domingos, Macau peninsula, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

11. Studio City

Location : Estr. do Istmo, Cotai, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

Golden Reel Ferris Wheel entrance ticket

See discounts

Studio City Hotel

Book room discounts

12. Wynn Palace

Wynn Palace Hotel

Location : Avenida Da Nave Desportiva, Cotai, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

13. Fisherman’s Wharf

Location : Av. Dr. Sun Yat Sen, Macau peninsula, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

Harbourview Hotel at Fisherman’s Wharf

14. Galaxy Macau

Location : Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperanca, Cotai, Macao . Save on Google Maps .

JW Marriott Macau Urban Kitchen Buffet

Galaxy Macau™ in Cotai City

Galaxy Macau buffet and food experiences

Galaxy macau hotel.

Other heritage sites & cultural spots in Macau

Guia Fortress Location: Estr. do Eng. Trigo, Macau. Save on Google Maps .

A Ma Temple Location: R. de São Tiago da Barra. Save on Google Maps .

Travessa da Paixão (The Romantic Lane) Location: Near the Ruins of St. Paul Cathderal. Save on Google Maps .

Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre (The Goddess of Mercy statue) Location: 1101 Av. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, Macau. Save on Google Maps .

Macau Maritime Museum Location: 1 Largo do Pagode da Barra. Save on Google Maps .

Taipa village Location: Save on Google Maps .

Location : Southeast China . Save on Google Maps .

Hong Kong Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Hong Kong to Macau TurboJet Ferry Tickets

Hong Kong-Macau CotaiJet Ferry Tickets

Top discounts

Hong Kong Disneyland Admission Ticket

Ocean Park Hong Kong Admission Ticket

Victoria Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428

See more : Hong Kong travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Macau that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Macau

Macau tourist spots, things to do in Macau, where to go in Macau & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Macau

The best areas to stay in Macau are 'Macau City' and Cotai Strip in Taipa Island.

Cotai Strip offers an unbeatable location in the heart of Macau's mega-casino district. It's also close to Macau Airport. Prices tend to be on the high-end on this side of Taipa Island.

If you're looking for a cheaper hotel, consider staying in 'Macau City.' Pick a hotel close to major historical sites like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul Cathedral.

Where to book

Click below & search recommended Macau hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your min/max price , travel dates, and sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

60+ Best attractions and things to do in Macau

This article was first published in September 2017 and it constantly being updated with the latest information. The last update was in November 2019.

The Las Vegas of the East? Not anymore.

These days, it’s more accurate to call Las Vegas America’s Macau than it is to do the other way around. After all, it’s been some time since the former sleepy fishing port and Portuguese colony of Macau surpassed Las Vegas as the world leader in gambling revenue and anybody with an interest in gambling will no longer ask, “Where is Macau?” instead asking, “What are the things to do in Macau?”

Introduction to Macau

This tiny city-state and Special Administrative region of China ( SAR ) is much more than just flashy casinos, there are a lot of attractions in Macau that would keep you busy for days (I spent 15 days) and its heritage rich past is a melting pot between East and West .

Macau is also a great extension to a trip to Hong Kong as it is only 1h away by ferry. If you are planning to visit Macau for a day only, I have written a complete one day itinerary to Macau from Hong Kong .

If you travel to Macau as a non-gambler like me, the emphasis will no doubt be on learning more about its Chinese and Portuguese heritage which has been intertwined for centuries to create one of the most fascinating places in Asia. Let me burst the myths about the country being only about poker and baccarat by sharing a complete Macau travel guide including the best activities and hidden parts and without including any of the casinos, for I have been to Macau three times and have never spent a dollar (or a minute) in the tables or the slot machines.

And before we jump in, remember that, beyond gambling, shopping and heritage, some of the best things to do in Macau relate to food , touted the first fusion cuisine in the world, the Portuguese influence imprinted some great flavours on Chinese dishes to create fantastic combinations, I even wrote an article about where and what to eat in Macau .

There are just so many things to do in Macau, let’s get started!

Where is Macau

Macau is a Special Administrative Region of China , strategically located on the southeast coast of China , across the channel from Hong Kong. The region is made of two main islands linked between them by bridges, plus several other smaller ones.

You can get to Macau via its international airport that opened in 1995 from which you can fly to several international destinations, or you can also arrive by road from mainland China. For more insightful facts about Macau and to understand what a Special Administrative region is read this article on the most interesting facts about Macau or facts about China .

The fascinating history of Macau for travelers

More than four times the size of Las Vegas in terms of gambling revenue , with Macau at US$37.9 billion and Vegas at US$6.5 billion at the end of 2018. Macau has boomed in size and popularity since the first American casino operator landed in 2004, two years after the monopoly in gambling ended.

Today, over 30 million visitors come to Macau every year , 70% of which do so from mainland China, and mostly with the intention of gambling in one of the 25+ gambling facilities. But Macau’s gambling focus is a recent development. This Special Administrative region of China has reinvented itself several times through the centuries.

Macau’s first settlers

The first inhabitants of Macau were around 50,000 Chinese seeking refuge from the Mongol invaders in the 13th Century. During those times, Macau erected its oldest temple, also the oldest in the region, to the Goddess of Mercy which later became the A-Ma Temple , one of the most relevant Macau attractions today. The region was then a trading post but the majority of the population still lived from fishing and agriculture. Macau did not properly develop until the Portuguese arrived in the 16th century .

Portuguese arrival in Macau

After several decades of disagreements and pacts with the Chinese Ming Dynasty , the Portuguese were finally allowed to settle in Macau and pay rent to use the area as a trading post, which they did until 1863.

During all that time, Macau remained under Chinese government administered by Portugal. The city flourished, especially when the Spanish and Portuguese crowns merged at the end of the 16th century and until 1640.

The Spanish King Philip II allowed for trade between Portuguese Macau, Malacca and Goa to continue to expand via Manila , then a Spanish colony, and Macau was at the center of the trade monopoly between China and Japan , carrying silver and silks between the two and protecting the vessels from piracy.

The Portuguese also brought Christianity with them as Macau was seen as a great entry port into the vast population of Japan and China. The Cathedral of St. Paul , the ruins of which are an emblematic attraction in Macau, was one of the first to be built by the Jesuit priests at the end of the 16th century and remains the most important place to see in Macau.

After two decades of fighting, in 1887, Portugal finally achieved full control of Macau and declared its independence from China. By that time, Macau had also become a major trading port for slaves from China sent off to South America.

When WWII expanded to Asia, Macau first became a neutral port , then a de facto protectorate of Japan which occupied the country for two years until 1943. The US attacked Macau via aerial bombings in 1945 when they suspected the sale of fuel to Japan. After the Portuguese complained, the US paid a fine to the government.

With the arrival of communism in China in 1949, Macau and Hong Kong remained independent territories as Beijing looked for a better time to resolve the situation in both regions with the British and Portuguese colonial powers.

During that time, Macau was also referred to as the Far East Checkpoint Charlie , after the Berlin Wall checkpoint between east and west Berlin, and it enjoyed a unique degree of openness to the outside world not fund elsewhere in the country. The famous Macau Grand Prix kicked off in 1959 first as a scavenger hunt through the city.

Gambling arrived again in Macau only three years later when the Sociedade de Turismo e Diversões de Macau ( STDM ), a business association between Hong Kong and Macau businessmen still in existence today, got the monopoly rights to gambling in the city. But this was not the first time.

Gambling was first legalised in Macau in 1847, as an alternative to declining port revenues when the British development in Hong Kong provided a deeper port with a more advantageous trading route, but was later made illegal.

In 1980, the Portuguese proposed returning the territory of Macau to China, but the government postponed the decision and the region remained a Chinese territory under Portuguese administration until the final handover in 1999, two years after Hong Kong.

Today, Macau is a Special Administrative Region of China, that is, an independent territory with full autonomy except for on matters of foreign policy and defense, for which it relies on China. This means that it has its own borders, its own passport, its own visa system and its own currency.

Travel to Macau – Tips for organising your trip

If you ever wondered what to do in Macau , this is the right place to come. With such a rich heritage and past, this SAR of China offers a lot activities. You can make it the perfect day trip from Hong Kong if you are visiting the larger neighbour, but I believe there are so many things to do in Macau that it deserves its own trip of at least three days .

The most important thing to know when organising your sightseeing in Macau is that the country is divided into two main parts. Peninsular Macau , in the mainland, and the island of Taipa and Coloane , which are now joint by the Cotai strip, made of landfill. Although most of the historical parts of Macau are in peninsular Macau, Taipa and Coloane are home to lots of other interesting places so you should also include them in your itinerary.

I have split the list of things to do in Macau between Macau, Taipa, Cotai and Coloane to aid in the planning. You could be jumping up and down between the two by crossing the bridge, but you would be wasting a lot of time so it is best to organise your days per area.

Things to do in Macau peninsula

Exploring Macau means following in the footsteps of the first Portuguese and Chinese inhabitants which came to the area in the 17th and 18th century through the many buildings and structures in the Historic Centre of Macau, a UNESCO-listed area with 22 buildings and spaces under the 2005 nomination. The best thing to do in Macau is exploring the UNESCO listed heritage buildings. I will highlight the best ones in this list and also include a few others that are worth stopping by.

Casa Garden

UNESCO-listed Casa Garden is one of the oldest buildings in Macau and was built in 1770 so it is a great place to start your journey through the best things to do in Macau.

The building was first the residence of a wealthy Portuguese merchant who then rented it to the British East India Company when it was based in Macau in the early 19th century. Today, Casa Garden houses the Oriental Foundation which organises regular exhibitions so you can go inside and visit it. Check out their beautiful gardens with pretty flowers and plants and a pond.

Outside the house is a large park which is often full of locals who have brought their birds in cages. Sit down and take it all in. Casa Garden is closed on weekends.

Church of St Dominic (also St Domingo’s Church)

Right in the middle of Macau’s historic centre , this yellow baroque church with white ornaments and mouldings was founded by three Spanish Dominican priests from Acapulco , Mexico , in the 16th century, and was one of the first two to be built, together with the famous St. Paul’s Cathedral. Today St. Dominic’s Church is one of the most popular places to visit in Macau.

The current structure dates from the 17th century and is the same location where, in 1822, the first Portuguese newspaper (The China Bee) was published on Chinese soil. The former bell tower of St. Dominic’s Church now houses a small Museum of Sacred Art with 300 artefacts on exhibition which you can explore for free by going up the stairs. Each floor has displays.

The church can also be thanked for the expansion of the worshipping of Our Lady of Fatima to Malacca and East Timor. The building is part of the UNESCO list for Macau and it is one of the most popular landmarks in Macau, permanently surrounded by people. However, go inside and upstairs and you will not hear the crowds outside.

Street of happiness

Not far west of Largo do Senado is Rua da Felicidade (Street of Happiness). This area with shuttered terraces which reminded me of Singapore’s shophouses, was once Macau’s main red-light district and was filled with brothels, opium dens and other illegal activity. The area was renovated and cleaned out in the 90s to today’s quaint and nostalgic look with the white walls, the red shutters and the dark/black wood.

The street was made famous by Hollywood and several scenes from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (what an amazing movie , so much nostalgia!) that are meant to take place in Shanghai but were shot here as at the time, access to China was not possible. The government has plans to repaint the famous red shutters in the original colour – green. But whether it’s wise to change the distinguishing feature of such an iconic landmark remains to be seen.

Aside from the few restaurants in the street, look our for some old stores selling second hand items such as old landline phones and clocks. You can’t figure out if they cater to those stuck in the past or are selling them as collectible memorabilia.

Lou Kau Mansion

Continuing with the stunning buildings, one of the most interesting things to do in Macau is exploring the few of the heritage mansions that are open to the public. Lou Kau Mansion is one of them and it was one of the places to see in Macau that I enjoyed the most, I could decorate a room in my house in the same style as this mansion.

Built around 1889, this UNESCO-listed Xiguan-Chinese mansion belonged to a successful merchant of the time, Lou Wa Sio known as Lou Kau , who also owned other buildings in the city and was the wealthiest person in Macau at one point thanks to being the first one to be awarded a gambling franchise from 30 years from 1882 to 1912. The Lou family also controlled the Macao welfare Lottery and the Wei Seng Lottery businesses for a similar period of time.

Lou Kau died at the age of 59 when he killed himself because of financial difficulties and the building is soaked in the stories of the rises and fall of his fortune and its fascinating past . The mansion and Lou’s story is said to be a fine example of a Chinese saying, “fu wu san dai”, “wealth does not last longer than three generations” as his son inherited the company and tried to continue in his father’s footsteps by expanding in gambling and opium trade, two popular vices of China in the 20th century. But his son, Lou’s grandson, in turn, lost it all.

The building design itself is unique and one of the most beautiful in Macau . Built in grey brick and wooden carvings with details, Lou Kau Mansion is made of three halls and two courtyards that were typical of the architectural style of the time. The rooms further inside, more protected from the outside view, were reserved for the elderly. Although the house is mostly Chinese in its design, it also incorporates elements of Western and Latin American influence.

Opened every day but Monday from 10am to 6pm. Cultural performances and events are regularly scheduled at the mansion.

Guia Fortress, Guia Chapel and Guia Lighthouse

For a generous dose of views and a completely different experience in Macau, climb up to Guia Fortress and learn about defending the city and about the Portuguese history in Macau. If you have been to Lisbon, the fortress will remind you of the city too.

UNESCO- listed Guia Fortress was key in fending off invading Dutch armies at the beginning of the 17th century and was in use until 1976 when the Portuguese retreated from Macau and the fortress was left as is. Today, the fortress is the highest point on the island and so it is a great place from where to have panoramic views of everything below.

The Guia complex is made of a fortress, a chapel and a lighthouse that is not open to the public but was built much later, in 1865. The lighthouse is the oldest modern lighthouse in China .

The most interesting part of the complex is the Chapel of our Lady of Guia which was founded by Claris nuns in the 1622 and is almost intact. The name of the chapel, and of the fortress, means guidance in Portuguese and eludes to the position of the entire complex on top of the mountain, used as guiding point for ships and pilgrims.

The frescoes inside the chapel were discovered in 1998 and are a perfect example of Macau’s rich and intertwined past, with a blend of motifs of Western and Chinese origin depicted together in orange paint. Entrance to the chapel is free and you can just go in and to the small room on the left side where the frescoes are.

Opened everyday from 9am to 6pm. The chapel opens from 10am to 5pm. There is a Tourism information center within the complex.

Macau Design Center

This former factory is the city’s first and most innovative “multi-functional design center”. The Macau Design Center opened in 2014 in a very large space spread over several floors that house retail points for local designers, a cafe, a bookstore, a reading area and a performance area.

For freelancers and digital nomads in Macau , there is also space available for rent and several venues for events. It is hip and modern, something of a breath of fresh air to the tandem of casinos and heritage buildings and reminds me a lot of artsy Albania .

Located in the middle of a regular residential street, the center looks like any other building from the outside but when you walk in you feel the artistic air through the paintings and works hanging from the common staircase. The polished concrete of the building contrasts with the colorful works displayed, and lured me upstairs.

There are ongoing exhibitions, musical events and all sorts of things going on to promote local artists, giving them a space to showcase their work, interact and grow. You can check the agenda on their website. The rooftop garden is channels the idea of a thriving collaborative space with some benches and greenery. Ad even if there is nothing going on, you can enjoy the art displayed in the common areas. More information here .

St Lazarus Church district

The area around St. Lazarus Church is as pretty as it is authentic . The first building in its location was created to serve lepers. Today the area is filled with colourful colonial buildings and quaint cobbled streets with plenty of hip artsy shops and events happening. The St. Lazarus district is very near the main tourist spots in Macau yet usually less crowded.

Mercearia Portuguesa

This charming Portuguese corner shop has a small but quaint selection of quality products and specialty foods including honey, chinaware, wooden toys and jewellery from Portugal with vintage packaging and pretty designs. The store is tiny and tucked inside a Portuguese colonial building in the traditional yellow that is located in a quaint courtyard .

From the moment you walk in you feel transported back in time. The furniture is vintage and the store is neatly organised, as if you were in the living room or kitchen of your grandma. The products are all beautifully packaged in individual designs and stores behind glass cupboards, just like my grandma used to store the china. When you walk in you want to buy anything just because of how pretty it is. The shop is a good example of what the St. Lazarus District has to offer.

The owners of the store are famous Portuguese filmmaker and actor Ivo Ferreira and actress and former spouse, Margarida Vila-Nova, both of whom are regulars to Macau and have filmed and acted in several movies shot in the city, including the director’s last, Empire Hotel , entirely filmed in Macau.

Travessa da Paixão (Love Lane)

This small lane by the Ruins of St. Paul is interesting because of its name, which translates from the Portuguese as Passion Lane , or Love Lane. It is a pedestrian lane with a small incline and some steps but without any traffic, lined on both sides with pastel color colonial buildings. In the middle are large plant pots. It is not rare to see couples taking pre-wedding pictures here.

Despite its proximity to the most famous tourist spot in Macau, the lane is usually empty. Pop in for a photo op.

Macau Gaming History Gallery

Opened by the S ociedade de Jogos de Macau (SJM) in 2018, The Macau Gaming History Gallery is located inside the Hotel Lisboa’s Crystal Palace hall and showcases the city’s gaming history along with a few vintage items.

You will be able to see slot machines from the 70s, old photos of Macau’s casinos, and the evolution of casino staff uniforms. The gallery also recovers old games that are no longer played, like Chinese Keno lottery balls and Sap I Chi.

Admire the largest cushion cut diamond in the world

And talking of the Hotel Lisboa…

The hotel belongs to the wealthiest Macanese tycoon, Stanley Ho, and is one of the flashiest hotels I have ever seen and a major tourist spot in Macau. Entering the lobby is like walking into a buzzing gold market. There is people everywhere, either guests or, the vast majority, coming to one of the many restaurant, including several Michelin-awarded ones, or simply taking the hotel in.

One of the most incredible things to see in Macau is the largest cushion cut diamond in the world, named after its owner (it is so large that I had to Google it to make sure its size was in fact real). The diamond, The Star of Stanley Ho , weighs in at a whopping 218.08 carats. It is on display at the lobby of the hotel and you just need to follow the crowds to find it.The largest emerald cut diamond in the world was announced in 2019. It measures 302.37 carrots and was cut by prestigious diamond dealer Laurence Graff who also owns the Delaire Graff, the luxurious winery near Cape Town , South Africa.

Sam Kai Vui Kun

Sam Kai Vui Kun also known as Kuan Tai Temple, is a small temple tucked away at the back of St. Dominic’s Market that is believed to have been constructed before 1792. The temple is associated with trade and commerce in the area and new edicts from Chinese Mainland authorities were announced in front of the temple so it is an interesting place to visit in Macau.

The entrance is located in a small alley and often hidden by several rows of motorbikes and cars parked in front of it. Inside, you will find a small space filled with the smell and smoke of large incense spirals and several traditional elements of Chinese architecture of the time that are also found in other temples in Macau. It reminded me of the hidden Siang Cho Keong Temple in Chinatown Singapore .

Observe the grey brick facade, the green glazed tiles of the roof that are common in most temples in Macau, and the pretty drawings illustrating Chinese legends. The red, golden, grey colors give a sense of mysticism and despite its location in the busiest district in Old Macau, the temple is usually quiet with just a few devotees making their offerings and prayers.

The temple is open from 9am to 6pm daily and beware of the strong incense smoke in such small space.

Pawn shop Museum

I stumbled upon the Pawn Shop Museum almost by accident, wandering the street of Old Macau, a fine example of how the best things to do in Macau, beyond those found in most list, are those we stumble upon while simply wandering Old Macau, instead of ticking items off a list.

The Tak Seng On Pawnshop, translated as The Virtue and Success Pawnshop, opened in 1917 by a wealthy merchant. The house was taken over by the Macau Government and restored into a heritage shop, preserved as it was when it was still operational.

If you go in you can still see the furniture and the setup of the store, with dividers to preserve customers privacy and counters to record purchases and pledges.

The museum is not very big, as only the front office is open to the public whereas the storage tower where the goods would have been kept is closed. Entrance is free and the museum is open from 10,30am to 7pm daily with the exception of the first Monday of the month.

Mandarin’s House

This is one of the nicest places to see in Macau. Built around 1869, Mandarin’s House , with over 60 rooms , was the family home of Zheng Guanying, a literary figure who influenced emperors like Dr Sun Yat Sen and Chairman Mao who cited his works as an inspiration.

The compound is the largest in the UNESCO-listed Historical Center of Macau , and also the largest private residence in the country. It measures 4,000 square meters of courtyards, master and servant rooms, a garden and several halls.

The house is a typical Guangdong residence with many Western and elements and it is similar to Lau Kau Mansion. When it was built, the harbour was visible from the house. In the 50s, Zheng’s descendants moved out and rented the place which was divided up by many tenants, at one point amounting 300.

Perhaps one of the most beautiful features of the Mandarin House is a variety of Chinese “moon gates” , which separate the various spaces in the house. One of them was re-erected recently to mimic the one that is believed to have been there before and removed in 1950. The building is located next to one of the first Portuguese piazzas in Macau, for an extra dose of multiculturality.

Visiting the Mandarin House is one of the nicest things to do in Macau because it not only provides a bit of insight into the lives of the wealthy in Macau’s prosperous 19th century, but also a connection to the rest of China. Its peaceful courtyards and gardens are also a nice place for a stop.

Open daily 10 to 6pm and closed on Wednesdays. Tours are conducted in Cantonese in the weekends. As the government set to renovate and restore the building, the house’s website is a good resource and also produced this useful leaflet .

Tai Fung Tong Art House

One of the best things to do in Macau is simply wandering the streets and finding new and interesting places. Like, Tai Fung Tong Art House, an exhibition center that was built by a philanthropist almost a century ago and is housed in the Choi Lok Chi Mansion. The building is unique in its design and incorporates elements of European architecture so it is worth admiring. Open daily from 2pm to 6pm.

Macau Tower

At 338m, Macau Tower is the highest point in Macau . Located at the southern point of Peninsular Macau, it offers sweeping views across the sea . There is an observation deck on the 58th and 61st floors and other options for the real thrill seeker, like bungy jumping off the highest jump in the world or sky walking on the outer facade.

Biblioteca Sir Robert Ho Tung

Sir Robert Ho Tung’s library is a pretty building tucked at the end of a street with a quiet garden. The building dates from the 1894 and was originally the residence of Carolina Cunha until Sir. Robert Ho Tung, a businessmen from Hong Kong, acquired it in 1918.

He moved into the house during the WWII and upon his death, the building was donated to the Government of Macau, as indicated in his will, together with enough cash to buy books and convert the house into a public library. It opened as such in 1958.

The library may be nothing like El Ateneo Grand Splendid in Buenos Aires , but it is a peaceful place to read or study and is also home to rare Chinese books from the Ming Dynasty as well as first edition Chinese-English and Chinese-Portuguese dictionaries. There are also Christian books from the 19th and beginning of the 20th century.

Tap Seac Square and Gallery

This beautiful square is surrounded by some of the most important neo-classical buildings from the 1920s including Macau’s Instituto Cultural Cultural Affairs Bureau , Tap Seac Health Centre, Central Library, Library for Macau’s Historical Archives and Tap Seac Gallery , which opened as a private residence in the typical neo-classic European style.

The Square is also home of the Glass House, repurposed into the home of creative entrepreneurs and artists and quite in contrast with the rest of the yellow and maroon buildings the surround the square. Tap Seac Square is also a place to check out during celebrations like Chinese New Year when it is decorated for the occasion.

Na Tcha Temple

UNESCO-listed Na Cha Temple is usually mentioned as the best symbol of the Sino-Portuguese past of Macau . The small temple measuring only eight by four meters, sits right next to the iconic Ruins of the Church of St Paul, the most famous attraction in Macau.

Legend has it that Na Tcha was the greatest warrior from the Emperor of Heaven, powerful with his spear and fire wheel. One night, as the epidemic was taking its toll among the Chinese and Portuguese residents of Macau, a citizen received a message in a dream informing him that everyone had to drink water from Mount Hill with Chinese medicine and they would beat the epidemic.

Na Tcha Temple was built in 1888 by the local residents to express their gratitude for bringing an end to the epidemic. The temple is open from 8am to 6pm.

St Joseph’s Seminary and church

Another UNESCO-listed site, St Joseph’s is further from the other historical buildings in the center of Macau and so it is usually less popular . The church was consecrated in 1758 as part of the Jesuit seminary and was designed in the typical white-and-yellow facade style. Together with the Ruins of St. Paul, this is the only other European baroque building in China.

The Ruins of St. Paul

The Ruins of St. Paul is the most beautiful place to see in Macau and visiting it is the top thing to do in Macau. It is also the most easily recognisable image of the city. The ruins are all that remains of the former Church of Mater Dei and St. Paul’s College built between 1602 and 1640 and destroyed by fire in 1835.

The facade is located on a small hill up 68 steps. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 2005 and it is the most important building in the 22 included in Macau’s UNESCO nomination.

The facade is beautiful even in ruin, and is made of five levels topped with a triangular pediment which symbolises divine ascension . On it, there are motifs and representations from the bible, from mythological scenes as well as Chinese characters and lions, Japanese chrysanthemums, and Portuguese nautical motifs. The College of St. Paul was the first western university in the Far East and had a complete curriculum ready to prepare the missionaries to do work in Japan and the rest of China.

You can visit the Sacred Art Museum and Crypt behind and underground as well as admire the facade from the steps below. The museum and crypt are open from 9am to 6pm but the ruins are good all day long, and especially pretty at night when the steps are emptier from the tourist rush.

Fortaleza do Monte

Also known as Mount Fortress , Fortaleza do Monte was another crucial structure to hold off an invasion from the Dutch in 1622 and is also included in UNESCO’s list. The fortress was equipped with enough canons, ammunition, and arsenal sufficient to hold a siege lasting up to two years.

Mount Fortress inspired the Chinese to build similar structures to defend their long coast elsewhere. The area was demilitarised in 1965 and the government built the Macau Museum on site in 1998 . The museum is an interesting stop in your visit. The Fortress is right above the Ruins of St. Paul so a nice way to arrive at the ruins is to do so while wandering down from the fortress.

The fortress is open 7am to 7pm and the Museum from 10am to 6pm.

Leal Senado Square and building

Leal Senado, located on the most famous road in Old Macau, Largo do Senado , is the most important tourist spot in Macau and one of the most popular places to visit. The square receives its name from the Leal Senado building presiding over it which was the municipal chamber named as such because of the City’s Portuguese nickname, bestowed by King John IV in 1654 for its loyalty to the crown during Spanish occupation.

You can go in and visit the building from the inside. There is a small patio at the back, beautiful blue tiled stairs and large halls in the upper floor. From here you can also take beautiful photos of Leal Senado Square below through the windows. The building is open from 9am to 9pm and has public bathrooms

The square was remodelled in 1990s, made pedestrian and paved with a wave-patterned mosaic of colored stones that is so typical of Macau. The area is filled with shops, restaurants and people at all times of day and night. During Christmas, it is decorated like any other European city. Here is also where a lot of the street food carts can be found.

The Holy House of Mercy

The Holly House of Mercy is a well established institution located on Senado Square and founded by the first Bishop of Macau in 1559 to tend to the orphans and widows of the sailors who died at sea. The facade is grand and beautiful and painted in white instead of the common pale yellow of other buildings.

Inside you can visit the Museum of the Holy House of Mercy.

A Ma Temple

A Ma Temple is a Taoist temple built in 1488 , well before Macau was created, by seafarers who dedicated it to Matsu, their goddess. The name Macau is said to originate from this temple. When the Portuguese arrived, all the locals could repeat was “A-Ma-Gau” (bay of goddess A-Ma), which the Portuguese interpreted as the name of the area. Similar to Thian Hock Keng Temple in Singapore which is a place of worship of the Chinese sea goddess Mazu (Ma Cho Po).

The temple has expanded throughout the centuries and is today a varied and rich mixture of Chinese architectural styles and religious motifs . As the temple grew, more deities were added from the various Chinese beliefs, from Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and other traditions.

A-Ma is always crowded with people, worshippers and tourists alike, who can be seen lighting incense. As the temple is located on Barra Hill, it perfectly integrates with the lush and green surroundings. One of the nicest things to do in Macau is to join the spirituality and write a wish to hang in the tree of wishes. You can buy the red cards at the temple. Or perhaps you can light some incense, also on sale at the temple.

The temple is open from 7am to 6pm, go early to avoid the crowds.

Kun Iam Temple

Kun Iam Temple, originally called Pou Chai Temple or Puji Temple, is Macau’s oldest temple and was founded in the 13th century, but the present structures date back to 1627 as indicated in a wooden table.

The Buddhist temple hosts the likeness of Kun Iam, the Goddess of Mercy and it is an emblematic Macau attraction because it was the place where the first Sino-American treaty was signed, in its terraced gardens, in 1844.

The temple is not to be confused with the statue of the same goddess, located elsewhere. As this is further away from the main tourist spots in Macau, the Kun Iam is much less crowded than A-Ma and in fact I could not believe it was almost empty when I visited, safe for devotees. When you walk pass the temple, you don’t have a feel for how large it is inside.

Spend some time in one of the three main halls or in the large garden courtyard taking it all in.

Kun Iam Statue

The Virgin Mary–like 20 meter statue emerges in bronze casting from a 7 meter lotus located on a man-made island in the outer harbour. The structure sits atop an ecumenical center and it was designed as a symbol of friendship and respect among all peoples .

St. Lawrence Church

Built by the Jesuits in the mid-16th century, this is one of the three oldest churches in Macau . The church used to be called Feng Shun Tang, the Hall of the Soothing Winds, for the families of Portuguese seafarers who used to come here to pray and wait for their loved ones to return from the sea.

Macau Fisherman’s Wharf

This wharf is the largest entertainment complex right off the ferry terminal in Macau Peninsula. It has over 150 stores and restaurants in several buildings styled like Cape Town ’s waterfront. If you need a bit of an escape from the rest of the historical buildings but do not fancy the casinos, Macau’s Fisherman’s Wharf might be a good place to meet halfway.

Macau Wine Museum

Divided into a Historical information centre, a Wine Cellar, a Museum and an Exhibition centre , the Macau Wine Museum Includes displays of Portuguese wines and a wine tasting stations. Over 1,100 types of wine are on display at the only museum in Macau where beverages are allowed. About 90% of these are of Portuguese origin, including the oldest bottle – the Porto 1815. For MOP$15, you can have a tasting of selected bottles. There is also a rundown of Portugal’s various wine regions, and a (rather bland) display of wine racks, barrels, presses and tools. Closed from 1st July 17 for renovation until further notice so do check that it is still open before going.

Grand Prix Museum

The Macau Grand Prix Museum is right next to the wine Museum and is a great motor racing museum . It opened in 1993 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Macau Grand Prix , which takes place every year in November, and showcases a number of items from the many races. Closed from 1st July 17 for renovation until further notice so do check that it is still open before going.

More information and reviews here

Have tea at a traditional tea house

Lung Wah Tea House is a vintage Cantonese style teahouse which opened in 1963. You can sit by the window and watch people walk by or observe the tea market where the teahouse buys its tea every day downstairs, all with a cup of tea and some dim sum. The tea house was opened by the parents of the current owner and served as a meeting place for the laborers at the harbour, which is nearby.

The old Chinese of drinking tea is still alive here, although this is one of the few such places which exist in Macau today, worth a trip down memory lane. The menu here is not in English but you can choose your dim sum from a cart based on what you see.

Have a Michelin starred meal

Like Hong Kong, Macau has a lot of Michelin-starred restaurants, even two with three stars, ready to absorb all those hard earned casino dollars. For some of the most interesting meals, head to the Grand Lisboa, where there are three restaurants with stars, including the top two, one Chinese and the other French, of Robuchon fame.

The Eight is one of few 3 Michelin starred restaurants in Macau specialising in very creative and fine dining dim sum. The name is auspicious in Chinese and the outlet is flash with water cascading down the wall and dripping chandeliers. Reservations are essential. Read my full review here .

Robuchon au Dome

Robuchon au dome is another 3 Michelin starred restaurant (the second one in the Lisboa Hotel ) of famous celebrity chef Joel Robuchon who has the most Michelin stars in the world and outposts in other Asian cities like Singapore or Hong Kong. Expect the same caliber as in his other venues, and French cuisine with refined elements in an utterly flash environment so characteristic of the Lisboa Hotel. Read my full review here .

Enjoy Macanese food

Indulge in Portuguese favorites

Cozy and blue and yellow-tiled, this restaurant in Taipa Village embodies Portugal in Macau . The chef is entertaining too and the menu is more sophisticated than other venues. The building is tall and narrow and the tables are spread across the various levels. Antonio is a great place for Portuguese food in Macau so if you only try one, let it be this one and call ahead to order the advance booking special menu that is full of signature dishes and indulge in the crepe suzette, which he will flambe tableside. I very much recommend this restaurant.

Visit the Michael Jackson gallery

The Sofitel Point 16 Hotel where I stayed for a couple of days, has an interesting collection of Michael Jackson objects, photographs and other paraphernalia at the Michael Jackson Gallery (now closed). It also has a Michael Jackson themed suite in its Mansion area which I got to visit with the staff. The gallery is small but well worth it if you are a Michael Jackson fan.

Things to do and see in Taipa, Cotai and Coloane

The island is where many of the large and flash hotels and casino complexes of Macau are located. Taipa and Coloane used to be two separate islands with rich heritage, which were united through landfill in the middle, creating what is today called the Cotai strip.

The Cotai Strip mimics the Las Vegas Strip , complete with the same hotels and architecture, expect dancing fountains, the Venetian, an Eiffel Tower and other adult-entertainment options.

Although I am not much of a gambler and this is a non-gambler list of things to do in Macau , there are parts of the casino complexes that are worth a visit, because they are a fascinating insight into the world of Chinese gambling and because some of them are fun.

If you end up gambling, remember Stanley Ho’s famous quote: “No one can win all the time. We advise you to play merely for pleasure and to risk only what you can spare.”

Go on a night bus tour

Only in Macau can you have a night bus tours as an amazing tourist activity. When the city lights come out, the entire city, but particularly the Cotai Strip, come alive in a mesmerising way. You can book tickets for a night bus tour here . The tour covers both Cotai and the Old Macau parts but I reckon Cotai is where the real casino and luxury hotel neon light show is most amazing, don’t you think?

Decide who does egg tart’s best

Egg tarts are an eminently local food in Macau. They are a Portuguese dessert and snack that came to Macau and have remained one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. They are everywhere and sold in many stores, but there are three brands that are the most famous ones: Lord Stow, Koi Kei Bakery and Margaret cafe e Nata.

If you are a foodie or have a sweet tooth and are wondering what to do in Macau why not make your own decision on the best egg tart. Do like me and try them all three, then compare and decide. Who did it best?

Lord Stow’s Bakery

The first egg tart was invented at Lord Stow’s Bakery in Coloane and that continues to be the original outlet. However, the brand has opened several other outposts, including some outside of Macau.

Though the English baker Andrew Stow passed away, his cafe across from the original Bakery continues to serve the famous pastéis de nata that are so famous of Portugal. This location is quite removed from the rest of Macau, located at the very farthest tip of Coloane, it is an interesting place to come to for a bit of a nostalgic feel. Coloane is green and has a fishing village feel. Stay for breakfast at the calm bakery then have a stroll in the village.

Margaret’s Café e Nata

Opened by Stow’s ex-wife, Margaret’s Cafe e Nata offers more sophisticated options as well as the regular ones. The custard filling here is said to be creamier, runnier and sweeter and its location behind the Lisboa Hotel is a convenient stop in the crazy neon-filled area. Take one of the outdoor tables if available but expect queues and crowds.

Koi Kei Bakery

The third contender to the egg tart battle is Koi Kei Bakery , a humble nut stall turned largest confectionary chain in Macau. The variety here is the name of the game with over 300 types of products on sale, but you can also try the regular cookies or egg tarts if you want something more popular. If you want to try something more exotic, this is the place, sweet or sour or both. And you can also taste before purchasing.

Go on an eight-shaped ferris ride

Studio City is a luxury hotel at one end of the Cotai Strip that is themed around Hollywood and movies, as the name indicates. Here you can find all sorts of entertainment around movies and sci-fi but perhaps the most interesting of the Macau attractions is Golden Reel, an eight-shapes ferris wheel , the only one in the world, which you can ride for about fifteen minutes.

The ferris wheel is visible from pretty much anywhere on the strip and is housed right in the middle of the building, but don’t expect the compartments to actually go on an eight-shaped ride, instead, they stay on the outside following the outer edge of the number.

Ride with Batman

This cool show at the Studio City Hotel, next to the Golden Reel ferris wheel, is where you can join Batman on a 3D fight across Gotham City in Batman Dark Flight . The show is quite cool, Universal Studios style, with 3D close ups, movement, your seat being shaken, etc. If you are dropping by the ferris wheel, then make sure to get the tickets that include also access to the show.

See magic happen before your eyes

Wondering what to do in Macau with kids (or not so young ones)? What about a magic show?

Macau is a place where magic is found everywhere but one of the most obvious ones is the magic show at House of Magic , at the Studio City complex. The show takes places in more than one space and the magic tricks increase in complexity and well, magic level. Towards the end you may be so wowed by the stuff i front of your eyes that you may believe in magic again!

Have a pork chop bun

South China’s most famous pork-chop bun is made here, at Tai Lei Loi , in Taipa Village, at a shop founded in 1960 as a street stall by the mother of the current owner. Slices of pork with crunchy buns are served daily from 2pm.

Get lost at The Venetian

The first casino to open on the Cotai Strip in Macau was the Venetian . If you have been to Las Vegas, you will recognise the same architecture and design. The Shoppes at the Grand Canal complex is filled with restaurants and shops, beyond the large casino gambling area and there are lots of things to do and plenty of shopping.

Walking inside the corridors of The Venetian is worth it on its own and there are many photo opportunities along the way. It is also easy to get lost because the complex is made of several corridors and there is no natural light as the ceilings are painted with clouds and sunshie.

Go on a gondola ride

Marvel at the art installations at the original Wynn Macau

Another one of the first casinos to open in Macau in 2006 was the Wynn , followed by a newer Wynn Palace property in Cotai which opened in 2016. The original Wynn is in Old Macau and is as flash as it gets in the area, so much so that you may be blinded by the amount of gold. But the hotel is also known for the many art pieces and installations, like an interesting Tree of Prosperity sculpture that is gold plated.

Dance with a fountain

While the Wynn Palace in Cotai has a performing lake with a cable car, the Wynn in Old Macau has a performing lake that dances to the sound of music with lights and even flames to go with it, and is great fun. The show lasts about 3min or a song and is every 15min which means you can easily send an hour there dancing and then taking rest to go back at it. I enjoyed dancing on my own.

Take a free cable car ride above a performing lake

The Wynn Palace in Cotai is equally as golden as the original Wynn in Old Macau and it even has a Skycab cable car that you can ride for free as many times as you like and which takes guests from the ground level by the lake to the entrance in the first floor flying above the water.

It is particularly fun when the lake fountains are on because the cable car rides right around and above the Performance Lake as it dances to the music a few times every hour, a signature of Wynn properties in both Macau and Las Vegas. Needless to say, this is one of the best free activities in Macau, great for the whole family.

Explore amazing floral displays

The Wynn Palace is every bit as exuberant as all the other luxury hotels in Macau then some. But its most unique feature are the floral displays that were created with floral designer Preston Bailey . These are so gorgeous and so perfect that I did not realise they were fresh flowers. Look out for the ferris wheel as well as for the carousel, both of which are magical.

Hác Sá Beach

Hác Sá Beach (Black Sand) is Macau’s most popular beach . The sand is blackish in colour which makes it less appealing, but it is actually quite clean. Summer months see lifeguards on duty and you can rent parasols for MOP$60 a day with a deposit. Here is my guide to the best beaches in Macau , if that’s how you’d like to spend a day of travel.

If you’re moving onto Southeast Asia after your trip and are a true beach bum then you can check out my articles on the best beaches in Southeast Asia , or the single article on beaches in Thailand , Vietnam , Indonesia , or Singapore . And beyond Asia I’ve also compiled the beaches beaches in South Africa , Albania , Montenegro , and Malta . Yes, I love the beach.

The House of Dancing Water Show

This incredible show in The City of Dreams was created by Cirque du Soleil extraordinaire Franco Dragone and takes place on a stage that goes from dry to completely underwater, with high dives, acrobats, swimming, gymnastics and theater. The House of Dancing Water is a stunning show and a must-see attraction in Macau, I can’t recommend it enough. So much so that on my second trip to Macau I went to see it again.

Go up the Eiffel Tower

The Parisian is a major tourist spot in Macau. It is decorated and designed like the Versailles Palace, complete with performers dancing about in the hotel’s various halls and corridors, a dancing fountain, perfectly French bakeries and cafes and, of course, a replica of the Eiffel Tower you can go up to. From above you can have a panoramic view of the strip below and also a great perspective on the area, with all the ongoing developments.

Taipa Village

If you are in Macau, take half a couple of hours to visit this picturesque part of the city . Taipa Village is not a man-made entertainment hub but rather a tourism concept aimed at promoting visitors to this heritage part of Macau that is otherwise only associated with Cotai’s gambling reputation.

Taipa used to be a fishing hamlet made of narrow alleyways in cobblestone, pale coloured buildings and pretty temples. There are lots of dining options as well as shops and historical buildings. Do not miss Pak Tai Temple and the Taipa Houses Museum (see next point).

Taipa Village is a place to simply come and have a stroll in a quaint area. Look out for street art, inviting cafes and galleries. Check out Cunha Street for Macanese favourites like egg tarts or pork chop buns. You can also rent a bike to explore the area. Weekends will see a flea market.

Taipa Houses-Museum

The green pastel-coloured villas from the 1920s called Taipa House Museum were the summer residences of wealthy locals and are considered living museums showcasing the famous trades of the time. The area used to be surrounded by a swamp and is now preserved by the government. It is nice to stroll around but also to visit them inside.

See the Diamond show

The Fortune Diamond show at the Galaxy Hotel is a stunning display of music and lights at the Diamond Lobby inside the Galaxy hotel that happens every 20min. The Fortune Diamond is a large piece measuring 3m that sinks into a fountain for the show. The fountain is shaped like a roulette and the entire art piece is meant to symbolize prosperity, a common theme in Macau given its gambling focus.

Cheoc Van Swimming Pool

One of Macau’s best-kept secrets. With an entrance fee of only 20MOP, Cheoc Van swimming pool is a large public pool near the sea .

Drink and party in Macau

Macau is not a party destination and if you are coming with the same mindset as going to Las Vegas you will be disappointed. casinos don’t even serve alcohol, except for at the highest bidding tables or private rooms.

If you look around you will see the players sipping tea with milk or a Coke. It is therefore not surprising that the nightlife is rather quiet. There are a few bars and clubs but nighttime activity usually means shopping till late, eating and enjoying the shows or entertainment from the few casino hotels, rather than partying the night away at a club.

The MacCallan Whisky Bar & Lounge

This is Macallan’s signature bar and lounge and has the largest Macallan collection in Asia . You can expect the usual: big leather sofas, big chunks of ice, big choice and even a fireplace. This is a sort of gentlemen’s club in countryside England, only that you are still in Macau. Have a look at the first whisky in the world which is on display.

China Rouge

Located at the Galaxy, China Rouge is a red Shanghai lounge that takes you back to the time of the opium trade. It combines glamorous velvety interiors inspired by Art Deco and cutting-edge art pieces with live performances.

An elegant and relaxing wine lounge featuring fine art and great music in the heart of historic Macau Senado Square where you can sample tasty street food.

Party at CUBIC Club

The most famous club in Macau is CUBIC Club , located in The City of Dreams complex, is a dashing neon filled club is open every night and is one of the few party places in the area. But don’t expect a dance floor, this is the more Chinese oriented book a table type of club where winners come to celebrate with champagne bottles and sparkles and losers come to drown their sorrows.

Best Luxury hotels in Macau

Macau has more luxury hotels that any other place and after spending your day exploring all the things to do in Macau on this list, you will need a good place to relax.

The choice for luxury hotels is staggering and pretty much every international chain plus all the big names in the gambling industry have a resort in Macau. I have separated the options by area so if you are mostly after the culture, history, food and heritage of Macau, you are better off staying on the Macau side. These are the best luxury hotels in Macau.

For a more in-depth look at where to stay in Macau read this article .

Here is a list of my recommendations for the best luxury hotels in Old Macau to start you off:

1. Grand Lisboa Hotel

This is a very peculiar hotel with a long standing history, the most i ncredible range of dining options , with no less than two three-Michelin starred restaurants, and a terribly ugly exterior. This is the only hotel located bang in the middle of everything in the historical center of Macau and its historical cache is why I added it here, and for fun too.

The golden building is shaped like a bunch of flower

s and the rooms all have Turkish baths and hot tubs. The design is rather full on tacky as is the casino area, always packed with Chinese gamblers preoccupied with Baccarat. An experience for sure.

Book your stay now on Agoda

2. Pousada de Sao Tiago (currently closed for renovations)

With only 12 rooms , this is the only boutique and heritage hotel in Macau , unless you consider the first casino complexes as part of the country’s history.

Pousada Sao Tiago was built in a former fort and the original chapel is still there. The rooms have lovely views and B&O TV sets. They are modern with touches of beautiful Portuguese colonial design.

Book your stay now on Booking.com | Agoda

3. Sofitel Macau

The Sofitel Macau is located by the water, facing China and offers the Brand’s French undertones in an intimate setting. The Club rooms have access to the lounge which has unique views of the older part of Macau.

This is the best place to stay if you want to get away from the casinos and be close to all the heritage places to see in Macau. I stayed here and found the hotel had the best location for walking around Macau.

4. Wynn Macau

This was one of the first casino properties to open in Macau and it is as ostentatious as it gets. Some of its sculptures and art installations like the Tree of Prosperity, the Dragon of Fortune and the Moon Jellyfish are worth a visit, as is the Performance Lake in front of the hotel which regularly showcases a water and lights performance until the late night, a show which can be seen from some of the rooms.

The over 1,000 rooms are modern and resemble other hotels on the strip but the Wynn also has a host of art pieces from crystal chandeliers to cloisonne camels. For food, try the Golden Flower with two Michelin Stars .

5. Mandarin Oriental Macau

One of the few luxury hotels not attached to a casino , the Mandarin Oriental Macau stays true to the brand’s classic elegance and superior professional service. There is only one restaurant here too, so simplicity has a name, especially in comparison with the over the top benchmark set at other hotels.

Guests here are usually coming to relax, enjoy the spa and have a quieter time . The Mandarin Oriental is certainly the classiest of all the luxury hotels in Macau.

Best Luxury hotels in Cotai

If you are coming for the entertainment, fun, gambling and shopping, Cotai is your address. The majority of the hotels in Cotai are along the strip which was once a wasteland converted into the world’s most expensive casino complex. A few of the hotels congregate around large complexes like Galaxy or City of Dreams while others are on their own.

Here is a list of my recommendations for the best luxury hotels in Cotai:

1. The Altira

The hotel’s name in Chinese means cutting-edge and so this is a good example of the phrase. The Altira is attached to the casino which attracts high rollers. The rooms are modern and sleek and the hotel’s infinity pool, glassed against the city’s skyline , is its signature splurge.

All rooms have stone baths and Japanese showers which require a guide (much like the toilets). Check out the rooftop bar which has an outdoor area too.

2. The Ritz Carlton Macau

As with other Ritz properties across the world, the Ritz Carlton in Macau opted for timeless European class . White and grey marble, beautiful flower arrangements, an outdoor pool with cabanas and pale beige with splashes of bright colors.

The Ritz is located in the Galaxy complex so it has access to the large scale entertainment options like the white sand beach or the wave pool.

3. The Venetian Macao

The first hotel to open on Cotai was The Venetian, a perfect replica of the Las Vegas hotel and the real Venice complete with singing gondoliers and the whole shabang. This is an adult’s playground in all its glory, and a fun one at that.

The 3,000 rooms are modern and ethereal, they could be anywhere, just like it could be anytime while you trod the busy corridors of the malls and entertainment areas. You completely lose track of time here. A real disconnecting vacation, gambling or not.

4. Studio City

This is one of the latest resorts to open attached to a casino and a series of restaurants. Studio City is as flash as it gets and has the largest figure eight ferris wheel (attached to the main facade) which is said to bring fortune as the number is lucky in Chinese.

There are illusionists, a Warner Bros themed children’s area, 4D flights, a beach and Pacha’s only Asian spot, something I always find amusing since the original one is from Sitges , where I grew up, and has been around since the 60s. Even my parents used to go there when they were young. The hotel complex also has more than 30 dining outlets.

5. Banyan Tree Macau

The Banyan Tree is part of the Galaxy Macau complex and a great place to stay if you are more into wellness and pampering as the Brand is well known for its spa retreats and the hotel offers spa deals with unlimited treatment suites. I know it better after having stayed at the Banyan Tree Bintan (a quick ferry ride from Singapore ) and Lang Co in Vietnam .

Almost all suites and villas at the Banyan Tree Macau have plunge pools. For those looking for something intimate and romantic, the Banyan Tree offers couples private dining on a pool grove with live music and a personal butler.

6. Grand Hyatt Macau

Modern, large and constantly busy , but you can always retire in the continuously-heated pool at the Grand Hyatt to escape it all. The hotel is located in The City of Dreams where entertainment abounds. Rooms are standard international luxury, with nothing specific, but perfectly comfortable. Some of the suites have free-standing bathtubs window-side.

How to get to Macau and move around

Arriving by air to macau.

Macau’s airport opened in 1995 and is located on Taipa. The runway is on its own strip surrounded by water, talk about a scenic landing. However, the majority of visitors come from Hong Kong, either on a day trip by ferry or for a slightly longer stay extending a Hong Kong or China trip.

How to travel to Macau from Hong Kong

The one hour ferry across the Pearl River from Hong Kong to Macau is a rough ride, not so recommended if you are prone to seasickness. It is also chaotic and filled with Mainland Chinese gamblers so not a smooth ride, as anyone who has traveled in crowded Chinese cities will know. There are two ferry terminals, one in old Macau called the Outer Ferry Terminal and one at the northern tip of Cotai. Subsequently, there are two ferry companies pledging the waters each to one destination but they both depart from Sheung Wan in Hong Kong.

Bookaway is a great option to get discounted rates for the ferry ride from Hong Kong to Macau. You can reserve your tickets online for a stress-free trip here .

Turbojet will take you to Macau Outer Ferry Terminal and charges different prices depending on time and day of the week. Weekdays are half the price of weekends at roughly $20 each way. There are ferries every 15 minutes from 7am to midnight and then every half an hour to an hour through the night.

Cotai Water Jet will take you to Cotai every half an hour from 7am to well into the early hours of the morning. Prices are similar to those of TurboJet.

There are taxis at both terminals and most hotels run free shuttles from the pier. You can book your tickets online for Cotai Water Jet HERE and Turbo Jet HERE .

If you want to arrive in a slightly more glamorous way, you could hire a helicopter which will take you across in around half an hour for a handsome price of around $750 each way, definitively not for the budget conscious.

Local transport in Macau

To move around Macau the best choice is hailing a cab or taking one of the many buses that criss-cross the islands. The major resorts also offer free shuttle services to and from the rest so inquire at the hotel’s reception where you are staying or where you want to visit, as it is possible to resort-hop using the free shuttles. If you are going to one of the farther away restaurants, the staff can order a cab back for you. Or use Uber , a life saver when I travel these days.

Google Maps is available in Macau (not in the rest of China) so it is helpful when walking around. Get the link to my map for this post and you will have all the marked spots, restaurants and hotels in one map which you can use to guide your way.

Other things to know before traveling to Macau

Macau is a Special Administrative Region of China so nationalities needing visas to visit China may not necessarily need it for Macau . In fact, most people can get one on arrival.

What to pack

You should definitely bring sunscreen as you will be walking a lot. A hat might be helpful in the summer months when it gets piping hot. In winter , Macau gets cold , don’t make the mistake of thinking “it’s Asia, it must be hot”. This is one of the nicest places to celebrate Christmas in Asia in fact. Macau is also a v ery rainy place in Autumn and Spring so an umbrella or waterproof jacket is almost essential.

When to visit

Macau is best visited in the winter months when it is also driest . From May to September it rains quite a lot with typhoon season peaking from August to October when the area becomes engulfed in clouds of rain.

Temperatures in the summer can soar to 30 degrees Celsius and in winter drop to half but it is never very cold and a jacket should do for a pleasant stay with lots of time outdoors.

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20 places to visit in Macau

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

Macao is a mysterious melding of east and west, a fusion of ancient architecture and high-tech pizazz. It’s a city that has grown explosively into a futuristic entertainment centre while continuing to preserve rich Chinese and Portuguese culture and traditions in its beautiful temples, churches, museums and festivals. Here’s our bucket list of 20 places to visit in Macau.

In the 16th century, Portuguese traders came to Macau seeking the fabled land Marco Polo had called Cathay. They discovered Macau and the colony prospered. The Portuguese were followed by Jesuit missionaries who turned Macau into Asia’s religious hub.

Those golden years left a legacy of historic places of interest in Macau, such as buildings, plazas and churches. The street names give away Macau’s heritage. Drive along the tree-lined Rua da Praia Grande or stroll down the broad Avenida Almeida Ribeiro and you’ll spot a blend of Chinese and Mediterranean architecture.

If you’re travelling with kids, here are 35 fun things to do in Macau for kids .

1- Ruins of St Paul’s

2- senado square, 3- a-ma temple, 4- museu de macau, 5- st lawrence parish, 6- kuan tai temple, 7- mandarin’s house, 8- rua de felicidade, 9- guia lighthouse, 10- macau’s inner harbour, 11- opium house, 12- macau’s handover gifts museum, 13- the cotai strip, 14- macau tower, 15- lou lim leoc garden, 16- cameos garden, 17- st francisco garden, 18- taipa village, 19- coloane, 20- travessa da paixão, where is macau, macau or macao, is macao a country, what else to do in macao, places to visit in macau – macau city.

You’ve seen it in photos and brochures. Of all the places of interest in Macau, the Ruins of St Paul’s is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is as famous a landmark in Macau as the Eiffel Tower is to Paris or Sydney’s Opera House.

Constructed in 1602, the sculpted church facade is all that remains of the original Catholic church after a fire razed its wooden walls and interior in 1835.

Right next to the ornate facade is St. Paul’s College, which was the first western-style university in Asia.

This was where missionaries studied the Chinese language before they were sent to serve in Beijing, at the Ming Emperor’s Court.

The Jesuits embedded themselves into China as advisers, astronomers and mathematicians.

Unfortunately, the college was also burnt to the ground.

More than a dash of European flair fills the streets of Macau, which is a fascinating destination where east meets west.

The square is one of the best places in Macau for people watching.

Stand in Senado Square with your eyes shut and listen to the symphony of Cantonese, Mandarin and English.

The compact region is rich in European architecture and Macau’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage gem with a distinctive Portuguese flavour.

Think cobblestone streets with pastel European-style pastel-hued neo-classical buildings.

Senado Square is a vibrant piazza where you will find a roll-call of festivals, celebrations and spontaneous street-theatre.

Classically paved Portuguese-style tiles seem like they have been teleported from the streets of Lisbon.

Senado Square is packed with souvenir shops, local food stores and boutiques.

Grab an ice cream and sit and watch the crowd go by.

There are many good reasons why most people have A-Ma Temple at the top of the list of places to visit in Macau .

Built by fishermen in the 16th century, in honour of the sea goddess, the temple is an impressive labyrinth of prayer halls, pavilions and courtyards linked by winding stone paths and moon-shaped gates.

A-Ma is Macau’s oldest temple, built in 1488 before the city was formed.

As A-Ma Temple sits on a rocky hill, look along the rock cliff behind the temple for ancient inscriptions of classical Chinese poetry.

The 15 th -century temple is a working temple and lots of people come here to pray.

Spend a couple of hours taking a leisurely walk to the top of the hill as the view is stunning.

If you’re wondering what to do in Macau if you’re interested in history and culture, put aside at least a day to explore the Museu de Macau .

Mount Fortress, the city’s main military defence fort for three hundred years, now houses this impressive museum.

The displays and exhibits offer deep insights and interesting stories about Macau’s history making it one of the best places to visit in Macau for history buffs.

Three levels of galleries are packed with information.

You’ll find out everything you need to know about Macau including Macau’s history, commerce and culture.

There’s an entire floor dedicated to traditions, pop art and festivals . And another floor with displays focused on city life.

While Macau now generates a massive amount of revenue for China, it once was a modest fishing and port town known as Ou Mun which translates as “Trading Gate”.

Its strategic location at the mouth of the Pearl River, which leads inland to the thriving metropolis of Canton (now known as Guangzhou ), meant it was visited by trading boats from all over the world.

The Portuguese made it one of their key Asian ports in the 1550s and conducted a huge amount of trade through Macau.

They had administrative control over the area from the mid-16th century until 1999, when it was handed back to China, and left behind beautiful buildings like the 16th-century Baroque church, St Dominic’s.

Impressive colonial-style administrative offices are strewn throughout the historic part of Macau, reflective of the era during which the Portuguese had control over the region.

The charming architecture makes this section of the top places to see in Macau if your interest is history.

The Macau Government Headquarters, pictured here, is the office of Macau’s Chief Executive.

Constructed in 1849, the elegant pink-and-white building was designed using the famous Pombaline style of Portuguese architecture commonly seen in the oldest parts of Lisbon and Porto.

It has been well preserved, as have many of the most significant Portuguese structures in Macau.

The architect responsible for the Macau Government Headquarters building, Tomas de Aquino, also designed the neo-classical St Lawrence’s. It is one of the three oldest churches in Macau .

Before Macau’s skyline started to grow, this church had a clear view of the harbour and Portuguese families would gather there to wait for sailors to return from the sea.

This church is one of more than 20 timeworn monuments which comprise the UNESCO listed area including squares, temples, residences, fortresses and theatres.

Kuan Tai temple is one of the best places to visit in Macau for Chinese culture

Kuan Tai is located in a small backstreet right near Senado Square.

Its traditional Chinese architecture contrasts with the Western buildings in this area, symbolising the way in which varied cultures existed peacefully in Macau for centuries.

Macau’s Chinese temples are open to the public, who are free to wander the grounds and admire their faded grandeur.

Incense smoke drifts through these religious structures as locals kneel in silent prayer and leave offerings to the Gods.

The interiors of Macau’s temples are particularly interesting, with intricately-carved woodwork, impressive statues and bright colours throughout.

The peace they offer can be a reprieve from the noise and crowds of the streets of Macau , which is one of the world’s most densely populated urban areas.

Just north of A-Ma temple is another of Macau’s key tourist attractions, Mandarin’s House.

Built about 150 years ago, the huge residential complex was the home of a revered Chinese writer, Zheng Guanying.

Tourists can inspect most of the 4000sqm building, which is predominantly Chinese in style but which incorporates some elements of Western architecture, such as its decorative motifs.

Its courtyards, overlooked by large windows, are especially attractive and a nice place to take a rest.

North beyond Senado Square, the former Red Light district of Rua de Felicidade is one of the liveliest areas of the historical precinct.

With its weathered Chinese shophouses, their doors and windows painted bright red, this area has a unique appearance.

Having long shed off its seedy past, Rua de Felicidade now is populated with lots of small Chinese restaurants , several of which specialise in seafood, including the infamous delicacy Shark Fin Soup.

The Roasted Duck in this neighbourhood is spectacular, making it a perfect spot to have dinner and end your day exploring the Historic Centre of Macau.

Macau attained UNESCO status because it was (and still is) a strategic maritime port.

Like most ports, Macau has a fort and lighthouse (situated on Guia Hill).

Guia Lighthouse is a historic star that has been featured on a set of stamps by Macao Post on 8 July 2015.

In recognition of the lighthouse’s 150th anniversary, Macao Post has released a special souvenir set of two stamps and a souvenir sheet with images of the lighthouse and view of Macau peninsula from the old Guia fortress.

The lighthouse is accessible by walking up a gentle rise on a landscaped hillside but there’s also a cable car to the summit.

It’s worth the effort as there are good views of Zhuhai in China and across the South China Sea to Hong Kong .

The fortress on Guia Hill (open from 8 am to 6 pm) was built between 1622 and 1638, after an unsuccessful attempt by the Dutch to take control of the small but strategic territory.

One of the buildings is a small chapel originally established by Clarist nuns who lived here before establishing the Convent of St. Clare.

Nearby, the lighthouse, built in 1864 was the first modern lighthouse to be constructed along the Chinese coastline.

It stands 91m high and the beam can be seen for 20 nautical miles on a clear evening and it’s one of the intriguing places to visit in Macau for nautical history.

Parts of Macau’s heritage heartland of narrow cobble-stoned streets resemble those back in Portugal.

Macau rose to fame as a trading port to export Asian goods to Europe. Its architecture is an attractive mosaic of Moorish buildings,

Chinese temples and European churches dating back to the 16th century.

Travessa do Mastro and Rua da Felicidade are lined with Chinese restaurants and is the ideal place to take a break from the rigors of sightseeing.

The trail winds its way to Rua do Almirante Sérgio. Pier 16 is a good place to view the protected Inner Harbour and the fishing boats that moor here in the waterway separating Macau to mainland China.

Kun Iam Temple is a complex of 15th-century prayer halls and funeral parlours and an impressive 20m tall gilded bronze statue that stands at the edge of Macau harbour.

Just off the main waterfront road is Opium House at 16 Praça de Ponte e Horta.

This warehouse was built in 1880 in an architectural style typical of the era.

Opium was only banned in 1946 and in 1996 the building was meticulously banned.

Close by is Praça de Ponte e Horta which is an open square along the Inner Harbour.

The Handover Gifts Museum of Macau commemorates the handover ceremony on 20th December 1999 when Macao was returned to China.

When Portugal formally conceded control of Macau to China, Macau’s residents were offered the opportunity to apply for Portuguese citizenship and move to Portugal.

Many stayed in Macau and the city has continued to prosper.

The three-storey museum’s exhibition gallery has floor-to-ceiling cabinets filled with the impressive gift from various Chinese regions, including gold horses, giant paintings and other works of art.

Some of these works are so grand they would have taken teams of artists months to complete.

Places to visit in Macau – Cotai Strip

Asia’s version of Las Vegas has its own Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge and Eiffel Tower.

The strip of land joining Cotai Island and Taipa Island is the spot for high rollers. But even if you aren’t interested in gaming tables, the bright lights and spectacular shows in are amazing to see.

Many of the attractions are truly spectacular and new resorts are popping up each year.

There are plenty of things to do in Macau for kids in Cotai, including Macau pools and water parks.

You could spend weeks exploring Macao’s hotels , resorts and entertainment precincts of The Cotai Strip.

There’s Wynn Macau, Venetian Macao, City of Dreams, Studio City and Sands Cotai Central, Galaxy and City of Dreams.

You could easily spend a few days bar hopping , clubbing, dining in fine restaurants, shopping and watching impressive floor shows (don’t miss The House of Dancing Water for spectacular special effects and acrobatic feats).

The free audio-visual entertainment is worth checking out too.

Wynn Macau has a nightly water show with 300 jets of water synchronised to music. The Dragon of Fortune in the Rotunda atrium is an impressive display of lighting and audio effects.

One of the newest resorts, The Parisian, is a fabulous chic version of Paris and comes complete with its own mini Eiffel Tower!

Best place for a bird’s-eye view? Macau Tower’s Outdoor Observation Deck on Level 61 offers a fabulous view with a dash of adrenalin thrown in.

Adventure seekers will love climbing the mast, bungy jumping or walking around the outer perimeter of the tower (on a walkway 1.8m wide) and base jumping (leaping off the tower like a stuntman while attached to a wire cable).

Is anyone up for the thrill of bungy jumping in Macau ?

Green places to visit in Macau

In a compact city like Macau, there’s nothing more precious than a Chinese garden.

The Lou Lim Leoc Garden is a beautiful spot to escape the bright lights and the crowds.

It’s a historic garden with ponds and pagodas.

Macau also has other lovely gardens where you can get away for some peace and tranquility.

Totter up to Camoes Garden, one of Macau’s venerable parks, and arguably the lungs of the city.

In the 18th century, this wooded refuge backed onto the residence of the British East India Company’s boss.

Later purchased by a Portuguese merchant, an enticing grotto was developed, crowned by a bust of his country’s most famous poet, Luis de Camoes.

From the grotto, pathways entice you through spacious gardens, artfully outfitted in stone courtyards, tropical finery and towering Banyan trees.

For well over a century, Cameos Garden has been the go-to locale for residents to play checkers, take their caged birds for a walk, catch up with friends, and most importantly, to undertake their morning exercises.

An unmissable highlight is the mass assembly of tai chi groups, a pageant of poise, colour and grace. And the affectionate tai chi ladies will happily welcome to join in!

I dutifully did – and managed to disgrace myself in the process – by exposing my appalling lack of coordination.

I also chanced upon spirited old men, giving their feet a vigorous reflexology work-out on the purpose-built pathways of foot massage pebbles. One chirpy chap vigorously exercising looked all of 70 but turned out to be 88!

The verdant gardens border another enriching historic find, the Old Protestant Cemetery, thronging with fragrant trees, gnarly old headstones and heartfelt inscriptions marking the graves of merchants, missionaries and fortune-seekers – many who died at shockingly youthful ages.

Some of the epitaphs bring to light the swash-buckling lawlessness of the fledgling trading post, with many of the buried, slain by pirates.

A notable grave is that of Lord Henry John Spencer Churchill, a Royal Navy Captain, who as you might have guessed, was a blood relative of Winston and Diana.

The European influence on Macau’s peninsula is evident in the beautiful St Francisco Garden.

This intimate green space unfurls down a hill a few hundred metres behind the Wynn Macau Casino.

Shaded beneath a dense tree canopy, the park’s ornate fences and grand fountain evoke the bold designs of many public spaces in Portugal.

It is particularly interesting in the early morning and in the evening when locals gather to exercise, sing, dance in groups, or practice water calligraphy on its pavement.

Places to visit in Macau – Taipa and Coloane

Taipa Village is a traditional village that has recently undergone a renaissance.

The main historic attraction is the Taipa Houses Museum, restored colonial homes that where you will get a real feel for how Portuguese families lived in the early 1900s.

This serene side of Macau is a portal into history and one of the best places to visit in Macau to escape to the past.

Even though Macao is one of the fastest growing cities in Asia, there are still pockets of places to escape from the urban spread. Coloane is one such hideaway that remains unchanged by the passage of time.

About 100 years ago, Coloane was a den for pirates to hang out.

Then in 1910, the Portuguese drove the pirates out of the area and built the village square.

The centrepiece of Coloane Village is its baroque St. Francis Chapel, which is a charming reminder of the Portuguese era.

South of Coloane Village, past Tam Kong temple, shooting range cemetery, stroll down Estrada da Aldeia, to Bamboo Bay or Cheoc Van, Macau’s best beach.

A world away from downtown Macau, Cheoc Van has a public swimming pool and the restaurant is a popular expat hangout for pizza.

Most picturesque place to visit in Macau

For a picturesque place to take a photo next to the Ruins of St Paul’s look for the colourful pastel builtins in Travessa da Paixão.

You could easily imagine you’re somewhere in Europe here.

Discover Macau

Macau is on the western banks of the Pearl River Delta of Guangdong Province, 60km south west of Hong Kong. Macau is less than an hour away by fast ferry from Hong Kong Airport, yet it is a contrast in scenery and sightseeing.

The original Portuguese spelling was “Macao” but during the 20th century, “Macau” became more commonly used by both in English and Portuguese. After the official handover in 1999, the Macau government considered both “Macao” and “Macau” to be acceptable spellings of the name, however, “Macau” was the official spelling in Portuguese. That changed recently and the government of Macao, including the Macao Government Tourist Office uses the “Macao” spelling.

While the Portuguese played a major role in shaping Macau’s heritage, Macau is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China. It’s one of the special places to visit in China that has its own legal system, police force, monetary system, customs policy and immigration policy.

For more ideas and information to add to your Macau itinerary see this Macao post .

On a budget? Here are 10 ways to explore Macau on a budget

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

18 Macau Landmarks For Your Bucket List

Is macanese ready to go mainstream, macao buffet bible – how to choose the best buffet in macau, macau nightlife – 17 cool bars, coloane hiking trail, editor's picks, 101 travel quotes – inspiring the journey, 60 luxury escapes for your bucket list, 25 australian landmarks.

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MACAU ITINERARY: 15 Top-Rated Tourist Spots & Things to Do in Macau

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Visiting Macau for the first time? Check out our exciting list of 15 Top-Rated Tourist Spots in Macau, Tourist Attractions, and FREE things to do in Macau!

Macau, also known as the “Las Vegas of Asia,” is a vibrant city with a unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures. The city is famous for its luxurious casinos, such as the Venetian Macao and the Wynn Macau, attracting millions of yearly visitors. In addition to its gambling scene, Macau is home to several historic landmarks, including the Ruins of St. Paul’s, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Senado Square, a charming pedestrian square surrounded by pastel-colored colonial buildings.

Other popular tourist spots in Macau include the Macau Tower, the A-Ma Temple, and the Taipa Village, a quaint neighborhood known for its traditional Portuguese architecture and delicious cuisine.

Macau Cotai Strip by Travel Oriented via Wikimedia cc

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Here are some of the Top Tourist Spots, Attractions, and FREE Things to do in Macau!

1. Cotai Strip

First on the list of the best Macau tourist spots is non-other than the Cotai Strip. Whether you’re into gambling or just touring around, Cotai Strip is a must-visit in Macau. Feel like you’re waking up in Las Vegas at Cotai Strip, filled with numerous sparkling casinos, clubs, hotels, resorts, restaurants, and shops.

As the mini Vegas of Asia, many tourist flocks to this area to gamble, socialize, or see popular Macau tourist attractions, like the Grand Lisboa, the Venetian Casino, and the Parisian Macao. If you got money to spend, staying at the 75,000 square meters Galaxy Macau is also worth the experience.

ADDRESS : Estr. Do Istmo, Macao
HOW TO GET THERE : Other than several public bus services serving the area, many of the hotels in Cotai provide free shuttle buses for guests and visitors. These shuttle buses ferry passengers from the Border Gate, Macau International Airport, Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, and Taipa Ferry Terminal to the hotels, and vice versa. The Taipa section of the Macau Light Rapid Transit serves the Cotai Strip and the larger area of Cotai. The line has stations at nearly every hotel-casino as it meanders through the peripheral road of the Cotai Strip.
HOURS : 24-hours
ENTRANCE FEE : Free

2. Venetian Macao

Another popular tourist spot when you travel to Macau is Venetia Macao. It’s considered the 2nd largest casino and ranked as the 10th largest building worldwide base on floor area. The Venetian Macao is a lavish hotel at Cotai Strip, featuring a European style and floor space of 10,500,000 square feet.

If you’re not a fan of casinos, Venetian Macao has an indoor mall. It has over 330 stores from upscale boutiques and world-renowned brands. But the main highlight of Venetian Macao is the Grand Canal, where you can enjoy a 20-minute ride on a gondola with your friends or special someone.

ADDRESS : Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperanca, Macao
HOW TO GET THERE : The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service from the airport, ferry terminals, and border gates.
HOURS : The Casino at the resort is open 24 hours, 365 days a year. The mall and the Gondola rides within the hotel start at 10 am and can be enjoyed until 10pm.
ENTRANCE FEE : Free except for the Gondola ride.

Senado Square Macau by KYKZK via Wikimedia cc

3. Senado Square

The Senado Square is a 3,700 square meter public plaza, which serves as a meeting area for the Portuguese and Chinese from the 16th to 18th centuries. It’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Centre Macau, featuring an extended triangular-shaped plaza and narrow streets.

Senado Square is filled with numerous restaurants, shops, and heritage sites. There are also local vendors selling different snacks and souvenirs in the area. So if you’re looking for a day tour activity for your Macau travel, add the century-old Senado Square to your list.

Ruins of St. Paul, Macau by Vernon Raineil Cenzon via Unsplash

4. Ruins of St. Paul

From Senado Square, walk for about 5 to 10 minutes and follow the signs heading to the most famous tourist spot in Macau, the Ruins of St. Paul. Built between 1602 to 1640, the Ruins of Saint Paul’s was once considered one of the biggest Catholic churches in Asia back then.

However, a fire in 1835 destroyed most of the structure, leaving only its baroque style façade at 25 meters high. It’s one of the best Macau tourist spots, featuring Jesuit saints statues, relief ornaments, and an engraving above its doorway, which states the church is dedicated to the Mother of God.

A-Ma Temple Macau by Constantine S via Unsplash

5. A-Ma Temple

Situated in São Lourenço, Macau, the magnificent A-Ma temple is a worship place devoted to the Goddess of the Sea, Mazu. A-Ma temple was constructed in 1488 and is one of the oldest temples in Macau, consisting of 6 main parts. It includes the Buddhist Pavilion, Gate Pavilion, the Memorial Arch, the Prayer Hall, the Hall of Guanyin, and the Hallo of Benevolence, the oldest part of the A-Ma temple.

As one of Macau’s most important religious sites, A-Ma Temple is a must-see and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Centre Macau.

Kun Iam Temple by Abasaa via Wikimedia cc

6. Kun Iam Temple

The Kun Iam Temple is another worth visiting Macau tourist attraction, a devoted worship place for the Goddess of Mercy. Founded during the Yuan dynasty around the 13th to 14th century, Kun Iam is considered one of the oldest temples in Macau. It’s officially named Pou Chai Sim Un and is regarded as one of Macau’s three biggest Buddhist temples.

Located in Coronel Mesquita Avenue, the present temple was constructed in 1627 during the rule of Emperor Tian Qi, featuring 3 main pavilions, 3 figures of Buddha, and roofs with porcelain figures from the Ming period.

Guia Fortress by LN9267 via Wikimedia cc

7. Guia Fortress

Apart from temples, the centuries-old Guia Fortress is a must-see when you travel Macau. Completed in 1865, the Guia Fortress is a military fort, lighthouse, and chapel complex, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Centre Macau. Around 1622 and 1638, the fort and chapel were built, while the lighthouse was constructed from 1864 to 1865.

This historic site stands at Guia Hill, the highest point in Macau, boasting a 91.4 meters high lighthouse. Today, the Guia Fortress is regarded as one of the top Macau tourist attractions, accessible thru cable car rides or hiking paths.

Main gate of Fortaleza do Monte by KYKZK via Wikimedia cc

8. Fortaleza do Monte

If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the chance to explore the Fortaleza do Monte during your Macau travel. Also known as Mount Fortress, this historical landmark was constructed on Mount Hill from 1617 to 1626, occupying around 8,000 square meters. It also serves as Macau’s governor’s residence from 1623 to 1740 and a weather observatory from 1966 to 1996.

Today, the Fortaleza do Monte functions as the Museum of Macau, exhibiting anthropology, archeology, and how the Chinese, Macanese, and Portuguese lived together. Also, the fort has a park on top, offering an extensive view of Macau’s mainland area.

The Maritime Museum Macau by Solomon203 via Wikimedia cc

9. The Maritime Museum

Located opposite of A-Ma Temple, the Maritime Museum is said to be the first place where the Portuguese landed. Also referred to as Museu Marítimo de Macau, this museum was completed in 1987 and shaped like a sailing ship. It features the innovation of meteorological and nautical instruments.

In addition, the museum consists of four areas, including the Maritime Technology Exhibition Hall, Maritime History Exhibition Hall, Maritime Customs Exhibition Hall, and an underground exhibition with different fishing equipment, clothing, and model ships.

Macao Giant Panda Pavilion by LN9267 via Wikimedia cc

10. Giant Panda Pavilion

For families traveling with kids, one of the recommended things to do in Macau is to visit the Giant Panda Pavilion. Bring your family and friends and catch sight of the rarest member of the bear family, the giant panda. This nature park is located in Seac Pai Van Park, boasting an aesthetically remarkable structure with a translucent roof that resembles a seashell.

It houses plump giant pandas, adorable red pandas, and different types of monkeys. The pavilion also features a children’s playground, gardens, and koi ponds. What’s more? Entering the park is free, but visitors should pay a fee to see the pandas.

11. Macau Tower

Unleash your adventurous side by visiting the Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center, measuring 338 meters tall. The Macau Tower is one of the most impressive landmarks of Macau. Constructed from 1998 to 2001, featuring an observation deck with views, shops, restaurants, and theaters.

For thrill-seekers, experience the Skywalk X, a heart-stopping walking tour on the observation deck’s outer rim. But if you’re into extreme sports, don’t forget to try the world’s highest bungee at AJ Hackett Macau Tower, where you can jump off at 223 meters high.

The Parisian Macao by Shantham11 via Wikimedia cc

12. The Parisian Macao

Located in the Cotai Strip, the Parisian Macao is one of the top tourist spots for Macau travel. Built in 2016, Parisian Macao is an opulent French-themed casino, resort, and shopping complex, featuring 2,700 rooms, 170 shops, and a meeting space of 56,000 square feet.

But it wouldn’t be complete without the half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower from Paris, which became a famous landmark in Cotai Strip. The 160 meters tall Eiffel Tower also features a viewing deck on the 37th floor, so you can enjoy it from the top or at night to see the musical light show.

Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Coloane Village, Macau

13. Coloane Island

Situated in the southern part of Macau, Coloane Island is connected to the mainland by a causeway and bridge. Coloane Island is the best spot away from the city, where you’ll see plenty of eucalyptus trees, pine forests, farmland, and tropical vegetation. If you’re looking for a more laid-back tourist attraction, Coloane Island will not disappoint, as it boasts stunning beaches with fine white sands.

The best one on the island is Hac Sa Beach, the largest natural beach on the Macau peninsula. Some of the most visited spots on the island include the Cheoc Van Beach and Tam Chin Temple.

14. Taipa Village

Experience the charm of old Macau by exploring the Taipa Village, where you’ll see eye-catching colonial houses, streets, alleys, and the Taipa House, boasting Portuguese-style architecture. The Taipa Village is a great spot, offering plenty of tourist attractions, like Tin Hau, Pak Kai Temple, and the Buddhist Shrine of the Four Faces.

Apart from that, Taipa Village is the best place to hunt for delicious and authentic street food, like Portuguese pork buns and egg tarts, Chinese-style dried meat, and Durian ice cream.

House of Dancing Water Show Macau by Wei-Te Wong via Wikimedia cc

15. House of Dancing Water Show Macau

For a unique entertainment experience, catching the House of Dancing Water Show in Macau will surely leave you in awe. The House of Dancing Water is one of the most popular shows in Macau, which is a water-based stage production filled with action, from dancing and acrobats to diving and theater with some added splash.

This show stands out for the perfect blend of acrobatics and water, making every move spectacular. It starts with a solid floor stage and transforms into a shallow pool. Then, ballerinas will elegantly dance across the water fountains to divers performing flying somersaults and landing on a 26-foot diving pool.

Have you been to any of these Macau Tourist Spots? Follow the Out of Town Travel Blog on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and Pinterest if you want more travel and food-related updates.

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55 Places to Visit in Macau

Places in Macau

Quick navigation, must visit places in macau, ruins of st. paul's.

Considered as an iconic building representing the history of the nation, the cathedral of St. Paul is an attraction no one should miss. It represents the life and times of the Chinese communities that faced suffering at the hands of the Portuguese era. Besides its historical significance, the splendid architecture of the church shows a blend of renaissance motifs with oriental styled facades.

You will also find paintings of Virgin Mary enshrined in the church. The carvings and paintings lend it a unique aura and it stands out among the most popular tourist places in Macau. Location: Santo Antonio, Macau Timings: 9 am to 6 pm, every day

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Senado Square

The public square of Senado is located in the middle of the peninsula and covers an area of nearly 4000 hectares. It is a hub of cultural activities and bustling crowds of the vibrant nation. From colourful shopping centres and cute Chinese restaurants offering delicious local dishes, the environment at the Square is certainly energetic.

If you happen to visit the country during holidays or New Year’s Eve, you will get a chance to witness the splendid fireworks light up the night sky and illuminate the entire city. Location: Largo do Senado, Macau Timings: no timing restrictions

The Venetian Macao

Located just 3 kilometres from the International Airport, the Venetian Macao is a world-class palatial resort with 5-star suites featuring glass windows, marble bathrooms, and ultra modern facilities. Every room offers stunning views of the city. Fine dining options are also available with cuisines ranging from French and Italian to Japanese.

For shopping lovers, there is a gorgeous mall inside. You can also go swimming in the outdoor pools or try the refreshing gondola rides in the indoor canals of the hotel. Location: Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Macau Timings: open 24 hours

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Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center

Located near the stunning lakeside of the southwestern shore, the Tower and Entertainment Center is one of the most exciting places to visit in Macau. It offers tourists a chance to witness the gorgeous skyline of the city from a height of 338 meters. The glass elevator presents mesmerizing and spellbinding vistas as you ascend to the top.

Besides this, you can also have a unique dining experience in the highest revolving restaurant in the world. Enjoy world-class facilities, entertainment activities, and delicious local cuisines, under one roof at the Entertainment Center. Location: Se, Macau Timings: 10 am to 9 pm

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The charming community of Taipa Village is peaceful and tranquil with its secluded location, winding narrow streets and vibrant bazaars. Portuguese style buildings are quite common in the village and there are plenty of ancient temples and colonial style villas to explore. Enjoy the authentic Cantonese and Italian cuisines when you head to the southern tip of the village or explore the casinos in the north.

With its quaint street lamps and colourful flower baskets hanging from the windows, the village will make you feel as if you have stepped into another world. Location: East of Guangdong Province Timings: open 24 hours

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A-Ma Temple

The Chinese temple of A-Ma was built in 1488 and is one of the oldest buildings in the country. It has six wings, and the architectural design of each part is simply stunning. The entrance to the temple is guarded by majestic stone lions and a winding path follows as you enter the gates. Mazu image lies just ahead, and the locals believe that this hall has the longest history of all the temple regions. The image is crafted as a shrine to Goddess Mazu and there are several poems engraved in the hall dedicated to her.

Location: São Lourenço, Macau Timings: open 24 hours

The iconic Macau Tower stands tall as a testament to architectural marvel

Macao Museum

Macao Museum is a cultural museum hosting a large array of artefacts of historical and cultural importance to the communities that lived here. The articles placed in the museum offer an insight into the life and times of the people that inhabited the place through the years. Different floors of the museum house objects related to different eras.

For example, the first floor is dedicated to Chinese civilizations, the second one features artworks and traditions of Macao. The third floor depicts life in a contemporary light, and how Macao is represented in literature and other artworks.

Location: Santo Antonio, Macau

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

Price: INR 500

Macau Fisherman's Wharf

Spread over 100,000 square meters, Fisherman’s Wharf is a stunning theme park a separate section for different port towns like Miami, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Venice and Cape Town. A host of shopping centres and restaurants are featured in the park, and you can also find several colourful casinos and vibrant bars.

The vast array of discos attract nightlife and party lovers from all over the country, and over 150 stores host a wide range of designer clothes. Once a quiet local community, the Wharf is now a bustling tourist centre. Location: Macau Avenida da Amizade Timings: open 24 hours

Grand Prix Museum

Spread over 80 square meters, Grand Prix Museum features articles and objects connected to the Grand Prix Macau. The museum was opened in 1993 in the honour of Grand Prix Macau, and now it hosts pictures, prizes and valuable objects connected to the same. If you are an automobile enthusiast, witness the Formula Racing cars and motorcycles of famous riders housed here. Projectors are installed inside that feature highlights of different races and you can try your hand at racing in one of the emulation cars too.

Location: Rua Luís Gonzaga Gomes, Macau Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

The 400-year old Monte Fort is 100 by 100 meter in size and made of stone. It offers a gorgeous view of the golden sunset from the top. The Fort has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important historical places to visit in Macau. It also provides great insights into the history of the nation as it is the best preserved European building in East Asia.

There is a museum located within the fort complex where you can learn more about the development of this place. Location: Santo Antonio, Macau Timings: 7 am to 7 pm, every day

Hac Sa Beach

Skip the traditional Macau attractions and head over to the Hac Sa Beach where you can enjoy the sun, sand and water. Since there are no bustling tourist crowds here, you can rest assured that the coastline will be serene and peaceful. Enjoy the fresh air and soak in the sun, go swimming in the clear waters and read a book. Famous for its black sand, Visit Hac Sa to experience serenity as it offers an ideal getaway from the hustle-bustle of the cities. Location: Coloane, Macau Timings: no timing restrictions

Coloane Island has many historical sites which attract tourists from all over the world. The village has a large fishing community which lives near the southwestern tip. Here you will find souvenir shops where you can buy knick-knacks and ancient temples tucked away in the narrow streets.

The Chapel of Saint Francis Xavier is one of the must-visit destinations on the island as it will take your breath away with its stunning architecture and peaceful aura. Take a walk down the streets, bask in the golden sunlight, and soak in the natural splendour of the island. Location: Southern Macau, en route to Alto de Coloane Timings: no timing restrictions

Kun Iam Statue

One of the most famous tourist places in Macau, Kun Iam Statue is 20 meters tall and is made of bronze. Local legends suggest that it acts as symbolic protection of the city from evil forces. Since the statue is built on a lotus-like dome, the entire look appears refined and sophisticated. People often come here at dusk to witness the gorgeous interplay of the sunrays, the gilded gold of the bronze, and the white of the base. Location: Nossa Senhora De Fatimah, Macau Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

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Nam Van Lake

The cybernetic water fountain show at Nam Van Lake is the most spellbinding of Macau attractions. With its 86 spouts that shoot water 80 meters high, it is the largest man-made water fountain in Asia. The beautiful laser show presented here makes the place a popular tourist hotspot. With 288 vibrantly coloured spotlights illuminating and dancing through sprays of clear water, the effect created is certainly impressive. The entire show is coordinated by computers to create a mesmerizing effect that can stop anyone in their tracks.

Location: Se, Macau Timings: 8 am to 7 pm

St Lawrence Church

Places to Visit in Macau with Kids & Family

Warner bros. fun zone.

The interactive experience at Warner Bros is suited for children as well as adults. The playground is full of Warner Bros, DC and Hanna-Barbera characters, and your kids will certainly have fun communicating with their favourite childhood heroes. Arcade gaming, superhero racing, and a host of other activities are planned.

The themed play area and facilities offer a unique experience, and there is a superhero action area where children can climb, swing and jump in wild abandon.

Location: Cotai, Macau

Timings: 10.30 am to 7 pm

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Chimelong Ocean Kingdom Park

The Ocean Kingdom is a tourist hotspot suited for adults as well as kids, as the aquarium at the resort features rare whale sharks, beluga whales, polar bears and other wild animals you can see from up close. Themed zones have been created where you can visit exotic animals and even go on thrilling rides and adventures.

Theater shows are also arranged for the audience, along with float parades and a brilliant fireworks display at the end. Satisfy the shopaholic in you at the mall zone in Kingdom Park as it offers an endless field to shop. Location: Hengqin, Zhuhai Timings: 10 am to 8.30 pm

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Cheoc Van Beach

Made of powdery white sand and situated next to a small bay, Cheoc Van is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Macau. The beach is encircled by groves of palm trees and a backdrop of lush green jungles will make you feel as if you have dropped far away from civilization. Lifeguard surveillance is available, so kids and adults can go swimming without any worries. Calm and fun filled, the beach is a paradise for people who want to escape the summer heat. Location: Coloane, Macau Timings: no timing restrictions

Flora Garden

Skycab Cable Car

Enjoy flying over deep woods and a rock that is millions of years old with Skycab Cable Car. the unique experience is perfect for adrenaline junkies and adventure enthusiasts. Get goosebumps witnessing the lush green jungles as you go rushing over them in a cabin hovering in the air. The ride starts at the foothills of Machicang Mountain and cable car offers a comprehensive view of the flora and fauna of these mountains.

The 1700 meter journey covers an elevation of nearly 700 meters, featuring dramatic views and scenic vistas.

Location: Wynn Palace, Macau

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

Price: INR 1000

Macao Giant Panda Pavilion

One of the most unique places to visit in Macau is the Panda Pavilion near Seac Pai Van Park. The place offers guests to witness the adorable giant pandas in their natural habitat, just playing and having fun. The Pavilion of Rare Animals acts as a conservation site for rare animals and you can also witness the rare pandas in this facility.

The outdoor yard acts exclusively as giant pandas playground, whereas the indoor area is divided into dens for the pandas, vet clinic and feed warehouse etc.

Location: Coloane, Macau

Timings: 10 am to 1 pm, 2 pm to 5 pm

Price: INR 86

Batman Dark Flight

The flying theatre at Studio City Macau offers a once in a lifetime experience of enjoying adventures of Batman in an enhanced 4D experience. Integrated with an AV system, the flying theatre has multiple 4K projectors and projection system to enhance your experience. Now you can fly like Batman over Gotham and enjoy the unparalleled experience.

With the high-quality audio-video system, the theatre offers a realistic and immersive experience. Wind, water and scent effects are also integrated so that you can enjoy the multi-sensory experience realistically.

Timings: 9 am to 9 pm

Price: INR 1200

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Macau Peninsula

Macau Peninsula is the bustling centre of the city with crowded neighbourhoods, colonial-style buildings, colourful casinos, and a vibrant and enthusiastic crowd. While the rest of the city offers several tourist hotspots, there is nothing quite like the Peninsula which is the heart and soul of Macau. Enjoy the rapidly flourishing art settings, quaint and charming cafes, and galleries featuring stunning paintings. The city’s top historical attractions which offer an insight into its past can also be found here. Witness the vibrant culture of Macau in all its glory at the Peninsula.

Location: Macau Timings: no timing restrictions

Mandarin's House

Also known as Casa de Cheang, Mandarin’s House is one of the most famous tourist places in Macau. It is the home of Zheng Guanying who was a famous theoretician and reformist. Stretched over 4000-meter square, it is the largest residential building in Macau. For the architecture enthusiasts, it is a testament to the brilliant style of Western-Chinese fusion with artefacts edifices of that long-gone era still adorning its walls. The house was renovated by the government in 2002 and since then, the condition of the building has improved.

Location: Travessa de António Da Silva, Macau Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

Lotus Square

Featuring two bronze lotuses in full bloom that represent the prosperity of Macau, Lotus Square has emerged as a tourist attraction in recent years. The 6-meter tall statue weighs over 6 tons and is composed of stem, petals and a pistil. The base of the lotus is made of the red granite which represents the leaves of the flower. The leaves are set in three layers and symbolize three areas of the city - the Peninsula, Coloane Island and Taipa Island. Flag raising ceremony is held every morning at 8 am and flag lowering is done at 8 pm.

Location: Se, Macau Timings: no timing restrictions

Macau Ferry Terminal & Heliport

The helipad and ferry terminal in Central Hong Kong are an unconventional but interesting tourist attraction. Also known as Shun Tak Macau terminal, scheduled flights between Hong Kong and Macau are operated from here. Sky Shuttle Helicopters also operate from the square and the sight of helicopters taking off from the helipad near the waters is a stunning sight. Private charter services, cross-boundary operators, and ferry services to Hong Kong can be easily accessed from here.

Location: Porto Exterior, Se, Macau Timings: no timing restrictions

Lou Lim Ioc Garden

Built by a local Macau resident in 1906, Lim Loc Ioc Gardens are one of the most popular places to visit in Macau. Designed after the famous Suzhou Gardens, Lou Lim now acts as a public park famous among locals as well as tourists. Enjoy the stunning landscape and picturesque vistas as you walk through the intricate paths. Experience solitude and tranquillity amidst verdant greenery and take a moment to spend some time with your family. You can also celebrate a picnic or go for long strolls here.

Location: Sao Lazaro, Macau Timings: open 24 hours

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Holy House of Mercy

Founded in 1569 by the first bishop of Macau catholic, Holy House of Mercy was a charity facility with the aim to provide educational, medical and social help to the underprivileged. Now, it acts as a museum featuring several sacrificial offerings like the portrait of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

You will also find other precious items like Jesus on the Cross, the skull of the museum’s founder, and a manuscript of Regulations of Macau’s Holy House of Mercy.

Location: Central Macau Peninsula, Macau

Timings: 10 am to 1 pm, 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm, open Monday to Saturday

Price: INR 50

Macau Science Center

Consisting of an Exhibition Center, a Planetarium and a Convention Center, the Science Center is ideal for knowledge seeking individuals who like scientific exhibits and interactive tours. The topics covered are technology, environment and lifestyle. At the planetarium, live shows and dome movies are displayed in 3D with an ultra-high definition video system.

Travel in space as you witness stars and planets come alive. The convention centre can be used for holding meetings and conferences.

Location: Se, Macau

Price: INR 200

Taipa Ferry Terminal

The Taipa ferry terminal houses happening cafes where you can munch on some delicacies while planning your itinerary. The facility has been newly constructed and the immaculate space is perfect for travel to Cotai strip because of its proximity to the area.

The terminal is also close to the airport and railway system under construction. There is a sleek arrival hall, a food court, and a souvenir shop too. Location: Taipa, Macau Timings: open 24 hours

Dom Pedro V Theatre

Built in 1860, the Dom Pedro theater is one of the most popular Macau attractions. The name is misleading as there is also a ballroom and a reading room within the building. For architecture enthusiasts, it is a haven of neo-classic Greek architecture. The antechamber and stage are stunning in their construction, 9 French windows are integrated into the walls, and the crescent-shaped auditorium is marvellous.

The green building plopped in the middle of a sea of yellow architecture is certainly eye-catching.

Location: Largo de Santo Agostinho, Macau

Timings: 10 am to 11 pm

Price: INR 900 Approx.

Spiritual Tourist Places in Macau

St. dominic's church.

Constructed as a shrine for Our Lady of the Rosary, St. Dominic’s Church is ideal for people who want to experience a holy connection and spiritual enlightenment. The Catholic Church has three halls and all of them are crafted with elegance and grace. Coloured glass windows add to the ethereal aura of the church, and you will also find an array of oil paintings and statues of Christ here. The third-floor houses a museum showcasing Mass utensils and wood carved artefacts.

Location: largo de Sao Domingos, Macau Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

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Na Tcha Temple

Considered as a representation of the multicultural identity of Macau, Na Tcha temple is dedicated to an irreverent god and is located right next to the famous St Paul’s church. The single-chambered temple has a beautiful porch that opens into the main building. Animal decorations are sculpted on the walls, roof, and entrance like other Chinese temples. The peaceful environment of this intricately designed building makes it one of the most popular spiritual places to visit in Macau.

Location: Santo Antonio, Macau Timings: 8 am to 5 pm

Chapel of St. Francis Xavier

Built in 1928, the chapel is one of the most sacred places in town. Some of the most famous relics of ancient China used to be kept at the church, including the remains of the Catholic priests who were crucified in 1597 and a bone of St Franci Xavier. These artefacts have now been moved to St Paul’s Ruins. The beautiful lemon yellow church appears as an eye-pleasing gift in the middle of its surroundings and offers a place to connect with yourself. Location: Coloane, Macau Timings: 8 am to 6 pm

St. Augustine's Square

Nestled at the top of a hill is the cobblestoned church square of Saint Augustine. The entire street along with the church is styled in a traditional Portuguese manner, and there are several historical buildings located here. The pastel yellow white and green exteriors stand out and although it is crafted in a very simple architectural design The church has a distinctive aura due to its intricate engineering, lavish decorations, and lovely location. Besides, the square also offers magnificent views of the city. Location: Near Senado Square, Macau Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

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Puji Temple

One of the last remains of Japanese era Buddhist temples, Puji is dedicated to Guanyin who is locally known as the guardian angel of the hot springs. Having been declared as an official historical site, the temple is protected by the government. Its Japanese architecture stands testament to the rich history of Macau. The sober design of the building exudes an aura of tranquillity, and the simple decorations are true to their Japanese roots. Worship ceremonies similar to Japan are still held here.

Location: Zhoushan, Zhejiang Timings: 8 am to 5 pm

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St. Joseph's Seminary and Church

Although it is not known as one of the tourist places in Macau, St. Joseph’s Seminary stands as a gorgeous model of the olden-style baroque architecture. Engineered in a blended fashion, the church features a classic scalloped canopy and elegant staircase. The white and yellow interiors add to its spiritual quality and the lavishly decorated altars are arresting in their design. Pilasters and spiral columns further enhance the fairytale-like quality of the building. A visit to the Peninsula would be wasted without soaking in the beauty of the church. Location: Rio do Seminario, Macau Timings: 10 am to 5 pm

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Shop-rua do cunha.

The narrow street of Rua do Cunha is tucked away in Taipa and is famous for its delicious almond cakes and souvenir shops. The bakery shops here sell a wide range of mouth-watering sweets like egg rolls, coconut flakes, and peanut candies. Chinese and Portuguese stalls sell knick-knacks and trinkets you can take back home for your family and friends. The vibrant street is often crowded by tourists and locals, so make sure you get there early for a hassle-free experience.

Location: Taipa, Macau Timings: open 24 hours

Rua da Felicidade

Also known as Macau’s Happiness Street, Rua de Felicidade is famous among locals and tourists for its huge array of souvenir shops and stalls selling local delicacies. As soon as you get past the red light area, Rua and its traditional Chinese architecture will embrace you. The shuttered terraces, small two-storey homes, and the distinctive red and white theme make it a calm and serene place. The quaint shops and tiny eateries are often crowded, so don’t be fooled by the outward tranquil aura.

Location: Guangdong Province, Macau Timings: open 24 hours

The Grand Canal Shoppes

Spread over 500,000 square feet, Grand Canal Shoppes is one of the most popular places to visit in Macau, especially for shopping lovers. Indoor canals are created inside the plaza and it makes for a unique shopping experience to get to different shops by riding the gondolas. High-end luxury stores can be found in abandoned, along with a flagship store of Barneys New York. The statue at the Grand Central Shops also attracts tourists and live music performances are often held inside the plaza. Location: Venetian Macau Timings: open 24 hours

The Shoppes at Four Seasons

Experience unparalleled luxury and stunning views at Four Seasons. The brand is an epitome of sophistication and magnificence and you can shop for nearly everything here. Spread over 260,000 square feet and featuring 150 luxury brands, the Plaza is a haven for fashionistas and shopping lovers. Experience the height of retail therapy as you score goodies and enjoy the picturesque views while at it. You can also try the spa service for a relaxing massage or experience thrilling gaming services at the entertainment center. Location: Cotai Strip, Macau Timings: open 24 hours

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Places to Eat in Macau

888 gourmet place.

There is no better place to get a delicious breakfast in Macau than 888 Gourmet Place’s breakfast buffet. With more than 100 choices and a wide array of cuisines, your taste buds will find a haven at this restaurant. Lunch buffet is also available with a wide variety of freshly prepared mouth-watering seafood including oysters and crab. Discover fine dining with style at the chic restaurant and enjoy Macanese, Portuguese, continental Europe, Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisine. Location: Sands Macao, Macau Timings: 7 am to 11 am

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Macau Tower 360° Café

The revolving restaurant is one of the most popular places to visit in Macau with its exotic views and scrumptious food. Local Portuguese as well as Indian dishes are prepared with seasonal seafood to tickle your platter. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city underneath while you dine, soak in the twinkling lights at night and experience a romantic dinner watching over the sunset. High tea is served with delicious cakes and delicate muffins, cheesecakes and hazelnut crumble with freshly ground coffee. Location: Largo da Torre De, Macau Timings: 11.30 am to 10 pm

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A paradise away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Cafe on 4 is famous for its Mikado coffee bean. The signature coffee bean is used in a variety of dishes here - from soft ice creams to chilled jellies and other delicate delights. Enjoy spectacular views of the harbour while gulping some fresh crepes and pasta coupled with crunchy caramelised sugar pieces. Location: Macau Tower, Macau Timings: 10 am to 10 pm

Rua de S. Paulo

For foodies, one of the most essential places to visit in Macau is the Rua de S. Paulo street. Street food stalls selling everything from desserts and barbecued bread to almond cookies, the food here is cheap and delicious. When the hunger pangs hit you, what could be more lovely than a pork jerky or egg tart. The shops here also offer free samples that you can try if you wish to taste a variety of dishes. Make sure that you check out the sumptuous street food offered at this street before leaving Macau. Location: Dasanba Street, Macau Timings: no timing restrictions

Other Places to Visit in Macau

Guia lighthouse.

One of the most sombre tourist places in Macau, Guia Lighthouse was built in the 17th century and has an elaborate set of beautiful frescoes. The place shows a gorgeous blend of Western and Chinese architecture, and motifs of religious importance can be seen on the walls. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but you can visit the Fortress and the Chapel. The building is a testament of the rich, multicultural diversity of Macau and a symbol of the military and maritime past. Location: Sao Lazaro, Macau Timings : 9 am to 6 pm

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Camoes Grotto Park

Known as one of the major Macau attractions, Camoes is the oldest park in the city. Camoes Grotto is the most popular sight of the park, and it holds the bust of the famous port Luis de Camoes. The backdrop of rolling hills and emerald trees add to the serene environment of the park. Walk through the soft grass and smell the vibrant flowers, hike to the Gazebo and enjoy stunning views of the harbour, or simply take a walk through the lush greenery. Location: Santo Antonio, Macau Timings: 6 am to 10 pm

Studio City

The Studio City hotel and casino offers an endless list of fun activities you can indulge in on your trip to Macau. If you are an adventure junkie, up to your adrenaline levels at the amusement rides at Studio City. Rejuvenate yourself at the resort spa after your day-long excursion, followed by tickling your taste buds by trying various cuisines.

Studio City also houses shops for you to binge on some jewellery and local artefacts, which reflect the authentic local essence.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Price: INR 1400

Sam Kai Vui Kun

Located near Senado Square is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Macau. The temple is dedicated to Guan Yu, a general who is worshipped in both Tao religion and Buddhism. Since it is so close to the bazaar, the temple is easily accessible and has been a cultural and commerce symbol for the city. The building looks simple and sober from afar, but the architecture is quite stunning from up close - with glazed tiles and intricate details. Location: Near Senado Square, Macau Timings: 8 am to 6 pm

Travessa da Paixao

Located beside the Ruins of St Paul, Travessa da Paixao is a 50-metre long unmissable lane if you are a die-hard romantic. The colourful buildings and the under-crowded street are all you want on a sojourn with your partner, if calmness is what you are looking for. Witness the blend of modern and vintage buildings dotting both sides of the lane as you hold the hand of your beloved and walk down the picturesque street. Location: Tv. da Paixao Macau

Macau Museum of Art

Macau Museum of Art is the largest building in the city housing visual arts. Exhibition galleries are spread over 5 floors and each floor features Chinese artworks ranging from calligraphy, paintings, and ceramics. Besides that, Cantonese artworks are also displayed here. Historical pictures depicting Western paintings and European influenced artefacts created by Chinese artists are also on display. There is an auditorium on the first floor where you can enjoy seminars and video related to the artworks too. Location: Se, Macau Timings: 10 am to 7 pm, closed on Mondays

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Seac pai van park.

Hosting a rich diversity of tropical flora and fauna, Seac Pai Van Park is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Macau. The beautiful splendours of nature offer a hideaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, and people often come here to spend some alone time with their thoughts. If you are travelling with family, your kids will love the educational tour on animal conservation that is held here. You can also celebrate a picnic or go for a calming stroll. Location: Coloane, Macau Timings: 6 am to 10 pm

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Nestled on the southwestern tip of the Macau Peninsula, the A-Ma Temple stands as a venerable testament to the region's cultural and maritime history. Dating back to 1488, predating the establishment of Macau, this Taoist temple venerates Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea.Renowned for its captivating architecture and intricate detailing, the temple complex unfolds across six distinctive areas, each representing a different historical epoch. From the majestic Gate Pavilion to the atmospheric Prayer Hall, visitors embark on a journey through time, immersing themselves in the spiritual and maritime traditions that have shaped Macau.The temple's intricate decorations, including stone carvings and vibrant porcelain figurines, reflect a harmonious blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, A-Ma Temple invites exploration, offering both a tranquil escape and a profound connection to Macau's rich cultural tapestry.

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36 Spellbinding Places To Visit In Macau For A Wow Holiday In 2024

Macau, or as we all also know it as ‘ Vegas of China’ , is all about glamour, gamble, inspiring heritage , and a picture-perfect skyline. From casinos to Disneyland, there is a variety of nice places to visit in Macau. Certainly, this popular holiday destination knows the art of entertainment, regardless of the traveler’s age and preferences. But that is not all. This luxury destination with world class entertainment knows much better and has much more to offer and the many beautiful places to visit in Macau are proof.

Macau happens to be a place that was under Portuguese colonial rule for 300 years and the culture that is followed here is a manifestation of the hybridity. The beautiful juxtaposition of China with Portugal comes out very naturally in the gorgeous Chinese temples that stand on Portuguese tiles and the language and even the name of food items. Be it pasteis de nata (Portuguese egg tarts), Chinese dim sum or anything else, it is all there and this blend and the mysteries makes Macau a beautiful yet complex place to unravel and the happening Macau tourist spots adds to it all.

36 Best Places To Visit In Macau 2024

To unravel the mysteries and realities of Macau visiting places and to get an unmatched experience of the city where the East meets the West, the oxident meets the orient, here is a little something! To ensure that your trip to Macau doesn’t miss of any of the awesome places and the world record holding attractions, here is a round-up of the best tourist Macau attractions that will urge you to fly to this exotic location ASAP.

Ruins Of St. Paul’s : An Age Old Giant Relic
Senado Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Venetian: A Venetian Themed Hotel
Macau Tower: A Significant Landmark
A-Ma Temple: An Ancient Temple
Fishermans Wharf: A Themed Shopping Mall
Macau Museum: An Insight Into History
Wine and Grand Prix Museum: Collection Of Over 1115 Wine Brands
Fortaleza do Monte: For History Buffs
Hac Sa Beach: A Black Sand Beach
Kun Iam Statue: A Tall Bronze Statue
St Lawrence Church: For Its Neo – Classical Structure
The Macau Canidrome Club: For Exciting Dog Races
Guia Fortress: One Of The Oldest Forts In Macau
City of Dreams: An Entertainment Zone
Mandarin’s House: A Courtyard Style Mansion
Taipa Village: A Traditional Village
Macau Science Center: For Those Who Love Science & Tech
Studio City: A Casino Resort
Flora Garden: Something For Anthophiles
Coloane: To Get In Touch With The Culture
Nam Van Lake: The Largest Man-Made Fountain In Asia
Warner Brothers Fun Zone: To Have Fun
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom Park: For Electrifying Rides
Skycap Cable Car: For Adventure Seekers
Macao Giant Panda Pavilion: To Interact With Pandas
Macau Peninsula: For The Art Of It
Macau Ferry Terminal & Heliport: Unconventional Yet Interesting
Lou Lim Ioc Garden: Something For Leisure
Holy House of Mercy: Sacred And Cultural
Dom Pedro V Theatre: For Architecture Enthusiasts
St Dominic’s Church: For A Connection With The Divine
St Augustine’s Square: A Cobblestoned Church Square
Lotus Square: The Bronze Lotus Square
Puji Temple: Sacred Japanese Temple
Cheoc Van Beach: A Beach Lover’s Delight

1. Ruins Of St. Paul’s: An Age Old Giant Relic

Ruins of St. Pauls is one of the best places to visit in Macau

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Popularly known as Sam Ba Sing Tzik , Ruins of St. Pauls is situated near Mount Fortress and Macau Museum and is one of the most popular places in Macau. It is one of the top Macau tourist spots. This is the most important and age-old structure of Macau with a gigantic relic and a stairway that reflect the remains of the century-old Jesuit Church. This structure of the biggest catholic church of East Asia has five tiers, built in granite.

Tourist Attractions: Statute of Jesus and Madonna, walls covered with bas-reliefs in various patterns like devil, angels, signs of crucifixion and Portuguese sailing ship, and the beautifully landscaped garden in the front.

Opening hours: Monday Sunday: 9 am 6 pm, Tuesday: 9 am 2 pm

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2. Senado Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tourists having a taste of Macau Senado Square - one of the most popular places to see in Macau

One of the most popular places to see in Macau, Senado Square is always bustling with tourists and locals making it one of the top Macau tourist places. The Square isnt just about shops, restaurants, and offices, this is an important World Heritage Site as announced by UNESCO since it well portrays the magical history of Macau.

Many European buildings, a park, and a fountain elevate the magnetism of the area. Though Senado is always flocked with tourists, with the arrival of festivals and events it puts on a more stunning attire. If you happen to be here on any special day like Chinese New Year – dont miss the glamorous firework, lion and dragon dance held there.

Tourist Attractions: Authentic Chinese restaurants and apparel stores surrounding the square.

Opening hours: Open throughout the day

Entry fee: None

3. The Venetian: A Venetian Themed Hotel

Tourists having a gala time in a popular Macau tourist attraction, The Venetian

Venetian the Vegas-style and Venice-themed hotel is one of the stylish and best places to visit in Macau. It is known for ultra-luxurious expanses, spectacular d-cor, lavish facilities, and amazing activities.

Located on Cotai Strip , this luxurious extravaganza which is one of the top Macau tourist spots , comprises vast lounge, royal rooms, Japanese, Indian and Italian fine dining restaurants, huge food court, glamourous live shows, sparkling shopping malls and games, and entertainment zone.

Tourist Attractions: Gondola Ride through resort canals under painted sky ceiling, premium cabanas for a lavish poolside experience and Manchester United Flagship store. Be ready to try your luck in the worlds biggest casino.

Opening hours: Throughout the day

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4. Macau Tower: A Significant Landmark

Macaus cityscape during a beautiful evening

Macau Tower is a significant landmark of the city, known for a-lovely view from the-top, a magnificent structure, and an incredible construction. Constructed by Gordon Moller , this beautiful structure (338 m long) is one of the amazing places to visit in Macau.

It has observation decks and lounge, cinema, caf-, revolving deck and adventure zone. Also, the most enthralling and exciting activity related to Macau Tower is climbing atop of the worlds second highest bungee jumping base.

Tourist Attractions: Enjoy the most awe-inspiring view of Macau Peninsula, Pearl River Delta, Coloane Islands and Taipa. The best experiences here include bungee jumping, a stroll right around the edge of the observation deck, dining in the 360 Degree Cafe and shopping in the expansive stores.

Opening hours: Weekdays: 10 am 9 pm, Weekends: 9 am 9 pm

Entry fee: Infant: Free; Children (age 3-11) and Senior Citizens (Above 65): 70 MOP; and Adults: 130 MOP

5. A-Ma Temple: An Ancient Temple

A-Ma Temple dates back to 1488 and is devoted to the Chinese Goddess Matsu worshiped-by seafarers and fishermen). The ancient temple is one of the top tourist spots in Macau . It is believed that Macaus name itself was inspired by this temple. The temple boasts of its marvelous architecture, d-cor, style, and overall design – all of which combine to make it among the most important places to see in Macau. There are six sections of the temple and each holds the significant spiritual significance of its own.

Tourist Attractions: Chinese architecture on the stone lions at the entry, Mazu statue, Hongren Hall, Hall of Avalokitesvara and Zhengjiao Chanlin. Opening hours: 7 am 6 pm Entry fee: None

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6. Fishermans Wharf: A Themed Shopping Mall

Located near Maritime Terminal, Fishermans Wharf is a themed shopping mall and park, designed following Euramerican fisherman’s wharfs. Spread over sprawling 28 acres, the Fishermans Wharf has three sections; namely, Dynasty Wharf, East Meets West and Legend Wharf and is definitely one of the best places to visit in Macau.

Tourist Attractions: Water Performance Arena and a Video Games Center, Ramphitheatereatre, man-made volcano and waterfalls, model battleship and Arabian themed kids play zone. Opening hours: Opens throughout the day Entry fee: None

7. Macau Museum: An Insight Into History

Located in Monte Fortress , Macau Museum is a huge display area, exhibiting items and souvenirs of different communities and nationalities. The museum also exhibits how different sects of people had lived here in harmony, preserving their own culture and ethos. Offering an insight into history and culture, it has become one of the best places to visit in Macau with family .

Tourist Attractions: Exhibits of Neolithic Period and Contemporary Macau Opening hours: 10 am 6 pm. Last entry at 5:30 pm. Closed on Monday. Entry fee: 15 MOP for adults and 8 MOP for children (5-10) years and senior citizens. Entry is free for all on every 15th day of the month.

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8. Wine and Grand Prix Museum: Collection Of Over 1115 Wine Brands

Grand Prix and Wine Museum are among the most spellbinding places to see in Macau. The Grand Prix Museum is known for displays that are connected to Grand Prix globally, such as images, video clips, demonstrated write ups, victory cups, chronicles of champions and many celebratory items. Macau Wine Museum is also one of the most popular and interesting places to visit in Macau . It displays different processes and stages of brewing to public. Sprawling over 1400 sq m area, this museum boasts of its collection of 1115 wine brands.

Tourist Attractions: Formula 1 cars driven by Michael Schumacher, David Coulthard, &-Eduardo de Carvalho, and Ayrton Senna’s Formula 3 red &-white racing car, helmet, and racing cloth Brewing process and tasting the freshly brewed wine at the Wine Museum. Opening hours: 10 am 8 pm. Closed on Tuesdays. Entry fee: None

9. Fortaleza do Monte: For History Buffs

Located in close proximity to St Pauls Ruins, this Fortaleza do Monte has historical cannons, barracks, cisterns and storehouses, used in significant historical battles. Known as a military fort, this place attracts tourists, especially history buffs. Today, one side of this vintage fort is refurbished as the city office of Macau Meteorological Bureau.

Tourist Attractions: Canons used Dutch invaded Macau in 1622 Opening hours: 7 am -7 pm. Closed on Monday. Entry fee: MOP 15

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10. Hac Sa Beach: A Black Sand Beach

Hac Sa is the largest natural beach located on the south-western side of Coloane Island and one of the serene and splendid places to visit in Macau. This is a black sand beach and offers immense natural beauty. The serene shoreline and splendid beachfront attract nature lovers, honeymoon couples and travelers who prefer peaceful surrounding.

Tourist Attractions: A relaxing stroll on the beach and most photogenic sunset. Opening hours: 24 hours Entry fee: None

11. Kun Iam Statue: A Tall Bronze Statue

Kim Iam statue is a 20 m tall bronze statue of Goddess of Mercy emerging from a lotus. This work of art is located in outer harbor causeway and is one of the spectacular places to visit in Macau in one day. The lotus structure is an ecumenical center, which shares various pamphlets on Buddhism and preaches the religion too.

Tourist Attractions: Various preaching and demonstrations of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism in the ecumenical center Opening hours: 24 hours. The Buddhist Centre is open all day from 10 am to 6 pm, except Friday. Entry fee: None

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12. St Lawrence Church: For Its Neo - Classical Structure

Located along Macau coastline, the St. Lawrence Church is known as a praying ground for families of Portuguese sailors for a-safe return. The neo-classical structure with subtle Baroque decorative inspirations fascinates visitors. Definitely one of the charming places to see on your Macau sightseeing tour!

Tourist Attractions: The superb d-cor of Feng Shun Tang- Hall of the Soothing Winds

Opening hours: 10 am to 6 pm

13. The Macau Canidrome Club: For Exciting Dog Races

Canidrome Club is the only greyhound racing venue in Asia. The club is known for its spectacular and thrilling dog races, 5 days every week. This premium club is one of the top places to visit in Macau for kids and has a couple of grandstands, private boxes, and VIP lounges along with public stand for spectators and enthusiasts.

Tourist Attractions: 18 fantastic greyhound races on every night.

Opening hours: 7:30 pm to 9 pm. Closed on Wednesday and Friday.

Entry fee: MOP 10 for Public stand and MOP 80 for boxes. MOP 120 for the weekends and public holidays.

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14. Guia Fortress: One Of The Oldest Forts In Macau

Guia Fortress is one of the oldest forts in Macau located in the highest point of the peninsula which makes it one of the top tourist places in Macau . The fort is an elegant white structure representing western and Chinese designs, showing off styles of spiritual and fabulous motivation.

Tourist Attractions: The Chapel of Our Lady of Guia and Guia Lighthouse

Opening hours: 9 am 6 pm. The chapel is open from 10 am -6 pm. No admission after 5:30 pm.

Entry fee: Free

15. City of Dreams: An Entertainment Zone

Located in Cotai, City of Dreams is a hi-tech and glittering entertainment zone and very popular among Macau tourist attractions. Nightlife in City of Dreams is just amazing with sparkling casinos, dazzling discotheques, posh pubs, exquisite clubs, amazing live performances, stylish accommodations, fine dining restaurants of global cuisine and designer brand shopping.

Tourist Attractions: Kids City, Club Cubic, Vquarium, Crown Spa, Rock Spa, Isala Spa and Hard Rock Hotel Game Area.

Opening hours: 10 am -11 pm. On Friday and Saturday, it is open till midnight.

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16. Mandarin’s House: A Courtyard Style Mansion

Located by the side of Lilau Square, Mandarins house was the residence of Zheng Guanying who was a patriotic merchant of modern China. A beautifully architectured courtyard style mansion, this attraction became a UNESCO world heritage site in 2005 and considered as the part of Historic Center of Macau. This ancient monument was built in 1894 and after an eight year renovation this monument was opened for public in 2010.

Location: MacauAntonio da SilvaMO 10 Travessa de Timings: Mon-Sun (10AM-6PM), Wed (Closed)

17. Taipa Village: A Traditional Village

Just a few steps away from the Macau's famous Casino strip lies this traditional village which is one of the best areas of the city preserved. This village reflects the cultural side through its historic buildings, museums, galleries and shops which are standing there since old times. Adorned with pedestrian streets and beautiful alleys, it is one of the interesting places to visit in Macau.

Tourist Attractions: Historical buildings and museums

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

Entry fee: NA

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18. Macau Science Center: For Those Who Love Science & Tech

Housing an exhibition centre, a planetarium and a convention centre, the Macau Science Center is one of the popular Macau attractions especially for those who seek knowledge and those who like scientific exhibits and interactions. Technology, lifestyle and environment are some of the topics that are covered and dome movies are played in 3D with an ultra HD video system making it fun! This attraction can also be visited as a part of day trips from Hong Kong .

Tourist Attractions: Dome movies and exhibits Opening hours: 10:00 AM-6:00 PM Entry fee: INR 200

19. Studio City: A Casino Resort

Located in the Cotai region of Macau, the Studio city is a hotel and casino resort which is Asia's first. This luxurious studio resort integrates television, film production facilities, gaming, and retail. Featuring an Art Deco design, the Studio city has various attractions to enjoy while enjoying its lavish interiors. Some of them are the Batman Dark Flight, the Cosmos food station and many more.

Location: MacauEstr. do Istmo, Studio City Rating: 4.4/5 Tariff: Starting from INR 12.000

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20. Flora Garden: Something For Anthophiles

Situated at the foothills of the Guia hill, Flora Garden is an European style garden which is considered as Macaus largest public park and also one of the best sightseeing places in Macau. This garden was once used as a ground for Flora Palace which is a mansion built during the Portuguese Macau Era. Inside the garden there is an aviary, a small zoo and a patio. Along with this the garden is adorned with flowerbeds, small waterfalls and belvedere.

Location: Av. de Sid-nio Pais, Macau Timings: 6AM-10:30PM (Open Daily)

21. Coloane: To Get In Touch With The Culture

Coloane Island in Macau is a beautiful destination that is home to numerous historical attractions. An enormous fishing community resides here giving you a perfect chance to grab the scrumptious local eateries. There are numerous souvenir shops here from where you can buy a few affordable memories back home!

Tourist Attractions: Chapel of Saint Francis Xavier Opening hours: No timing Entry fee: No entry fee

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22. Nam Van Lake: The Largest Man-Made Fountain In Asia

Amongst the must-visit tourist attractions in Macau, Nam Van Lake is the largest man-made fountain in Asia and is amongst the most stunning attractions of Macau. It has 86 spouts, shooting water from a height of 80 meters. Evenings are spellbinding here as the interesting laser show lures travelers from across the world to this destination.

Tourist Attractions: Fishermans wharf, and Coloane Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM Entry fee: No fee

23. Warner Brothers Fun Zone: To Have Fun

Located in Cotai, Macau; Warner Brothers fun zone is the best place to visit in Macau with kids. The playground has statues of numerous popular characters of Warners Brothers, DC, and Hanna-Barbera. The ambiance of this fun zone excites kids as well as adults as you will surely relive your childhood days here.--

Tourist Attractions: Ocean Park Kingdom Park Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM Entry fee: INR 1500

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24. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom Park: For Electrifying Rides

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom Park is a popular spot that is loved by kids and adults. The enormous aquarium at the resort showcases extinct species of sharks, beluga whales, and numerous other wild animals including polar bears. You can also go for electrifying rides and adventures here.

Tourist Attractions: Warner Brothers Fun Zone Opening hours: 10:00 AM-8:30 PM Entry fee: INR 1500

25. Skycap Cable Car: For Adventure Seekers

This adventurous cable car will make you fly over the deep forests and a rock which is millions of years old. The place must not be missed out by adrenaline junkies holidaying in Macau in 2019 as the amazing cable car is one of its kinds. The cable car ride commences at the foothills of Machicang Mountain and covers a journey of 1700 meters at an elevation of over 700 meters.--

Opening hours: 9:00 AM-6:00 PM Entry fee: INR 1000

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26. Macao Giant Panda Pavilion: To Interact With Pandas

Wondering where to go in Macau? Well, we have a suggestion! Located in Coloane, this unique place is a must-visit hotspot in Macau. This pavilion houses adorable giant pandas and enthralls the visitors with the exciting sights of this playful animal. The outdoor yard which is the playground for giant pandas is the chief attraction here.

Tourist Attractions: Seac Pai Van Park Opening hours: 10:00 AM-1:00 PM & 2:00 PM-5:00 PM Entry fee: INR 86

27. Macau Peninsula: For The Art Of It

Amongst the best things to see in Macau, this bustling centre of the city is known for its colonial-style buildings, vibrant casinos, and enthusiastic crowd. This is the most exciting spot in Macau where one can glance art sets, galleries, quaint, or check the local cuisine from beautiful cafes here.-

Opening hours: No time restrictions Entry fee: Free entry Tourist Attractions: Galleries, Cafes

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28. Macau Ferry Terminal & Heliport: Unconventional Yet Interesting

This unconventional yet interesting tourist attraction in Macau is popularly known as Shun Tak Macau terminal and welcomes flights between Macau and Hong Kong and is one of the top places to go in Macau . The place is also a popular pad for helicopters and purveys the stunning sights of the helicopter taking off from helipad near the waters.--

Tourist Attractions: Chimelong Ocean Kingdom Park Opening hours: No time restrictions Entry fee: No entry fee but rides are chargeable

29. Lou Lim Ioc Garden: Something For Leisure

This stunning garden was built by a local resident of Macau in the year 1906. This is amongst the most popular places in Macau and has been designed after the famous garden of Suzhou. You can have leisurely hours here, where you can relax at your own pace.

Tourist Attractions: Macau Peninsula Opening hours: 24 hours open Entry fee: No entry fee

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30. Holy House of Mercy: Sacred And Cultural

The Holy House of Mercy was established in 1569 with an aim to impart educational, medical and social assistance to the underprivileged locals. Currently, it has been transformed into a museum and features numerous sacrificial offerings and precious items like Jesus on the Cross.

Tourist Attractions: Macau Science Center Opening hours: 10:00 AM-6:00 PM Entry fee: INR 200

31. Dom Pedro V Theatre: For Architecture Enthusiasts

The name can be misleading but its only true to an extent. Yes, it is a theatre but it’s not just that. Built-in 1860, Dom Pedro V Theatre is one of the most popular Macau tourist spots and is a favourite among architecture enthusiasts. The Dom V Pedro theatre is not just a theatre but there is also a ballroom and reading room within the complex and is made in neo-classic Greek architectural style. It is also one of the top Macau attractions that are visited by tourists.

Tourist Attractions: Theatre events Opening hours: 10:00 AM-11:00 PM Entry fee: INR 900 (approx)

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32. St Dominic’s Church: For A Connection With The Divine

The famous church was bulit in the fond rememberance of Lady of the Rosary and remains to be one of the well known tourist spots in Macau. If you are someone who wishes to experience spiritual enlightenment and a connection with the divine then this place is definitely for you. Made with grace and elegance, the St. Dominic’s Church is surreal and captivating and is among the most famous places in Macau !

Tourist Attractions: The stunning decor Opening hours: 10:00 AM-6:00 PM Entry fee: No entry fee

33. St Augustine’s Square: A Cobblestoned Church Square

Sitting atop a hill is one of the most beautiful Macau tourist attractions which is the St Augustine’s Square. The street reeks of Portuguese art as the entire square is designed in that manner and houses many historical buildings. The exteriors are done in white, green and pastel yellow and make it look very attractive and pleasing. There is also a church designed in the Portuguese style. This is also one of the best places to visit by couples for Valentines in Macau.

Tourist Attractions: The quirky style of the street and the church Opening hours: 24 hours Entry fee: No entry fee

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34. Lotus Square

Yet another one of the best places to visit in Macau at night is the Lotus Square that features two bronze lotuses representing the prosperity of Macau. The giant statue is at least 6 feet tall and weighs 6 ton. The statue which is in the shape of a half blooming lotus flower along with pistils and stem is a masterpiece of art. Macau tourism is popular for its many architectural relics and this is one of them.

The leaves of the flower which is the red granite pillar are set as three layers each corresponding to the three different regions of Macau namely the Peninsula, Coloane Island and Taipa Island. There is a flag raising ceremony which is held everyday at 8 am and flag lowering at 8 pm.

Tourist Attractions: Flag raising and lowering ceremony. Opening hours: Open throughout the day Entry fee: None

35. Puji Temple

Dedicated to the Guanyin, the guardian angel of the hot springs, the Puji Temple is one of the last remains of the Japanese temples from its era. The temple is protected by the government and is officially declared as a historical site. The simple decorations of the temple, the intricate Japanese architecture and is a proof of the rich history of Macau.

The tranquility of the place, its sober design and the aura of holiness brings you close to the Japanese cultural roots. So if you are looking for some place to enjoy the peace and beauty of Macau, you know where to visit in Macau .

Tourist Attractions: Japanese worship ceremonies. Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Entry fee: None

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36. Cheoc Van Beach

Similar to the white sand beach of Cheoc Van Beach in China gives you the feeling of a true tropical vacation. Encircled by palm groves and lush jungles, this beautiful beach in Macau is a perfect place to escape the chaos of city life and spend some time in the beautiful and tranquil surroundings of the beach to do nothing but relax.

The entire beach is dotted by lifeguards, which means that the waters a perfectly safe for your kids as well. Enjoy a lazy day, lying around on the beach getting your dose of Vitamin D.

Tourist Attractions: Swimming, water activities, beach hopping Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Entry fee: None

The list is ready and updated and now it’s your turn to pick the best places to visit in Macau for the next holiday. Book your vacation in Macau with TravelTriangle now and get ready for the most enthralling vacation in 2024! You can also get your itinerary customized according to your preferences by logging in to the TravelTriangle website.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Macau

Which are the best places to visit in Macau?

Some of the most alluring places to visit in Macau are: 1. Ruins Of St. Paul’s 2. Senado Square 3. The Venetian 4. Macau Tower 5. A-Ma Temple 6. Fishermans Wharf 7. Macau Museum 8. Wine and Grand Prix Museum 9. Fortaleza do Monte 10. Hac Sa Beach

What is Macau known for?

Macau is known for being a blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures and its gambling industry. It is also famous for being home to many alluring tourist places where kids, as well as adults, can enjoy.

Is Macau Open for tourists now?

Yes, Tourists can now travel to Macau. However, you need to follow all the covid protocols like wearing a mask when in public, maintaining required social distance, and sanitizing hands at certain intervals. Also, make sure to check the Covid update of the destination you’re planning to visit.

What is the best time to visit Macau?

The best time to visit Macau is from October to December as the weather is pleasant during these months and travellers would be comfortable exploring the destination at.

Which are the best things to do in Macau?

Here are some of the best experiences you can enjoy in Macau: 1. Explore the ruins of St. Pauls At Night 2. Stroll through Taipa Village 3. Visit various Chinese Temples 4. Watch the house of Dancing Water 5. Spend some cosy time at the Hac Sa Beach

Which are the best restaurants in Macau that one can visit on their trip?

Belon, Golden Flower, Lai Heen, Kira, Guincho a Galera, and Vida Rica are the best restaurants in Macau that one should visit on their trip.

What language(s) do they speak in Macau?

Chinese is the official language of Macau. However, the natives interact in both Chinese and Portuguese because of the colonial influence that has remained.

What can I buy from Macau?

Chinese antiques and home décor products, jewellery, wine, designer clothes, and perfumes are the ideal souvenirs to bring back from Macau.

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Things to Do in Macau: Top 10 Macau Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit

Macau is located on the eastern side of the Pearl River estuary in South China . Being a amazing city close to Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Guangzhou , it is a must-visit during your Greater Bay Area trip. When Macau was first opened to Westerners, it played a crucial role as a trading port and gateway between East and West, leading to its flourishing as a cosmopolitan city. The fusion of cultures in Macau profoundly influenced its architecture, cuisine, language, and cultural traditions even the currency here is unique.

When a city comes with such a fascinating cultural heritage and entertainments everywhere it naturally becomes a great destination for tourists. Travelers visiting Guangzhou , Shenzhen or Hong Kong always tend to add Macau into their itineraries as the cherry on top. It is a ideal destination to unwind, explore and get some thrills at the same time. With countless attractions Macau has to offer “What are the things to do in Macau with limited time to spend?” becomes a question for many visitors.

Here are some useful tips with ultimate attraction guide for your Macau trip . We have listed some most famous 10 attractions in Macau for you. In addition to the must-visit attractions like Senado Square and renowned casinos such as The Venetian, there is so much more to explore during your trip to Macau. Let check them out!

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Explore UNESCO Sites on Macau Peninsula

Macau encompasses three primary regions, namely the Macau Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane.

Macau Peninsula , the Historic Centre of Macao represents the historical and densely populated core of Macau , while Taipa embodies a contemporary and affluent district , housing a plethora of entertainment venues and casinos . So let’s take the time machine and dive into the historic center of Macau first!

Macau's role as a trading port and cultural meeting point fostered a unique religious landscape where diverse beliefs thrived. During Macau's colonial period local temples and Western churches coexisted peacefully. This coexistence celebrated Macau's cultural diversity and shaped its identity. The UNESCO Sites in Macau serve as a splendid reflection of the city's diversity and tranquility.

Good news for day-trippers : Most Macau's historical attractions are conveniently located within walking distance to each other. There is more to see with less travel. With a little bit planning or help from local guide you can literally Walk through the History in the Macau city!

1. Ruins of St. Paul's: Symbol of Macau's Unique UNESCO World Cultural Heritage

Welcome to the extraordinary Ruins of St. Paul's , an absolute gem among landmarks of Macau and a UNESCO World Heritage Site ! Let's go back in time and marvel at the remnants of this 17th-century church, which now stand as a testament to the city's fascinating history.

Originally a Jesuit church from the 17th century, it suffered destruction by fire in 1835, leaving behind its awe-inspiring facade. The facade, constructed in the Baroque style known for its intricate embellishments and classical elements, also embraces Eastern elements.

This is what sets the Ruins of St. Paul's apart, the seamless integration of Baroque and Eastern aesthetics . The facade is divided into four tiers, each adorned with distinct ornamentation. The lower tier showcases elaborate Chinese characters, while the upper tier boasts Baroque elements like pilasters and columns. The middle two tiers artfully blend both styles. Notably, the stone carvings bear Chinese characters and dragon head carvings exemplifying the fusion of cultures are also something worth checking out up close if you get the chance.

Here are some delightful activities to make your visit unforgettable:

1. Strike a pose in front of the iconic facade, and capture a picture-perfect moment to cherish forever.

2. Immerse yourself in the captivating tales of the church and the Ruins of St. Paul's at the enthralling Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt.

3. Ascend to the top of the Ruins for awe-inspiring panoramic views that showcase the breathtaking beauty of Macau .

Location: Ruins of St. Paul's, Macau Peninsula Recommended Visiting Time: 1-2 hours Suitable for: History Enthusiasts, Photographers You Will Get: Fascinating Historical Insights, Immersive Cultural Experience

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2. Fortaleza do Monte(大炮台): Get on the Highest Point in Macau for Panoramic Views

Visit the magnificent Fortaleza do Monte , also known as Mount Fortress , perched atop highest point of Macau ! This 17th-century fortress holds the key to Macau's captivating history and promises an adventure you won't want to miss.

Here are some delightful activities to make the most of your visit to Fortaleza do Monte:

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Macau's past at the Macau Museum , nestled within Fortaleza do Monte. Uncover fascinating artifacts that tell the story of this vibrant city, offering a deeper understanding of its heritage and culture.

Take a leisurely stroll around the fortress and indulge in breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Let the panoramic vistas of Macau's enchanting skyline and scenic landscapes leave you in awe, creating picture-perfect memories that will last a lifetime.

Discover the Chapel of Our Lady of Guia , a hidden gem within Fortaleza do Monte. This 17th-century chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary exudes a tranquil ambiance and serves as a beloved pilgrimage site. Pay your respects and soak in the spiritual atmosphere that permeates this sacred space.

Uncover the secrets of Fortaleza do Monte, where history comes alive and panoramic views paint a mesmerizing backdrop.

Location: Fortaleza do Monte, Macau Peninsula Recommended Visiting Time: 1-2 hours Suitable for: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Spiritual Seekers You Will Get: Fascinating Historical Insights, Captivating Panoramic Views

3. Senado Square: Lively Public Square in the Historic Center of Macau

Step into the vibrant heart of historic center of Macau and discover the enchanting Senado Square , another UNESCO World Heritage Site that brims with charm and cultural treasures!

Starting your city walk tour from Senado Square grants you easy access to multiple Macau’s tourist attractions. From captivating churches to mouthwatering flavors, this lively square has it all.

Here are some best things to do to make the most of your visit to Senado Square:

1. Marvel at the awe-inspiring St. Dominic's Church , a true architectural gem that stands with grace and elegance. Let its intricate details and serene atmosphere captivate your senses as you step inside this magnificent place of worship.

2. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Leal Senado Building , the seat of Macau's government. Admire its majestic facade and witness the echoes of history that reverberate within its walls. Feel the weight of the past.

3. Take a leisurely stroll around the square itself, where a lively atmosphere and bustling energy await. Soak up the vibrant ambiance, indulge in people-watching, and let the spirit of Macau's cultural fusion envelop you.

4. Treat your taste buds to a delectable culinary journey by sampling the mouthwatering local delicacies and refreshing drinks at the charming restaurants and cafes that line the square.

And yes, we have food recommendations later in this article, so keep reading through.

Location: Senado Square, Macau Peninsula Recommended Visiting Time: 1-2 hours Suitable for: History Enthusiasts, Culture Seekers, Foodies You will experience: Fascinating Historical Insights, Immersive Cultural Exploration

4. A-Ma Temple: Taoist Temple Dedicated to the Chinese Sea-goddess Mazu

Mazu is the goddess of the sea and is often worshipped by fishermen and sailors. She is also known as the protector of travelers such as yourself. As a popular deity in China and many other regions of Asia Mazu is believed to have been a real person who lived in the 10th century, and a saint if you will.

A-Ma Temple , one of Macau's oldest and most revered temple, where the spirit of the Chinese seafaring goddess Mazu resides. A must-visit when you on your Macau trip. Check what to do at this traditional Taoist temple:

Immerse yourself in the mystical aura of A-Ma Temple and learn about the fascinating legend of Mazu , the goddess of the sea. Marvel at the intricate architecture and intricate details that adorn this sacred sanctuary, as you delve into the ancient traditions and beliefs that have shaped Macau's cultural tapestry.

You can chose to offer a prayer or make a wish at A-Ma Temple , seeking blessings of good luck and safe travels. Think about it how many fishermen, sailors and their families have been in the temple pray for safe return. Can you hear the prayers echoes through history?

Don't forget to explore the colorful temple stalls , brimming with an array of souvenirs and trinkets that capture the essence of Macau's cultural heritage, find the perfect memento to cherish your Maucau trip.

Travel Tips: When visiting A-Ma Temple in Macau , it is recommended to dress modestly and respectfully . While there is no strict dress code enforced, it is advisable to follow these guidelines: Cover your shoulders, avoid revealing clothing, long pants or skirts, remove hats. And refrain from using flash flight when taking photos.

Location: A-Ma Temple, Macau Peninsula

Recommended Visiting Time: 1-2 hours

Suitable for: Culture Seekers, Spiritual Explorers

You will experience: Immersive Cultural Delights, Spiritual Insights, Serene Tranquility

Time for a Bit of Action Like 007 at Taipa's Attractions

While the Macau Peninsula holds the rich historical essence of Macau , it is on the island of Taipa where you can find all the thrills and fun. Did you know that the story background of Skyfall, the twenty-third spy film in the James Bond series, was actually based on Macau ? With Macau being a vibrant and sleepless city, its nightlife is truly one of the best in the world. More specifically it is in Taipa, the lively district of Macau, which is renowned for offering the world's most exceptional nightlife experiences. If you are visiting the Greater Bay Area and would like to experience the Fun Part of the Macau only, you could consider skipping the Macau Peninsula and go straight to Taipa. And of course if you are already on the Macau Peninsula do find your way to Taipa. You can't miss the the most inviting attraction area in Macau .

How to Get to Taipa :

All these cities are located in the Greater Bay Area which means there are various ways of transportation you could chose. And Ferry might be the best choice since you could enjoy a stunning view of cost lines of the most vibrant metropolis along the way to Macau .

Hong Kong :

Ferry terminal: Shekou Ferry Terminal or Fuyong Ferry TerminalFerry companies: TurboJet, Cotai Water JetFerry duration: 1 hourPrice range: RMB150-200

Guangzhou :

Ferry terminal: Guangzhou Nansha Passenger PortFerry company: TurboJetFerry duration: 1 hour and 30 minutesPrice range: RMB200-250

How to book a ferry ticket:

You can book a ferry ticket online or at the ferry terminal. To book a ferry ticket online, you can visit the website of the ferry company that you are traveling with. To book a ferry ticket at the ferry terminal, you can go to the ticket counter and purchase a ticket from a sales agent.

Tips: The operating schedule and terminals of ferries in Macau may vary due to factors such as seasons and weather conditions. It is important to carry your passport when traveling. Additionally, it is advisable to exchange some Macau Patacas in advance, as the currency used in Macau is different from the currencies of the cities you may be traveling from.

5. Venetian Macao: Feeling Lucky at the Luxury hotel and the Largest Casino Resort in Asia?

Yes, I did say it is more than just casinos for night life here. But Casinos are what Macau is famous for. So why don't you start from Venetian Macao for your night in Macau , where the charm of Venice meets the thrill of a world-class resort! A place filled with excitement, entertainment, and endless possibilities. Here on the table you would find the thrills like you are in a James Bond film .

You might be wondering - There are so many casinos in Macau . Why should I chose Venetian Macao? Here's the top reasons to choose Venetian Macao:

Size and Grandeur: The Venetian Macao is one of the largest casinos globally, offering a vast gaming floor and a luxurious atmosphere.

Not Just a Casino: It is an all-in-one destination with not just a casino but also world-class shopping, dining, live performances, and accommodations.

Themed Architecture: The resort's stunning architecture is inspired by Venice, Italy, featuring indoor canals and gondola rides.

The Grand Canal Shoppes: Considering your are on a tightly scheduled Macau trip shopping at the casino seems like a reasonable choice, isn't it? These shops offer a variety of souvenirs and gifts, as well as clothing, accessories, and other items.

International Standards and Reputation: Operated by the renowned Las Vegas Sands Corporation, you can expect nothing less than top-notch service, impeccable facilities, and a commitment to international standards that guarantees an unforgettable experience. That's what The Venetian Macao would offer and that's what you would get. And there's not much need to worry about the currency exchange like you do when shopping at Macau's small stores since you are at casinos already.

Tips: "Bond, James Bond. And I never bet on anything I'm not prepared to lose." Location: The Venetian Macao, Cotai Strip Recommended Visiting Time: 3-4 hours Suitable for: Casino enthusiasts, Shopaholics, Entertainment seekers You will experience: Thrills, Fun, Unforgettable Shopping and Dining

6. Cotai Strip (路凼城金光大道): The Epic Showdown

Introducing Cotai Strip, Macau's best attraction area, where the thrilling climax of the James Bond film Skyfall unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of Cotai Strip - a bustling district teeming with magnificent casinos and resorts.

The Cotai Strip boasts some of the world's most expansive and luxurious casinos, which include:

The Venetian Macao: As mentioned above it is one of the largest casino globally. The Venetian Macao offers an array of attractions, encompassing a casino, a shopping mall, and even a gondola ride.

City of Dreams: City of Dreams is a casino resort that presents a diverse range of attractions, including a DreamWorks-themed park, a water park, and of course, a casino. The feature Show here is amazing and only available in Macau . It is a must-see and we will get to that later.

Studio City Macau : Studio City Macau is a casino resort featuring an assortment of attractions, such as a movie-themed park, a casino, and a hotel.

Galaxy Macau : Galaxy Macau is a casino resort that boasts a multitude of attractions, including a casino, a water park, and a skytop infinity pool.

Wynn Palace: Wynn Palace is a casino resort that offers a variety of attractions, such as a casino, a shopping mall, and a captivating performance lake.

Cotai Strip also offers a variety of shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment options . Visitors can find everything from high-end fashion boutiques to affordable souvenirs. There are also a variety of restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world. And for entertainment, there are theaters, nightclubs, and shows to choose from. Shopping in Macau has always been a smooth experience.

Tips on Currency: While Macau has its unique currency your credit card is acceptable at most stores in this sleepless city. But do exchange some local currency in cash form as some vendors on the street might not be able to receive payment via cards.

How to get to Cotai Strip from Taipa Ferry terminal:

Upon arrival at Taipa Ferry Terminal, proceed to the exit and look for transportation options including taxis, buses or shuttle bus.

Many major casinos and resorts on the Cotai Strip provide free shuttle bus services for guests. Check the information boards or ask the staff at the ferry terminal for the shuttle bus schedule and pick-up location.

7. The 007 Skyfall Cocktail: Shaken or Stirred?

Introducing the 007 Skyfall Cocktail , a sophisticated and flavorful delight for James Bond enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs.

The recipe was invented by mixologist and bar consultant Erik Lorincz, a well-respected mixologist, and he has created a number of other popular cocktails, including the Penicillin.

Crafted specifically for the iconic James Bond film Skyfall, the 007 Skyfall cocktail has become a must-try for Macau-bound adventurers seeking a taste of Bond's world.

Where to get it: The Venetian Macao , The Hard Rock Hotel , The Grand Lisboa and number of bars and restaurants in Macau

Tips: Be prepared to pay a premium for the cocktail. The 007 Skyfall cocktail is a specialty cocktail, and it is likely to be more expensive than a regular cocktail.

More Night Life in Macau? You Bet!

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8. Macau Tower: Bungy Jump at Night?

Macau Tower is also a good tour spot to visit for your night life. Adorned with vibrant illuminations, the tower dazzles with an array of colors, while the observation deck treats visitors to breathtaking views. From this vantage point, the magnificent Macau skyline, neighboring islands, and the coastline of mainland China unfold before your eyes.

Would you like embrace this glamour of the night here? Maybe a little bit of the night Bungy here?

Here are some of the exciting things you can do at Macau Tower:

Skywalk X: Walk along the outer edge of the Macau Tower Observation Deck at 233 meters (764 feet) above the ground.

AJ Hackett Macau Tower Bungy Jump: Experience the adrenaline rush of a lifetime with a bungy jump from 233 meters (764 feet) above the ground.

Tower Climb: Climb the 1,000 stairs to the top of the Macau Tower for even more stunning views of the city.

360 View Cafe: Enjoy a delicious meal or drink while rotating 360 degrees for unparalleled views of Macau .

Tromba Rija: Experience the thrill of dining at the highest restaurant in Macau , located at 223 meters (732 feet) above the ground.

Observation Deck: Take in the panoramic views of Macau and its surroundings from the Macau Tower Observation Deck, located 233 meters (764 feet) above the ground.

Location: Macau Peninsula, situated at Macau Tower Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours Perfect for: Adventure enthusiasts, Thrill-seekers, Families You Will Get: Breathtaking Views, Adrenaline Rush, Unforgettable Memories

9. The House of Dancing Water(新濠天地水舞间): A Must-see Show in Macau

With Macau being a tourist attraction and international metropolis itself you can imagine how many shows, concerts & events would take place here on a regular basis. Why would you need to see The House of Dancing Water in particular? Because it is the one and only show that you could probably see only in Macau , and it is great!

As mentioned earlier in this article The House of Dancing Water, showcased at Macau's City of Dreams resort , is an awe-inspiring water extravaganza. As one of the world's largest water shows , it boasts a cast of over 80 talented performers hailing from various corners of the globe.

Check out some tips:

Book in Advance: Given its popularity, it's wise to purchase tickets ahead of time, especially during peak seasons. Dress for Comfort: While the theater is air-conditioned, opt for comfortable attire. Bringing a jacket or sweater is advisable, as the show's duration can be quite long. Prepare for a Splash: It's a water show as the name suggests, so expect the possibility of getting wet. The first few rows are designated as "splash seats". So dress wisely if you want the front row.

10. Lose Yourself in Macau's Street Food Adventures

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Macau's cuisine blends Portuguese and Chinese influences, reflecting its colonial heritage. Signature dishes like Minchi , Macanese duck rice , Serradura , and Portuguese egg tarts highlight this fusion of flavors and culinary traditions.

Indulging in these iconic dishes allows you to embark on a delicious journey that captures Macau's distinctive fusion of Portuguese and Chinese flavors , defining its gastronomic landscape.it is a must-try for any visitor to Macau . Here are some great spots to eat like locals.

Lord Stow's Bakery, Senado Square, Macau Peninsula: Lord Stow's Bakery is known for its Portuguese egg tarts, which are made with a flaky crust and a creamy custard filling.

Gelatina Mok Yee Kei,Taipa Village, Taipa Peninsula: Gelatina Mok Yee Kei is known for its Serradura (sawdust pudding cake), which is made with layers of crushed biscuits and a sweet milk pudding.

Sei Kee Cafe, Senado Square, Macau Peninsula: Sei Kee Cafe is known for its pork chop buns, which are made with a crispy pork chop sandwiched between two soft buns.

Pastelaria Fong Kie, Senado Square, Macau Peninsula: Pastelaria Fong Kie is known for its almond cookies, which are made with almonds, sugar, and flour.

Koi Kei Bakery,Senado Square, MacauPeninsula: Koi Kei Bakery is known for its beef jerky, which is made with marinated beef that is dried and then sliced.

In addition to these specific restaurants, you can also find a variety of street food vendors selling snacks and drinks throughout Macau . Pork chop buns, Egg tarts, Almond cookies, Beef jerky, Fish balls, Curried beef balls, Stinky tofu, Portuguese custard pies, Serradura, Bubble tea the list could go on forever...

And here are some of the areas where you can start your food adventure:

Senado Square: Senado Square is a popular tourist destination in Macau and is home to a number of street food vendors.

Ruins of St. Paul's: The Ruins of St. Paul's is another popular tourist destination in Macau and is also home to a number of street food vendors.

Taipa Village: Taipa Village is a charming historic village with cobbled streets and a number of street food vendors.

Cotai Strip: Cotai Strip is a popular tourist destination in Macau and is home to a number of street food vendors, especially near the casinos and resorts.

Luckily, our itinerary encompasses all of these sites, allowing you to indulge in authentic street food while immersing yourself in Macau's cultural heritage. Alternatively, you can savor delectable snacks from local vendors as you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Taipa Peninsula in Macau .

Macau Travel Tips for First Timers:

Respect smoking areas: Smoking indoors, including under roofs, is prohibited in Macau . Use designated smoking areas and avoid smoking in prohibited zones.

Observe photography guidelines: At places like A-Ma Temple, refrain from using flash photography. Follow signage and instructions regarding photography restrictions as some casinos might have restrictions as well.

Carry identification: Keep a form of ID, like your passport or a copy, with you. It may be needed for verification or certain activities.

Currency Exchange: Macau's official currency is the Macau Pataca ( MOP ). Some establishments accept other currencies, including the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) and Chinese Yuan (CNY). However, it's advisable to carry Macau Patacas for most transactions. Exchange rates for other currencies may be less favorable, so it's recommended to convert your currency to Macau Patacas for a smoother shopping experience.

How to Plan Your Macau Trip & Extension to Greater Bay Area

With half-a-day trip travelers can get a glimpse of historical heritage and the thrills Macau has to offer, which would cover some of the Macau attractions including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 1 or 2 casinos along the way. If you would like a more immersive experience 1-day trip or more time is more ideal for you to cover more tour spots and experience night life Macau has been famous for.

If you're planning a day trip to Macau , it's highly recommended to go from Hong Kong , or you can combine both destinations and explore Hong Kong and Macau together. If you have a bit more time, around 4-6 days, consider extending your trip to the Greater Bay Area . This will allow you to delve deeper into the region and experience its diverse natural landscapes and rich cultural offerings. Don't miss the chance to visit Guangzhou , Shenzhen , or Foshan for a more immersive travel experience.

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Explore Hong Kong & Macau with Asia Odyssey Travel

Asia Odyssey Travel has a local office and a team of local experts in Hong Kong who can provide you with an in-depth insight into Hong Kong and its surrounding areas. Macau , being a small island as it is, has so many to offer for tourists. It is not a problem finding the attractions yet planing ahead, booking in advance and local guide could save you considerable amount of time and energy. It is easy to lose your bearing when navigating through the city with one of world's highest population density where everything everywhere is so soul capturing.

We offer flexible Macau tours tailored to meet your needs. So you can chose the best way to make the best of your time in Macau during your short visit. With Macau being a busy tourist attraction it's wise to book every thing early. Plan ahead and contact us today.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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20 Must Visit Attractions In...

23 Must-Visit Attractions In Macau

Beautiful cityscape of Macau downtown city skyline

At only 11 square miles, Macau might be small, but it’s certainly not lacking in things to do. Here’s our pick of the top 23 attractions which cover beaches to bungee jumps and everything in between. If you thought Macau was just a place for casinos and gambling, think again!

Sample macanese cuisine.

Restaurant, Asian

Hong Kong food Sweet dessert with tart egg and custard cream egg tart and Portugese custard tart

Try the World’s Highest Bungy Jump

Amusement Park, Building

The House of Dancing Water

Studio city.

Architectural Landmark

This US$3.2 billion cinematically-themed leisure resort offers several entertainment options like Golden Reel, the world’s first and highest figure-eight ferris wheel, and The House of Magic, a theatre show where you can witness some of the world’s greatest magicians work their craft. The newest attraction is Batman Dark Flight, a 4D flight simulation ride – the first of its kind in the world.

Macau Tower

Macau Tower holds the Guinness World Record for housing the highest commercial bungee jump in the world – at 233m (764 ft.), it’s not for the faint-hearted. Offering panoramic views of the city, the tower is also home to The 360°Café, Macau’s highest revolving restaurant.

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A-Ma Temple

Buddhist Temple

Taipa village

Historical Landmark

Macau, 29 June 2024: Taipa Houses Museum in Macau

A great representation of Macau’s East meets West character, Taipa village is home to Portuguese and Mediterranean influences alongside Chinese architectural features, offering a detailed example of the region’s rich cultural heritage and historic beauty. Here you will find museums and colonial churches juxtaposed against Chinese temples in what is a welcome alternative to the casino area.

Macau Maritime museum

Macau’s harbour was one of the main trading posts in the region and forms an integral part of the city’s history. This museum, shaped like a ship, is located at Barra Pagoda, the place where the Portuguese first landed. The highlights here are the interactive displays detailing the maritime histories of Portugal and China, its gallery of aquariums and the mock-ups of boats – including the long, narrow dragon boats used during the Dragon Boat Festival.

Grand Resort Deck

This water wonderland located inside Galaxy Macau is the go-to place to cool down during the long hot summer months. It’s a whopping 75,000m² (807,293 ft.²) and features multiple swimming pools, an expansive white sand beach and the world’s largest Skytop Wave Pool. Other attractions include waterslides, beach lagoons, white water rapids, geysers, waterfalls and Macau’s largest kids aquatic zone.

Museum of Macau

Macau,,China,-,November,28,,2023:,The,Macau,Museum,(museu

The Museum of Macau is the biggest museum in they city, located just across from the ruins of St Paul’s. The exhibition building is a three-floor structure, covering a total area of 2,800m² (30,128 ft.²), and features more than 3,000 exhibits and historical relics. The museum covers a broad scope of the region’s history, encompassing both Chinese and Portuguese perspectives.

Ruins of St. Paul’s

Arguably Macau’s most famous landmark, the Ruins of St. Paul’s is an astounding stone façade. The complex of St. Paul’s College and the Cathedral of St. Paul were originally constructed in the 16th century, but burned down in 1835 leaving only one surviving wall. The Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt was built at the base of the ruins in 1996 and houses many religious artefacts.

Senado Square

Macao giant panda pavilion.

The Giant Panda pavilion offers a rare chance to catch a glimpse of two giant pandas, Kai Kai and Xin Xin. Last year giant panda Xin Xin gave birth to a set of adorable twins named Dabao and Xiaobao, giving you double the reason to visit. The pavilion is a 3,000m² (32,291 ft.²) state-of-the-art facility that comprises indoor activity quarters and an outdoor yard, as well as buildings where the pandas are fed and cared for.

Flora Garden

Flora Garden is Macau’s largest public park. This European style garden features a stone pathway that winds upward, past small waterfalls and belvederes, to the top of Guia Hill, the highest point in Macau. Alternatively, you can ride the cable car to the top of the hill and enjoy the panoramic views of the city below.

Hac Sa Beach

Natural Feature

Hac Sa Beach, which translates as ‘Black Sand Bay’, is Macau’s largest natural beach. Located in the area of Coloane, the beach’s standout feature was its coal black sand. However, in recent years, white sand has been added to the shores. Despite losing its original touch, it’s still a great beach to visit.

Macau Fisherman's Wharf

The largest leisure and themed entertainment complex in Macau Peninsula, Fisherman’s Wharf features a variety of hotels, casinos and typical marina attractions alongside a parade of restaurants and shops. It’s located within five minutes of the Macau Ferry Terminal.

Macao Grand Prix Museum

Built in 1993 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Macau’s biggest annual sporting event (the Macau Grand Prix), the museum is a must-see place for F1 enthusiasts. More than twenty Formula cars and motorcycles once driven by world-renowned drivers such as Eduardo de Carvalho, Michael Schumacher and David Coulthard are on exhibition here.

Broadway Macau

The venetian macao.

As casinos go in Macau, none are more famous than the Venentian Macao. Said to be one of the 10 largest buildings in the world, The Venetian features 3,000 hotel suites, countless restaurants and shops and has a gaming floor measuring in at over 46, 451 m² (500,000 ft.²).

Portuguese egg tarts at Lord Stow’s Bakery

Macau has its own delicacy – the Macau Portuguese Egg Tart. Its reputation for being the most delicious variation around brings visitors from far and wide to try them out. With their flaky pastry crusts, delicious egg custard centres and crispy crème brulee tops, they taste twice as nice when served warm. A must-eat snack in Macau!

Spa at Mandarin Oriental

This luxury spa offers the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind in the hands of skilled massage therapists. They offer locally inspired signature treatments or deep sleep and deep tissue massages, combining the powerful effects of oriental meridian massages with the therapeutic benefits of custom-blended essential oils. Pure bliss!

Chinese,Spiral,Incenses,Are,Burning,At,Temple.

A unique wine lounge which exclusively serves Portuguese wines, head to Macau Soul for a relaxing evening chatting with friends over a bottle of wine or two, in a cosy and relaxing setting. They offer over 600 labels, so it’s a great place to discover why Portuguese wines are now beating French and Italian brands when it comes to earning top awards.

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The Best of Macau: tourist spots and attractions

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Discover the best of Macau tourist spots, hotels and restaurants.

Macau is a travel destination that people love it or hate it. Before we venture ourselves in this tiny part of China, we heard mixed opinions: “it’s all casinos” or “I love the casinos”. We were really excited and curious to explore Macau tourist spots, visit the attractions, and of course, try our luck at the casinos… After three days in the Chino-Portuguese town here is what we think about Macau, and why you should travel there too.

Before we talk about things to do in Macau, attractions and where to stay, let’s talk about Macau history and why it’s such an interesting part of the world. If you don’t know yet, Macau is an autonomous territory located in the southeast of China, with its own flag, currency and offers free visa on arrival for more than 70 countries [check the Macau Visa Requirements and Policies here ].

This open economy and free tourist flow is the result of 500 years of Portuguese colonization. On the 16 century Portugal rented Macau territory from China and stabilized there are profitable port and colony. On 20th of December 1999, Macau was transferred back to China, it was the end of the last remaining European colony in Asia and the beginning of the one country, two system policy in China .

Done with historical facts! What you really need to know it that the mix of Portuguese and Chinese culture resulted in a very interesting city, a beautiful architecture, unique flavours and a gambling paradise. And it’s better to visit Macau before 2049, when the agreement of autonomy will end and Macau might become a completely Chinese territory.

So know that you know why Macau is so unique, the history behind this tiny country and the time frame you have to visit, let’s talk about travel planning and what to do in Macau.

To travel from Hong Kong to Macau is very easy and fast. Follow our tips and enjoy Macau tourist spots and attractions.

How to get to Macau

First things first! How to travel to Macau?

The answer is easy, you can get there by plane or boat. And depending on where you are coming, you might need to combine them. Macau has a busy airport, use Kiwi and Skyscanner websites to search for the best airfare and connections from your home country to there.

Another common route is to travel from Hong Kong to Macau by ferry [Read our Hong Kong Travel Itinerary here]. There are many companies operating boats between the two cities, we used Cotai Waterjet to get from Hong Kong International Airport to Macau Taipa ferry terminal. If you land in Hong Kong and want to go straight to Macau this is a super fast and easy route. After the baggage claim, you follow the information signs and go to the ferry ticket booth and from there to the pier. There is no need to pass by the Hong Kong’s immigration, you just gonna have your passport checked once you dock in Macau.

If you are already in Hong Kong Island, enjoying this super modern and contrasting city, check the ferry website to see which pier and route are closer to the place you are staying. If you want to experience something different and more private, you can go from Hong Kong to Macau by helicopter. The quick flight [from 15 to 20 minutes] can cost up to HKD$ 300 per person. An expensive and scenic route to Macau.

Also read: Hong Kong trip costs – prices and how to save

This guide is not only about Macau tourist spots, we share with our amazing experience at Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel.

Where to stay in Macau? Which are the best hotels in Macau?

We can roughly divide Macau in four areas: the old town, Taipa, Cotai and Coloane. There are hotels to stay in all these areas and depending on which type of experience you want to have you can choose the best match for you. To be honest, Macau is not a budget destination, the city’s state of the art resorts and casinos can hit your pocket heavily.

We travel to Macau to relax and enjoy, a balance of sightseeing and hotel moments. If you are looking for the same experience you should stay in Macau Cotai area, in the middle of the casinos and the best hotels in Macau.

We spent two nights at Sheraton Grand Macao and love it!! The hotel is located at the Cotai Strip where you can find all the new casinos, shopping malls and international restaurants. After a long day exploring Macau tourist spots, you need to stay in a hotel where everything is within walking distance, from food to spa massages.

After a long day exploring what to do in Macau, you need a comfy hotel to relax.

What we loved about Sheraton is the mix of resort amenities as a huge swimming pool, a delicious variety of cafes and restaurants, the casino [of course], with personalized and exclusive services. For our romantic trip to Macau nothing less than the Executive Suite at Sheraton Grand Macao . The room was divine, the bed super comfy, and wine & bath a well deserved a treat.

Bath and wine, everything a girl need after a long day exploring Macau tourist spots.

Check all hotel rooms, prices and make your booking at Sheraton Grand Macao here ! Not sure if this is the best hotel in Macau for you? So keep searching, we use Booking.com or Agoda to book hotels in Asia , most of the time they have the best rates.

If you are looking for a cheap hotel in Macau it’s better to focus your research on the old and historic town of Macau. Here are some suggestions for budget friendly hotels in Macau we found for you.

Macau Tourist Spots and Attractions

Now that you know how to get to Macau and where to stay, let’s talk about the top attractions in town. Macau tourist spots are concentrated at the historic town, bear in mind this is a tiny city with a huge population, so to get around is not that easy. Because of this, and also to understand the history behind Macau attractions we did a tour and no regrets!

We are big fans of Buffalo Tours [if you read our posts about Vietnam and Thailand you already know we have toured with them a lot] and this time we decided to do Macau in a Day Tour . In one day we covered all the main tourist spots in Macau, visit historical places, try delicious food and even better, we had a super funny guide that helped us to appreciate the beautiful mix of Portuguese and Chinese heritage.

The tourist attractions we gonna list here you can visit by yourself, but I highly recommend you go on a guided tour. It will make your life easy, especially if you don’t speak Cantonese Chinese nor Portuguese.

The Mount Fortress is one of the most famous attractions in Macau.

> Mount Fortress & Macau Museum

Among the historical sites, one unmissable thing to do in Macau is to visit the Mount Fortress. The Fort was built between 1617 to 1626 as a safeguard to protect the city, but nowadays it’s a beautiful garden and one of the best spots to appreciate the city’s skyline. The Museum of Macau is located inside the Mount Fortress with exhibitions that reflect the heritage, mix of culture and people that made Macau such an important city.

> Ruins of St. Paul’s

When I think about Macau attractions the first image that comes to my mind is the facade of St. Paul’s Church. The history of it dates back to 1950s, built with white stones the church caught fire multiple times and only the front wall remained. This ancient ruin is an important part of the city’s history, one of Macau tourist spot adjacent to the famous Mount Fortress and Macau Museum. From the beautifully constructed church now we can only see the front facade of St Paul and the grand stone stairs.

> Old City Walls

Another place to visit in Macau is the Old City Walls, the ruins are located between the St. Paul’s Church and Na Tcha Temple, a cute Chinese Buddhist temple, that is worth to visit too. The wall reflect the military defensive network of Macau.

The mix between Chinese and Portuguese is so interesting. Every day hundreds of travelers visit Macau attractions.

> A-Ma Temple

Macau has many temples, but A-Ma Temple deserves an especial attention as it one of the oldest Taoist temples in Macau. It dates back to 1948 and is one of the most historical places to visit in Macau. The temple has six important parts: Gate Pavilion, the Memorial Arch, the Prayer Hall, the Hall of Benevolence, the Hall of Guanyin, Zhengjiao Chanlin – Buddhist Pavilion. Venture yourself through the stairs, climb the rocks and at the top of you will find trees, incenses and offers. The temple is not only a tourist attraction in Macau, it’s a place of worship so be respectful while visiting it.

> Senado Square

Macau tourist spots also include Senado Square, a place that looks like Europe. Go for a walk around the square and be surprised by the colonial architecture and church. The elongated triangular shaped square connects Largo do São Domingos at one end and Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro on the other. Perfect spot for rest, enjoy the scenery and snap some cool photos.

The Senado Square is in the heart of Macau, the streets that lead to the square are packed with cars, motorbikes and people trying to make they way across the city, or are shopping at the infinite amount of jewelry shops lined up on the road.

> Macau Tower

Tired of historical and tourist attractions? Here is a suggestion of what to do in Macau that will give you goosebumps. Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre, also known as Macau Tower, is the place to go if you are looking for adventure and adrenaline. What about jumping from the top of the Macau Tower? I’m not joking, the 233 meters highest bungy jump set the Guinness World Record for the highest commercial bungy jump in the world . And you can do it, literally in a blink of an eye.

The jumping wasn’t included in the tour, what was fine as Rob and I wasn’t mentally prepared for that. Our trip to Macau was more about relaxing. The tour pass by the tower and if you want you can stay there for a bungee jump or to enjoy the theatres, shopping malls and restaurants inside the tower.

> Casino Lisboa

One more recommended thing to do in Macau is to visit the Casino Lisboa, the impressive building in the heart of Macau is one of the first casinos in the island. Its unique shape attracts tons of tourists every day, not only for gambling but actually to walk around and appreciate the décor. I can’t give you much info about the Casino Lisboa and how it looks inside, because instead of visiting it, we asked our guide to stay longer at Senado Square. Our motto was: sightseeing during the day and gaming at night!

Macau tourist spots includes de huge casinos and the great architecture you find at Cotai Strip.

Casinos in Macao, where to play?

A little far from the historic old city you can find a world of luxury, shining machines, a lake with Venetian boats and even an Eiffel Tower [a copycat]. Welcome to Cotai Strip the place where the glitz and lights make you think everything is possible.

The casinos are open 24 hours and people from all around the world [but especially from China] come to try their luck. Some of the famous casinos are Wynn Macau, The Venetian Macau, The Parisian, Studio City Macau and Galaxy Macau. These are the huge casino resorts, but all the hotels at the avenue have their own casino, so doesn’t matter where you are staying, you can always play.

Cotai Strip is one of the main tourist attraction in Macau. The lights and buildings are impressive.

We are not big players, and I hate to lose money, so we gambled only one night. We did a casino hopping, starting by The Venetian, the Sands Casino at Conrad Hotel and the casino at Sheraton Grand Macau. The good news is that we doubled our investments, not that we have bet a lot, but enough to have fun!

Where to eat in Macau and what to eat!

One of the most important things to do while traveling is to enrich the taste buds with delicious food and traditional cuisine. In Macau you will find in every corner a restaurant selling local recipes, an interesting mix of Portuguese and Chinese dishes. The most famous and delicious foods of Macau are Portuguese egg tarts, pork chop buns which are simple yet satisfying, Serradura dessert, almond cookies, sweet pork jerky and an infinite amount of seafood dishes. Before ordering a meal, check out the reviews of the best restaurants in Macau .

During our tour we had lunch in a traditional hotel with a lovely buffet, a true mix of flavors. Rob and I were in heaven as the Portuguese food reminds a lot the Brazilian flavors, so we enjoyed a little taste of home while savoring grilled sardines and spring rolls [such an unusual combination].

Apart from the traditional cuisine, close to tourist spots in Macau, there are international restaurants serving delicious food from around the world. Also, when booking your hotel check the restaurants they have on the property, you will be surprised by the amount of renowned and international chefs cooking in Macau.

If you want to enjoy the best of Macau, you need to try the delicious local food.

We had a lovely dinner at the Bene Italian Restaurant , where I tried a beautiful twist of Italian pasta and Asian spices, and Rob had a mouthwatering lamb chop. For dessert we ordered the parmesan ice cream with hot strawberry soup, OMG… the flavors were from out of this world.

If you like good food, book a table at The Manor restaurant at the St. Regis Macao Hotel. Good and fresh ingredients, a fusion of flavors and lovely service. Nothing is ordinary there, even their truffle french fries are to die for.

These are some of the best things to do in Macau, attractions, hotels and restaurants that will make your trip there memorable. We did this itinerary in 3 days, 2 nights trip, and it was enough to visit the main tourist attractions in Macau, enjoy the hotel and play.

Keep in mind that Macau is not only a casino city, it has a lot of history, and it’s the combination of this two worlds that make this unique part of China a great travel destination. Enjoy Macau tourist spots, play some games and taste delicious food. If you still have free days to stretch your trip to Hong Kong, it’s worth it.

Don’t forget to read: Hong Kong Itinerary Ideas and our Guide to Hong Kong Tourist Spots

Are you planning a trip to Macau? Have you been there? Leave your thoughts!

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Discover the best of Macau! Tourist Spots, places to visit in Macau, where to stay and eat. A complete guide to Macau, from historical sites to casino extravaganza.

28 thoughts on “The Best of Macau: tourist spots and attractions”

Wow! I hadn’t realized how neat Macau was. I personally would like to visit A-Ma Temple as I am fascinated by many old, historic temples after visiting Japan last year. The Sheraton hotel looks luxurious and my husband and I would love to stay there and follow in your footsteps.

Hi Kallsy! The A-Ma temple is very interesting, especially the contrasting architecture from the Portuguese square surrounding the Chinese Temple. I’m sure you guys will enjoy Macau a lot! Happy Travels! Nat

As I read there are many nice things to do in Macau apart from the casinos and it looks like a nice town with beautiful architecture. What really caught my eye though is the amazing hotel bathroom! Wow!

Macau is really nice indeed… But the hotel bathroom was stunning! It’s gonna be hard to find another amazing room like that one! 🙂

Cheers, Nat

Fascinating, I had no idea Macau had so much history! Great to know it’s so close to Hong Kong- I’ll definitely keep that in mind if I ever end up in the area.

Hi Tamara, Many people think Macau is only a casino city, but actually it’s a really nice and beautiful town. Plan your trip to Hong Kong and leave at least two days to explore Macau. All the best, Nat

That hotel though, Love love love. I want the tub

Hey Karla!! I’m missing that tub 🙂 Cheers, Nat

Great post, haha and I love that you managed to double your investments at the casino. Macau sounds like a lot of fun, will have to go there when we visit China some day ? Thank you for the inspiration, The Austin’s

Thanks Candace!! Macau was super fun, a great mix of history, relaxation and games! Happy Travels, Nat

We didn’t manage to get there on our trip, but definitely a good excuse to head back that way one day! Looks like it’s worth a visit!

You definitely need to go back, Becky! Macau is worth a visit. Happy travels, Nat

I am not a fan of casinos, but it looks to me like there are plenty of historical sites to take in such as the churches and temples. Those would keep me busy for a while. Very thorough and detailed guide you have put together on Macau!

Thanks Howard! Definitely Macau is more than casinos. You can go there for a weekend getaway and have fun without even entering in one of the casinos… The city is plenty of places to visit and good food! Cheers, Nat

I’ve long been curious about Macau. Now that it’s a two party system it will be interesting to see if it continues to flourish. Thanks for the detailed and interesting post.

You are welcome, Elaine! Macau is in a moment of full development and the number of tourists is growing every year. It’s definitely a good moment to visit the city. All the best, Nat

To be honest, I had never heard of Macau until reading this post. What an interesting mix of Chinese and European architecture, plus casinos! Looks worth it just for the stories

Hey Annie, Macau is definitely a place for good stories… everything can happen when you put together Chinese, Portuguese and casinos… lololol Thanks for stopping by! Nat

It’s true Macau can be very interesting and a lovely place to visit! I had been there and particularly enjoyed the old Portuguese architecture and a market that happened to be there when I arrived. Great share on this city 🙂

Thanks Mar! Macau was very interesting for us, especially for being able to read the Portuguese signs in the middle of Asia. Interesting and weird at the same time. Happy Travels, Nat

What a beautiful bathroom! That place is definitely my style 🙂 Thanks for the suggestions. Happy travels!

Hi Carmen! That bathroom was a dream, couldn’t get enough of it! Happy travels for you too! Nat

Every time I see photos of Macau, I can’t get over how much it looks like Las Vegas. I went to college and lived in Las Vegas for a number of years and I often miss it. So I think I’d really enjoy a visit to Macau!

Hey Jennifer, The Cotai Strip and all the lights do look like Las Vegas, but once you are in the historical town is completely different. All the best, Nat

I love your photos dear. Fantastic and inspiring!

Thanks Gezi! All the best!

I have never been in Macau but I am convinced by your article. Should plan a trip there soon. Thank you for sharing useful information.

We loved our time in Macau!

macau famous tourist spots

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12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Macau

1. Visit the Ruins of St. Paul's

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No.6: Kun Iam Temple

No.7: Venetian & Parisian Macau

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Best things to do in Macau

2. Explore Macau's Historic Centre

3. Visit the Ruins of St Paul’s at night

4. Stroll through the alleys of Taipa Village

5. Wine and dine in MacauSoul

6. Snack at Rua do Cunha

7. People watch in Senado Square

8. Eat crab congee at One Brother Food

9. Take snaps for the ‘gram at the Travessa da Paixão

10. Shop around Senado Square

11. Experience teamLab SuperNature Macao

12. Cool off with handcrafted ice cream

13. Sip a dram of whisky from Independent Bottlers in Two Moons

14. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants

15. Relive movie magic at Rua da Felicidade

16. Visit the Macau Museum of Art

17. Snack on a pork chop bun

18. See cultural activities in Tap Seac Gallery

19. Indulge in afternoon tea at the Raffles Lounge & Terrace

20. Visit the quaint fishing village of Coloane

21. Sip artisanal cocktails at Wood House

22. Watch the Galaxy Macau Diamond Show

23. Listen to live music at The St. Regis Bar

24. Watch a concert on the Cotai Strip

25. Zipline at Lisboeta Macau

26. Watch the Changing of the Guard at The Londoner Macao

27. Enjoy hand-beaten coffee in Hon Kee Café

28. Bungee jump at Skypark by AJ Hackett

29. Try your luck at Macau's casinos

30. Experience the Macau skyline at Sky 21 Bar & Restaurant

31. Explore the wizarding world of Harry Potter

Top 18 Macau Tourist Spots We Visited for FREE

Top places to visit in Macau for free

1. Senado Square

2. Ruins of St. Paul’s

3. Mount Fortress

4. Museum of Macau

5. Casa Garden

6. Camões Square

7. Sir Robert Ho Tung Library

8. A-Ma Temple

9. Maritime Museum

10. Moorish Barracks

Top Macau attractions for shopping and luxury

11. The Venetian Macao

12. The Parisian Macao

13. City of Dreams

14. Galaxy Macau

15. Grand Lisboa Macau

16. The Plaza Macao

Places to visit in Macau to immerse in the local life

17. Old Taipa Village

18. Coloane Village

18 Top Things to Do in Macau: The Ultimate Macau Itinerary

Day 1: Things to do in Macau

1. Senado Square

2. Ruins of St. Paul’s

3. Fortaleza do Monte