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Macau Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Macau in 1 and 2 Days

Macau , also spelled Macao , is a small city connected to China at the southern part of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong. The city was a former Portuguese colony from the 16th century until December 20, 1999. The Portuguese influences can be seen in architecture, food, tradition and religion.

While gambling tourism brings in a lot of visitors (and revenue), there are many things to do in Macau. The well-preserved colonial architecture can be seen in the historical centre, which has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Furthermore, Macau’s designation as a “Creative Cities Network in the field of Gastronomy” by UNESCO, draws foodies everywhere to experience the delightful Macanese cuisine .

Most travellers visit Macau as a day trip from Hong Kong. But Macau has so many things o see that you should stay overnight.

In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to make the most of your Macau day trip. And if you stay overnight, I included a 2-day Macau itinerary so you can explore other areas that are off the beaten path.

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What you need to know before starting your Macau itinerary

Before you plan your Macau itinerary, take a look at these travel tips that you may find useful:

• Bring your travel document when travelling from Hong Kong to Macau . You will need to pass HK Immigration on the HK side and then Macau Immigration on the Macau side.
• Macau’s official currency is the Macanese Pataca (MOP) . Many establishments will accept your Hong Kong Dollars (HKD). However, when you pay for something in HKD cash, you might get change back in MOP.
• Standard voltage is 220V . Power sockets are of type D, M, G and F.
• SIM cards are available in Macau without registration. You can buy them at a self-service vending machine at the airport, both ferry terminals and some casino hotels. Otherwise, free wifi is available in all the casinos, hotels and some restaurants.
• Macau is safe for solo female travellers. The city is peaceful and has a low crime rate. It is very safe to walk alone during the day and at night.
• Macau Grand Prix (November) – see the the weekend motorsport road race for Formula 3 cars and motorcycles
• Macau Light Festival (December to February) – major attractions are lit up during this annual festival
• Macau International Fireworks Display Contest (September/October) – over 100 fireworks light up the sky

How to get to Macau

Visitors from China, Taiwan, Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines, Japan, and Korea can arrive at Macau International Airport in Taipa. There are taxis, local buses and many hotel shuttle buses from the airport that will take you directly to your hotel.

Hydrofoil Ferry

Travellers from Hong Kong can take a hydrofoil ferry . TurboJET and Cotai Water Jet takes about one hour and arrives at either Macau Ferry Terminal or Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal . Buy a ticket once you are at the terminal or order one ahead of time.

Once at either ferry terminal, take a free shuttle bus to your hotel .

HZMB Bus via HZM Bridge

The cheapest way to travel from Hong Kong to Macau is by taking the HZMB Bus (Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge Bus).

The direct bus starts from Hong Kong Port to HZMB Zhuhai Port . The bus journey takes about 45 minutes and runs every 5 minutes (or until the bus is full) for 24 hours a day. Buy a $65HKD ticket from the kiosk.

Once you are at HZMB Zhuhai Port, take a free shuttle to either Macau Ferry Terminal or Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal . From either terminal, take the free casino shuttle to your hotel.

How to get around Macau

Walking is the best way to see all the tourist spots around Macau, especially on the Macau Peninsula.

As for Taipa and Cotai, you can take a taxi or bus . However, the easiest and cheapest way getting around Macau is by the free hotel shuttle buses run by all the major casinos . Complimentary shuttle services run between ferry terminals, airport and back to the hotel and anyone can use it (even if you are a hotel customer).

For my Macau itinerary, I will explain below how you get around Macau for both days. It involves walking and taking free hotel shuttle buses. Yes, all free!

How many days in Macau as first time traveller

Macau has two parts : the historic centre is located on the Macau Peninsula which is on the north side of the city.

The other part is the southern area which consists of Taipa , Cotai and Coloane . And the majority of the highlights are in Taipa and the casino hotels are in Cotai.

It is possible to see all the historical attractions in Macau Peninsula in one day . So if you are taking a day trip from Hong Kong, take an early hydrofoil or bus and return at the end of the day.

But if you want to see more of Macau and want to see the south side of the city, stay overnight and explore Taipa and Cotai . You can see a local area and all the glitzy casino hotels which Macau is famous for. Even if you don’t gamble, I think it is worth seeing the shopping areas connecting the hotels.

Summary: 1 – 2 Days Macau Itinerary

Here is how to use this Macau itinerary guide.

If you are doing a day trip in Macau and will be in Macau for one day, follow the 1 day in Macau itinerary.

And if you are staying overnight in Macau, follow the itinerary for Day 1 and add the itinerary for Day 2.

Here is a quick summary of my 1 and 2 day Macau tourist spots itinerary:

Macau day trip: best things to do in Macau Peninsula (red pins)

• Grand Lisboa Hotel and Casino Lisboa
• Rua de Felicidade
• Largo do Senado
• St Dominic’s Church
• Rua de Sao Paulo
• Rua dos Ervanarios
• Ruins of St. Paul’s
• Travessa da Paixao
• St. Lazarus’ Parish
• Tap Seac Square
• Guia Fortress

2 Days in Macau: things to see around Taipa and Cotai (purple pins)

• Tin Hau Temple
• Taipa Flea Market
• Taipa Food Street
• Hello Macau Mural
• Our Lady of Carmel Church
• Taipa Houses
• Galaxy Hotel
• Venetian Macao Casino
• The Parisian Macao
• The Londoner Macao
• Macau Tower

Macau day trip: best things to do in Macau Peninsula 

During your Macau trip, it is all about sightseeing all the historical highlights on the Macau Peninsula because they are the most popular places to visit in Macau.

Follow the red pins on the map above and the location for each spot.

How to get around Macau on Day 1: from either ferry terminal, take the free casino shuttle bus to Grand Lisboa Hotel. This casino hotel is the closest to the historic centre of Macau. At the end of the day, walk from Guia Hill to Macau Ferry Terminal via pedestrian tunnel to either catch a hydrofoil or take free shuttle bus to airport or HZMB Zhuhai Port.

1. Grand Lisboa Hotel and Casino Lisboa

Macau, also known as the “ Vegas of the East “, really lives up to its reputation because the city has many glitzy casino hotels, just like Las Vegas.

Once you arrive at Grand Lisboa Hotel , take a look at this lotus-shaped building. It is something else!

Also take note of Casino Lisboa across the street. The hotel casino with an Art Deco-ish exterior was built in the late 1960s. It is one of the older casino hotels but it’s pretty famous.

2. Rua de Felicidade

Stroll over to Rua de Felicidade , where it was once Macau’s red-light district. Today, many food outlets and restaurants occupy the old traditional Chinese houses.

The pedestrian-only street got a re-vamp with modern touches but you can still see the characteristics of the old Chinese homes. Plus, this is an excellent spot for taking Instagram photos.

3 & 4. Largo do Senado and St Dominic’s Church

Next, visit “The Historic Centre of Macao “, which start at Largo do Senado , a paved town square with numerous Portuguese colonial buildings and classic Portuguese limestone floors .

The entire historical area has over 20 ancient monuments and places worth visiting . Moreover, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most visited spot in Macau.

Besides all the retail stores and local food shops, there are plenty of historical buildings that are worth seeing. Look for St. Dominic’s Church , a 16th century Baroque-style church . It is also a UNESCO site.

5. Lou Kau Mansion

One of the best examples of Chinese residential building in Macau is the Lou Kau Mansion .

Built in 1889, this used to the home of a prominent Chinese merchant. It is a typical old Chinese courtyard house where there are three halls separated by a courtyard which forms a three-by-three grid layout. This spacial arrangement relates to the hierarchical structure of Chinese families where the inner spaces are reserved for ancestral worship or senior family members.

It is free to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site. And if you visit on weekend or public holiday, book a tour to the second floor with a guide.

6 & 7. Rua de São Paulo and Rua dos Ervanarios

Continue forward with the itinerary by walking up Rua de São Paulo . This is a pedestrian street lined with many shops selling typical Macau food souvenirs . Vendors offer free samples of beef jerky, almond cookies and etc. If you are snack-ish, there are several food outlets here where you can try typical Macau food like pork chop bun.

Not far away from Rua de São Paulo, there is another cobbled stone street called Rua dos Ervanarios . I love this street because of the old retro vibe. Plus, there are several good coffee shops there. Fuel up now if you need to.

8. Ruins of St. Paul’s

At the top of pedestrian portion of Rua de São Paulo, you will see an open square with a grand stairway and the Ruins of St. Paul’s at the top of the hill. You won’t miss this – follow the crowd and selfie sticks. Ha!

This famous church was destroyed in a fire in 1835 and it left behind a facade. You can walk behind the granite wall and see what’s left of the original church building. This area keeps changing every time I go so it would be interesting to know what you see during your visit.

Further back is Sacred Art Museum and Crypt and it displays archaeological remains and religious relics. It’s a small museum but entirely free.

9. Travessa da Paixao

Not far from the Ruins of St. Paul’s, is what I considered the most photogenic street in all of Macau. Walk over to Travessa da Paixao and see if you agree with me.

Also known as Lover’s Lane , this hilly street has pastel-coloured buildings that are totally Instagram-worthy. It is actually pretty difficult to snap a photo without anyone in the background. And if you walk closer, you can see the Ruins of St. Paul’s.

10. Monte Fort

Completed in 1626, Monte Fort is a 400-year-old trapezoid-shaped fort that covers 10,000 sqm in the Historic Centre of Macau. This was Macau’s principal military defence structure where it had cannons, military barracks and enough ammunition and supplies to last for two years.

Today, you can visit this UNESCO historic site via a series of elevators going up Parque da Fortaleza do Monte and bypassing the entrance to Macau Museum .

At the top, there is a rooftop park with some of the remaining cannons and an unobstructed view of the Macau.

11. St. Lazarus’ Parish

St. Lazarus’ Parish is a small neighbourhood in Macau which was one of the five former Municipality of Macau. The area includes an old residential neighbourhood, many Portuguese and Macau colonial buildings, and a third of it is covered by Guia Hill.

When you leave Monte Fort at the southeast end, the stair way down Calçada da Igreja de São Lázaro is not far away. I think this is the prettiest part of St. Lazarus’ Parish because of the classic Portuguese limestone floors and architecture .

Roam around the area to enjoy the European vibe. St. Lazarus’ Church , one of the oldest churches in Macau is off the cobblestoned street. Plus, there are coffee shops, ice cream parlous and souvenir shops in the area.

12. Tap Seac Square

Not far away is another cultural landmark and it is called Tap Seac Square . It is an open square with traditional cobblestone floor and Portuguese colonial buildings.

Not much to see here so you can walk through the open square relatively quickly. But take note of the gorgeous red and yellow building facing the square, which is the Macao Central Library . Tap Seac Gallery is also red and yellow in colour but tucked away in the north corner.

13. Guia Fortress

The Guia Fortress is part of the 17th-century colonial military fort on Guia Hill. Inside the fortress stands Guia Chapel , a chapel with numerous frescoes with themes of both western and Chinese culture. Next to it is Guia Lighthouse , the first modern lighthouse on the Chinese coast.

The cable car can take you to the top but the walk up is not difficult. All you need to do is follow the Songshan Jogging Trail and it can lead you to the top to the fortress.

Hopefully you will arrive when the sun is setting because the view is quite spectacular. This is the perfect way to end your first day in Macau.

And if you have time and energy after exploring the UNESCO Heritage Site, wander around Parque Municipal de Colina da Guia , and see some of the military tunnels around the hill.

Macau itinerary 2 days: things to see around Taipa and Cotai

For day 2 in Macau, explore some of the areas on the south side of Macau including Taipa and Cotai . These are some of the off the beaten path places and are worth visiting if you are going to Macau for the first time.

Follow the purple pins on the map above and the location for each spot.

How to get around Macau on Day 2: take a free hotel shuttle bus to Galaxy Hotel, which is closest to Taipa Village. At the end of the day, take the MGM shuttle bus from Macau Tower to MGM Macau then to either ferry terminal or airport.

1 & 2. Tin Hau Temple and Taipa Flea Market in Taipa Village

On day 2 of my Macau itinerary, start with a visit to Taipa Village , a small area with many local restaurants, cafes and shops.

But first walk around the quaint area and look for Tin Hau Temple . As the oldest temple in Taipa, the temple is dedicated to Tin Hau, a Chinese sea goddess. Typically, Tin Hau temples face the shore but the area has been reclaimed and is currently the area of Cotai.

Roam around the area as there many interesting art murals and colourful Portuguese and Macanese colonial buildings.

And if you are visiting on the weekend, visit Taipa Flea Market , a local open-air market that takes place every Sunday at the north end of Taipa Food Street between 11am-8pm.

3. Taipa Food Street

By now, you must be very tempted to try all the food in Taipa Village. And there are a lot of eateries in the whole area but most of the food outlets are centred around Taipa Food Street . And some of them are even Michelin recognized (like Gelatina Mok Yi Kei and Pastelaria Fong Kei).

There are lots to choose from so this is the perfect place for brunch or lunch. I highlighted some restaurants in the section near the end of the post.

4. Hello Macau Mural and other art murals

As you probably saw already, Taipa is very Instagrammable. There are many mural art scattered around the small streets in the village. And graffiti continues as you explore other parts of Taipa Village.

After filling your tummy with good food, walk to the end of Taipa Food Street and walk up a short flight. There is a whimsical wall art on the west side.

And when you continue forward, there are a few more graffitis including the Hello Macau Mural which is drawn on an old container. The area has changed a lot since last I’ve been and more and more murals are going up. So see what you can find.

5 & 6. Our Lady of Carmel Church and Taipa Houses

Continue forward and visit Our Lady of Carmel Church , a 19th century Neoclassical church on a hill overlooking Taipa Village. Many couples take photos here and in the adjacent garden.

Next, visit Taipa Houses , the five green Portuguese-style houses facing the Ecological Pond of Wetland . They were built in 1921 as Macanese residential homes for senior civil servants. Today, the iconic houses are part of Taipa Houses Museum where each house has its own cultural theme.

The entire area is quite picturesque and peaceful. When you are ready to continue forward, walk across the boardwalk in Taipa Constructed Wetland Park or take the automatic walkway parallel to Rua. da Baia de Nossa Sra. de Esperanca and cross the main road to Galaxy Hotel.

7-11. Casino Hotels in Cotai

If gambling is your thing, then are you in luck. Gambling is legal in Macau, and each hotel has its own casino. Try your luck at a slot machine or a baccarat table.

But if you don’t gamble, you can still visit some of the best casino hotels in Macau. All the newest and glitziest casino hotels are in Cotai. And it really does feel like Las Vegas!

And many of the hotels are linked together so you can easily jump from one hotel to another. Below are some of the casino hotels that you might want to check out. I’ve included the highlight for each hotel so you know what to look for.

• Galaxy Hotel – Galaxy Promenade (large shopping complex connecting five hotels), Galaxy Macau Diamond Show (light and sound show at the fountain in Diamond Lobby)
• The Venetian Macao – indoor canal gondola rides in the large (and confusing) shopping complex and teamLab SuperNature Macao
• The Parisian Macao – observation decks on level 7 and 37 of Eiffel Tower
• The Londoner Macao – one of the newest hotels in Cotai and has amazing spots to take photos (like the one below)
• MGM Cotai – not much to see but the shuttle bus goes directly to your next destination

12. Macau Tower

The Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre is on the Macau Peninsula by the harbour. At a height of 338m, it is the tallest structure in Macau.

Go up to the observation d eck and see a 360 degree view of Macau.

Or you can attempt the skywalk and walk around the periphery of The Macau Tower or bungee jump from the 233m (764ft) high platform, which is Guinness World Record for the Highest Commercial Bungy Jump in the world.

What to Eat in Macau

Macanese cuisine is the fusion between Portuguese food and Chinese cooking techniques . The people of Macau take inspirations from European cuisine and mix it with local spices and ingredients, and the result is simply delicious.

Here are some of my favourite things to eat in Macau:

• Minchi – Macanese food made with minced beef or pork, diced fried potatoes, onions, soy sauce with fried egg and rice. 
• African Chicken – unique to Macanese cuisine, this is a hybrid of Portuguese and Cantonese cooking and with the influence of European, Indian and African flavours
• Clams  – clams in garlic, olive oil and coriander
• Pork Chop Bun – fried whole pork chop sandwiched in a fresh baguette bun
• Portuguese Egg Tarts – similar to a Chinese egg tart but the Portuguese egg tart has a slightly burnt top
• Serradura – Macanese dessert where crushed tea biscuit is layered in between whipped cream and condensed milk

Where to Eat in Macau

Searching for good food in Macau is not hard. You can find Macanese food, Portuguese food and HK-style food everywhere. Here are some restaurants and food outlets I’ve tried before and highly recommend.

Places to eat in Macau

• Albergue 1601 – Portuguese restaurant in St. Lazarus’ Parish
• A Lorcha – Michelin Portuguese restaurant
• Riquexó – Macanese restaurant north of Guia Hill
• Sing Lei Cha Chaan Teng (勝利茶餐室) – Hong Kong-Style cafe near Senado Square
• Margaret’s Cafe e Nata – Portuguese egg tart near Lisboa Hotel

Places to eat in Taipa and Cotai

• A Petisqueira – Portuguese Restaurant in Taipa Village
• O Santos – Portuguese Restaurant in Taipa Food Street
• Portugália – Portuguese restaurant in Taipa Village
• Sei Kee Cafe (世記咖啡) – Hong Kong-Style cafe just off Taipa Food Street
• Lord Stow’s Bakery – Portuguese egg tart on Taipa Food Street
• Gelatina Mok Yi Kai – Michelin dessert shop on Taipa Food Street

Where to stay in Macau

While there are a handful of budget accommodations, one of the highlights of visiting Macau is to experience a world-class resort. Here are a few recommendations on where to stay in Macau.

• House of Lotus ($) – if you want to stay at a budget hotel near Ruins of St Paul’s, this is an excellent option.
• Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel ($$) – stay at this 5-star hotel that has 3,000 guest rooms, swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and fitness centre. Also great if you collect Marriott Bonvoy points.
• MGM Cotai ($$$) – The newer MGM hotel didn’t spared any money on designing and building. The $3.4 billion dollar hotel has spacious rooms, several restaurants, and shops.

Are you doing a day trip to Macau or staying overnight?

It is possible to see all the top attractions in Macau during a day trip from Hong Kong. But if you can stay overnight, it is worth exploring Taipa and Cotai as well. And of course, trying more local Macanese food!

I hope you enjoyed my Macau itinerary and will consider seeing all the city tourist attractions. Let me know in the comments if you find this post helpful in planning your trip to Macau.

Thank you for reading my Macau itinerary

You might also like these other solo travel posts:

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• 11 Hong Kong off-the-beaten-path hidden gems
• Where to stay in Hong Kong: 7 boutique hotels
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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

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Hi mam! Will be staying in macau for a night from hongkong. Do you have any reco where to stay po either in cotai or in macau peninsula considering we also have luggage. Will probably arrive in macau at 9am so we would like to manage our time to explore all the places you listed above in you 2 day tour. How many hours from cotai to macau peninsula ?

Hi Maureen, In my post I mentioned House of Lotus on the Macau side is a good budget option. I like MGM Cotai and the Andaz Macau in Cotai is brand new. Typically most hotels will let you leave your luggage at their storage until you can check in. It takes about 30 minutes to travel from Cotai to Macau with the shuttle buses. Have a good time in Macau!

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Home » Asia » China » Macau

MACAU Itinerary for 2024

Macau is a Chinese territory with a particularly interesting heritage and culture! It’s a tiny autonomous region along the South coast of China, only a short distance outside of Hong Kong. This region includes the Macau Peninsula, as well as the islands of Taipa and Coloane.

While Macau is a part of mainland China, you’ll feel like you’re somewhere completely new and different when you’re exploring this Macau itinerary!

For many years, Macau was a Portuguese colony. This has given the region a really unique cultural blend- something which is evident in the architecture, food, and way of life here! You will see you exploring both the Eastern and Western sides of this region.

Beyond the interesting culture, Macau is world-famous for its huge casinos, luxury hotels, ancient landmarks, beautiful beaches, and many fun activities! There really is so much to see and experience here.

If you’re planning to see Macau in a day trip from Hong Kong or visit here for a week, then take a look at how days in Macau you need for all of the best things to experience here!

A Little Bit About this 3-day Macau Itinerary

Where to stay in macau, day 1 macau itinerary, day 2 macau itinerary, day three and beyond, best time to visit macau, getting around macau, what to prepare before visiting macau, faq on macau itinerary.

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Macau’s history, colonial architecture, foodie scene, and diverse cultures, makes it one of the most memorable city’s outside of mainland China! It has something for every traveler, from world-class casinos to incredible museums and lush beaches, you’ll never run out of things to do in Macau!

Whether you’re wondering what to do in Macau for 3 days or 24 hours, I’ve got you covered. There are some phenomenal options jostling for a spot on your list! I’d personally suggest taking at least two full days to explore the city. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but as it’s just a quick stop over from Hong Kong to the Macau Ferry Terminal, it’s easy to visit for a day trip.

In this itinerary, you’ll find three days packed with culture, history and adventure. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B, trying to fit everything in.

I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot. Of course, you can add your own spots in, swap things around, or even skip some places. Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip!

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3 Day Macau Itinerary Overview

• Day One: Senado Square | Ruins of St Paul | Mount Fortress | The Venetian | Mandarins House | Casinos | Shows
• Day Two: A-Ma Temple | Taipa Village | Macau Museum of Art | Bungee Jumping | Coloane Village | Discover the Local Food
• Day Three: Macau Giant Panda Pavilion | Casa Garden | Church of St Dominic | Guia Fortress, Chapel, and Lighthouse | Mercearia Portuguesa

Macau may be a small region, but it’s a pretty diverse place. Staying somewhere central is important for a two-day itinerary in Macau, as this will allow you to easily experience the region’s many top attractions. However, as Macau is small, getting from one place to another is not too difficult!

The best place to stay would have to be Old Macau. This neighborhood, located on the Macau Peninsula, is where you can find many of the top landmarks and important sites. This is the most historic area of Macau, and there are plenty of heritage attractions and important things to see here. This area is also amazing for food lovers! There are also some great Macau Airbnbs in this area.

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If you’re looking to experience the bright lights and casinos of Macau, then consider staying in Cotai. This island is a hub of activity throughout the day and night. The area is fairly newly developed, and so everything is pretty modern. There are loads of things to see and experience in Cotai!

Now that you know the best areas to stay in Macau , here are some of our top accommodation choices.

Best Hostel in Macau – 5footway.inn Project Ponte 16

5footway.inn Project Ponte 16 is our top choice for affordable, hostel-style accommodation in Macau. This accommodation has an awesome location- right in the heart of Ponte 16! It’s only a short walk to the many bars, restaurants, casinos, and interesting landmarks. The accommodation is clean, comfortable and friendly!

Best Airbnb in Macau – Ideal spot for first timers

These cosy rooms are situated perfectly if it’s your first time in town. You’ll be right in the heart of the old town, an eclectic clash of old meets, new, east meets west fun. Just read the reviews and you’ll get a sense of how ideally situated to make the most of Macau this place is. If you’re into photography, having a flat walking distance from the bay is ideal for those sunrise/sunset shots.

Best Budget Hotel in Macau – Fu Hua Hotel

There are so many hotel options around Macau, but Fu Hua Hotel is our best budget hotel choice here! Being only a few minutes’ drive from the Hong Kong ferry terminal, and a short walk away from top Macau landmarks, this hotel has the perfect location! The rooms and facilities in this hotel are some of the best offers while still remaining affordable!

Best Luxury Hotel in Macau –  The Ritz-Carlton Macau

For the ultimate in elegance and sophistication, consider staying at the Ritz-Carlton Macau! This hotel will give you the most unforgettable Macau experience, from its world-class luxurious rooms to its incredible facilities and amenities. This hotel also has one of the best-rated locations in Macau!

Your two day itinerary in Macau will start off with history, culture, and exploring some of the iconic landmarks in the city! Then, cap off your day with some fun at the casinos or many entertainment options in the city! Wondering what to do in Macau in one day? Here are some highlights!

9:00AM – Explore Senado Square

A visit to Senado Square is the perfect first stop for your itinerary! This is the most famous and popular square in Macau’s Old Town, and it is a wonderful place to explore. Walking around here will give you a great perspective on the unique culture around Macau.

Senado Square is covered with brilliant restaurants, shops, souvenir stalls, and snack vendors. The streets around the square are very narrow, making the area really fun for window shopping. This is one of the best places in Macau to get a feel for the Portuguese past, as the architecture and landmarks here really represent this.

There are also many top Macau points of interest around Senado Square, making it an ideal first base for your Macau itinerary!

Oh Mun Cafe at Senado Square is the perfect place to grab a delicious meal while sightseeing. This restaurant serves typical Macau food done really well!

Insiders Tip: Senado Square can get really busy with tourists, so arrive early if you want to beat the crowds!

• Cost: Free!
• Getting there: take the bus to Almeida Ribeiro and walk from there.
• How long should I spend there: around 1 hour should be enough time.

10:00AM – Witness The Ruins of St Paul

While you are visiting Senado Square, it’s essential to make a stop at the Ruins of St Paul! This Macau landmark is an absolute must-see in the city, as it’s probably the most famous historical site here!

The Ruins of St Paul are what remains of a 17th-century complex that once stood here. The ruins include what is left of the Catholic Church of St Paul, and St Paul’s college. This is a world heritage site and is always very busy with visitors!

The ruins are absolutely beautiful, and they show just how impressive this city once was. The history and age behind the buildings are also fascinating to anyone wanting to learn more about the history of Macau.

For a taste of the European influence in Macau, grab a bite to eat or something to drink at MacauSoul, located right by the Ruins of St Paul. This is a charming wine bar with a fun environment and some tasty food options!

Insiders Tip: There’s always a big crowd taking a classic photo in front of the ruins, so have some fun getting new angles and selfies around this iconic site!

• Getting there: it’s a 10 minute walk from the last stop
• How long should I spend there: around 30 minutes should be enough time.

10:30AM – Visit Mount Fortress

Mount Fortress is another world heritage site located within the same vicinity as Senado Square and the Ruins of St Paul. This fortress is one of the attractions that form part of the historic center of Macau, making it a must-visit attraction!

The fortress is the historical military center of Macau, offering visitors an interesting insight into many old artifacts, including lots of cannons, and ancient barracks. The fort dates back to 1626 and resembles the old Portuguese style.

This is a really interesting place to walk around and learn more about the rich and diverse history of Macau. The fort also offers some awesome views out over the surrounding historic district! Grab a delicious sweet treat at the Koi Kei Bakery to help fuel your explorations around Mount Fortress. This place has all kinds of tasty offerings!

Insiders Tip: It is easy to combine Senado Square, the Ruins of St Paul, and Mount Fortress all in a quick Macau walking tour.

• How long should I spend there: around 1-2 hours.

1:00PM – Learn About Macau at Mandarin’s House

Mandarin’s House or Casa Do Mandarim is a brilliant addition to your itinerary if you would like to discover more about the cultural heritage and history of the region. This building used to be owned by a Qing dynasty reformist called Zheng Guanying. Now it’s an interesting museum devoted to the history of Macau!

The building is a brilliant example of how Macau blends heritage from the East and the West. The museum is incredibly well kept, offering visitors an insight into what life used to be like in Macau. If you’re looking to discover more about the past of Macau, then this museum is a brilliant place to visit!

Padre Cafe e Cucina is an excellent spot next to Mandarin’s House to enjoy a special lunch or dinner. This place honors the European heritage of Macau, serving delicious meals and sweet treats.

• Getting there: it’s a 20 minute walk from the last stop.
• How long should I spend there: around 45 minutes to 1 hour should be enough time.

2:30PM – Experience The Venetian

The Venetian Hotel and Casino is a truly impressive place that attracts many visitors, making it one of the top attractions to add to your itinerary! You don’t have to be into gambling or staying at the hotel to enjoy the Venetian. This huge complex features one of the best malls in Macau, loaded with all kinds of shops and food choices!

The casino is called the Venetian for a reason- it was built to completely resemble the streets of Venice! The ceilings are painted like the afternoon sky, while the walkways and walls will make you feel as though you are wandering around Venice. There is even a canal with operating gondola rides !

When visiting Macau, witnessing the enormously impressive casinos is always one of the most popular things to do. The Venetian has got to be one of the most impressive, with so much for everyone!

The Venetian boasts an amazing food court, featuring plenty of outstanding restaurants. There is a wide variety here, so whatever food you’re in the mood for you’ll be sure to find!

Insiders Tip: There are many activities available here, and planning your visit in advance can be a good idea!

• Getting there: take the 26A bus from Almeida Ribeiro and ride 15 stops to Estrada Do Istmo / Venetian and walk from there.
• How long should I spend there: around 2 hours should be enough time.

5:00PM – Try Your Luck at the Many Casinos

Macau has many highlights and attractions, but one of the main reasons that so many people come and visit this place is for the many amazing casinos! Macau is often compared to Las Vegas, and with all the glitz and glam that the casinos have to offer here, visiting them is great fun!

You don’t have to be particularly interested in gambling to appreciate the grand scale of the casino resorts around Macau. These places are enormous, and they have loads of different entertainment options available.

For an unforgettable casino experience, try visiting Wynn Palace, Hotel Lisboa, Morpheus, the Venetian, or MGM Macau. These are absolute world-class casino resorts, the perfect place to visit on a weekend in Macau! Cotai Strip is the place to go to find these top casinos! You can also take a bus tour to visit the casinos!

If you’re hungry then head over to the Fontana Buffet at Wynn Palace for an extensive selection of amazing food at one of the city’s top casino resorts!

• Cost: Free to enter!
• Getting there: everything is within walking distance!
• How long should I spend there: as long as you like!

7:30PM – Take In a Show or Performance

When one thinks of Macau, the first thing that probably comes to mind are the number of casinos and entertainment options! When visiting here, adding an exciting show to your itinerary is a must! As there are so many casinos and resorts here, there are plenty of shows available with a wide variety to suit different tastes!

Check out the Galaxy Hotel at night to watch the amazing light show, or head to the Wynn Hotel for an incredible water show right outside! A show titled “The House of Dancing Water” is the world’s largest water show that has been taking place in the Wynn Hotel in Macau for over six years – this is a truly unforgettable experience! There are also magic performances, live music, dance shows, opera, and plenty more!

When taking a vacation in Macau, be sure to spend at least one night taking in a performance that is on offer here – as there really is so much incredible entertainment going on!

Duffy’s Irish Pub in Macau is a great spot to grab a drink or a tasty meal before or after a show. This is a fun place with a friendly vibe.

Insiders Tip: Popular shows such as “The House of Dancing Water” can sell out quickly, so make sure to reserve your ticket in advance !

• Cost: This changes depending on performance. Some shows are free though!
• Getting there: from the Venetian, the Wynn Hotel is a 20 minute walk.
• How long should I spend there: shows usually last around 2 hours.

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The second day of your itinerary for Macau will continue to be action-packed, with loads of fun and interesting activities!

9:00AM – A Ma Temple

There are loads of traditional Chinese temples scattered around Macau, but the A-Ma Temple is definitely a necessary addition to your itinerary! This is actually the oldest Chinese temple in Macau, and it is believed that this is where the name Macau originated from.

If you are keen to discover some of the ancient history of the region and would like to experience the old Chinese culture, then the A-Ma temple is one of the best places to visit in Macau! This temple is completely beautiful and is a really interesting place to learn more about the local religion!

The temple is dedicated to the goddess Mazu who protects fishermen and sailors. There are a number of different areas within the temple that are well worth taking a look at! If you want to see all of them, check out this bus tour !

A Lorcha nearby A-Ma Temple offers delicious Portuguese food to hungry visitors! This restaurant can get busy, but the tasty food here is certainly worth the wait!

• Getting there: take the bus to A-MA Temple from your hotel.

10:00AM – Macau Museum of Art

The Macau Museum of Art is the only art museum in Macau, and it’s certainly worth the visit for any art or culture lover! This five-story building is dedicated to Macanese artworks from all different eras and styles. There is a great deal here, and it’s an interesting place to spend an afternoon.

There is a permanent exhibition with a focus on the history of the art that surrounds you. There are also always new temporary exhibitions for guests to view as well. These temporary exhibitions are varied and offer displays of local and international art in all manner of different styles.

When touring Macau, adding some art and culture to your trip is always a great idea! The Macau Museum of Art is one of the best places to do this and is an essential addition to any art lover’s Macau itinerary!

Golden Court at the Sands Macau Hotel is an excellent restaurant near the Macau Museum of Art where you can enjoy some top quality local food. This place celebrates the Chinese side of Macau, with a totally delicious Asian menu!

• Getting there: take the 10A bus from Barra Square to Macau Cultural Center and ride for 12 stops.
• How long should I spend there: around 2-3 hours should be enough time.

1:00PM – Taipa Village

When in Macau, you’ll be walking around grand, shining casinos one moment, and then, all of a sudden, you’ll find yourself in a historically charming neighborhood. Taipa Village is one of these amazingly beautiful old parts of the city that is found just a short distance from the main casino strip.

Take some time to wander around the old streets of Taipa Village, and enjoy the many charming bakeries, cafes, shops, museums, and various points of interest. The Taipa House Museum is a particularly good attraction to visit if you want to learn more about the history of the area. This was once the Portuguese governor’s house.

Visiting Taipa Village is a brilliant addition to your Macau itinerary, and it will certainly give you a better perspective of this culturally and historically rich destination!

Taipa Village is home to many of the finest bakeries in Macau, producing custard tarts, almond cookies, and peanut candies, (which the region is really famous for)! Make sure to head to Lord Stow’s Bakery in Taipa Village to sample one of the delectable Portuguese custard tarts that Macau is famous for!!

Insiders Tip: Taipa Village is a great destination for foodies, so arrive here hungry!

• Cost: Free to wander around.
• Getting there: take the API bus from Avenida Da Amizade / Flyover to Edificio Do Lago and ride for 3 stops.

3:00PM – Go Bungee Jumping

For adrenaline junkies looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider taking the plunge and bungee jumping from the AJ Hacket tower, also known as the Macau Tower! This bungee jump attracts many visitors each year – being the world’s highest commercial bungee jump! This Guinness World Record jump is a completely unique thrill that one can experience!

While taking the leap is probably the most exciting thing that one can do in Macau, the experience doesn’t stop here. Your jump includes a free skywalk to add to the thrill! The Macau Tower also offers other fun and exciting activities, including a tower climb and sky jump. Of course, this is also where you’ll be able to get some of the best views in Macau!

If you’re after a real thrill, then doing this bungee jump is a brilliant addition to your Macau itinerary! Grab a bite to eat at the Macau Tower 360° Cafe. This place serves delicious food, with a wide variety on the menu. The best part of this cafe is the view!

Insiders Tip: Remember your jump with a photograph that is available upon request!

• Cost: USD $470.00
• Getting there: take the 26 bus from Jardim Do Lago to Macau Tower and ride for 9 stops.
• How long should I spend there: around 1-2 hours should be enough time, depending on whether you want to go bungee jumping.

5:00PM – Discover the Local Food

People visit Macau for many different reasons, but one of the main attractions here has got to be the incredible food scene! Macau is an absolute haven for foodies, offering unique and widely varied culinary options!

Traditional Macanese food came about as a kind of fusion between Portuguese food and southern Chinese cuisine. This came about during the colonial days of Macau, and it’s something that the area is very proud of.

The top places to sample amazing local foods would be the plethora of trendy cafes and bakeries in Taipa and Coloane. You could also visit Riquexo – a real old-school canteen-style foodie haven. The restaurant Antonio offers some of the best Portuguese food in Macau, while restaurants like Robuchon au Dome show off the fine dining splendor of Macau.

No matter where you eat though, it’s essential to enjoy a couple of pasteis de natas (Portuguese egg tarts) during your Macau trip. You can find really good ones at Lord Stow’s Bakery in Taipa Village.

Restaurant Litoral is one of the most well-loved places to try truly authentic Macanese-style dishes!

Insiders Tip: The most popular and authentic Macanese dishes include tapas selections, the pork chop bun, ginger milk, and almond cakes.

• Cost: The price of eating in Macau will vary greatly between cheap street food and expensive high-end restaurants.
• Getting there: from Macau Tower to Restaurant Litoral, it’s a 20 minute walk.
• How long should I spend there: as long as you want!

5footway.inn Project Ponte 16

5footway.inn Project Ponte 16 is our top choice for affordable, hostel-style accommodation in Macau. This accommodation has an awesome location – right in the heart of Ponte 16! It’s only a short walk to the many bars, restaurants, casinos, and interesting landmarks.

• Free laundry facilities

If you will be planning a three-day itinerary in Macau or longer, then you’ll need to fill out your time with some more activities! Here are some other top places to visit in Macau for three days.

Macau Giant Panda Pavilion

• See amazing pandas at this zoo!
• Includes a variety of rare animals.
• Admission is free!

China is famous for many things, pandas being one of them ! One of the best things to do in Macau for any nature lover has got to be a visit to the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion. This is a zoo in the Seac Pai Van Park in Coloane.

A visit here will allow you to witness a number of beautiful panda bears in a state-of-the-art facility. There are indoor and outdoor feeding areas for these pandas, who love their environment. The Macau Giant Panda Pavilion is also home to two amazing red pandas- relatives of the giant panda.

Although seeing the pandas is the definite highlight when visiting the Seac Pai Van Park, this attraction also houses many other interesting and rare animals. These include gorillas, monkeys, flamingos, and more! Visiting here is fun for the whole family, and it will definitely be an unforgettable experience!

While most people think about casinos and big entertainment venues and resorts in Macau, the place actually has a lot more on offer! If you’re planning a three-day itinerary in Macau and are looking for something unique to do, then definitely consider a stop at the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion!

Coloane Village

• A beautiful old village that is well worth exploring.
• A great place to get some food.
• Escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Coloane Village is one of the best Macau attractions for those that want to experience the slower, old-world charms that are available here. It’s great to take a break from the flashy casinos and big resorts and explore the old streets of beautiful Coloane.

This village is made up of pastel-colored old buildings, cobblestone streets, and beautiful Portuguese inspired architecture. Wandering the streets here is really peaceful, and you’ll certainly feel like you’ve escaped the busy city!

There are plenty of charming shops, cafes, and bakeries around this area. Whether you’re interested in history, or just want to soak up a stunning old area of Macau, a trip to Coloane will be highly rewarding!

Lord Stows is an iconic name around Macau, and when in Coloane it’s a must to visit their original cafe. This place is best known for its amazing baked goods, and it’s the perfect place to grab a coffee and something sweet to eat.

Casa Garden

• A UNESCO-listed building dating back to 1770.
• Home to the Oriental Foundation.
• Contains well-kept gardens with a pond!

Casa Garden is one of the oldest buildings in Macau, and it has a really interesting history. This place was first the home of a Portuguese merchant when it was built in 1770. It was then used as the base of the British East India Company in Macau in the early 19th century. Today, it is the home of the Oriental Foundation, which puts on frequent interesting exhibitions there.

As one would imagine, a lot has happened in the Casa Garden building since its early days. This makes it a really interesting place to visit when an exhibition is on. These exhibitions are always changing and are always worth seeing!

Besides the Casa Garden building, this attraction has some of the most beautiful gardens in Macau! Visitors love coming here to see the well-maintained flower beds, the picturesque pond, and a large variety of plants.

There is also a popular park just outside Casa Garden, where locals love to hang out and relax. This is a great addition to your Macau itinerary, and it’s a good way to get a new perspective on the place!

Church of St Dominic

• An impressive yellow baroque-style church.
• Dates back to the 17th century.
• Home to a small museum.

The Church of St Dominic, or St Domingo’s Church, lies in the heart of the historical area of Macau. This amazing yellow church , with its green shutters and doors, is a beautiful sight to behold! Other than its architectural splendor, this church has a long and important history in Macau.

The church was founded by three Spanish Dominican priests from Mexico back in the 16th century. It is one of the oldest churches in Macau, and it remains a super popular addition to any Macau itinerary!

The building is part of the UNESCO list in Macau, and exploring the interior will show you just how special this church is! In the bell tower, there is a small Museum of Sacred Art, with 300 artifacts on exhibition. There are actually displays on each floor of the church!

If you are interested in history, architecture, or just want to see one of the most popular buildings in Macau, then definitely consider adding a stop at the Church of St Dominic to your Macau trip itinerary!

Guia Fortress, Chapel, and Lighthouse

• A fun climb up to Guia Fortress.
• Offers amazing views of Macau.
• A UNESCO-listed site.

Guia Fortress, Guia Chapel, and the Guia Lighthouse are found on the highest point in Macau. Reaching the top, and exploring these old buildings is a really unique and fun way to see the city and some of its top landmarks!

The Guia Fortress has an interesting history of being the place where the Portuguese would watch out over the city. This fortress was used to protect the Portuguese against the Dutch armies during the 17th century, and it was in use until the end of the Portuguese rule in Macau.

The Guia complex includes three charming buildings- the fortress, chapel, and lighthouse. All three are great to explore and learn about the history of the area! Not only this but being up at the Guia Fortress gives you unbeatable panoramic views out across Macau. This is an awesome addition to your trip to Macau.

Mercearia Portuguesa

• A beautiful little corner shop selling an array of local products.
• Housed in an amazing old colonial building!
• The store takes you back in time with its vintage decorations.

Mercearia Portuguesa is a hard place to miss! This bright yellow building is located in the middle of the St. Lazarus District in a quiet little courtyard. While the shop here is an attraction, the main reason that so many visitors love coming to the Mercearia Portuguesa is that it is such a great way of taking you back in time to what Macau would have been like many years ago.

The building is beautifully restored, with vintage furniture and well-managed details. The store itself is lovely, offering a selection of specialty local foods and crafts, chinaware, jewelry, wooden toys, and more!

If you would like to witness more of the old world while backpacking China and enjoy one of the prettiest little shops here, then be sure to add a stop at the Mercearia Portuguesa to your Macau itinerary!

Shop until You Drop at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf

The Macau Fisherman’s Wharf is a collection of waterfront hotels and entertainment complexes that have been built in a collection of styles from around the world, from 18th-century European to Ancient Roman. You can find a roman amphitheater, used as an outdoor venue for over 2000 people.

The complex on the Macau peninsula features nearly 70 stores and restaurants along Legends Boulevard, which looks a little more like Miami or the Italian Riviera, rather than Macau.

The Macau Fisherman’s Wharf also has a convention and exhibition center, a marina, The Rocks and Harborview Hotel, and the Babylon Casino, which is over 133,000 square meters big. There’s also a theme park which would keep the kids entertained.

Wondering when to visit Macau? Here is a more detailed breakdown of each month’s weather in order to help you plan the best Macau itinerary.

Macau has very distinct differences between its wet and dry seasons. The summer is hot but very wet and rainy. Winter is cold but clear and sunny. This means that planning your Macau itinerary is best done according to your own weather preferences.

While there is never a bad time of year to plan a trip to Macau, the recommended months to visit would be anywhere between October to December. These are the autumn and winter seasons here. Try to avoid May to September, as these are the rainiest months, with July to September being typhoon season.

As Macau is so close to Hong Kong, it can get busy here with visitors in the winter months. However, most people would choose this over frequent rain!

Before you start exploring, it is important to know how to get around. This area is pretty easy to navigate, with a couple of great transportation options.

One of the best ways to get around Macau (which can be done for free!) is through the use of casino buses. The major casinos around here have free shuttle bus services that operate around the area. These can be really useful when getting between sights, landmarks, and entertainment areas.

There is also a very efficient and affordable public bus system that operates around Macau. This is one of the most used methods of transport around here.

As Macau is pretty small, walking is one of the best things to do! Many attractions in Macau are within easy reach of each other, and walking will help you to see and experience the many fine details, sights, and smells that Macau has to offer.

If you are up for some fun, then riding a scooter around Macau is another great transport option! There are plenty of scooter rentals available, with this being one of the most efficient (and exciting) ways to get around!

Taxis are reasonably priced and in high demand, but you may need to use Mandarin to communicate with the driver, so if you don’t know the language, it’s best to look for other options.

If you are visiting from Hong Kong, you can get to Macau by ferry from the Macau Ferry Terminal, or by bus. Personally, I prefer the ferry because it’s quicker and easier.

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When visiting Macau, worrying about your safety is no serious concern! Macau has a very low-risk factor in terms of safety, with any kind of serious crimes being very rare here.

The city here is constantly developing its tourism sector, which means that the Macau government puts a great deal of focus into keeping the place safe and crime-free for tourists. As Macau is such a popular destination, it’s very well managed for the safety of its visitors.

While this is definitely a safe destination, one must still take common safety precautions as one would in any other major city. Be wary of any potential petty crimes here, as these do occur. Whether it is pickpocketing, scamming, or being ripped off as a tourist. Be cautious when walking at night, and always be alert to any potential dangers that one would find in any city.

Besides taking regular caution though, Macau is a very safe destination to visit! The city is clean, well run, and should keep any visitor feeling safe and secure.

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Macau itinerary.

What should you include on a 2 day Macau itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these awesome Macau attractions: – Mount Fortress – The Venetian – A-Ma Temple – Coloane Village

Is Macau worth visiting?

Absolutely! As a former Portuguese colony, Macau is one of the most unique destinations in China and is full of places to discover.

Where should you stay in Macau if you have a full itinerary?

Old Macau is the best place to base yourself if you want to easily explore the best of what Macau has to offer. Plus, you’ll get to experience the area’s Portuguese heritge first-hand.

Is it easy to travel from Hong Kong to Macau?

Yup! The cities sit on opposite sides of the Pearl River Delta, which you can easily cross via bus or ferry in one hour.

Macau is a really interesting and fun destination in China! Whether you spend one day in Macau or a week here, there is plenty to see and do! Bring your best travel camera to capture its beauty!

Between the flashy casinos, resorts, entertainment, and malls, to the quiet cultural and historic districts, Macau is a destination that can suit a lot of people. Its close proximity to Hong Kong also makes it an ideal base to explore more of the surrounding areas!

Macau has a really unique charm and feel to it, with its wonderful blend of east and west. No matter what draws you to Macau, you will certainly find a great deal of fun to be had here! We hope that this Macau itinerary helps you to see and do the most in this awesome destination!

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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 .

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

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.

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.

More on China:

• Top 5 Things To Do in China
• 21 Spectacular Things to Do in Hong Kong
• 16 Unmissable Things to Do in Beijing
• Should I Rent A Scooter in Yangshuo China
• We Were Giant Panda Volunteers in China
• Rock Climbing 101 in Yangshuo China
• China Terracotta Army: Photo Essay
• Walking the Great Wall of China: Best Routes & Tips
• Hiking the Rice Terraces in Guilin
• Food Adventure on the Streets of Beijing
• How to Travel Tibet: Everything You Need to Know
• RTW Recap: 8 Days in Tibet

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5-Day Macao Itinerary Under S$900 — An Underrated Long Weekend Destination Just 4 Hours From Singapore

This Macao itinerary includes both thrilling and chill activities , tons of IG-worthy spots, and plenty of good food — and is now a 4-hour direct flight away!

I’ve never considered Macao a holiday destination. A day trip from Hong Kong or mainland China perhaps, but a dedicated vacation there? I wasn’t sure if there were enough things to do in Macao to warrant a long weekend getaway.

But after visiting for the first time, I realise there are actually plenty of things to do in Macao. Visiting a teamLab exhibition, climbing a 338m-tall skyscraper (legally), and going on a sunset coastal hike are just some of the highlights!

And because Macao was a Portuguese colony till 1999, there’s a wonderful mix of Asian and Western culture that’s represented in Macao’s architecture and food. Dim sum in a cha chaan teng for breakfast, then Portuguese cuisine for lunch? Sounds like a great time to me.

Plus, it’s just a 4-hour direct flight from Singapore to get there — with daily flights available! But more on that at the end. 

Macao Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Historic Centre | teamLab Macao | Cotai Strip Day 2: Taipa Village Day 3: Macau Tower and Surrounds Day 4: Coloane Island Day 5: Other Gems in the City Centre Budget Breakdown | Flights to Macao | Where to Stay in Macao | Pre-trip Essentials

Click to jump to each section.

Day 1: Historic Centre of Macao and Cotai Strip

Macao was a trading port and Portuguese settlement from the mid-16th century to 1999. That’s why so many of the buildings feature Western architectural elements!

The best place to start your Macao itinerary is the Historic Centre of Macao — a collection of 22 buildings that have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. They’re located on Macao Peninsula (the main island), mostly within walking distance of each other.

8AM: Ruins of St Paul’s and Mount Fortress

Ruins of St Paul’s

Our first stop is Ruins of St Paul’s , one of Macao’s most recognisable landmarks. It’s the facade of the Church of Mater Dei and the ruins of St. Paul’s College — which were destroyed in a fire in 1835.

The ruins are the entry to the Sacred Art Museum and Crypt , but we were happy just to admire the facade and take photos from outside.

*Pro-tip: The Ruins of St Paul’s is arguably the most photographed spot in Macao. Arrive earlier (6:30AM – 7:30AM) if you want fewer people in your photos!

Sacred Art Museum and Crypt Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (Wed – Mon, last entry 5:30PM), 9AM – 2PM (Tue) How to get there: 9min walk from Senado Square ( Google Maps )

Most visitors capture the ruins from the steps at the front, but there are photo opportunities and hidden gems on either side!

To the left, there’s Travessa da Paixão — a narrow alley that perfectly frames the Ruins of St Paul’s. Paixão means passion and love in Portuguese, so it loosely translates to Love Lane! One of the buildings on this lane houses the Love Cinema Theatre , a three-storey film museum that screens local and international films.

Love Cinema Theatre Cost: MOP$60 (~S$10.20) for a movie ticket Opening hours: 10AM – 11:30PM (Closed on Mon), exhibition space closes at 8PM How to get there: It’s located to the left of the Ruins of St Paul’s ( Google Maps )

To the right, there’s a cobblestone road that’s another great photo spot with less crowds. It also leads to our next stop, Mount Fortress!

Mount Fortress

Built from 1617 to 1626, Mount Fortress was the city’s main defence structure. It was equipped with cannons, barracks, and enough ammunition to endure a siege of up to two years.

This fortress rests atop Mount Hill at 52m above sea level — so it offers great views of the city! The Macao Museum was also built at the top of Mount Fortress in 1998, which showcases Macao’s history as a Portuguese colony.

Mount Fortress Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 7AM – 7PM How to get there: 1min walk from Ruins of St Paul’s ( Google Maps )

Macao Museum Entrance fee: MOP$15 (~S$2.50) Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM (Closed on Mon, last entry at 5:30PM) — Free admission every Tue and the 15th of every month How to get there: It’s located within Mount Fortress ( Google Maps )

10AM: Breakfast at Margaret’s Café e Nata

Did you really visit a former Portuguese colony if you didn’t have an egg tart or two? One household name is Margaret’s Café e Nata , a popular bakery founded in 1992.

The egg tarts were creamy, with a glorious caramelised top layer. The queue also moved pretty fast! Besides egg tarts, there’s a salad and sandwich bar as well as other pastries and drinks available.

*Pro-tip: Go early to avoid disappointment as Margaret’s Café e Nata closes shop when their egg tarts are sold out.

Cost: MOP$65 (~S$11) for a box of six tarts Opening hours: 8:30AM – 4:30PM (Mon – Tue, Thu – Fri), 10AM – 6PM (Sat – Sun), Closed on Wed How to get there: 12min walk from Mount Fortress ( Google Maps )

11AM: Senado Square

Senado Square

Senado Square is the beating heart of Macao — pastel-coloured neo-classical buildings line the square and a fountain acts as the centrepiece. It’s typically packed with locals and tourists, so we arrived at 6AM to avoid the crowds.

Notable buildings include The Holy House of Mercy , Municipal Affairs Bureau and Central Post Office .

At the end of Senado Square is St. Dominic’s Church , another one of the 22 buildings listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was founded in 1587 by Spanish priests!

12PM: Rua dos Ervanários and Rua de Nossa Senhora do Amparo

Just one street down from Senado Square is Rua dos Ervanários and Rua de Nossa Senhora do Amparo . These parallel streets used to be busy with Macao’s foreign trade customs services, but have since been revived to feature murals, speciality coffee shops and other local businesses.

There are several interesting coffee shops in the area like Pace Coffee Macau , A Porta Da Arte and Connect Coffee Roasters . We realised that most cafes in Macao only open at 11AM or 12PM — you’ll have a tough time finding speciality coffee before then!

*Pro-tip: Majority of the store shutters are also painted with murals — come before 8AM when the shops are still closed to see them!

Rua dos Ervanários and Rua de Nossa Senhora do Amparo Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: 6min walk from Senado Square ( Google Maps )

2PM: teamLab SuperNature Macao

You might be wondering — why visit teamLab SuperNature Macao when we’ve got one at the ArtScience Museum in Singapore?

Well, Singapore’s teamLab (FUTURE WORLD) is 1,500m 2 while Macao’s is over three times the size (5,000m 2 ). The space was so large, we had to ask for directions several times.

What I really enjoyed about this teamLab is there’s no fixed route. There’s a large two-storey central room — Valley of Flowers and People (above) — which branches out to the other exhibits. The order of exhibits you visit and time spent in each one is completely up to you!

There’s quite a lot to see, so I’ll just share our favourites. The first is this room filled with giant spheres that light up — each sphere moves freely, and changes colour when you touch it!

Okay, we’ve got The Infinite Crystal Universe back in Singapore. But Macao’s was so much bigger! We didn’t have to jostle with other visitors for photos.

Since we’re already visiting teamLab Macao, we opted for the add-on experience (additional MOP$100) to gain entry to three new interactive installations — the Floating Flower Garden, Massless Clouds and En TEA HOUSE.

I saw photos online of the Massless Clouds exhibit — but it didn’t occur to me that the clouds were actually soap bubbles; a lot of it. We had to suit up in raincoats and shoe covers (all provided) and were left to venture through the room of foam. Needless to say, it was really fun.

teamLab Macao felt more like a giant playground than an art exhibition — with interactive exhibits for both adults and kids to play with. We spent 3 hours here and felt like we could stay a lot longer; you’ll definitely be able to spend at least 4!

Entrance fee: MOP$288 (~S$49), add-on experience at MOP$100 (~S$17) Opening hours: 11AM – 7PM (Last entry at 6:15PM), Closed on Wed How to get there: Take bus 26A from Senado Square (38min) or a 16min taxi ride ( Google Maps )

7PM: Cotai Strip

Photo credit: The Parisian Macao

Lined with mega resorts, theatres and clubs, Cotai Strip is Macao’s answer to Las Vegas. Even if you’re not staying in the area, this street is worth visiting.

There are massive resorts themed after big cities (The Londoner Macao, The Venetian Macao and The Parisian Macao) with replicas of famous landmarks. Visit the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben and Venice’s iconic canals — all in a single night!

Photo credit: Wynn Resorts Macau

Stop by Wynn Macau Fountain to catch a free daily water show (apparently, there’s fire involved). It happens every 30 minutes or so from 12PM – 10PM.

Cotai Strip Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: teamLab is located in The Venetian Macao ( Google Maps )

Day 2: Taipa

Once a fishing village, Taipa has been transformed into a bustling neighbourhood that combines Portuguese and Chinese heritage. The buildings and streets are beautifully maintained, with colourful murals decorating the alleys.

8AM: Breakfast at 金利麵食 Noodles

金利麵食 Noodles was recommended to us by our friend Clarence , who grew up in Macao. They’re known for delicious and affordable curry noodles at S$4 per bowl!

He told us to order the beef brisket noodles, but that was sold out when we arrived at lunchtime. So we ordered small portions of the pork slice and chicken curry noodles instead — the broth is like a thinner curry and was really tasty.

If you’re feeling hungry, get the combo! It’s a bigger bowl of noodles with two meats (you can mix and match) for just MOP$47.

Cost: From MOP$32 (~S$4) for a small bowl Opening hours: 7:45AM – 4:45PM How to get there: From Senado Square, take bus 21A or 26A to Edf. Chun Leong station ( Google Maps )

9:30AM: Taipa’s Street Art

When in Taipa, mural hunting is a must. Come early to avoid the day-trip crowd from Hong Kong!

The first mural we saw features a tiger , which symbolises good fortune and protection. You can’t miss this — it’s located right at the end of the main pedestrian street ( Rua do Cunha ) and it’s massive.

Just one street down to the right of the tiger mural is another popular mural along the steps of Escada do Coxo .

The stairs feature iconic Portuguese tiles and colourful fish wearing clothes. You might be wondering — why fish ? Canned fish is a huge part of Portugal’s gastronomy scene; you’ll find tons of shops selling it in Lisbon. There’s even one along Rua do Cunha in Taipa!

Just a 2-minute walk away from Escada do Coxo is Calçada do Quartel , another row of colourful buildings adorned with murals.

We stopped for drinks at Seng Pan Coffee (the blue building!) and got an iced latte (MOP$41), iced citrus tea (MOP$40) and cold brew (MOP$40) — really refreshing on a hot day.

Seng Pan Coffee Cost: From MOP$40/drink (~S$6.80) Opening hours: 10:30AM – 7:30PM How to get there: 2min walk from Rua do Cunha ( Google Maps )

Continue down the street to another famous mural, the Travessa da Boa Vista . It was inspired by the scenery of Taipa old village — try to spot how many animals are painted onto the steps!

12PM: Rua do Cunha

Rua do Cunha is Taipa’s main pedestrian street . Popular Macao shops like Lord Stow’s Egg Tarts and Koi Kei Bakery line the street, along with restaurants and souvenir shops .

The canned fish store at Rua do Cunha.

You can find stores selling pork chop buns all over Macao, but we opted to try it at Cafe Vong Kei . This popular store has been around since 1958 — but it was the vibrant retro-style murals that caught my attention.

There was already a queue when we arrived at 10AM and the upstairs seating area was full so we ordered takeaway. We got their signature pork chop bun (MOP$53), bo lo bao (pineapple bun, MOP$18) and homemade milk tea and coffee (MOP$28 each).

The drinks weren’t anything to brag about (but much-needed because it was HOT that day). I was surprised to see such a generous serving of pork steak spilling out of the bun, it was well-cooked and a nice snack.

Cafe Vong Kei Cost: From MOP$18 (S$3) Opening hours: 9AM – 9PM (Sun – Fri), 7AM – 6PM (Sat) How to get there: It’s located right across the tiger mural ( Google Maps )

2:30PM: Our Lady of Carmel Church and Taipa Houses

Besides murals, Taipa also has a lot of pretty colonial buildings and well-maintained parks. Like Our Lady of Carmel Church above, which was built in 1885!

The church overlooks the Dra. Laurinda M. Esparteiro Garden and Taipa Houses. There’s a playful mint green and red colour theme reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland.

The Taipa Houses are a row of gorgeous Portuguese-style colonial houses along Avenida da Praia. Built in 1921, they once housed senior civil servants but were eventually revamped and opened to the public in 1999.

One of the Taipa Houses is now the Macanese Living Museum , which you can visit for free to learn more about Macao’s past as a Portuguese colony.

Another house is the Creative Casa — the top floor is an exhibition space, while the ground floor is a bookstore and gift shop. We picked up cute Portuguese-tile pins and postcards here!

Taipa Houses Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 7PM (Closed on Mon) How to get there: 3min walk from Our Lady of Carmel Church ( Google Maps )

Other Things to Do in Taipa

Photo credit: @taipa_village_macau via Instagram

If you’ve still got time (and energy) to spare, check out these other things to do in Taipa !

You could rent a bike at Si Toi ( MOP$20/hr ) and visit landmarks like Vila da Taipa , Tin Hau Temple (Taipa’s oldest temple, built in 1785) and the Museum of Taipa and Coloane History .

Photo credit: @lafamigliamacau via Instagram

There’s no shortage of dining options as well — such as Portugalia (steak), La Famiglia (Macanese cuisine), Park Coffee and Drunken’ Tower (hot pot and cocktails).

Day 3: Macau Tower and Surrounds

9am: miradouro de santa sancha.

At the top of Penha Hill is Miradouro de Santa Sancha . It offers some of the best views of the city, looking out directly at Macau Tower.

I actually discovered this spot while doing Macau Tower’s Skywalk — the Chapel of Our Lady of Penha (atop the 62.7m-tall Penha Hill!) stood out like a beacon among the surrounding buildings.

The church was founded in 1622 and once served as the residence of the Bishop of the Diocese of Macao. It’s become a popular spot for wedding photos!

Chapel of Our Lady of Penha Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 4PM (The viewpoint is open 24 hours) How to get there: From Senado Square, it’s 24min by bus 28B to Largo Do Lilau station, or an 18min walk ( Google Maps )

10AM: Lilau Square

Lilau Square is a picturesque courtyard — this neighbourhood was one of the first Portuguese residential areas! The groundwater was once Macao’s main source of spring water; it’s said that “One who drinks from Lilau never forgets Macao”.

Lilau Square Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: 4min walk from Chapel of Our Lady of Penha ( Google Maps )

10:30AM: Mandarin’s House

Just down the street is Mandarin’s House , another one of the 22 UNESCO Heritage-listed buildings! This was the home of Chinese literary figure Zheng Guanying — it’s also Macao’s largest residential complex.

There are over 60 rooms, with numerous courtyards.

*Pro-tip: Free guided tours (in Cantonese) are available on the weekends on a first come first serve basis!

Mandarin’s House Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM (Closed on Wed, Last entry at 5:30PM) How to get there: 1min walk from Lilau Square ( Google Maps )

11:45AM: A-Ma Temple

Fun fact: The name Macao was derived from A-Ma-Gau (Bay of A-Ma), on which A-Ma Temple is located.

A-Ma Temple was established even before the city of Macao was — its earliest structure (The Hall of Benevolence) is believed to be built in 1488.

The temple is dedicated to the Chinese sea-goddess A-ma (or Mazu) and is part of the Historic Centre of Macao . It’s not too large and can be covered in less than an hour!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8AM – 6PM How to get there: 15min walk from Mandarin’s House ( Google Maps )

12:30PM: Lunch at A Lorcha

A Lorcha is a Portuguese restaurant that’s been around since 1989 and is listed on the Michelin Guide ! We arrived 30 minutes after opening time on a weekday and just managed to snag the last table.

*Pro-tip: Call +853 2831 3195 or email [email protected] to reserve a table in advance.

There’s quite an extensive menu , but we settled on a few dishes recommended by the waitress — Portuguese fried cod cakes (MOP$62), Bulhao Pato-style clams (MOP$148) and mixed seafood rice (MOP$208). The Macanese coconut and turmeric chicken is also really popular, but we thought it’d be overkill for just two people.

The seafood rice is like a soupy version of paella , with a generous amount of seafood. It had mussels, prawns, squid and crab!

Cost: ~MOP$235/pax (~S$40) Opening hours: 12PM – 3PM, 6:30PM – 10:30PM (Closed on Tue) How to get there: 1min walk from A-Ma Temple ( Google Maps )

3PM: Macau Tower

For thrill-seekers, head to AJ Hackett’s Skypark Macau — located at the top section of Macau Tower! There’s several activities available, each a notch higher on the adrenaline scale.

Our colleagues took on the 233m bungy (the world’s highest commercial bungy! , MOP$3,088) back in 2016 , so we opted to try something different. Not gonna lie, I doubt my feeble heart could manage the leap anyway.

For my sake, we chose something a little less scary — the Skywalk (MOP$788). But don’t assume it’s a walk in the park. I’ve been to a few tower observation decks (like Shanghai’s Pearl TV Tower and Bangkok’s Mahanakhon Skywalk ), but never one that wraps around outside the tower.

We were strapped into a harness and brought out to the skywalk, 233m above the ground. Initial thoughts: Damn, this is high. It’s also really windy — gotta make sure my feet are firmly planted.

Our guide, though, had other plans. He encouraged us to sit at the edge, lean backwards and even go hands-free (spoiler: I couldn’t let go). But during the 20 minutes or so we were out there, I gradually got more comfortable. And hey, the views aren’t half bad.

You can bring your phone onto the skywalk, the staff will provide a phone casing and check that it’s properly attached to you.

For a truly exhilarating (or borderline insane) experience, try the Tower Climb (MOP$2,488) like Chao did. It’s exactly what it sounds like — climbing to the very top of Macau Tower at 338m-high.

The adventure starts at level 61 of Macau Tower (233m), where you’ll scale 105m of internal and external ladders to get to the summit. There are two guides per group (max. four pax) and currently, there’s just one slot per day at 3PM as it takes 3 hours total.

Chao said he got a little scared when the tower started shaking because of the wind but thoroughly enjoyed it as an adrenaline junkie. Talk about taking our Macao itinerary to new heights 😏.

Cost: MOP$788  (Skywalk),  MOP$1,888  (Tower Climb),  MOP$3,088  (Bungy) — all packages incl. Gopro videos and photos Timings: Varies depending on attraction — Check the  calendar  and book a slot in advance How to get there: From Senado Square, take bus 18B to Torre De Macau station ( Google Maps )

Day 4: Coloane Island

Next on our Macao itinerary is Coloane, known as the Lungs of Macao as most of the island is covered in greenery and walking trails.

It’s also home to Macao’s largest beach (Hac Sa Beach) and it’s the birthplace of Macao’s egg tarts — at Lord Stow’s Bakery!

8AM: Breakfast at  Lung Wah Tea House

Before heading to Coloane, we visited Lung Wah Tea House for dim sum. This traditional tea house is tucked away on the second floor of an old shophouse and has been serving Cantonese food since 1962.

It felt like we were stepping into someone’s house — the owner displayed his collection of paintings and antiques all over! We chose a cosy booth by the window, which looks out to the busy street.

The menu is in traditional Chinese — so we relied on a combination of Google Translate and online images to order. We got siu mai , pork ribs, custard buns and char siew baos which amounted to MOP$160.

We quite enjoyed the first three but felt the char siew bao could work on its meat-to-bun ratio. 😂 There’s also zhi char -style dishes available even in the morning.

Cost: ~MOP$80/pax (~S$14) — Cash only Opening hours: 8AM – 2PM How to get there: From Senado Square, take bus 33 to Alm. Lacerda/ Mercado Vermelho station then walk 3min ( Google Maps )

9:30AM: Coloane Village

Start your tour of Coloane Island at Coloane Village, located on the westside of the island. One of the village’s main landmarks is the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier , which has a rich history dating back till 1928.

The chapel houses sacred Christian relics, including the bone of St. Francis Xavier who conducted missionaries in Japan.

A short walk away is the Coloane Library — which looks like something straight out of a Wes Anderson film.

Coloane also has quite a few murals, like the one above at Largo do Estaleiro , which portrays fishermen returning home from a day’s work.

I’ve tried and failed to find the name of this cute mural we found by chance — share with us in the comments if you know it! It’s a short walk from the mural above.

Other well-known photo spots in the area include Coloane Pier , the mural at Avenida de Cinco de Outubro and the mural at Pátio do Galo Nº 5 .

Getting to Coloane Village: From Lung Wah Tea House, take bus 26A to Assoc. De M. De Coloane station (~1hr journey). Alternatively, it’s a 31min taxi ride ( Google Maps )

11:30AM: Eating Portuguese Egg Tarts

It’ll be a crime not to include a trip to Lord Stow’s in our Macao itinerary. Englishman Andrew Stow is known as the creator of Macao’s egg tart — the government actually gave him an award for this!

Lord Stow’s was founded in 1989, taking inspiration from the Pasteis de Nata (egg tarts) he tasted in Lisbon! There are now numerous outlets (even outside of Macao), but the original bakery is located in Coloane Village — which we visited.

Lord Stow’s Bakery Cost: MOP$65 for a box of six egg tarts Opening hours: 7AM – 9PM How to get there: 3min wak from Coloane Library ( Google Maps )

They’ve since opened two cafes located just a minute’s walk from the bakery — Lord Stow’s Cafe and Lord Stow’s Garden Cafe .

We opted to stop by the latter (it’s more spacious) for lunch, which serves a mix of British, Macao and other Asian dishes. There’s an afternoon tea set for two (MOP$288) which includes Lord Stow’s egg tarts, scones, cakes and finger sandwiches.

Lord Stow’s Garden Cafe Cost: ~MOP$150/pax (~S$26) Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (Mon – Fri), 8AM – 6PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 1min walk from Lord Stow’s Bakery ( Google Maps )

1PM: Macau Giant Panda Pavilion

Photo credit: Macao Government Tourism Office

Now I typically wouldn’t be rushing to see pandas, but Coloane is one place you can admire these adorable creatures for free . The Macau Giant Panda Pavilion in Seac Pai Van Park is home to four giant pandas!

Besides giant pandas, there are other attractions like the Floral Garden (home to bunnies and other small animals!) and a red panda exhibit .

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 1PM, 2PM – 5PM (Closed on Mon) How to get there: Take bus 25, 26 or 50 to One Oasis/Mahogany Tower station (17min), or walk 20min from Coloane Library ( Google Maps )

3PM: A-ma Cultural Village

Photo credit: @armonteiro.photography via Instagram

A-ma Cultural Village is a sprawling 7,000m 2 complex dedicated to A-ma (or Mazu), the goddess of seafarers and fishermen. It stands in the middle of Coloane Island — where you’ll find the world’s tallest statue of A-ma (20m!), as well as several intricately designed pavilions and temples.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM How to get there: 6min taxi ride from Macau Giant Panda Pavilion ( Google Maps )

5:30PM: Sunset at Hac Sá Long Chao Kok Coastal Trail

The black-sand Hac Sá Beach is Macao’s largest and most popular beach — so it gets pretty crowded. We chose to go on a short hike along the coast instead, just off the beach to the right!

The Hac Sá Long Chao Kok Coastal Trail is a relatively flat 1.2km trail that begins at Rua de Hac Sá Long Chao Kok and ends at the Chuk Wan Villas.

The trail ends at a striking red pavilion, where we stayed to watch the sunset.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: Take bus 26A to Hellene Garden/Orchids Villa station (40min) or a 12min taxi ride ( Google Maps )

7:30PM: Dinner at Fernando’s

Ask a local where to eat good Portuguese food in Macao and chances are, they’ll point you to Fernando’s . This restaurant has been around since 1986 and is located just off Hac Sa Beach!

The entrance is inconspicuous — we might have passed it if we weren’t following Google Maps. A waitress led us through a quiet half-filled dining room at the front, past an al fresco dining area with a foosball table to the main dining hall.

It’s packed and lively; this is more like it.

We ordered a half-portion each of their signature Fernando-style clams (MOP$136), charcoal grilled chicken (MOP$133) and fried prawns with garlic (MOP$168) as well as a couple of Super Bocks (a lager from Portugal!).

A complimentary basket of freshly baked bread was served as we waited for our food. The seafood was delicious, and the chicken was grilled to perfection — overall a satisfying meal that’s worth the hype.

Cost: ~MOP$230/pax (~S$39) Opening hours: 12PM – 9:30PM How to get there: 11min walk from Hac Sa Long Chao Kok Coastal Trail starting point ( Google Maps )

*Note: It’s hard to hail a cab in Coloane in the evening. You’ll likely have to take an hour-long bus ride back to the city centre!

Day 5: Gems around the City Centre

Now that we’ve covered most of Macao’s must-sees, spend the last day wandering the alleys — you’ll never know what gems you might find!

We explored the area east of Senado Square, having checked out the neighbourhoods in the north and south earlier in our Macao itinerary. Here are some cute spots we visited:

12PM: Coffee at Single Origin

Single Origin is a pour-over and espresso bar that’s highly rated by coffee lovers. It’s a small two-storey coffee house that sits around 20 people.

They’ve got some really interesting coffee drinks like a Cloudy Black (MOP$45) and Pistachio (MOP$58), but the descriptions were in Chinese and I didn’t want to risk my caffeine fix. 😂 

So I stuck to what I knew — an ice white (MOP$46) plus a matcha jelly dessert (MOP$58) — and wasn’t disappointed.

Cost: From ~MOP$45/drink (~S$7.60) Opening hours: 12PM – 8PM How to get there: 13min walk from Senado Square ( Google Maps )

1PM: Lai Kei Sorvettes

Stepping into Lai Kei Sorvettes is walking onto the set of a retro film — faded mosaic tiles, plastic lotus ice cream cups and cosy booths lining the walls. This third-generation dessert parlour has been around for 80 years and takes pride in fresh, homemade ice cream.

I loved that the menu was kept simple as well, with items like ice cream soda and milk shakes. We got a fruit sundae (MOP$28), coconut ice cream (MOP$14) and two drinks (MOP$22 each) — really affordable!

Cost: From MOP$14 (~S$2.40) for a single scoop Opening hours: 12PM – 7PM How to get there: 2min walk from Single Origin ( Google Maps )

2PM: St Lazarus Church

Just a short walk from Lai Kei Sorvettes is St. Lazarus’ Church. We didn’t enter the church but were happy to snap photos in the area.

The surrounding alleys are also extremely photogenic — vibrant European-style buildings sit right across buildings that look like they’re part of an apartment complex in Hong Kong.

No surprise here, Macao is a fantastic place for street photography. There were several people (both locals and tourists) taking photos along the quiet alleys in this area!

3PM: Thrift Shopping

The fun part about wandering the alleys here is finding hidden gems. We managed to uncover quite a few vintage shops in the area!

Vintage Market Macau is a two-storey gem selling retro clothing, handmade hats and more. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s always fun to window shop.

Opening hours: 12PM – 8PM How to get there: 3min walk from St. Lazarus Church ( Google Maps )

Nearby, there’s Vintage Pepperland , which sells lots of colourful clothing and accessories.

Opening hours: 2PM – 7PM (Mon – Fri), 12PM – 8PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 2min walk from Vintage Market Macau ( Google Maps )

4:45PM: Head to Airport

After five days in Macao, it’s time to head home.

From Senado Square, it’s 20 minutes by car or 35 minutes by bus (one transfer). I’d recommend leaving latest by 4:45PM in order to arrive at the airport at least 1.5 hours before your 7:05PM flight back to Singapore.

Macao Itinerary Budget Breakdown

Accommodation:  S$187 — five nights Transport: S$45.90 Activities:  S$188 — incl. of Macau Tower Skywalk, cost is higher if you do a bungy or tower climb Food and Misc:  S$458.90 Total: S$880.70

Detailed breakdown for one pax here (prices are current at the time of writing). Flights aren’t included as prices fluctuate.

Direct flights to Macao are currently at fixed timings (5:40PM arrival in Macao). Hence, our Macao itinerary includes a five-night stay — the first night of stay being Day 0.

Daily Flights from Singapore to Macao

Scoot offers daily 4-hour direct flights to Macao (one-way fare from S$177*), which makes it really easy to plan a long weekend getaway there. *Taxes included, terms and travel periods apply.

What I appreciate about Scoot is it includes 10kg of carry-on baggage allowance — an extra 3kg more than most airlines! This is especially great for content creators like us who carry quite a bit of gear on trips.

You can also choose from a range of add-on meals like beef brisket hor fun , nasi lemak and roasted chicken thigh — all ingredients are Halal-certified. We also got a dark chocolate ice cream from Udders for dessert. 😋

Where to Stay in Macao

Macao Peninsula (the main island) is the best area to stay in Macao, especially for first-time visitors. It’s where the majority of the landmarks are located, with frequent buses to Taipa and Coloane for day trips.

We stayed at Towns Well Motel during our entire trip — the room and bathroom are basic, but the location’s fantastic. It’s a 6-minute walk to Senado Square and an 8-minute walk to the Ruins of St. Paul’s.

Cost: From ~S$75/night for a Twin Room Address: No 6, 6A Calcada das Verdades, Macao ( Google Maps )

Other accommodations in Macao Mid-range: Caravel Hotel ( from ~S$115/night for a Standard Double Room) Luxury: Grand Lisboa Hotel ( from ~S$274/night for a Deluxe Twin Room) Both options are a 10-minute walk from Senado Square.

Pre-trip Essentials

Connectivity: Hong Kong and Macao 15-day E-SIM with unlimited data and 15GB high-speed data ( S$23.90 )

Getting around: The best way to get around Macao is by bus (MOP$6 regardless of distance), which is frequent. Unless you have a local transport card, payment is via cash — no change is given.

There’s no Grab or Uber in Macao, but you can flag a taxi (MOP$19 for the first 1.6km, MOP$2 added for every 240m after).

*Pro-tip: Download Macao bus app and Macao Taxi Fare app beforehand.

Payment: Macao has her own currency — the Macanese Pataca (MOP) — which is pegged to the Hong Kong dollar (HKD). The exchange rate is MOP103.20 to HKD100. This means you can use HKD in Macao !

Attractions like AJ Hackett and established restaurants accept card payments, but bakeries and small eateries only accept cash.

Turns out, Macao makes for a pretty good long weekend getaway destination. It’s the kind of place that’s meant for wandering — there are hundreds of winding alleys, each with its own secrets waiting to be discovered.

Is there anything we missed out on our Macao itinerary ? Share with us in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by Scoot and the Macao Government Tourism Office .

Note: Prices are accurate at the point of publishing and are subject to change.

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Instagram ,  YouTube ,  Facebook  and  Telegram !

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1 Day Macau Trip Plan –  3 Day Macau Trip Plan – 5 Day Macau Trip Plan

5 Day Macau Trip Plan

(Last updated: November 22, 2023)

If you’re in Macau for 5 days, here’s a super in depth travel itinerary that I think you’ll enjoy.

5 Day Macau Trip Plan: Day 1

Lisboa Hotel—Avenida da Praia Grande—Avenida da Republica—Maritime Museum—Historic Quarter—St. Lazarus Quarter

(Reminder: The Maritime Museum is shut on Tuesdays, and Mandarin’s House is closed on Wednesday.  Therefore it’s best to follow “Day 1” on a day between Thursday and Monday.)

Day 1 follows the same itinerary as “3 Days in Macau – Day 1” between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.

By this time it should be nearing 5 pm and you’ll have the freedom to eat dinner wherever you want to in the whole city.  Of course it depends on you, but I think MacauSoul would make the perfect place to end your first day at. 

Go there for an evening of amazing drinks and great food, all at extremely low prices.  (The one thing you have to be sure to do is to make reservations first.  Macau Soul is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). 

Order almost any wine from the Douro Valley and you can’t go wrong.  As for food, everything they have there is phenomenal.  I particularly enjoy the Parma Ham, Spianata, Char Shu Special Salad, Sardine Pate, Pork Liver Pate and Hummus while the Japanese Kyoto cake is to die for.  If you’re one of those weird people who likes cheese, their Cheese Board is hands down the best in town.

As those in the know say: One does not go to Macau without going to MacauSoul.

5 Day Macau Trip Plan: Day 2

Luis de Camoes Park—Macau Museum—Historic Quarter—Street of Happiness—Wynn and MGM

(Friendly reminder: Macau Museum is closed on Monday, so make sure “Day 2” falls on a day between Tuesday and Sunday.)

Day 2 follows the same itinerary as “ 3 Days in Macau – Day 2 ” between 9:00 am and 3:35 pm.

3:40 on :  From the Street of Happiness, take a walk down San Ma Lo to the Wynn Macau for a look at Macau’s first Western type hotel/casino.  Afterwards check out MGM Macau , home to the the stunning Grande Praca, the most beautiful part of any 5 star hotel in Macau.

Yeah, I’d totally say that it’s Instagram worthy.

Dinner Suggestion : End your day by eating at Lei Hong Kei on the Street of Happiness, one of Macau’s 10 Iconic Restaurants.

5 Day Macau Trip Plan: Day 3

Saec Pai Van Park (Giant Panda Pavilion)—A Ma Cultural Village—Coloane Village—Cheoc Van Beach—Hac Sa Beach—Sam Seng Temple—Church of Our Lady of Sorrows

(Friendly reminder: The Giant Panda Pavilion is closed on Mondays so make sure “Day 3” falls on a day between Tuesday and Sunday.)

Day 3 follows the exact same itinerary as “ 3 Days in Macau – Day 3 .”

5 Day Macau Trip Plan: Day 4

Poi Tai Un Monastery—Taipa Village—Cotai Strip

(Reminder: Taipa Houses Museum is closed on Mondays, so make sure “Day 4” falls on a day between Tuesday and Sunday.

After your day in Coloane, Day 4 will be all about seeing the sights in Taipa and on the Cotai Strip.  

9:30 am – 9:50 am :  Begin your day at Pou Tai Un Monastery , one of Macau’s largest and most beautiful temple complexes.

Visitor traffic is always very slow, so you should have the whole grounds to yourself.

Afterwards, make the 20 minute walk down to Taipa Village , walking South down Rua de Braganca until you hit Rua de Cunha.  

10:10 am – 2:00 pm :  Taipa Village.  Make sure to check out the Taipa Houses Museum and everything between Sam Po Temple and Tin Hau Temple .  There’s a ton to see in the Village and just getting lost on its narrow streets is very enjoyable too. 

Take a pass on the Museum of Taipa and Coloane History though, since it’s one of the most boring museums I’ve ever been to.

Lunch suggestion : Taipa Village is home to two of my favorite Portuguese restaurants: A Petisqueira and O Manuel .  Unless it’s a weekend, reservations usually aren’t essential, but it’s never a bad idea to make them anyway.

After eating and finishing up at Taipa Village, walk over to the Taipa Grande Hill Inclined Lift.  It’s right beside the Ecological Trail opposite the Taipa Houses Museum on the left hand side.

You’ll be heading up for scintillating views of the Cotai Strip, which are perhaps even better at night.

2:00 pm – 6:00 pm: The afternoon will be spent hotel hopping on the Cotai Strip.  For an idea of the different activities and attractions to try, please refer to the Cotai Strip section.

DINNER SUGGESTION : There are a ton of restaurants on the Cotai Strip, but if you want to go for some high end Chinese, try Jade Dragon at the City of Dreams Nuwa hotel.  If you prefer buffet, try the Galaxy’s Urban Kitchen , while avoiding the Four Seasons overpriced and overrated Belcancao at all costs!

5 Day Macau Trip Plan: Day 5

Guia Fortress—Flora Garden—Memorial of Dr. Sun Yat Sen—Xian Xinghai Museum—Kun Iam Temple—Mong Ha Hill—Lin Fung Temple—Lin Ze Xu Museum—Temple of Bamboo—Art Museum—Handover Gifts Museum—Grand Prix Museum (for racing fans only)

(Important note: The afternoon of Day 5 will be spent museum hopping out by the Sands Macao and the Ferry Terminal.  Be aware that the Art Museum is closed on Mondays and the Grand Prix Museum is closed on Tuesdays, so make sure your “Day 5” lands on a Wednesday through Sunday.)

One of my favorite parts of Macau is the area around Mong Ha Hill.  Quite neglected by tour groups and casual travellers this is an area for hard core Macau enthusiasts only.  Your day begins a little bit to the South though at the foot of Guia Hill.

8:30 am – 9:15 am : Guia Fortress, the 25th and final UNESCO heritage site, is home to Guia Chapel and Guia Lighthouse, the first modern lighthouse in China.  There’s also an air raid shelter on top of the hill.  After having a look at the lighthouse and the chapel, take a nice walk through Guia Hill Municipal Park towards Flora Garden , where you’ll find a small zoo and aviary.

9:20 am – 9:45 am :  Head over to the nearby Sun Iat Sen Memorial House , dedicated to the legendary Chinese revolutionary leader who spent a year in Macau from 1892 to 1893.  Interestingly, he was the first Chinese to practice western medicine in the city. 

9:50 am – 10:15 am :  Proceed north up Rua de Silva Mendes for the Xian Xinghai Museum, which delves into the life of one of China’s most famous classical music composers.  While I know that doesn’t sound very interesting, I found most of his life to be exactly that, not to mention inspirational as well. 

10:20 am – 11:00 am:  Proceed along Conselheiro Ferreira de Almeida for Kun Iam Temple , one of Macau’s two oldest temples, that predates the arrival of the Portuguese in 1555.

11:05 am – 11:30 am :  From Kun Iam walk west along Coronel Mesquita to Mong Ha Park .  This is where you’ll find one of Macau’s best hotels (the Pousada de Mong Ha) and one of its best restaurants, the highly acclaimed (but oh so poorly named) Educational Restaurant . 

Take a little stroll to the top of Mong Ha Hill for the ruins of an abandoned fortress that dates from 1841.

11:40 am – 12:10 pm :  Head out the East gate of the park to Est. de Areia Preta.  Follow this road until you reach Lin Fung Temple .  Spend a good half hour there checking out the temple as well as the adjoining Lin Ze Xu Museum of Opium Trade . 

Lunch suggestion :  Go to the Red Market for Long Wa , Macau’s last standing original teahouse.  Enjoy a long leisurely lunch there sipping tea and helping yourself to the delicious dim sum.  The teahouse is a blast to just be in, like being in a living museum.  They have more space allocated to the storage of all their antiques and art than to actual seating.  Highly recommended!

2:00 pm – 2:20 pm :  After lunch wind South for one of Macau’s hidden treasures, the green and serene Bamboo Temple , located on Estrada de Coelho do Amaral.  

Afterwards, get on Av. de Horta Costa and walk back in the direction of Flora Garden.  Find the pedestrian tunnel that goes underneath Guia Hill, and take that until you re-emerge on the other side, close to Casa Real Hotel .  Afterwards, continue walking until you hit the Art Museum.  I’d imagine the whole trip would take around 40 minutes. 

3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Spend the rest of the day visiting the Art Museum , and Handover Gifts Museum.   If you’re super into auto racing, then the Grand Prix Museum cannot be missed.  (And it should also be the first one you visit, since it closes the earliest, at 6 pm.)

Dinner Suggestion : Vic’s Restaurant at the Rocks Hotel is a great place to end your day at, considering you’re basically already there!  The duck rice is just to die for! 

Some of these itineraries are very similar to days I’ve actually spent in Macau and wrote about in my three Trip Reports .  Feel free to take a look through them to get an idea of the kind of excellent fun you’re in store for.

Remember, only prepared travellers get the most out of their trips!

And if you’re a little short of cash, that’s okay too!  Follow the link below to learn how to spend 3 days in Macau on less than $60 US a day.

Budget Trip Itinerary →

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5-Day Macau Itinerary

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• Macau in 5 days
• 1-Day Macau Itinerary
• 2-Day Macau Itinerary
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• 4-Day Macau Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: northeast side of town, day 3: off the beaten path, day 4: proximity is everything, day 5: keep it simple, the venetian macao.

Studio City Macau

The Parisian Macao

City of dreams, venetian macao casino, galaxy hotel, taipa houses, where to eat, lotus palace, antónio macau, walls of st paul church, new yaohan 新八佰伴, mandarin's house, a-ma temple, st. dominic's church, senado square, casino grand lisboa, macau fisherman's wharf, guincho a galera, talay thai restaurant 廚泰, robuchon au dôme, wynn palace, the house of dancing water, four seasons hotel macao, macao giant panda pavilion, macau tower convention and entertainment center, macao grand prix museum, tromba rija, urban kitchen, albergue 1601, guia fortress and lighthouse, lou kau mansion, macao museum, camoes garden, lou lim ioc garden, macau island, lung wah tea house, lok kei noodle, chapel of our lady of penha, st. lazarus' church, macau museum of art, maritime museum, shoppes at parisian, a-ma cultural village, chapel of st. francis xavier., lord stow's bakery main store, restaurante litoral, indian spice, margaret's café e nata.

Attractions

Top searches in Macau

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It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Macau for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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Explore nearby places

• Boluo County
• Xinxing County
• Huidong County
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Macau throughout the year

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Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Macau?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 5-Day Hong Kong Itinerary
• 5-Day Guangzhou Itinerary
• 5-Day Dongguan Itinerary
• 5-Day Foshan Itinerary
• 5-Day Zhongshan Itinerary

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• How to Get the Most out of Macau in 2 Days

Although small in geographical size, Macau is one of the most fascinating destinations in China and an especially unique neighbor to Hong Kong .

The main things to do in Macau are to gamble (or at least enter and explore some of the most elaborate casinos in the world , even if you don't play), eat (pretty much the only place you can try the unparalleled fusion of Portuguese-Chinese cuisine ), and step back in history (Macau's Portuguese colonial history is particularly fascinating).

Below is our ultimate organized list of recommendations for places to see and things to do in Macau if you only have a short time available, compiled to give you the best ideas on how to really take advantage of your time there. This itinerary is perfect, for example, as a weekend trip from Hong Kong. Of course, these ideas are only suggestions and given your specific interests, China Highlights will be able to arrange a custom Macau trip for you.

Early morning: Arrive in Macau

Macau is very well connected to other hubs in China and getting a visa is quite easy. The majority of visitors arrive through Hong Kong, where there are convenient ferries departing from the Macau Ferry Terminal. The lovely boat ride takes about 1 hour and a visit to Macau is easy to plan from Hong Kong .

There are also flights to Macau International Airport that is served by various regional low cost carriers that link the city nationally as well as internationally.

Here is more information on how to get to Macau . We suggest getting in no later than 10:30am.

If you are able, consider spending the previous night in Macau that way you can wake up prepared to discover!

Late Morning: Wine Tasting

This day will be spent on the principle Macau peninsula, where the main ferry port is located, to see the main highlights of this former Portuguese colony.

An off-the-beaten-track destination nearby, and a distinct way to begin your Macau trip, is the unexpected Macau Wine Museum . Learn about the history of wine production, techniques for selection, and a showcase of some top wines. The Portuguese brought over many new styles of production. Some of the more than 1,000 brands of vintages are for sale, and the other are part of the permanent exhibit. Of course, try some wine during your tour!

From the Macau Ferry Terminal, take bus 1A, 3, 10B, or 32. If you don't have many things with you, you can also walk about 15 minutes to the museum. Get some basic information about transportation in Macau .

Lunch: Finding the West in the East

By this time, you'll have gained a deep understanding of Macau's past and how it was one of the last European colonies to be relinquished to this day. This is reflected in the region's gastronomy, where you will find dishes with identity crises.

One example is called galinha à portuguesa (Portuguese-style chicken) which, contrary to its name, is an endemic dish to Macau. Minchi is another local favorite, made with minced meat and served with fried potato cubes and white rice.

Afternoon: History Today

Walk off your meal a bit by walking to Monte Fort . In the past, this strategic military point was used to protect Jesuit properties in Macau. Many of the original cannons still lay on the perimeters. Oh, and the views of the harbors are fantastic from up here!

Today on Monte Fort, you can also find the well-kept Museum of Macau which is one of the best museums around. Insightful exhibits include topic such as toys and other home relics, information about old marriage customs, and explanations on how Macau became the East-West melting pot it is today. Allow at least 2 hours.

Late afternoon: Macau Must-Sees

In the Historic Center, you'll find one of the most photographed spots on the island: the ruins of the Church of St. Paul . Built in 1580, the building has suffered many fires throughout the centuries and today, you can just see the front of the church and 66 stone steps that lead up to it. The site is unlike any other, and you can also visit the St Paul's Museum on the site to see the original city walls.

The ruins are just down the hill from Monte Fort and Museum of Macau.

Later, head to Senado Square in the historical center of Macau is where all the action is; it is also a picturesque area with colorful Victorian architectural facades that remind of a European city. This is the most visited location in Macau and a top shopping area.

To arrive at Senado Square, simply walk down Rue de Sao Paulo and then Largo do Senado. This area is well populated and it is easy to navigate.

Dinner: Largo do Senado

The street Largo do Senado is chock full of hundreds of shops, restaurants, boutiques, and tasty snack shops to serve whatever your cravings may be. You can easily lose hours exploring (and eating!) here.

For something sweet, be sure to try the sweet milk egg tarts that are iconic to Macau!

Nighttime: Gambling on the Cotai Strip

Whether you are a gambling nut or not, Macau is the place in all of Asia to patron a casino or two. The best part, however, is that you can play or you can just explore the grounds. Take a bus back to Taipa Village, this stop getting off at the Cotai Strip .

Buses 21A, 26A, and N3 run every 15 minutes from near the corner of Almeida Ribeiro aka Rua Mercadores, about 3 blocks from Senado Square. The journey is about 45 minutes and you can get off when you see the casino you want to explore first.

The casinos here, such as the world-famous Venetian Macau (the largest of them all), City of Dreams Macau (don't forget the free nightly House of the Dancing Water show, perfect for kids !), and Galaxy Macau, among many others. Feel free to try your luck at the machines or tables inside, or simply explore the public shopping and lobby areas of these casinos for a taste what could be! At the Venetian Macau , meander the canals as if you were in Venice, Italy itself!

To be sure, the interiors of these top class casinos are often very impressive and shouldn't be missed.

Morning: Life & Worship

After breakfast, visit Mandarin's House , the old family mansion of Zheng Guanying from the Qing Dynasty. The home has been restored and well reflects very traditional Chinese construction techniques as well as Western architectural styles, making the home a place well worth visiting. Within more than 60 rooms, the complex is home to artifacts such as ancient furniture, tablets with scripts, and clothing from the era. About 1 hour makes for a nice visit.

A 5 minute walk down Rue/Calcada da Barra is the sacred A-Ma Temple where religious locals still come to light incense, pray for luck and fortune, and leave offerings such as fresh fruit and flowers.

If you prefer, you can also easily access the Macau Maritime Museum by pedestrian street Rue de Sao Tiago da Barra (about 5 minutes walk) which features the traditions and techniques of the area's time-honored fishermen and their culture. Portuguese and Chinese maritime history is also covered in various exhibits for those who enjoy learning about the past.

Lunch: Pork Chop Buns

Take a bus to Taipa island which hosts a town of the same name.

In Hong Kong and mainland China, you will often find sweet, white buns stuffed with different mixtures of meat and vegetables. In Macau, this traditional favorite comes at a twist, in sandwich form.

Inspired by its Portuguese holding eras, the pork bun sandwich is a pure fusion of Western customs and Chinese flavors. The bread comes golden and crispy, and the piping hot pork chop is enveloped inside, together offering a succulent and flawless example of culinary synthesis. Our favorite spot in Taipa town is the famous Tai Lei Kok Kei shop (18, Largo Governador Tamagnini Barbosa, Taipa).

From the area of the Macau Maritime Museum, take bus MT4, taking about 40 minutes. Get off at Av. Cidade Nova and walk inside the Venetian Casino & Hotel.

Rua da Cunha is also a place you can't miss if you love local food. Instead of sitting down for a meal here, we recommend snacking at various points! Chinese almond cakes, seaweed wafers, sweet egg roll biscuits, and peanut candies are some of the items you won't want to pass up. Items here tend to be cheaper than in the more touristy areas of Macau such as the shops in Senado Square. Walk about 15 minutes north on Av. Cidade Nova.

If you prefer something different, however, we recommend O'Manuel Cozinha Portuguesa (90, R. Femao Mendes Pinto, Taipa) for an authentic taste of Portuguese food, or Seng Cheong Restaurant (28-30 Rua Do Cunha, Taipa) for the popular Crab Congee and other Chinese favorites.

Afternoon: Taipa Town

Dive deep and get to know Macau beyond the surface at the Museum of Taipa and Coloane History . This small museum was once a public administration building and today holds artifacts from various archaeological excavations from Coloane Island between 1973 and 2006. Not only will you get a sense of Macau in prehistoric times, there are also interesting exhibits about life here in the 20th century.

Access the museum by walking north on Av. Cidade Nova then turning left on Rue Correiia da Silva about 15 minutes.

Just a few blocks away is the very pretty Jardim Da Cidade Das Flores, or Municipal Garden . This is a fine example of a classical Chinese garden, complete with a large pond, small pavilions, and lovely bridges. Take bus 22, 30, 33, or 34 for about 5 blocks, or walk up Rue do Regedor about 15 minutes.

Late afternoon:

Return to the Macau Peninsula and get one last look of Macau from overhead and try to point out all the places you've been! Guia Lighthouse , built around the year 1865 and is the highest point in Macau, is close to the ferry port. It is very peaceful up here, and the church with vintage murals inside is very elegant.  This spot is a favorite for brides and grooms as well as history lovers; sunsets are also marvelous from here and make for greatMacau photo memories!

From the Municipal Garden or Museum of Taipa and Coloane History, take bus 25 or 25X about 35 minutes to reach Guia Lighthouse, then walk up the hill.

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• Weekend Guide

A Long Weekend in Macau

By Elite Traveler

Our weekend guide to Macau includes only the region’s elite experiences

22nd October 2019 // By Kate Springer

A tiny speck in the South China Sea, just an hour by ferry west of Hong Kong, Macau never fails to charm visitors with its unexpected mix of Portuguese and Chinese cultures.

A Portuguese colony from the mid-16th century until 1999, when sovereignty was transferred to mainland China, Macau has seen an astonishing amount of development over the past 20 years. The city of 623,000-some people has all but transformed, ushering in a nonstop stream of high-profile hotels, world-class entertainment and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Getting around is relatively easy with lots of taxis zipping past major hotels, as well as an incoming light rail that will connect the main peninsula with two islands, Taipa and Coloane, across the water to the south.

The main peninsula is where you’ll find the majority of the territory’s historic sites, from gorgeous Senado Square and the Ruins of St Paul’s to the hilltop Guia Fortress and Lighthouse, and the waterfront A-Ma Temple. But there’s plenty to do on Taipa as well. Culture buffs will adore the charming cobbled lanes of Taipa Village, while gamblers may want to test their luck in a VIP room at The Venetian.

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Where to eat.

Crispy barbecue pork buns from The Eight

Easily one of the best dim sum restaurants in Asia, if not the world, three-Michelin-starred The Eight is hidden away inside the Grand Lisboa hotel . A discreet sliding door takes diners into a glamorous black, red and metallic main dining room, where subtle nods to the number eight symbolize prosperity. We recommend visiting at lunch time for an unforgettable Cantonese dim sum experience. On the extensive menu, signature dishes include lobster dumplings, crystal blue shrimp-stuffed har gao dumplings (which have been folded to look like a gorgeous goldfish) and the crispy char siu bao buns (which resemble tiny hedgehogs).

Awash in ethereal shades of white and champagne, Alain Ducasse at Morpheus is a sight to behold. Intimate tables are set apart by icicle-like pendulums, while a glass pantry full of antique tableware, straight from chef Ducasse’s own collection, anchors the room. Awarded two Michelin stars, the elegant restaurant centers around French fine dining, promising hand-carved butter, seasonal menus and a few of Ducasse’s signatures, such as the Mediterranean gamberoni in a delicate gelée topped with caviar. This is also an excellent place to sample fine French wines — ask about the private wine room, hidden behind the pantry, for an exclusive tasting experience.

For laid-back Portuguese vibes, head to A Petisqueira in Taipa Village; its bright-blue facade hints at the friendly service to come. Inside, this warm and cozy tavern feels like a time capsule, filled with red-checkered tablecloths, wooden furniture and big jugs of sangría. The menu is equally homestyle and rustic, highlighting seafood signatures like garlicky sautéed clams, savory paella and bacalhau cakes (made with dried cod, a local specialty). This place is loved by residents and travelers alike, so prepare for a buzzing atmosphere once the evening kicks off.

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Another Portuguese favorite is Antonio . Set on a cobbled lane in charming Taipa Village, this three-story restaurant is upscale yet casual, promising refined presentations, premium ingredients and beautiful mosaic interiors. The house-made chorizo will be set aflame tableside, while the lengthy Portuguese wine list showcases the best bottles from boutique vineyards. Expect beautifully prepared African chicken (a delicious peanut, chili and ginger coconut sauce atop a butterflied whole chicken), Portuguese duck rice and fresh tiger prawns in garlic. If you’re visiting on a clear night, ask for the private table on the rooftop for an extra dose of romance.

Where to Stay

Morpheus – pool villa.

When Morpheus opened on the famed Cotai Strip last year, it changed the skyline forever. Designed by the late Zaha Hadid, the avant-garde monolith looks like it belongs light-years in the future due to its sinuous facade encased in a mesh-like steel exoskeleton. The rooms are just as impressive, particularly the rooftop Sky Villas. Among the nine villas, there are just three ultra-luxe Pool Villas, each offering private pools as well as incredible views of the Macau cityscape through floor-to-ceiling windows. Designed by globally renowned interior designer Peter Remedios, the atmosphere recalls the vibe of a luxury yacht with plush upholstery, a private spa room, fitness facilities, Bugatti kitchen accessories and 1,000-thread-count Frette linens. In addition, villa guests enjoy 24-hour personal butler service and Mercedes-Benz Maybach transfers.

Rate: Price on request

Contact Macy Lam, general manager,  [email protected] , +853 886 888 88, cityofdreamsmacau.com

The Ritz-Carlton Macau – Presidential Suite

Contact: Jackie Hoo, general manager,  +853 888 668 68, ritzcarlton.com

What to See

The house of dancing waters.

Senado Square

You can’t go to Macau without experiencing Senado Square. Part of the Unesco-listed historic city center, the 16th-century public square features iconic wave-patterned tiles that seem to undulate underfoot. All around are pastel-painted colonial-era buildings, including St Dominic’s Church, the Holy House of Mercy and Leal Senado (the seat of the former colonial government). While the square has become a major landmark, it remains one of the most important cultural centers in the territory and is the site of many festivals throughout the year.

Ruins of St Paul’s

From Senado Square, follow the signs through the streets and alleyways until the intricately carved stone facade of the Ruins of St Paul’s comes into view. This is all that’s left of a 17th-century Jesuit church that was destroyed by a devastating fire in the 1800s. Before it burned down, the grand church was said to be among the largest in Asia. Behind the facade, a steel staircase enables you to climb to the top, where you’ll find an informative exhibition that details the building’s architectural style and tragic history. Meanwhile, Macau Museum — one of the region’s most important history museums — is right next door.

Taipa Houses-Museum

Image credits: Barbara Kraft, Emmanuel Crooÿ, Jane Zhang

Macau: The City of Blinding Lights

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Your Trip to Macao: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Airport Guide
• Public Transportation
• Top Things to Do
• Gambling in Macao
• Grand Prix Guide
• 48-Hour Itinerary
• Food to Try
• Best Restaurants
• Nightlife Guide

With all its sparkly resorts, many casinos, and sprawling shopping centers, Macao has a reputation as the Las Vegas of the East. Still, this Special Administrative Region (SAR) has so much more to offer. You can visit the 15th-century temple that gave the area its name, wander through streets that look eerily European, and sample some of the food that earned Macao the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy designation in 2017. Offering tons of history—with a whopping 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites  —right next to ultra-modern design hotels, Macao is an ideal destination for anyone interested in history, food, luxury, and everything in between.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: November to March; temperatures are lower, and humidity is at comfortable levels.
• Language: Chinese (the Cantonese dialect to be specific) and Portuguese are the official languages of Macao, but most people in restaurants and stores speak some English.
• Currency: Patacas and Hong Kong dollars. Hong Kong dollars often have a more favorable exchange rate but expect to receive patacas as change for purchases.
• Getting Around: Most hotels arrange shuttle buses to significant landmarks for guests. There are also taxis and a relatively expansive public bus network that travels across Macao Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane
• Travel Tip: Many travelers pair visits to Macao with a Hong Kong vacation since the two are a short ferry ride away from each other.

Things to Do

Because of its rich history and abundance of hotels and resorts, there's no shortage of things to do in Macao beyond gambling. Whether you want to explore streets that look straight out of Europe, learn about the SAR's history, see ruins of churches, or ride the world's first figure-eight ferris wheel, you'll find something for you.

• Make some time to visit A-Ma Temple, the reason that Macao is called Macao. When Portuguese travelers asked locals where they were, they were told "A Ma Gao" or place of A-Ma. "A-Ma gao" became Macao over the years. The temple has been around since the 1400s and is still a place of worship for many locals.
• Whether you're a history buff or not, everyone should visit the Handover museum. When Macao was returned to China in 1999  , each province sent a gift to celebrate the handover. Each gift is now on display in a free museum, and the artistry of each piece makes this a must-visit destination.
• Thrillseekers should head straight to the Macau Tower to experience the world's tallest commercial bungee jump. For a fee, visitors can dive 233 meters off the edge. If that sounds too intense, there are also options to walk around the edge of the observation deck (tethered to it, of course) and to climb to the very top of the tower. Even if you don't do any of the more adventurous activities, the view from the tower is well worth a visit.

Check out our list for more ideas on what to do in Macao .

What to Eat and Drink

Because of its history, Macao's food scene is quite unique. You can eat traditional Cantonese cuisine for breakfast, Macanese for lunch, and Portuguese for dinner. The most famous food in the region is the Macanese egg tart. You'll find them sold everywhere (even the airport), but you should try it at one of the Lord Stow's locations. Other signature items include African chicken (braised chicken in a hearty peanut sauce), almond cookies, and serradura (a chilled dessert of whipped cream and crushed cookies)

Get more meal inspiration with our guides to the must-try foods in Macao and best restaurants in Macao .

Where to Stay

The experience that you want while in Macao will influence where you chose to stay. Most of the larger, flashier resorts are in the Cotai area of Taipa Island. Taipa is also home to Macau International Airport. The Cotai Strip (a term created by the Las Vegas Sands Corporation) is home to the Galaxy resort complex, Wynn Palace, Parisian, and the ultra-luxe Morpheus hotel at City of Dreams, to name a few. Cotai and Taipa are the places to be if you want to explore a ton of resorts easily or if you want to hit the casinos.

If you're interested in discovering the historic sections of Macao, Macao Penisula will be ideal. It's home to the Macau Tower, A-Ma Temple, the Ruins of St. Paul's, the historic center of Macao (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the Handover Gifts Museum. For a quieter experience, and to be closer to the Panda Pavilion, book a room on Coloane, the southernmost region of Macao. Staying on Coloane also puts you close to a golf course, several Buddhist temples, and an ecological garden

Getting There

There are three main ways of getting to Macao: plane, ferry, and the new HZM bridge. The airport is very close to the city center, and many resorts have free shuttle buses to transport guests from the airport to the hotel. Most flights from the United States or Europe will require a layover in Taiwan or Hong Kong.

Many travelers to Macao arrive via ferry from Hong Kong, which takes around 45 minutes to an hour. People driving in from Mainland China or Hong Kong will arrive on the HZM. After making it to Macao, you'll have to go through customs as with the airport or ferry.

Culture and Customs

Due to a relatively similar political history, the culture of Macao is more similar to Hong Kong than to Mainland China. The influence of Portugal is seen in the SAR's cuisine and architecture. Most signs will be in traditional Chinese characters and Portuguese. Tipping in Macao is very similar to tipping practices in Hong Kong . Tipping is not required or expected in most settings though bellhops might appreciate a small tip.

Macao is known for its casinos but if you visit, expect a more serious mood than what you'd find in Las Vegas. No alcohol is served on the casino floor and most gamblers are focused on one thing: the game they're playing.

Money-Saving Tips

• Many resorts offer free shuttles to major attractions and tourist destinations around Macao. For the bigger resorts or those with casino floors, it's easy to hop on a shuttle even if you don't have a room there.
• While it's costly to bungee jump off the top of Macau Tower, the views can be enjoyed for free.
• While fall is a great time to visit, visiting during Golden Week in October could mean more massive crowds and higher accommodation prices.
• Many of Macao's incredible restaurants can be quite expensive. To cut down costs considered swapping lunch at a restaurant for street food like pork chop buns, egg tarts, or jerky.

Macau. " Macau Historic Centre ."

Washington Post. " China Regains Macau After 442 Years ." Dec. 20, 1999

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The Ultimate Guide: What to do in Macau for 1 day trip

April 7, 2024

Macau , a captivating blend of Portuguese and Chinese influences, is a small but vibrant region that promises an unforgettable experience to travelers seeking a taste of both history and modernity. Nestled on the southeastern coast of China, Macau is renowned as the "Las Vegas of Asia," offering a thrilling fusion of glamour, entertainment, and cultural heritage.

Travel to Macao Promotions - Save Up to 100 SGD🔥

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Importance of Planning for a 1-Day Trip to Macau:

While Macau may be small in size, it is packed with an array of attractions and experiences that can easily overwhelm even the most seasoned travelers. Therefore, meticulous planning becomes essential when you have just one day to explore this remarkable destination.

Planning ahead allows you to maximize your time, ensuring you don't miss out on the must-see landmarks and hidden gems. By organizing your itinerary in advance, you can make the most efficient use of transportation options, enabling you to navigate seamlessly from one attraction to another.

In this guide, we have curated two alternative morning attractions and two alternative afternoon attractions to provide you with flexibility and options, allowing you to tailor your visit to your preferences. Additionally, we have handpicked two restaurants for lunch and two for dinner, ensuring you savor the delectable flavors that Macau is famous for.

Useful Tips for Singaporean Travelers Visiting Macau

Currency exchange and payment methods:.

When visiting Macau, it is advisable to exchange your Singaporean dollars (SGD) to Macau Patacas (MOP) to facilitate transactions within the region. Currency exchange counters can be found at airports, major hotels, and banks throughout Macau. Additionally, major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments, offering convenience and ease of payment.

Time Zone and Weather:

Macau follows China Standard Time (CST), which is eight hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+8). In terms of weather, Macau experiences a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, while summers are hot and humid. Winters can be cooler, so it is advisable to pack appropriate clothing to suit the season during your visit.

Language and Communication:

The official languages of Macau are Chinese (Cantonese) and Portuguese. While Chinese is predominantly spoken, English is also widely understood, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Having a basic understanding of common Cantonese greetings and phrases can greatly enhance your interactions with locals and make your experience more enjoyable.

Customs and Cultural Norms:

Macau has a rich cultural heritage influenced by both Chinese and Portuguese traditions. When visiting temples or historical sites, it is customary to dress modestly and respectfully. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering certain establishments or using both hands when exchanging money or receiving items.

Visa Requirements and Entry Information:

Singaporean passport holders can enjoy visa-free entry to Macau for a period of up to 30 days. However, it is essential to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Upon arrival, you will be required to complete an immigration form and present your passport for inspection. It is advisable to have a copy of your hotel reservation or accommodation details readily available, as you may be asked for proof of accommodation during your stay.

By familiarizing yourself with these useful tips, you will be well-prepared for your trip to Macau and able to navigate the local customs, currency, and communication with ease.

Flights to Macau

When it comes to reaching Macau, Singaporean travelers have several options available. The most convenient way to fly to Macau is to book a direct flight from Singapore Changi Airport to Macau International Airport. Airlines such as Singapore Airlines, AirAsia, and Scoot offer regular flights between the two destinations.

For those looking to find cheap flights , Trip.com is a reliable platform that provides a wide range of flight options, or cheap flights & hotels at competitive prices. Simply visit Trip.com, enter your travel details, and explore the various flight options available. With just a few clicks, you can compare prices, choose the best flight that suits your schedule and budget, and secure your ticket. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the wonders of Macau.

Click to buy your ticket and embark on an unforgettable journey.

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1-day trip to Macau: Morning Itinerary

1st option: historic macau.

Ruins of St. Paul's

The Ruins of St. Paul's is an iconic landmark that stands as a testament to Macau's rich history. Once part of the Church of Mater Dei, this grand stone facade is all that remains after a fire in 1835. The intricate carvings and statues that adorn the ruins showcase the blend of European and Asian architectural styles. As you explore the site, you'll be transported back in time, marveling at the grandeur of the past. Don't forget to climb the steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city and capture breathtaking photos. The Ruins of St. Paul's is located at Calcada de Sao Paulo, Macau (Company of Jesus Square).

Mount Fortress

Located adjacent to the Ruins of St. Paul's, Mount Fortress played a crucial role in Macau's defense system in the past. Today, it stands as a historical relic and offers visitors a chance to delve into Macau's military past. Explore the well-preserved fortifications, cannons, and barracks that once protected the city. The fortress also houses the Macau Museum, where you can learn more about the region's fascinating history through various exhibits and artifacts. From the top of the fortress, enjoy panoramic views of Macau's skyline and surrounding areas. Mount Fortress is situated at Fortaleza do Monte, Macau.

Transportation Tips:

To reach the Ruins of St. Paul's and Mount Fortress, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Bus numbers 2, 3, 3A, 4, 5, 6 and 8A, conveniently stop near the attractions. Alternatively, you can opt for a leisurely walk from the city center, which takes approximately 15 minutes.

2nd Option: Modern Macau

The Venetian Macao

Prepare to be transported to the enchanting city of Venice at The Venetian Macao, a luxurious integrated resort. Step inside and marvel at the faithful recreation of Venetian architecture, complete with gondola-filled canals and stunning frescoes on the ceilings. Enjoy a leisurely gondola ride, shop at high-end boutiques, try your luck at the casino, or indulge in world-class dining. With its grandeur and opulence, The Venetian Macao promises a truly unforgettable experience. The resort is located at Estrada da Baía de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Macau.

Macau Tower

For a breathtaking adventure, head to the Macau Tower, a towering landmark that dominates the city's skyline. Daredevils can partake in the thrilling Skywalk X or the world-famous AJ Hackett Bungy Jump, leaping off the tower's edge for an adrenaline rush like no other. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, take an elevator ride to the observation deck for panoramic views of Macau and beyond. Enjoy a meal at the revolving 360° Café, offering a unique dining experience with stunning vistas. The Macau Tower is situated at Largo da Torre de Macau, Macau.

To reach The Venetian Macao and Macau Tower, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Buses, numbers 15, 21A, 25, and 26, conveniently stop near these attractions. If you're staying in the city center, taxis are readily available and provide a convenient and efficient way to reach your desired destinations.

Remember to allocate sufficient time for each attraction, considering factors such as waiting lines, exploration time, and transportation. It's advisable to arrive early at popular sites, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.

1-day trip to Macau: Afternoon Itinerary

1st option: cultural exploration.

A-Ma Temple

Immerse yourself in the rich spiritual heritage of Macau by visiting the A-Ma Temple. This picturesque temple, dedicated to the goddess of seafarers, is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Macau. As you explore its intricate halls, pavilions, and courtyards, you'll be captivated by the blend of Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian elements. The temple is located at Barra Square, Macau.

Taipa Village

Discover the charm of Taipa Village, a quaint neighborhood that showcases Macau's blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences. Stroll through narrow streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, traditional shops, and colonial-era architecture. Taipa Village is renowned for its mouthwatering local cuisine, offering a wide array of Macanese and Portuguese delicacies. Indulge in egg tarts, almond cookies, and other delectable treats as you explore the unique blend of cultures in this vibrant neighborhood. Taipa Village is situated on Rua do Cunha, Taipa Island, Macau.

To reach A-Ma Temple and Taipa Village, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Buses, such as numbers 28B, 28BX, 28C, and 30, conveniently stop near these attractions. Additionally, you can take advantage of the free shuttle buses provided by major resorts and casinos, which often have routes that pass through Taipa Village. Enjoy the cultural immersion as you venture through A-Ma Temple and indulge in the flavours of Taipa Village.

2nd Option: Coloane Island Retreat

Hac Sa Beach

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by visiting Hac Sa Beach, a tranquil retreat on Coloane Island. As Macau's largest natural beach, Hac Sa Beach offers a serene setting with golden sand and azure waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, bask in the sun, or enjoy a refreshing swim. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Hac Sa Beach is located on Estrada de Hac Sa, Coloane Island, Macau.

Coloane Village

Experience the relaxed atmosphere and traditional charm of Coloane Village. This quaint village showcases the slower pace of life in Macau, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and traditional Portuguese-style houses. Explore the village's historic sites, such as the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier and the Tin Hau Temple, both reflecting Macau's cultural fusion. Coloane Village is situated on Rua do Caetano, Coloane Island, Macau.

Source: Trip.com User (噼里啪啦)

To reach Hac Sa Beach and Coloane Village, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Bus numbers 15, 21A, 25, and 26, conveniently stop near these attractions. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bicycle to explore Coloane Island at your own pace. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of Hac Sa Beach and immerse yourself in the authentic charm of Coloane Village.

Transportation-wise, taxis are readily available in Macau and can take you directly to Hac Sa Beach and Coloane Village. Alternatively, you can utilize the public bus system, which offers convenient access to these attractions. Buses are an affordable and efficient mode of transportation, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views during your journey.

Recommended Lunch Restaurants

Fernando's

Indulge in a delightful dining experience at Fernando's, a beloved restaurant known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine and relaxed beachside ambiance. Located in Coloane Village, this hidden gem has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike for over 30 years. The menu features a wide array of traditional Portuguese dishes, including grilled seafood, succulent roast chicken, and mouthwatering bacalhau (salted cod). Don't miss the signature clams in garlic sauce, a true crowd-pleaser. Pair your meal with a refreshing sangria or Portuguese wine for the perfect complement. Fernando's is situated at 9 Praia de Hac Sa, Coloane Island, Macau.

To reach Fernando's, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Buses, numbers 21A, 25, and 26, conveniently stop near Coloane Village. From there, it's a short walk to the restaurant. Taxis are also readily available and provide a convenient option for reaching your dining destination.

Lord Stow's Bakery

For a unique culinary experience, visit Lord Stow's Bakery, renowned for its delectable Portuguese egg tarts. The egg tarts at Lord Stow's Bakery have become an iconic Macau treat, attracting visitors from far and wide. Alongside the famous egg tarts, the bakery also offers an assortment of other delicious pastries and cakes. Grab a box of egg tarts to savor as you explore Coloane Village or enjoy a leisurely moment at the nearby Hac Sa Beach. Lord Stow's Bakery is located at 1 Rua do Tassara, Coloane Island, Macau.

To reach Lord Stow's Bakery, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Buses, numbers 15, 21A, 25, and 26, conveniently stop near Coloane Village. From there, it's a short walk to the bakery. Taxis are also readily available and provide a convenient option for reaching your gastronomic destination.

Whether you choose the authentic Portuguese delights at Fernando's or the iconic egg tarts at Lord Stow's Bakery, your lunchtime experience in Macau will be a culinary journey filled with flavors and satisfaction.

1-day trip to Macau: Evening Itinerary

1st option: macau by night.

Senado Square

As the sun sets and the city lights up, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Senado Square. Located in the heart of Macau's historic center, this iconic square is surrounded by pastel-colored neo-classical buildings, creating a charming and picturesque setting. Senado Square is not only a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists, but it is also the perfect place for shopping and dining. Explore the various shops, boutiques, and restaurants lining the square, offering a diverse range of merchandise and delectable cuisines.

Source: Trip.com User (爷微不足道)

Macau Fisherman's Wharf

Continue your evening adventure at Macau Fisherman's Wharf, a unique waterfront entertainment complex. This themed attraction brings together various cultural influences, offering an array of experiences, from dining and shopping to thrilling entertainment. Enjoy a wide selection of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, ranging from international delights to local Macanese favorites.

To reach Senado Square and Macau Fisherman's Wharf, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Bus numbers 3, 3A, 4, 8A, 10 and 10A, conveniently stop near these attractions. Additionally, you can utilize the free shuttle buses provided by major resorts and casinos, which often have routes passing through these areas.

As the day comes to an end, experiencing the bustling energy of Senado Square and the eclectic entertainment options at Macau Fisherman's Wharf will leave you with lasting memories of Macau's vibrant nightlife.

2nd Option: Cotai Strip Extravaganza

City of Dreams

Experience the epitome of luxury and entertainment at City of Dreams, a dazzling integrated resort located on the Cotai Strip. Stimulate your palate with a wide range of culinary delights, from Michelin-starred restaurants to trendy cafes. For those seeking excitement, the resort's casino floor offers an exhilarating gaming experience. City of Dreams also features immersive entertainment experiences, such as the interactive 4D Dark Ride and the VR Zone, where you can dive into virtual reality adventures. The City of Dreams is situated at Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau.

The House of Dancing Water Show

Prepare to be mesmerized by The House of Dancing Water, a spectacular water-based show that combines breathtaking acrobatics, dazzling visuals, and an enchanting storyline. Be captivated by the intricate choreography, high dives, and stunning aerial stunts, all set against a backdrop of a custom-built theater with a 270-degree stage, a pool holding 17 million liters of water, and state-of-the-art special effects. The House of Dancing Water promises an unforgettable and immersive theatrical experience. The show takes place at the City of Dreams Theater, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau.

To reach City of Dreams and The House of Dancing Water, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Bus numbers 25B, 26A, 51A, MT3, and MT4 conveniently stop near the Cotai Strip. From there, it's a short walk to the City of Dreams complex. Taxis are also readily available and provide a convenient option for reaching this entertainment hub.

Recommended Dinner Restaurants

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience at A Lorcha, a beloved restaurant renowned for its Portuguese and Macanese fusion cuisine. Located in the heart of Macau, this charming eatery offers a cozy and inviting ambiance, making it a perfect choice for a memorable dinner. Savor mouthwatering dishes such as African chicken, garlic prawns, and minchi (a traditional Macanese minced meat dish). The restaurant's commitment to using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques ensures an authentic and flavorsome dining experience.

A Lorcha is situated at 289 Rua do Almirante Sergio, Macau.

Source: Trip.com User (锴kai10)

To reach A Lorcha, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Bus numbers 1, 2, 5, 6B, 10 and 10A, conveniently stop near the restaurant. From there, it's a short walk to A Lorcha. Taxis are also readily available and provide a convenient option for reaching your dining destination.

Robuchon au Dôme

Embark on a culinary journey at Robuchon au Dôme, a Michelin-starred French restaurant nestled within the iconic Grand Lisboa Hotel. This dining establishment offers an extraordinary gastronomic experience, combining exquisite French cuisine with breathtaking panoramic views of Macau. Led by acclaimed chef Joël Robuchon, the restaurant presents a menu of sophisticated and artfully presented dishes, showcasing the finest ingredients and culinary craftsmanship. Robuchon au Dôme is located at 43/F, Grand Lisboa Hotel, Avenida de Lisboa, Macau.

Source: Trip.com User (kellywongsiweng)

To reach Robuchon au Dôme, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Buses, numbers 3, 3A, 8, and 10A, conveniently stop near the Grand Lisboa Hotel. From there, it's a short elevator ride to the 43rd floor where the restaurant is located. Taxis are also readily available and provide a convenient option for reaching this culinary destination.

With its fascinating blend of history, culture, and entertainment, Macau offers a captivating destination for a one-day trip. From exploring the historic sites to indulging in culinary delights and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With careful planning and utilizing the recommended itineraries and tips provided in this guide, Singaporean travelers can make the most of their time in Macau. So, pack your bags, prepare for an adventure, and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Macau.

Do Singaporeans need a visa to visit Macau?

What is the currency used in macau, what is the time zone in macau, what is the official language in macau, what is the best way to get around macau.

What to do in Macau for 1 day trip

• 1. Travel to Macao Promotions - Save Up to 100 SGD🔥
• 2. Importance of Planning for a 1-Day Trip to Macau:
• 3. Useful Tips for Singaporean Travelers Visiting Macau
• 4. Flights to Macau
• 5. 1-day trip to Macau: Morning Itinerary
• 6. 1-day trip to Macau: Afternoon Itinerary
• 7. Recommended Lunch Restaurants
• 8. 1-day trip to Macau: Evening Itinerary
• 9. Recommended Dinner Restaurants

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Detailed itineraries + travel guides

1 Day Macau Itinerary – A Day Trip From Hong Kong

Last Updated July 18, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » 1 Day Macau Itinerary – A Day Trip From Hong Kong

Macau is an awesome one day trip from Hong Kong that’s only a 55 minute boat ride away.  It’s a completely different vibe from the big city of Hong Kong.  Think of Macau as Asia’s version of Vegas but with old town Portuguese flare mixed around it.

If you’re like most travellers, you’re going to be based in Hong Kong but want the chance to explore Macau (also referred to as Macao) so I’ve put together the perfect one day Macau itinerary.

Table of contents

Your 1 day macau itinerary.

• What we missed in Macau

Recommended activities

Macau is an awesome day trip, read more about hong kong, where to stay in macau if you had to, travel resources for your next trip, a little bit about macau.

Macau is one of the two Special Administrative Regions of China and is bordered on the province of Guangdong.  There’s nothing that connects Hong Kong to Macau so a ferry is necessary although all that will change when they complete the bridge that will link the two cities.

Colonial Portugal meet the bright lights and casinos of Asia

What makes Macau unique is that it was former Portuguese colony and administered by Portugal from the mid-16th century until late 1999, similar to how Hong Kong was administered by the United Kingdom.

However what once was a sleepy colonial city has now ballooned to become Asia’s gambling capital.  The one thing that stuck out from my visit was just how many casinos there were.  Huge themed casinos dominate the skyline now with each newer one outdoing the previous new kid on the block.

What to do in Macau in one day without staying overnight

If you’re in Hong Kong for more than 3 days, you probably have time to do a trip to Macau to mix it up so to speak.

For us, we never had a fixed date we wanted to do Macau.  At one point we had also considered doing 2 days there but after talking to many locals the feedback we repeatedly got was that it wasn’t worth it.  After the Maldives portion of the trip, Hong Kong’s weather was also extremely erratic with rain so we just played it by ear.

There was one day that finally looked good for us so we decided the night before to make the trip to Macau.  So that’s really the extent of the planning we did.  You can certainly book ferry tickets online but honestly you’re better off to show up at the purchase the TurboJet tickets right at the terminal because of how complicated it is to do it online.  There are departures every 15 minutes so you really have nothing to worry about.  Ticket prices start at HKD$171.

The way I broke the trip down was by the various areas of Macau.  With a full day or less than 24 hours in Macau, this itinerary makes a lot of sense for most travellers and I’d recommend you following a similar route to what we did:

• Start off in Taipa and do the cultural sights first.  It’s a lovely little area full of Portuguese architecture, shops and food stalls.  I personally loved this area of Macau the most.  This area is also great to grab lunch.
• Once you’er done here, cab over to Coloane which honestly doesn’t have too much but the big highlight is Lord Stow’s if you like Portuguese Egg Tarts.  Even if you don’t like or know about them, it’s worth a try.  There’s the small Chapel of St. Francis and the food vendors in front you can check out.
• Hac Sa Beach is a short little detour after Coloane although to be honest the beach isn’t particularly nice.  The food stalls don’t look that appetizing either and if it wasn’t for Fernando’s which Chantelle’s aunt and uncle recommended, I’d say this area is skippable.
• Now it’s finally time to head into the big city so start at the Ruins of St. Paul and snake your way down the shopping streets.  Have dinner in this area.
• The night is young right?   Casinos always come alive at night so it makes sense to slot this at the very end.  Pick one or two you want to check out.  The unfortunate thing is that they’re quite spaced out especially between the older ones on the Macau peninsula and the new mega ones out in Taipa.

With 24 hours in Macau, here’s an exact breakdown of the itinerary that I recommend that you follow.  It gets you a chance to explore the entire city and the best that it has to offer.  If you’re looking for a way to have a copy you can download, just make sure you subscribe to grab the full trip plan right below this table.

What we missed in Macau

With only realistically 12 hours to work with, things were of course tight and I definitely had to make a few calls to cut out some non essentials.  And then there was all the food we wanted to try.  Even with all the snacking we did, we still missed quite a few places!

• Macau Tower – Great panoramic views of the city.  They have a skywalk and bungee jumping from up there if you dare!
• Cheoc Van Beach – Another beach we could’ve checked out but there simply wasn’t enough time to go.  I doubt we would’ve been impressed
• The old casinos like Hotel Lisboa and Sand s – One of the challenges with Macau’s casinos is that they are not easily walkable from each other.  As a result, it becomes really hard to hotel hop like you would in Vegas.  It would’ve been neat to check out some of the older casinos but in the end we figured that they’d be about the same
• House of Dancing Water at the City of Dreams casino – If you’re into Cirque du Soleil type shows like in Vegas, this one’s for you.  We would’ve loved to have done it but we didn’t have time and also didn’t prebook.  Prices start at 600HKD

If you’re looking for more of a guided experience or looking to get your hands dirty with some activities in Macau, here’s what I recommend that you check out!

Things to know before you go

• New bridge crossing – The Hong Kong – Zhuhai –  Macau Bridge (HZMB) opened October 23, 2018 which opens up a whole new way to get to Macau from Hong Kong.  Learn about the two different methods to get to Macau that involve shuttle busses.  The price of this starts at HKD$65 which means it’s cheaper than taking the ferry.
• Ferry tickets hacks – This isn’t really advertised but you should know that you have to pick your ferry ticket times beforehand.  This may seem limiting but what most people don’t know is that you can always take an earlier ferry from the time you booked but you can’t take a later ferry.  What that means in terms of strategy is to book a late ferry coming home (i.e. midnight) so if you want to head back to Hong Kong early, you can have the flexibility to do so.  Or if you end up raking it in at the casino and want to stay later, you can do that as well.
• Passports – You’re technically leaving the country when you head to Macau so make sure you have your passport.  You will be going through passport control when you arrive in Macau and when you go back to Hong Kong.  If you’re unsure, read the full entry requirements for Macau .
• Private drivers? – You’ll be hounded by taxi drivers and tour guides when you get out into the main foyer of the Macau ferry terminal.  Ignore them.  It’s a lot easier and cheaper to run your own program and catch a few cabs you’ll need to get around.
• Casino shuttles – If you want to save a bit of taxi money, why not take one of the several free shuttles to casinos.  We saved money at the start by going to one of the closer casinos to Taipa and then cabbed from there
• Currency – Macau (MOP) has its own currency but Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) is accepted everywhere.  Just note that some places will give you MOP change.  If that’s the case, you can sometimes request to get HKD back instead.  If they can’t/won’t, just spend the MOP during the day
• Koi Kei – What’s up with this place?  These guys have a stranglehold so large on Macau that even Starbucks would be impressed.  So they sell cookies and Macanese snacks that are great for souvenirs if you find anything you like.  It seems crazy how many stores they have but they’ve blanketed the city so well that everyone pretty much buys goods from them if you visit Macau.  They destroy the competition because they freely hand out or have self-serve boxes of samples so feel free to go nuts.  By far the most popular snack to have in Macau is their dried beef slices.  They’re quite delicious but the problem was that I knew I couldn’t bring these back to Canada since they are considered as meat products.

Useful addresses

• Casa de Pasto Seng Cheong  (28-30 Rua do Cunha, Vila de Taipa) – Crab congee/porridge
• 新好利美食餅店 (13-14 R. do Regedor, Vila de Taipa) – Fresh milk tarts
• 大利來 Cafe Tai Lei Loi Kei (moved from the original at No.18, Largo Gov. Tamagnini Barbosa to south of the intersection of Rua do Regedor and Rua do Desporto, on the street that Rua do Desporto turns into) – Pork chop buns
• Lord Stow’s (1 Rua do Tassara, Coloane) – Original Portuguese egg tarts.  There’s also a store now at the Venetian if you don’t want to venture out to Coloane
• Fernando’s (9 Praia de Hac Sa, Hac Sa Beach) – Portuguese restaurant, also known for their pork chop buns

Insanely Detailed Hong Kong Itinerary

While this itinerary doesn’t cover Macau, you could easily add it to an extensive 1 week trip to Hong Kong.

Thinking about staying overnight?

Macau is easy to do in a day but if you feel like you need an extra day to explore, there’s nothing wrong with that.  Alternatively, it’s totally plausible that you gambled the night away but I wouldn’t judge ;).  There are lots of great places to stay in Macau but here are two of my top picks.

AFFORDABLE DOWNTOWN

CASA REAL HOTEL

With rates close to $100/night, this is a great hotel near the Macau Ferry Terminal that is perfect for someone looking for a place that’s clean and comfortable.

TripAdvisor

Booking.com

BEST CASINO HOTEL

THE VENETIAN MACAO RESORT HOTEL

One of the premiere properties in Macau in a cluster of hotels meant to recreate the Las Vegas vibe.  Out of all the ones we visited, this was the most impressive and almost an exact replica of the one in Vegas.

Macau in photos

Here’s a look into what we saw in one jam-packed day itinerary in Macau.

Macau is well worth a day trip from Hong Kong and I feel that a full day is sufficient enough to see almost everything you’d want to see.  2 days is a bit top much considering there are probably other things you probably want to do ( and eat ) in HK and nearby islands.

It was a fantastic day of food, Portuguese influenced culture and a little bit of gambling.

I was pretty happy with the Macau in a single day itinerary I put together.  If there was anything I’d change, I’d probably leave out Hac Sa Beach and instead spend a bit more time in the casinos which ended up being a bit too short.

• Hong Kong 2 day itinerary
• Top restaurants that you have to try in Hong Kong
• Hong Kong’s green outdoors always surprise me
• The best hotels in Hong Kong
• Our best Hong Kong content
• If you have the budget to swing it, the Venetian Macau is absolutely superb and legitimately Vegas-class.

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300 ) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The one we find using the most is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order. The newest eSIM we’ve tried is KnowRoaming that sneakily has great rates on unlimited plans. We’ve partnered with them to give you a custom code GAP10 to save you 10%.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key ).

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
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• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

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About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Home » Macau » 48 Hours In Macau With Kids *UPDATED 2024

48 Hours In Macau With Kids *UPDATED 2024

The ultimate weekend planner and amazing things to do.

You asked and we listened. Macau is packed with fun things to do with kids! Many families struggle with packing in the must-do activities on their weekend trips to Macau. Little Steps has put together the ultimate weekend guide for you and your family to enjoy a little bit of everything in 48 hours. Where to eat with the family, unique things to do with kids in Macau, places to visit with kids in Macau, and loads of cultural kids activities in Macau – this one is a keeper. Enjoy!

Want more….check out these tips for Macao With Kids

• 8 New And Exciting Family Attractions For Kids In Macao (Harry Potter Exhibitions, Waterparks, and More!)
• Top Events In Macao 2024 – Click here!
• Macau Family Hotels That Rock!

How To Get To Macau

There are two key recommended ferries to take to Macau from Shun Tak Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan.  If you are staying on the Cotai strip, you should take the Cotai Jet which takes you straight into the Cotai area with shuttle buses waiting for you on arrival. For those staying in other locations, you can take Turbojet which offers a lot of different sailing times. For those traveling from other cities in Asia, such as Singapore, Bali, or Kuala Lumpur, there are direct flights to Macau. For those flying from Jakarta, there is one short stopover. With the newly opened Zhuhai bridge, coach travel is now possible and takes around an hour from Hong Kong to Macau; it is also substantially cheaper than the ferry. Coaches run every hour on the hour starting at 8am and until 6pm from Jordan MTR for final drop-off at The Parisian Macau.

Note, Macau is a small place so if you are looking for a time that works best for your crew, you can book either ferry and then take a taxi to your hotel. It is recommended that you book your tickets online in advance. You can then pick up your tickets at the ferry terminal using the credit card you used for purchasing online.

For those looking for a meeting place at the Shun Tak Ferry Terminal, there is a Pacific Coffee. Note that Cotai Jet and Turbojet leave from different areas in the terminal.  Make sure to bring your passport and HKID (if you have that!).

Ferries To Macau:

Shun Tak Ferry Terminal , 200 Connaught Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

• Cotai Jet ,  Schedule + Online Tickets
• Turbo Jet ,  Schedule + Online Tickets

Meeting Point:

Pacific Place Shun Tak , Shop 278, 2/F, Shun Tak Centre, 200 Connaught Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

Coaches To Macau: 

Starting point: Jordan Station MTR, 505 Canton Road (near The Jade Plaza), Hong Kong

• One Bus, https://www.onebus.hk/en/home

Where To Stay In Macau

Macau offers a variety of places for families to stay in Macau. From glamorous 5-star hotels to Portuguese-styled boutique hotels on the beach. Little Steps has rounded up our top hotel recommendations for families in Macau.  For those looking to stay in the action, the hotels offered on the Cotai Strip will suit you perfectly. For those looking for a quieter stay, head to Coloane. For those looking to visit and play in awesome pools, check this guide for the best pools in Macau .

• Top Hotels For Families In Macau
• Hotels With The Best Pools For Kids

Day 1 - Morning: Explore The Cotai Strip

On day one, you can visit the best-of-the Cotai Strip!

BREAKFAST:   Take the kids to the Venetian and head over to the Lord Stow Bakery for Macau's famous Portuguese-style egg tart. This bakery, in particular, is renowned worldwide and was the first specialized egg tart bakery in Asia. Perhaps not the healthiest breakfast, but your kids will love you for it, and you need a little extra sugar for the jam-packed day ahead.

• Opening times: Daily from 7am to 9pm
• For more information, click here !

EXPLORE THE VENETIAN  

After you have gorged on scrumptious egg tarts, walk it off inside the impressive Venetian and take a family gondola ride! Don't forget to check out their shopping arcade!

• Book gondola rides; click  here!

VISIT MACAU'S LARGEST PLAYROOM AT STUDIO CITY

If you've got time to kill before lunch (and kids' energy to burn!) head to the newly opened (in 2023!) Super Fun Zone, Macau's largest indoor playroom. Located at Studio City, this massive 29,600 square feet of fun is built over 4-levels, and is suitable for kids of all ages. Click here for the Little Steps scoop.

Macau offers a range of different indoor playrooms to suit every age and taste; check them all out here !

Studio City Macau also has a range of different food options from Chinese, International and Asian, as well as quick bites.

• Studio City Macau Dining Options

Day 1 Afternoon: Family Adventures On Cotai Strip

The afternoon offers families a variety of options packed full of fun!  Depending on what you are interested in, here are some of our top picks for Day one afternoon activities on the Cotai Strip.  The below options can take hours, so it's best to pick one.

TAKE A PHOTO AT THE EIFFEL TOWER AT THE PARISIAN:

At The Parisian Macao, views of the city and hotel await each visitor at the Observation Decks on levels 7 and 37.

The Eiffel Tower is open daily from 2pm-10pm. Last entry is at 9:15 pm. Enter at the Main Entrance from Level 5, Eiffel Tower Souvenir Shop 550.

You can pick up tickets at the entrance and family deals are available. If you're feeling a bit peckish after that, The Brasserie at The Parisian serves afternoon tea from 3pm-6pm.

MACAU'S NEWEST AND BIGGEST WATER PARK AT STUDIO CITY MACAU

Suitable for all ages, Studio City Waterpark in Macau is the perfect family-friendly destination 365 days a year, thanks to its temperature-regulated environment! Featuring 16 rides - huge slides, lazy rivers, pools, and lots of opportunities for splashing and fun, kids and adults will absolutely love it here! There's something for everyone - for the adrenaline junkies who will love the Wormhole Whip and the Flying saucer, to more tame ones for the whole family. Book your ticket through this link now! For more information, click here !

AQUA WORLD AT THE PARISIAN MACAU

Who is ready for a water play area for kids big and small?  Aqua World awaits the bold in your group. Little ones will love the fabulous water features and the wading pool, while the high-energy older kids will vie for a turn at the water guns on the pirate ship.  Big kids and children-at-heart alike will love the waterslides and the thrill of splashing into the pool at the end of each one.

• Bring your swimsuits and towels
• More info here

QUBE KINGDOM: 

For those who want to stay outside and inside, here is your option. Spanning 20,000 square feet, both out and in, the new Qube Kingdom at The Parisian Macao is a paradise for kids play, with climbing nets and slides, a carousel, ball pool, gaming consoles and so much more. Book your tickets here !

STUDIO CITY MACAU:  

For those looking for something different, head to Studio City.  There's loads of family-friendly entertainment on offer including the Golden Reel (the world's highest figure-8 Ferris wheel), Super Fun Zone (Macau's most unique indoor playground), Legend Heroes Park (tech-based entertainment park, great for the older kids) and Seer Arena which offers Nike Sports Camps.

GALAXY SKYTOP POOL:

Another option in the area is offered at Galaxy. A Skytop Aquatic Adventure River Ride, Skytop Wave Pool, a white sand beach, waterslides, beach lagoons, whitewater rapids, geysers, waterfalls and loads more... let's go!  If you have not been to the Grand Resort Deck At Galaxy Macau, pack up the swimsuits and head that way.

• More info here!
• Click here to book a day pass. Kids under 6 are free.

TEAM LAB SUPERNATURE MACAU

For an immersive experience that all the family will enjoy, head to Team Lab Supernature at Sands Resort Macau. Spanning over 5,000 square meters, it is an extremely complex, three-dimensional interactive space, where all your senses are stimulated. Book here now!

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL KIDS SPA:  

After all your wild adventures, book up yourself and the kids for some pampering at the Kids' Spa.

• Kids Spa info
• Top Family-Friendly Restaurants In Macau 

POST DINNER SHOW:

If you still have energy, you can visit one of Macau's top shows!  House of Dancing Water is always a winner with kids ages 3+ (book in advance) while other shows cater to older kids and teens. There are also plenty of free shows around town too.

• House Of Dancing Water  (reopening soon)
• Top Family-Friendly Shows In Macau 

Day 2 - Morning: Healthy Morning Of Fun!

Macau has more to it than hotels and casinos. This bustling city has a lot of heritage and culture. With Portuguese influences, you and the little ones will have a fun time exploring some of the more historical aspects. Here are Little Steps’ go to go on cultural activities in Macau for your day two!

BREAKFAST:  For a healthy and yummy breakfast, head to CuppaCoffee Macau , where you'll find their house-brewed coffees, juices and freshly-baked pastries and sandwiches. They open daily at 8am so perfect for those early risers!

After breakfast, take a stroll around old Taipa Village. Restored colonial homes in pastels of yellow, green and blue, make up the Taipa Houses-Museum, showcasing how Portuguese families once lived in splendor in the early 1900s. Pedestrian-only alleys and hole-in-the-wall shops and cafes ensure a peaceful yet fascinating wander back in time.

Hac Sa Beach : Head on over to Hac Sa Beach, the largest beach in Macau. You can build a sandcastle with the kids or have a little dip, the water is quite clean there. Hac Sa when translated means black sand, something to inform the little ones when they ask you why the sand is black.

LUNCH:   Head to the famous Fernando's restaurant for a Portuguese lunch and Sangria!

• Address: Praia de Hac Sa, No 9, Coloane, Macau

POST-LUNCH:  Meet Kai Kai and Xin Xin, Macau's Giant Pandas. Mainland China offered Macau these two furry friends in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the handover; Macau's celebrities call Seac Pai Van Park in Coloane their home. Comprised of an expansive indoor activity area and a spacious outdoor yard, the pandas have plenty of space to roam, eat and play, and where visitors of the park can greet these two lovable bears. Kids under 12 are free.

• Address: Seac Pai Van Park, Avenida de Seac Pai Van, Coloane, Macau

Day 2 - Afternoon: Get Cultured!

You can spend the rest of the afternoon visiting as many of Macau's great sites as your little ones can handle.

SENADO SQUARE:  Senado Square has been Macau's urban center for centuries, and is still the most popular venue for public events and celebrations today. It’s on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The square is covered in a wave-patterned mosaic of colored stones, which was inspired by the Portuguese. The square is surrounded by pastel-colored neo-classical buildings, reminiscent of the Mediterranean.

• Senado Square, Largo do Senado, Macau

RUINS OF ST. PAUL:  The Ruins of St. Paul are also known as Sam Ba Sing Tzik. St. Paul's Church was built with white stones and had a grand vaulted roof. The façade sits on a small hill, with 68 stone steps leading up to it. There is a steel stairwell that you can climb up and see the view from the top. Make sure you throw coins into the top window for luck.

GUIA FORTRESS & LIGHTHOUSE:  Located on the highest point of the peninsula, the views of the city are spectacular. Built in 1622, it still retains many of its original features today. The oldest modern lighthouse in China also stands next door to it. It’s closed to the public but make sure you get your photo taken next to it. There are two ways to go to the fortress: by Cable Car or by walking/hiking. To take the cable car, you must first go to Jardim de Flora (entrance of the park) - but we hear the cable car is under construction so please check in advance.  Hiking will take a bit longer, but it is an excellent way to get some exercise.

• Start hike at Avenida Sidónio Pais

A MA TEMPLE:  Let the kids explore Macau's oldest temple! Built in 1488, this is one cool place to go and visit. The temple is dedicated to Matsu, the goddess of seafarers and fishermen. The temple consists of six main parts, the Gate Pavilion, the Memorial Arch, the Prayer Hall, the Hall of Benevolence, the Hall of Guanyin, and the Zhengjiao Chanlin - Buddhist Pavilion.

• Address:  A-Ma Temple, Largo da Barra, Macau.
• More info here 

DINNER: A Lorcha

Dine at A Lorcha.  A classic spot for lunch or dinner, serving up affordable Portuguese delights in an old-world setting. It’s the perfect stop for food after a visit to the Temple of A-Ma. Reservations recommended.

• Address: A Lorcha, 289 Rua Do Almirante Sergio, Macau, +853 2831 3193, www.alorcha.com/en/home

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Best Macau Trip Itinerary: A day Macau trip plan from Hong Kong or Mainland China

Macau is a stunning city that boasts a rich blend of cultures and offers plenty of entertainment options. Thanks to its colonial history, the city enjoys a diverse cultural heritage. You’ll notice strong Portuguese influences in its architecture, culture, and more.

Macau is also renowned for being one of the safest cities for travelers. Situated on the southern coast of China, it’s an autonomous region just across the Pearl River Delta from Hong Kong.

Formerly a Portuguese territory until 1999, Macau is a fascinating blend of cultural influences that make it a captivating destination. Its iconic Cotai Strip, connecting the islands of Taipa and Coloane, is famous for its colossal casinos and lavish malls, earning Macau the moniker “Las Vegas of Asia.” Standing tall amidst the skyline is the impressive Macau Tower, offering breathtaking city views.

The city boasts an array of attractions, from historic churches and architectural wonders to the charming European-style Senado Square, science centers, and museums. Not to forget, Macau is home to some of the world’s finest casinos housed in renowned hotels like The Venetian Macao, Studio City, The Galaxy Hotel, and more. If you’re planning a trip to Macau, here’s a sample Macau trip itinerary to make the most of your visit:

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

How to Reach to Macau?

Macau has direct flights from Singapore , Malaysia , Taiwan and other countries. In addition, Macau has their own airlines, they mostly fly regional flights. So, if you live in China, you can get direct domestic flights. Otherwise, second best path is to go to Hong Kong and take a bus or ferry to Macau. You can get Macau buses from Hongkong port, and it takes about 45 minutes for the trip.

If you want to visit the northern most sides of Macau, taking a domestic flight would be a wise choice as the airport is located in the eastern side of Taipa. The modern facilities, and amenities along with natural attractions will make your Macau trip worthy.

1 Day in Macau Trip Itinerary : What to do in macau?

The one-day Macau trip itinerary can be packed with exploring the city’s unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese cultures, its historic sites, and its vibrant atmosphere. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a day in Macau:

Morning:   

Start with Breakfast: Begin your day with a traditional Macanese breakfast or dim sum at a local eatery. Look for places that serve “dim sum,” a variety of delicious steamed and fried dumplings.

Senado Square (Largo do Senado): After breakfast, head to Senado Square, which is the heart of the historic center of Macau. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great place to start your exploration. You can admire the beautiful Portuguese-style buildings, take photos, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Ruins of St. Paul’s: Just a short walk from Senado Square, you’ll find the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s. This 17th-century church façade is one of Macau’s most famous landmarks. Take your time to explore and learn about its history.

Macau Museum: To delve deeper into Macau’s history and culture, visit the Macau Museum, located on Mount Fortress. The museum offers insightful exhibits and panoramic views of the city from its rooftop.

Lunch: Enjoy a delicious Macanese or Portuguese meal at a local restaurant. You can try dishes like bacalhau (salted codfish) or African chicken.

Afternoon: 

A-Ma Temple: Head to the A-Ma Temple, one of Macau’s oldest and most revered temples. It’s dedicated to the goddess of seafarers and offers a tranquil atmosphere amidst the bustling city.

Macau Tower: For some breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Macau Tower. You can take an elevator to the observation deck or even try the thrilling Skywalk or Bungee Jump if you’re feeling adventurous.

Dinner: Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants along the Macau waterfront. The city is known for its fresh seafood dishes.

The Venetian Macao: Wrap up your day with a visit to The Venetian Macao, one of the world’s largest casinos and entertainment complexes. Even if you’re not into gambling, you can explore the Grand Canal Shoppes, take a gondola ride, or catch a live performance.

Night: 

Cotai Strip: Stroll along the Cotai Strip, known for its dazzling lights and entertainment options. You might find live music, street performances, or other events happening in the area, and it can be a fun addition to your Macau trip.

Please note that Macau has a lot to offer, and these itinerary covers some of the highlights. Adjust the schedule based on your interests and the opening hours of attractions. Also, be prepared for a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated throughout the day.

The Best Things to Do with One Day in Macau:

Explore the macau historic center.

In a city that is now essentially Chinese, stepping into the Macau Historic Center is a fascinating glimpse at the old Portuguese history that the peninsula has. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the Historic Center is a collection of over 20 locations that showcase the co-existence of the two distinct cultures.

Some of the best highlights include the A-Ma Temple , which was built in 1488; the happening Senado Square; the gorgeous Monte Forte, which watches over the city; and the impressive Ruins of St. Paul . But with so many different places to explore inside the Macau Historic Center, you could easily spend your entire day wandering between the ancient sites and forget about all the other things to do in Macau.

Do The World’s Highest Bungy Jump with AJ Hackett Macau Tower

Who would have thought that one of the best (and, as it turns out, the biggest) adrenaline activities in the world would be located right in the heart of Macau?

61 stories up and 233 meters above the ground, the legendary adventure tour operators, AJ Hackett Macau Tower , have turned this gambling Mecca into the latest and greatest destination for thrill seekers! If you are looking to tick off that number one item from your bucket list, you need to check out the world’s highest bungy jump—one of the most exhilarating experiences imaginable.

While not exactly a budget activity (the Macau bungy jump price is pretty high), it really is something that you should save just a little bit longer for so you can take part in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Hands down one of the best things to do in Macau!

Hot Tip: If the idea of jumping off a building with a giant elastic band strapped to your feet doesn’t sound appealing or is a bit out of your budget, AJ Hackett Macau Tower also offers a number of other activities, such as the Skywalk, Skyjump, and Tower Walk.

Macau Fisherman’s Wharf

If you are looking for a bit of fun in Macau, you can always head to the Macau Fisherman’s Wharf . A large entertainment complex right near the Hong Kong-Macau ferry pier, the place is full of restaurants, cafes, and retail stores.

It opened at the end of 2006 and was designed after a bunch of similar seaports in Cape Town and Amsterdam. And if you want to spend a bit of money, you can’t miss the theme park in your Macau trip.

Eat All the Street Food

With its eclectic mix of Portuguese and Chinese cultures, the culinary delights that have evolved in Macau are extraordinary! From egg tarts to beef jerky to dried fish, it is way too easy to just snack your way through the city!

There are some world-class international restaurants that have opened up around the peninsula, but if you are traveling on a budget, it is easy to find a cheap bite to eat as well. You may leave town a bit heavier than when you arrived.

Hot tip – On Rua Do Cunha, stores hand out free samples of cookies, jerky, and other items to pedestrians. You can simply walk up and down the street collecting these samples until you are full. Enjoy!

Get Lost in The Casinos

Going all the way to Macau and at least not looking at a casino would be like going to New York City and skipping the Statue of Liberty. Macau hosts some of the most luxurious and intricately designed gambling halls that can be found anywhere, and luckily for us, they are all free to visit!

There is no requirement to actually gamble or spend any money inside them, meaning you can wander through and check out mainland Chinese tourists throwing down thousands (and thousands) of dollars in single bets, or admire the extravagant decorations.

Even if this isn’t really your idea of some great things to do in Macau, it’s still worth checking out the $2.4 billion Venetian (the largest casino in the world), which has had the famous canals of Venice reconstructed throughout the entire building. Even the roof is painted like a perfect blue sky, giving the illusion of daylight at all hours. A surreal scene.

Hot tip – Most of the casinos have free buses that run between the ferry terminal, the airport, and the other casinos. You do not need to be staying at or gambling at any of them to use their service. Hooray for free transport!

Head To Macau’s Beach

Yep, that’s right – the beach. The most popular option, Hac Sa (Black Sands) Beach on Coloane Island, isn’t exactly world class, but if you have been craving some beach time after a long stint in China or just love the feeling of sand beneath your toes, consider heading out to the coast for your one day in Macau.

Despite the name, the government has filled the beach with yellow sand to prevent erosion, and as a result, it is much more picturesque than it once was.

Hot Tip – You can camp for free on Hac Sa Beach. There are cafes and bathroom facilities close by, meaning the only thing you need to bring with you is a tent! A perfect alternative to the expensive accommodation options in the city. Make your Macau trip special within budget.

Sun Yat Sen Park, Macau

Sun Yat-sen Park in Macau is a massive urban park spread out over 17 acres in the northern part of the island which you must visit during your Macau trip for the amazing natural beauty. There are a lot of things to do in Sun Yat-sen Park if you are simply looking to walk around. Check out the Feng Shui Forest, the open-air theater, and the old gate that used to mark the official entrance to Macau.

What to Eat in Makau?

Macanese cuisine is a delightful fusion of Chinese and Portuguese flavors, with influences from other Asian and African cuisines. When visiting Macau, be sure to try some of these iconic dishes and snacks:

Portuguese Egg Tarts (Pastéis de Nata): These creamy, flaky pastries with caramelized tops are a must-try. Lord Stow’s Bakery in Coloane is famous for its delicious egg tarts.

Bacalhau à Bras: This Portuguese dish features salted codfish cooked with scrambled eggs, onions, and straw fries. It’s a flavorful and hearty option.

African Chicken: A Macanese specialty, African chicken is chicken cooked in a rich, spicy peanut sauce. It’s a unique and flavorful dish.

Minchi: Minchi is a minced meat dish (usually beef or pork) stir-fried with diced potatoes, onions, and spices, often topped with a fried egg. It’s a comfort food favorite in Macau.

Pork Chop Bun: This simple but delicious sandwich consists of a crispy pork chop served in a bun. You can find it at various street stalls and eateries.

Serradura: Serradura, also known as sawdust pudding, is a popular dessert made with layers of crumbled biscuits and sweet whipped cream.

Curry Crab: Crab cooked in a flavorful curry sauce is a signature dish in Macau, and it’s a must-try for seafood lovers.

Tacho: Tacho is a traditional Macanese stew made with a variety of meats (pork, chicken, and sausage) and vegetables, simmered in a savory sauce.

Shrimp Roe Noodles: These noodles are served with a rich sauce made from shrimp roe, giving them a unique flavor and color.

Caldo Verde: A Portuguese soup made with kale, potatoes, onions, and slices of chouriço (sausage). It’s hearty and comforting.

Almond Cookies: Macau is known for its almond cookies, which make for a delicious souvenir to bring back home.

Street Food: Explore Macau’s vibrant street food scene, where you can try items like fish balls, beef jerky, and various dumplings from street vendors.

Dim Sum: While not strictly Macanese, you can’t visit Macau without indulging in some delicious dim sum. Look for local dim sum restaurants for a taste of these bite-sized delights.

Seafood: Being a coastal city, Macau offers an abundance of fresh seafood dishes. Try dishes like garlic prawns, black pepper crab, or salt and pepper squid at seafood restaurants along the waterfront.

Milk Tea: Macau has its version of Hong Kong-style milk tea, which is strong and sweetened. It’s a popular beverage to accompany your meals.

Exploring Macanese cuisine is an essential part of experiencing the unique culture of this special administrative region. Be adventurous and savor the diverse flavors Macau has to offer.

Budget for Macau: 1 Day Itinerary

Creating a budget for a one-day trip to Macau will depend on various factors, including your travel style, preferences, and whether you plan to engage in activities like gambling or high-end shopping. Here’s a rough estimate for a budget-friendly one-day itinerary in Macau for one person:

Transportation:

Ferry from Hong Kong (round trip): Approximately $50 – $60 USD.

Local transportation (buses, Light Rail Transit): $10 – $15 USD.

Accommodation:

If you’re visiting just for the day, you won’t need overnight accommodations. However, if you decide to stay overnight, budget hotels and guesthouses can start at around $50 – $100 USD per night.

Breakfast: $5 – $10 USD at a local eatery or cafe.

Lunch: $15 – $25 USD for a mid-range restaurant or local street food.

Dinner: $20 – $40 USD for a mid-range restaurant or local seafood dining.

Attractions and Activities:

Entrance fees to museums and attractions: $10 – $30 USD, depending on which places you visit.

Optional activities like visiting Macau Tower or taking part in entertainment experiences may cost extra.

Miscellaneous:

Souvenirs and incidentals: $10 – $20 USD.

Keep in mind that these are approximate estimates, and actual costs can vary based on your choices. Macau can be an expensive destination, especially if you plan to indulge in fine dining, shopping, or gambling. Adjust your budget accordingly based on your preferences and spending habits.

Additionally, it’s wise to have some extra cash or a credit card with you in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies. Be aware of currency exchange rates if you’re not using Macau Patacas (MOP) or Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) for transactions. Lastly, always check the latest prices and availability for transportation, attractions, and meals, as prices may have changed by the passage of time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s):

Is Macau Expensive to Visit?

Like Hong Kong Macau isn’t an expensive city. The hotels can cost $70 to $140 per night for a single room. And, for a 7-day trip the approximate cost of a traveler is around $200 to $250 per day.

Do Macau Casinos Stay Open 24 Hours?

Macau casinos typically operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Macau is known as the “Las Vegas of Asia” and is a major hub for gambling and tourism. The casinos in Macau cater to visitors from all around the world and often remain open around the clock to accommodate the varying schedules and preferences of their customers.

Where is Macau Located?

Macau is a special administrative region of China located on the southern coast of the country. It is situated on the western side of the Pearl River Delta, bordering Guangdong Province to the north and facing the South China Sea to the south and east.

Is There Any Specific Macau Travel Policy?

Valid passports with free pages required for entry stamp, tourist visa, and vaccination certification should be carried by the travelers. Other than that, there is no specific travel documentation required for Macau.

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Macau Day Trip: What to See, Do & Eat

Is Macau worth a day trip? A million times, yes! Going to Macau for a day has always been a staple in any Hong Kong itinerary. We’d argue to come for the weekend, but if you’ve only got a day, we’re up for the challenge of building up the best itinerary for visitors to our little peninsula.

Part I: Macau Peninsula, Old Macau

Breakfast: Cantonese treats

If you’re starting your day early, grab dim sum at  Long Wa Tea House  on the Macau Peninsula. It opens at 7:00am and closes at 2:00pm so have an early start and grab a booth by the windows overlooking the Red Market where they buy their produce every day. If you’re in a little bit later, try your luck at  Cheong Kei , a Michelin recommended noodle joint with a loyal following (open from 11:30am). Prepare to rub elbows with locals at the communal tables in true Cantonese fashion.

Sightseeing: Portuguese colonial architecture

Gracing every Macau postcard is the  Ruins of St Paul’s . Also known as “The Gate to Nowhere”, this former Jesuit church was built in 1602 and destroyed by a fire in 1835. Don’t miss the facade details and gorgeous stairway leading up to it made of six flights of 11 stairs each. The crypt and ossuary are open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

After getting the most important site out of the way, explore the adjacent Monte Fort before walking down the street to Largo do Senado. Also known as Senado Square, this crossroads is iconic for its wave-patterned cobblestone pavement. After taking your obligatory snapshots, keep moving towards the  Sir Robert Ho Tung Library , also part of the UNESCO Historic Centre of Macau World Heritage Site.

Check out the  Top Locations to Visit in the UNESCO Designated Historic Centre of Macao  for more landmarks in the Macau Peninsula!

Lunch: Portuguese fanfare

You can’t say you’ve done a proper one day Macau trip if you haven’t tried the city’s Portuguese fare. If you want to take a step back in time, head to an atmospheric restaurant like  Macau Military Club  housed in a distinguished colonial building. There’s also  Guincho a Galera for Portuguese haute cuisine in a luxuriously decorated setting.

If you want a more local experience, head straight to our next destination–Coloane. You can either grab something at the barbecue stalls near Hac Sa Beach or enjoy a delicious seafood lunch by the water at  Fernando’s Restaurant . For more recommendations of eateries in Coloane, check out our article on the  Best Places to Eat at in Coloane .

Part II: Coloane Village

Several one-day Macau tour packages skip over Coloane, formerly Macau’s southernmost island. Sometime around 2004, it was connected to Taipa Island by land reclamation. The new strip in the middle is called “Cotai”, now home to several new mega-casino complexes we’ll get to later. For now, we’re going to slow down at Coloane Village , away from the big city lights.

If it’s a nice day out, you can rent a bicycle along the waterfront and hit the area’s main sights: Chapel of St Francis Xavier , Coloane Library ,  Hac Sa Beach , A-Ma Temple , and Cheoc Van Beach . If you’d rather hike, head up to the trails of Seac Pai Van Park , a 20-hectare area of wooded hills where you can find the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion.

Eat: Portuguese Egg Tarts at Lord Stowe’s Bakery

Topping the list of “Macau’s to-dos” is eating the famous egg tart from Lord Stowe’s. This bakery is the most famous of them all, commemorating the English baker Andrew Stowe who made this renowned version of pastéis de nata–a sweet and creamy Portuguese-style pastry.

Opening hours: Daily, 7:00am-10:00pm

Lord Stowe’s Bakery 1 Rua do Tassara, Coloane Town Square, Macau, +853 2888 2534,  www.lordstow.com/macau-outlets

Part III: Taipa Village

Catch the sunset at the picture-perfect villas of the Taipa Houses-Museum  which was once the summer residences of wealthier Macanese. Stroll through lovely Taipa Village or rent a bike there and head to the Taipa Waterfront Cycle Track. The path is open 24 hours, conveniently separated from road traffic; the place is perfect for picnickers enjoying the evening light. If you want to continue your cycling adventure, hit the Taipa Grande Trail or Taipa Pequena Trail.

If you’re feeling romantic, stay in Taipa for dinner at one of its famous Portuguese restaurants. António is an excellent mahogany-framed dining room named after Chef Antonio Coelho who has since retired. They are now headed up by Chef David Abreu from Portugal who had plenty of experience at many five-star hotels in Portugal and England! There’s also the Michelin-recommended A Petisqueira, famous for its bacalao five ways and baked seafood with rice.

António  7 Rua Dos Clerigos, Taipa Village, +853 2899 9998,  antoniomacau.com

A Petisqueira  15 Rua De S. Joao, Taipa, Macau, +853 2882 5354,  www.facebook.com

Part IV: Cotai: Modern Macau

If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! You’ve definitely powered though a comprehensive Macau one day itinerary! Cotai is where the bulk of Macau shows and nightclubs are. The most successful stage production is the  House of Dancing Water , a melange of acrobatics and theatre designed by Franco Dragone, former director of Cirque du Soleil.

If you’re not heading out yet, you’re more than welcome to stay well into the night at Macau’s mega-casino complexes. That doesn’t mean you have to gamble all your money away though; read our guide to Macau casinos for non-gamblers here . For extra information on how to get around Macau, here’s a handy dandy guide on Getting Around in Macau . How’s that for a Macau one day itinerary? Enjoy your trip!

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Getting Around in Macau

Eat & Drink on Rua do Cunha in Taipa Village

Macau–Zhuhai: The Ultimate Border Crossing Guide

Editor's picks.

Macau Apps: The Best Apps You’ll Need in Macau

When in Macau, consider these 5 must-have applications that will make your life or stay easier.

Macau is a small but immensely interesting place with plenty of things to see and do. With many modes of transport, getting around has never been simpler.

Where My Ladies At: The Best Ladies’ Night Offers in Macau

From free-flow champagne to free Prosecco bottles, check our list of the best ladies’ night offers in Macau.

Art Masterpieces in Macau You Did Not Know Existed

Some pieces of art are in the most prominent spots, but there are some artwork that remain hidden in Macau. Here’s where you can find them!

Good Morning Macau: Best Cafes for Breakfast

As breakfast is the most important meal of the day, here’re our favorite cafes in Macau to head to for a hearty breakfast!

Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level

Macau is a small city, but it sure has a lot of new businesses popping up. We rounded up a list of cool businesses to check out and support!

Top Running Routes in Macau

Make the effort to get up 30 minutes earlier from tomorrow onwards and check out any of these stunning running routes in Macau.

Best Places for Happy Hour in Macau

After a long day at work, you need a relaxing place to unwind. We have the best places in Macau for happy hour deals on drinks and snacks!

Macau Fashion Brands: Celebrate Local Design

Discover some Macau fashion brands that are making waves due to the fabulous designers behind each of their fresh and genius creations.

The Best Playgrounds for Kids in Macau

Macau is full of parks and leisure areas that feature some amazing play areas. Here’s a list of the best playgrounds in Macau for the tykes!

Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails

The world of mixology often proves to be as diverse and surprising as the one of gastronomy. Exercising talent and immense creativity, Macau’s bartenders keep creating signature cocktails that impress us with both flavors and presentation. If you are tired and bored with mojitos and negronis and need tips on what else to try, check out our guide to Macau’s best cocktails. 

Macau’s Quirkiest Museums

When art and history collections are inspected, it’s time to learn things that even locals might not know. Read on to plan a visit to Macau’s quirkiest museums.

The Pataca Story: The Peculiar History of Macau’s Currency

The Pataca is special as not many countries the size of Macau would have their currency. Read on to find out about the origins of the Pataca.

Where to Shop Vintage in Macau

If you’re a fashionista obssessed with all things vintage, this selection of the best vintage shops in Macau is for you. Happy shopping!

Where to Have an Unforgettable Negroni in Macau

Check our list of the best bars in Macau that serve the Italian bitter-sweet cocktail, Negroni, from classic recipes to original twists!

Guide to Coloane’s Hiking Trails

Coloane is home to most of the hiking trails in town. We walked them all and came up with the most comprehensive Coloane hiking trails guide.

A Tour of Traditional Chinese Pastries in Macau

Every tourist coming to Macau can make a fast conclusion that cookies and pastries here are held in high regard. Where do you start, and what do you eat? To get acquainted with a curious word of local sweets, check our guide to the Chinese pastries in Macau.

Macau’s Tap Seac Square by Carlos Marreiros

Have you ever wondered about Tap Seac Square, its history, and what used to be there? Find out more about its history and right here!

The Camões Phenomena: All the Way From Portugal to Macau

Portuguese poet Camões is well-known in Macau. But do you know why? We tell you some interesting facts about the author’s life!

Art at Mandarin Oriental, Macau: Porcelain Dresses & Contemporary Glass Installations

Read on to see how Mandarin Oriental, Macau, highlights its style and identity with art and design masterpieces by different artists.  

Nam Ping: A Local Foodie Haven Nestled in Old Macau

Set in Rua de Cinco de Outubro, Nam Ping is nestled in the city center, opened for more than 30 years, serving simple, mouthwatering dishes.

Best Rooftops in Macau to Relax At

Chilling on a rooftop with a cold drink is the best way to spend a day. Here’s a list of some of the hippest trending rooftops in Macau!

Local Eats: Where to Have Instant Noodles With Egg & Luncheon Meat in Macau

Instant noodles taste much better topped with a fried egg and luncheon meat! Here are the best places in Macau to have this delicacy.

Macau’s Best Spas

Macau is a wold-class destination and this extends to its spas as well. Check out our list of spas in Macau offering the best in relaxation.

10 Useful Macau Ferry Tips

Although you can take the bridge now, the one-hour ferry ride is a unique and easy way to get from Macau to Hong Kong. Here are 10 essential tips to make your Macau to Hong Kong ferry trip trouble-free.

Best Things to Do around Hac Sa Beach

Hac Sa Beach on Coloane Island is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. It’s the perfect place for a day outside the city!

Best Places to Eat in Coloane

Coloane is where locals and tourists come to enjoy chill vibes and home-style dining. Here are the best places to eat in Coloane for your next foodie trip!

Best Public Pools in Macau

Find out the most visited public swimming pools, by both locals as well as tourists and head for a dive or two at some of the best in Macau!

Cheong Kei Noodle Factory: A Local Family Business with Healthy Ambitions

We learned the history of Cheong Kei Noodle Factory, the inspiration behind their products, and their vision for Cheong Kei’s future.

Everything You Need to Do in Macau at Least Once

Take a dive into this article and find out what to do to spend your precious time in Macau and maximize it to enjoy the city at its fullest!

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