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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 this ultimate itinerary for all of the best things to experience here!

A Little Bit About this 3-day 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 spending one day in Macau or planning an unforgettable itinerary, 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.

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.

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!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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• Travel tips

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.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read our disclosure for more info.

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:

HK solo travel posts

• Everything you need to know before travelling to HK by yourself
• 11 Hong Kong off-the-beaten-path hidden gems
• Where to stay in Hong Kong: 7 boutique hotels
• Hong Kong food culture: 26 must-eat food
• Best coffee shops in Hong Kong
• 15 Best places to watch sunset in HK

Hiking and excursion posts

• Lamma Island Family Walk from Sok Kwu Wan to Yung Shue Wan
• How to take a ferry to Lamma Island
• Cheung Chau 1-day itinerary
• Peng Chau 1-day itinerary
• 17 Easy hiking trails in Hong Kong
• Victoria Peak Hike
• Dragon’s Back Hike
• Red Incense Burner Summit on Braemar Hill

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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!

Further Reading...

HK Express Review: My Honest Opinion of Hong Kong Express

Po Toi Island Hike: Visit Hong Kong’s Southernmost Island

Victoria Peak Hike: How to Hike Hong Kong’s Most Scenic Trail

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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Macau Trip Itinerary: Experience the Perfect Visit

Macau is a beautiful city with diverse civilization and has a lot of entertainment sources. The city has a diverse culture because of its colonial past. Macau has a lot of Portuguese influence on its architecture, culture, and more. It’s among one of the safest cities for travelers. Macau is an autonomous region on the south coast of China, across the Pearl River Delta from Hong Kong.

A Portuguese territory until 1999, it reflects a mix of cultural influences which makes the Macau trip very interesting. Its giant casinos and malls on the Cotai Strip, which joins the islands of Taipa and Coloane, have earned it the nickname, “Las Vegas of Asia.” One of its more striking landmarks is the tall Macau Tower, with sweeping city views. The city’s attractions include churches, architectural sites, European style senado square, science center, museums along with some of the world’s best casinos at hotels like The Venetian Macao, Studio City, The Galaxy Hotel and more.

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

Cotai-strip

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.

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.

Where to Stay in Makau?

Macau offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences. Here are some popular hotels and types of accommodations in Macau:

Luxury Hotels and Resorts:

The Venetian Macao : This massive resort and casino complex on the Cotai Strip is known for its luxurious rooms, indoor canals, and gondola rides. It’s one of the largest hotels in the world.

The Parisian Macao : Designed to resemble the Eiffel Tower, this upscale resort offers elegant rooms, a variety of dining options, and a shopping mall.

City of Dreams: Home to several hotels, including the Grand Hyatt Macau and Hard Rock Hotel, City of Dreams is a popular entertainment and dining destination.

Wynn Palace: Wynn Palace offers opulent accommodations with a focus on luxury and elegance. It features a stunning water fountain show.

MGM Cotai: Part of the MGM Resorts International brand, this hotel offers contemporary luxury with a range of dining and entertainment options.

Mid-Range Hotels:

Holiday Inn Macau: Located in the heart of the city, this hotel provides comfortable rooms and easy access to cultural attractions.

Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel, Cotai Central: A mid-range option on the Cotai Strip, this hotel offers modern amenities and convenient access to shopping and entertainment.

Budget-Friendly Hotels and Guesthouses:

Hotel Sintra: Situated in the Macau Peninsula, Hotel Sintra offers affordable rooms with easy access to the historic district.

Best Western Hotel Sun Sun: Located in the heart of the city, this budget-friendly hotel provides comfortable accommodations for travelers on a tighter budget.

Hostels and Guesthouses: Macau also has several hostels and guesthouses that cater to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

Unique Accommodations:

Coloane Village Guesthouses: In Coloane Village, you can find charming guesthouses and boutique accommodations with a more local and traditional feel.

Hac Sa Beach Camping: For a unique experience, consider camping at Hac Sa Beach on Coloane Island. It offers a different perspective of Macau and its natural beauty.

When booking accommodations in Macau, consider factors like location, your budget, and the type of experience you want. Additionally, keep in mind that prices can vary significantly depending on the time of year, so it’s a good idea to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or major events.

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.

FAQ about Macau Trip:

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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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:

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• Should I Rent A Scooter in Yangshuo China
• We Were Giant Panda Volunteers in China
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48-Hour Itinerary

48 Hours in Macao: The Ultimate Itinerary

Macao is small enough to be enjoyed in just 48 hours but big enough to provide plenty of options for things to do and see on your trip. Split into three major areas (the Macau Peninsular, Taipa Island, and Coloane) Macao has glimmering casinos, sprawling resort complexes, historic squares, and more than 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites all within 45 square miles.

While Macao is fairly small there, isn't an expansive public transportation system that connects the islands. As such, we recommend renting a car or hiring a driver for this itinerary.

Day 1: Morning

10 a.m.: If you're coming by plane or taking a ferry to the Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal, you'll first set foot in Macao's Taipa Island. After clearing customs, you could head to your hotel but we suggest you start exploring immediately: Just an eight-minute drive or 40-minute walk away is Taipa Grande Hill (Colina da Taipa Grande). When you arrive, you can ride the funicular up the hill where you're rewarded with excellent views of Cotai and the rest of Macao. If you're coming into the Outer Harbor Ferry Terminal your trip to Taipa Grande Hill will still take eight minutes by car. Once you've had your fill of sightseeing on the hill, take the funicular back down to the base of Taipa Grande Hill.

Then pay a visit to the Taipa Houses. The five teal homes are remnants of Macao's colonial history, and four of them have been converted into museums, galleries, and gift shops.

11:30 a.m.: Now is the time to head to your hotel and drop off your bags in the lobby before getting to know some of Macao's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Cotai Strip is an ideal to area to stay in Macao. It's home to a lot of resorts, and it's easy to get to Coloane and the Macau Peninsula. There are so many hotels in Cotai, it's hard to go wrong, but we're partial to Hotel Okura . The five-star, Japanese-inspired hotel is relatively affordable and shares facilities with the Ritz Carlton , Galaxy Hotel , Banyan Tree , JW Marriott , and the more affordable Broadway Hotel.

Day 1: Afternoon

Sherri Gardner

Noon: Now that you're free of your bags, head over to Macau Peninsula from Cotai for your first meal in Macao. Restaurante Litoral is an excellent Macanese restaurant that is the perfect starting point for your afternoon exploring. Tuck into Portuguese and Macanese favorites like minchi, Portugese fried rice, codfish fritters, and the oh-so-delicious African chicken. We also recommend the housemade sangria.

1:30 p.m.: Once lunch is done, it's time to work off some of those calories with a self-guided tour around the Macao Historic center. Your first stop should be A-Ma Temple, which is very close to Restaurante Litoral. This temple was the first thing that Portuguese saw when they arrived in Macao, and it's still an active site of worship. You'll see people purchasing and burning incense around the gorgeous temple complex dedicated to a goddess of the sea.

From A-Ma Temple you can walk up Rua da Barra. You'll pass by the Moorish Barracks, Mandarin's House, St. Laurence Church, St. Augustines, and Senado Square. You could take a detour to see Happiness Street (Rua de Felicidade); the street of red-windowed buildings used to be Macao's equivalent of a red-light district and is now home to charming shops.

After getting some great photos, walk 10 more minutes to the Ruins of St. Paul's, one of Macao's most iconic sites. The 17th-century Catholic church was one of the biggest in Asia when it was built until it was destroyed by a fire in 1835. All that remains now is a stone facade and a small, free museum in the former crypt.

If you're feeling peckish, the area around the Ruins of St. Paul's is a great place to buy some snacks like jerky or almond cookies. People who are still up for more walking should consider heading up to Monte Fort for more views of Macao and to explore a 17th-century Portuguese fort.

4 p.m.: Now that you've gotten a taste of historic Macao, head back to your hotel to officially check-in, freshen up, and rest for a bit after all that walking.

Day 1: Evening

6 p.m.: Rested and refreshed, early evening is the perfect time to explore Taipa Food Street on Taipa Island. The area is packed with stalls selling postcards, keychains, snacks, and more. This is a perfect time to pick up some souvenirs for the folks back home. Also if you didn't have a chance to buy any almond cookies by the Ruins of St. Paul there's a Koi Kei Bakery in the Food Street and they sell some of the best. You should also buy a pre-dinner snack at a small mochi stand on Rua de Horta e Sousa. Cheung Chau Mochi Dessert (called Mochi Macau on Google) sells tender mochi wrapped around fresh fruit. The mango option is absolutely divine.

7 p.m.: You had Macanese food for lunch, so now is the time for some Portuguese fare. Exit Taipa Food Street at Rua Direita Carlos Eugénio and walk east until you get to Le Cesar Old Taipa (it should take about five minutes). Almost everything on the menu tastes great but we highly recommend the wet seafood rice, codfish cakes, and sautéed clams. Pair dinner with a glass of imported Portuguese wine, and follow it up with Macao's iconic dessert: serradura.

8:30 p.m.: Now that you're well fed, spend time admiring the area's sparkling resorts and hotels. Those who are interested in gambling have their choice of Macao's top casinos. Otherwise, travelers can see impressive ground-floor displays (like the Wynn Palace's beautiful floral sculptures), marvel at sprawling shopping complexes, or even take a ride on the world's highest figure-eight ferris wheel at Studio City.

Day 2: Morning

9:30 a.m.: Rise and shine, it's panda time. Have breakfast at your hotel if it's available or grab a quick bite on your way to the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion in Coloane. The 32,000-square-foot (3,000 square meters) fan-shaped facility houses four giant pandas that visitors can watch play, eat, and sleep. Get your fill of the adorable animals, and then continue to explore the rest of the Pavilion, which doubles as a relatively small zoo. There's a variety of monkeys, red pandas, and birds to keep guests entertained. All the information plaques have English translations, so it's easy to learn about the animals you'll see.

11:30 a.m.: Make your way to the original Lord Stowe's cafe in Coloane for some egg tarts. The iconic Macanese treat was first created there, and you can watch employees preparing batches of tarts.

Eat your snack as you take some time to enjoy the charming tranquility of Coloane. Because it's farther away from the hustle and bustle of Taipa Island and the Macau Peninsula, Coloane tends to be much less crowded. If you're interested in scavenger hunts, each of the Buddhist temples across Macao has a collection of small books and a stamp. The books are essentially a passport that you can stamp at each of the region's temples. Hunting down temples is a great way to explore Coloane without feeling like you're walking aimlessly.

Day 2: Afternoon

Didier Marti / Getty Images

12:30 p.m.: For lunch in the area, pay a visit to Nga Tim Cafe. You'll know you're close when you see the soft yellow facade of the Church of St. Francis Xavier. Curious travelers can take a peek inside the small church or just enjoy the pleasant exterior. Nga Tim Cafe is just to the left with a bunch of tables outside if the weather is nice. The restaurant offers a mix of Chinese and Portuguese fare, so you'll have a nice variety to choose from. Very adventurous eaters can even try a dish that uses worms as the main protein!

2 p.m.: Head back to Taipa Island for a visit to the Handover Gifts Museum . The free museum houses each gift given to Macao from 56 Chinese provinces and ethnic groups to celebrate the handover in 1999. The gifts range from tapestries to enormous vases made from carved walnut shells to a large display of bells. Each item has a plaque pointing out where in China it was made and explaining the meaning behind the work of art.

On the way to the Handover Gifts Museum you may have seen a large figure of a woman standing in the water. The 66-foot (20-meter) bronze statue Kun Iam (a goddess of mercy, also called Guan Yin) was given to Macao by the Portuguese government in 1997. She faces Macao and is viewed as a protector. There is a walkway that leads straight to the base of the statue. If you stop at the lotus flower marking on the walkway, you'll be in the perfect spot for a stunning picture of Kun Iam. Because of its location next to a major street, it's best to walk to the statue rather than drive.

3:45 p.m.: Make the short drive (or 20-minute walk) from the Handover Gifts Museum to Macau Tower . You've already seen some pretty great views but they don't hold a candle to the panoramic views you can get from the top of this 1,109-foot (338-meter) tower. Adventurous types can try the world's highest commercial bungee jump or walk around the outside edge of the tower. Otherwise, enjoy the views and have fun watching brave souls leap off the edge. If you're hungry again (or need a bite to settle your stomach from the jump!), the ground floor of the tower complex has a variety of restaurants and cafes to try. But don't fill up—it's time to head back to your hotel, put on something fancy, and go out for your last evening in Macao.

Day 2: Evening

6:30 p.m.: For your last meal, why not head to one of the opulent restaurants housed in Macao's resorts. If you'd like to try some insanely decadent hot pot, Lotus Palace in the Parisian Macao is right for you. Lovers of spicy food will love Michelin-starred Sichuan Moon in Wynn Palace. If you'd like to be close to the next stop of the night, consider eating at one of the 35 eateries housing with the City of Dreams resort complex including an outpost of Alain Ducasse and Din Tai Fung .

8 p.m.: You may have seen the awe-inspiring Morpheus hotel on your travels around Cotai but now is the time to head inside for an incredible show. The hotel, one of the last designed by Zaha Hadid, hosts the House of Dancing Water . Acrobats leap, tumble, and dive from obscenely high heights during the show. Performances happen Friday through Sunday, with the occasional Thursday show. If you don't mind getting wet, grab a seat in the front rows.

10:30 p.m.: Toast the end of your whirlwind trip to Macao with a drink at one of the best bars in the SAR. The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge on the 51st floor of the Ritz-Carlton Macau is the perfect place to unwind and relax while enjoying views of Taipa Island. The dimly lit bar has a lounge singer serenading patrons but the real star of the show is the gin cart. A bartender will let you sample various gins and peruse the extensive gin menu before creating a tailor-made cocktail. There's no better send-off than that.

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1-Day Macau Itinerary

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The Parisian Macao

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

1 Day Macau Trip Plan

(Last updated: November 22, 2023)

A lot of questions I get regarding Macau revolve around what people should see and do there.  Travellers aren’t sure which places are can’t miss attractions, which sites should be avoided, how to get around etc.  So in order to avoid answering the same questions again and again, I’ve come up with three different Macau travel itineraries: one for 1 day, a second for 3 days and a final one for 5 days. 

Before I made these travel plans, I came up with a personal list of Macau’s top sites, the places that every traveller simply must visit to fully appreciate the city:

• The Historic Quarter

Sites include the 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , Penha Church , Avenida da Republica, The Street of Happiness, and Camoes Park .

• Coloane Village

Picturesque fishing village home to egg tarts, temples, and a collage of colour. See Coloane Village Photobook .

• Taipa Village

A small slice of the Mediterranean sandwiched between suburbia and the Cotai Strip. See Taipa Village Photobook .

• St Lazarus Quarter

Sites include the Old Ladies Home, St Lazarus Church , St Michael’s Cemetery , Tap Seac Square and Lou Lim Ieoc Park .

• The Cotai Strip

Macau’s new development zone for gaming that’s already put Vegas to shame.  See Cotai Strip History .

Ask 5 different people what the best museum in Macau is and you might get 5 different answers.  In my opinion, Macau Museum, Maritime Museum, Art Museum, Handover Gifts Museum and Vintage Sounds Museum are the best of the lot and should not be missed.  For a complete list of all museums, please click here: Macau Museums .  

• The Area Around Mong Ha Hill

Sites include Kun Iam Temple , Lin Fung Temple , Mong Ha Park , The Temple of Bamboo and Long Wa Teahouse .

All three travel plans revolve around visiting as many of these 7 places as you can, but only in the 5 day trip will you have enough time to see them all. 

For each travel itinerary, the main way you’ll be getting around is by foot.  The only time you’ll have to take a cab or bus is to get to the first destination of the day or when you go between Macau and Taipa, or Taipa and Coloane.

Regarding food, the restaurants I’ve listed are only my suggestions.  You obviously have a lot of latitude determining what you want to eat as well as how much you want to spend.  One thing I would advise though is to be adventurous with your selections.  Macau is a diner’s paradise, full of great world cuisine, so make sure to sample as much of it as you can.

Without a doubt, 1 day is far too short of a time to spend in Macau.  While 3 days is better and you’ll be able to see most of the top sites, time will be tight and your days hectic.  In the height of summer, when it’s approaching 40 degrees Celsius, you probably won’t want to be rushing around so much.  For that reason, 4 or 5 days is probably best.  You’ll be able to see Macau in depth and have the time to enjoy each site and day to its fullest.

A bit about when to visit.  April might very well be the worst month to come, because the sun never comes out.  It’s all grey all the time, and to see what I mean, just have a look at the Photobook entitled Dour April .  June through September is sunny, but hot and wet.  It could look like the most beautiful day you’ve ever seen, then the skies will suddenly open and rain will pour down, usually for about 20 minutes.  Then it goes back to being beautiful again, but extremely humid.  Macau winters are probably cooler than you think.  While the temperature may read around 15 degrees, it’s a damp cold, so you’ll need sweaters and jackets for sure.  By elimination, that leaves March, May, October and November as the best months to visit.  Maybe you could get away with early December as well, before the mercury starts to fall.  

Be sure to get a free tourist map from the Government office before embarking on these trip plans.  They’ll be a lot easier to understand and follow that way.  

1 Day in Macau Trip Plan

Historic Quarter—Coloane Village—Taipa Village—Cotai Strip

9:00 am – 9:15 am :   A Ma Temple .  A Ma Temple is the most appropriate place to begin any trip in Macau.  Before the Portuguese settled here in 1560, Macau was home to local fishermen from Fujian and Guangdong and two temples. 

One of the two temples was A Ma Temple, built to honor A Ma, the goddess of seafarers.

9:20 am – 10:10 am :  Continue on your UNESCO 25 heritage site tour.  From A Ma Temple check out the Moorish Barracks and Lilau Square . 

After Lilau Square make the steep climb up to visit Penha Church .  (Just follow the road that winds up behind the white building on the left hand side of the picture above.  And then follow the signs.) 

Truth be told, Penha Church is almost a secondary consideration; the views are what you’ll really be seeking out.

10:15 am – 10:40 am :  After the church, return back down to Lilau Square then cross the road for the Mandarin’s House , the home of prominent 19th century writer prominent writer Zheng Guangyu.  (Unless it’s Wednesday because it’s closed that day.)  When you’re finished there, follow the signs to St Lawrence Church. 

10:45 am – 11:15 am :  Take a look at St. Lawrence and St. Joseph’s Church .  Go out the back gate of St. Lawrence Church to get to St. Joseph’s Church.  After St. Joseph’s, reverse back to the back gate of St. Lawrence Church, then turn left down Rua de St. Laurenco.

11:20 am – 11:45 am :  Check out St. Augustine’s Church , Dom Pedro Theatre and Robert Ho Tung Library .  Interesting facts: Bruce Lee’s mother was one of Ho Tung’s relatives, and Dom Pedro Theatre was the first Western style theater in China.

12:00 pm – 12:50 pm: Wind over to the Street of Happiness for lunch at Fat Siu Lau , where the roasted pigeon is a must order.  In business of over 100 years, here’s hoping they can make it 100 more!

1:00 pm – 1:30 pm :  Arrive at Senado Square , then pay special attention to Leal Senado , Santa Casa da Misericordia and St. Dominic’s Church . 

There are two small museums adjoining Santa Casa da Misericordia and St. Dominic’s Church while Leal Senado has frequent art exhibitions on the ground floor. 

Afterwards, follow the signs to St. Paul’s Cathedral. 

1:35 pm – 2:05 pm :  Check out St. Paul’s , the crypt in the back as well as Mount Fortress .

Walk to San Ma Lo or the Sofitel and hop a cab to Coloane Village. 

2:45 pm – 3:55 pm :  Walk around Coloane Village, paying special attention to Chapel of St. Francis Xavier and the two main temples : Tin Hau and Tam Kong.

Before leaving, make sure to try an egg tart at Lord Stow’s Bakery .

Afterwards, cab it to Taipa Village.  If you prefer a bus, take the #25 and get off at the Jardim Lameiras stop.  From there it’s about a 5 minute walk into Taipa Village down R. de Fernao Mendes Pinto.

4:15 pm – 5:25 pm :  Be 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.  

The rest of the day will be devoted to the monster hotels on the Cotai Strip. 

The easiest way to get there is to use the boardwalk that cuts through the Ecological Trail directly across from the Taipa Houses Museum.

5:30 pm – 9:00 pm: For an idea of how to spend your time on the Strip and what to see there, please follow the link to the Cotai Strip .  It tells you all you need to know about the Strip’s history, hotels and top attractions.

Offhand, I’d guess most of your time will be spent at the Venetian , Parisian , and Londoner Macao .  If you’re a fan of history and art, then MGM Cotai and Grand Lisboa Palace should not be missed.

DINNER SUGGESTION :  End your day with a stupendous buffet dinner at Urban Kitchen , and don’t skimp on the seafood!  Located near the Marriott Hotel in Galaxy , it’s pricey (over $600 Mops), but worth every penny.

If you want some upscale Chinese, try Zi Yat Heen at the Four Seasons , or Lai Heen at Galaxy.

One day though is far too short a time to experience everything that Macau has to offer.  Stay a little longer and follow the 3 Day Travel Itinerary below! 

3 Day Macau Trip Plan →

© 2013-2024 Maven of Macau. All Rights Reserved. Maven of Macau is a registered trademark of the Maven.

The Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Macau

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

There are plenty of things to with one day in Macau , from Sun Yat Sen Park to Macau Fisherman’s Wharf and the world’s highest bungy jump!

If you are anything like us, the first image that pops into your head when you think of Macau is of the casinos.

There is a good reason for this – Macau is the world’s biggest gambling centre, surpassing even the legendary Las Vegas. But what you might not have known is that right up until 1999, Macau was under Portuguese rule.

As such an interesting contrast between Asian and European styles has emerged, and there are plenty of amazing things to do in Macau.

For most backpackers and travellers, this tiny city would barely even get a consideration when making your holiday plans. Most people would even struggle when asked “where is Macau located?”

But for those who are willing to dig a little deeper, Macau has a surprising number of other attractions that don’t require throwing your money down on a blackjack table.

We took the Hong Kong to Macau ferry back in April 2015 and arrived with almost no knowledge of what to do in Macau.

We were looking for the best free things to do in Macau in one day and found plenty of ways to spend our time there. Here are some of the best things to do in Macau, and the cool thing is most of them are free!

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

Macau fisherman’s wharf, eat all the street food, get lost in the casinos, head to macau’s beach, sun yat sen park macau, the best things to do with one day in macau.

Explore The Macau Historic Centre

In a city that is now essentially Chinese, stepping into the Macau Historic Centre is a fascinating glimpse at the old Portuguese history that the peninsula has.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005, the Historic Centre 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 Centre, you could easily spend your entire day wandering between the ancient sites, and forget about all the other things to do in Macau.

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

61 storeys up and 233m 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 it is a bit out of your budget, AJ Hackett Macau Tower also offers a number of other activities, such as the Skywalk , Skyjump and the Tower Walk.

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 to Macau ferry pier, the place is full of restaurants, cafes and retail stores.

It opened at the end of 2006, designed after a bunch of similar seaports in Cape Town and Amsterdam.

And if you want to spend a bit of money definitely go into the theme park!

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 for an entire day through the city! There are some world class international restaurants that have opened up around the peninsula, but if you are travelling on a budget it is easy to find a cheap bite to eat as well.

You may leave town a bit heavier than you arrived…

Hot tip – On Rua Do Cunho, 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!

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 or gambling at any of them to use their service. Hooray for free transport!

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.

Sun Yat Sen Park in Macau is a massive urban park spread out over 17 acres in the northern part of the island.

There are a lot of things to do in Sun Yat Sen Park if you are simply looking to walk around.

Definitely check out the Feng Shui Forest, the open-air theatre and the old gate that used to mark the official entrance to Macau.

Why not grab a photo of the two hands shaking in the centre of the park?

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Living On The Edge – The Skywalk On Macau Tower

Trying to fly on the world’s highest bungy jump in macau, related posts, 3 thoughts on “the perfect itinerary for one day in macau”.

Nice little report about Macau! Glad you enjoyed your stay here. More new attractions, casinos, hotels, restaurants and coffee shops opening up all the time in our little European enclave in Asia. So you’ll have to revisit again at some point in the future.

My friend and I will be going to Macau this November and will be staying there for 4 days… any additional suggestions on what to do? Thanks.

We definitely had a good time in Macau. Hope we will get back there one day. Happy travels 🙂

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The best backpacking macau itinerary for first-timers.

Macau is one of Asia’s most fascinating countries. Also known as the Vegas of Asia, Macau is famous for its plentiful casinos, gambling scene, and Portuguese influences. Macau is relatively small, and you can easily cover the best of it in a day or even a day trip from  Hong Kong . Whilst it may seem expensive to visit, you can in fact easily go backpacking in Macau on a budget. Here is the ultimate backpacking Macau itinerary.

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How to get to Macau

Macau can easily be reached from both Hong Kong and mainland China . We made the crossing via ferry from Hong Kong. The ferry takes a swift one hour and costs 180 HKD one-way ($23.10), or 360 HKD ($46.21) return. To board the ferry you need to go to the China Ferry Terminal, which is about 1km north of the Star Ferry Terminal in Hong Kong.

When you arrive at the ferry terminal in Macau, you will be greeted by many buses that are bound straight for the casinos. The buses are free to board, and you can easily hop on the one that is closest to your accommodation; even if you’re not going to the casino!

Backpacking Macau itinerary

There are plentiful things to see and do in Macau on a budget. Here is the perfect frugal traveller’s Macau itinerary.

Visit Senado Square

Start the day by heading to the heart of Macau; Senado Square! As Macau is an ex-Portuguese colony, the architecture, and features of the buildings are western influenced. The square is filled with quirky little souvenir shops, clothes shops, and Chinese snack carts. This together with the scenic environment make this square a popular spot among tourists, so much so, it has become one of the most instagrammable places in Macau .

Check out the ruins of St. Paul

Next up on the Macau itinerary, is one of Macau’s most famous attractions, the ruins of St. Paul. Visitors can see the remains of what was once one of Asia’s largest churches in the 1600s.

Snack on free samples at Pastelaria

As you wander around Senado Square make sure to visit Pastelaria for some free samples of different biscuits and cookies. These shops are dotted all around Senado Square. The biscuits are delicious! After snacking on all kinds of flavours you can choose your fave and buy some to take home with you.

Indulge in Portuguese egg tarts

Speaking of snacks, the Portuguese egg tarts are a must-try! You will find them almost anywhere in Macau.

Go casino hopping

When night falls, it’s time to move away from the shopping streets and head out to see the glitz and glam of Macau’s casino life. Macau is known as the Vegas of Asia, so without a doubt, you should check out some of the grand casinos. Even if you don’t want to make a bet, you can still have lots of fun with people watching. After all, this Macau itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a cheeky peek into the rich and famous lifestyle.

The Venetian, Wynn, Grand Lisboa and MGM are just a few of the popular casinos. The Wynn, Grand Lisboa and MGM are all within walking distance of each other. To reach The Venetian you can take bus number 25A or 25 directly across the street of the Grand Lisboa.

Where to stay in Macau

Feeling luxurious: Grand Hyatt Macau – This luxury hotel offers spa facilities and a swimming room. The rooms are decorated to a high standard and are spacious. Each room has a city or river view!

Budget private room: Ole London Hotel – This hotel is in an excellent location as it’s just a 5-minute walk to Senado Square. The rooms are equipped with a kettle and a buffet breakfast is available to customers each morning. It is one of the cheapest double rooms in Macau!

For more prices and deals on properties in Macau,  CLICK HERE .

Backpacking Macau costs

Currency: The local currency is the Macau Patacas. The exchange rate is currently 10 Patacas to $1.25 Both, local currency and the Hong Kong Dollar, are widely accepted. Sometimes you may even get change back in a mixture of both. Both currencies have the same exchange rate, so it is very easy to work out.

Daily budget: The daily budget can vary, depending on how much you want to play within the casinos. As we are not big gamblers, just $40 was enough to budget for the two of us, excluding accommodation costs.

Accommodation: Accommodation across Macau is generally expensive for backpackers. The cheapest room that we could find was $60 and that was for a very basic, old room.

Food and drink: Food and drink are generally the same as in Hong Kong. For a local meal, prices range from 40-70 Patacas ($5-$8.73). The price of water in a Seven-Eleven cost 9 Patacas ($1.12). If you want more information on what to eat in Macau, check out this excellent food guide.

Transport: Transport is relatively cheap. There are free buses to the casinos from the bus and ferry terminals. If you need to catch a local bus, expect to pay between 5-8 Patacas ($0.62-$1.

Backpacking Macau travel tips

Taxis – If you need to get a taxi, make sure the driver always starts the meter. The meters start at 17 Patacas ($2.12) and increase after 1 km. If you need to get a taxi from the Grand Lisboa, get it from the hotel just across the road to avoid having to double back around one-way streets.

Free shuttles –  Make use of the free shuttles! Even if you’re not heading straight for a casino, you can still hop on the bus towards your hotel.

Cheaper places to stay – If you’re a backpacker, staying close to Senado Square will be cheaper than staying by the casinos.

Minimum bets – The minimum bet in most casinos is 50 Patacas ($6.23) for roulette and 200 Patacas ($25.94) for most other games.

Casino dress code – We spent ages researching dress codes online; worried that we would be refused entry in our usual shorts and t-shirt travel ware. Don’t worry too much about the dress code though. All of the casinos we entered allowed us to wear our shorts and trainers/ flip-flops

Essential resources for travelling in Macau

Travel Insurance – No matter where you’re travelling to, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

Where are you heading next? Consider crossing the border into mainland China! Check out our  ultimate 30-day backpacking China itinerary here.

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2024 macau travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, tips and budget for first-timers.

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2024 first-timer's travel guide to macau, china (things to do + tourist spots), how to get to macau, from manila, from cebu or davao, from hong kong.

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• TurboJet Ferry Tickets (Macau - HK Airport)

Visa Requirements to Macau for Filipinos

When is the best time to visit macau, how many days to stay in macau.

How to get around Macau?

• First 1600 meters - 19.00 MOP
• Every 240 meter - 2.00 MOP
• Within the Macao peninsula - 3.20 MOP
• Within Taipa, including from Taipa village to the airport and back - 2.80 MOP
• Within Coloane,including from Coloane village to Hac Sa Beach & back - 2.80 MOP
• From Macao peninsula to Taipa and back - 4.20 MOP
• From Macao peninsula to Coloane and back - 5.00 MOP
• From Macao peninsula to Hac Sa Beach & back - 6.40 MOP
• From Taipa to Coloane village - 3.20 MOP
• From Taipa to Hac Sa Beach or Ka Ho - 3.60 MOP
• Holder of stored value card - $3 MOP (regular bus routes) / $4 MOP (express bus routes)
• Holder of student card - 50% discount for both regular and express bus routes
• Holder of senior citizen card or disabilities registration card - FREE

Where to Change Currency?

How to Stay Connected in Macau?

• 4G WiFi Rental (Manila Airport Pick-up)
• 4G Pocket WiFi Rental (Hong Kong Airport Pick-up)
• 4G LTE SIM Card for Macau (HK Pick-up)
• Unlimited Data eSIMs for Macau (QR Delivered via Email)
• 4G Pocket WiFi Rental with No Speed Limit (Hong Kong Airport Pick-up)

Hotels in Macau

Hou kong hotel, top-rated hotels in macau.

The Venetian Hotel Macau

• 2 gondola ride tickets
• 1 night stay at Macau Venetian Hotel, Royale Deluxe Suite (good for up to 4 people)
• Buffet breakfast at Cafe Deco OR buffet lunch at Bambu Restaurant for two guests (please choose one)
• 10% service charge and 5% government tax

TRAVEL TIPS:

TOP THINGS TO DO IN MACAU, TOURIST SPOTS & BEST PLACES TO VISIT

• Stroll through Senado Square
• Visit St. Dominic's Church
• Conquer Mount Fortress
• Visit Macau Museum
• Gaze in Awe at the Ruins of St. Paul's
• Visit Macau Cathedral
• Take a look inside Leal Senado Building
• Visit the historical A-Ma Temple
• Go up to Macau Tower's Observation Lounge
• Go on a Thrilling Adventure at Macau Tower's Adventure Deck
• Hop at Extravagant Hotels and Casinos
• Ride a Ferris Wheel at Studio City
• Experience Batman Dark Flight 4D Ride at Studio City
• Have a Venetian Experience in a Gondola at Venetian Macau
• Explore the old Portuguese village of Taipa
• Enjoy the many Exciting Shows on offer
• Be amazed by the city lights
• Explore Coloane Village
• Shop for Pasalubong
• Find Instagram-worthy spots in Macau

TIPID TRAVEL TIPS:

• If you have an iVenture Card , you can avail a TKW Macau Tour - Sightseeing Day Tour in Macau with lunch buffet which includes Ruins of St. Paul's, Mount Fortress, Senado Square, Na Tcha Temple, A Ma Temple, and Macau Tower admission ticket.
• With an iVenture card, you can also watch Viva La Broadway Show and get a Broadway Macau set meal voucher worth HK$ 70.00.
• You can book and reserve online your Gondola Ride ticket via Klook.com. BOOK AND RESERVE HERE: Gondola Rides at The Venetian Macau Discounted Ticket
• Studio City's Golden Reel Ticket is priced at 658.00 Pesos if you buy it onsite. But if you book it online via Klook.com, you can get a discounted ticket for 535.00 pesos. BOOK AND RESERVE HERE: Golden Reel Ferris Wheel Discounted Ticket

Must-try Food Experiences

• Indulge on Portuguese Egg Tarts
• Have a Taste of Macau's Almond Cookies
• Deep-fried pork chop bun and clay pot-brewed coffee breakfast at Sei Kee Cafe
• Have a taste of the Michelin-recommended Pepper Meat Ball
• Enjoy the many street food kiosks near Senado Square

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN MACAU + TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS

• Ruins of St. Paul's
• Façade of the Church of Mater Dei: 24 hours, 7 times a week
• Sacred Art Museum and Crypt: 09:00 am - 06:00 pm (No admission after 05:30 pm) Closed on Tuesdays after 02:00 pm
• Ruins of St Paul's: 09:00 am - 06:00 pm (No admission after 05:30 pm)

• Senado Square

A-Ma Temple

• Macau Tower
• 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Monday to Friday
• 9:00 am - 9:00pm Weekends and Public Holidays
• Macau Tower Skywalk with FREE Admission
• Macau Tower Bungy Jump
• Macau Tower Climb
• Macau Tower Skyjump

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Coloane Village

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Nov 19, 2018 at 11:48pm PST

Old Taipa Village

Macau Eiffel Tower at the Parisian Macao

• Daily: 11:00 am - 11:00 pm
• Last admission time: 10:30 pm

"Golden Reel" Ferris Wheel at Studio City

• It is open from 12:00 NN to 08:00 PM on weekdays, and 11:00 AM to 08:00 PM on weekends. Ticket price is at $100 HKD / 658 PHP.

Batman Dark Flight 4D Ride at Studio City

• Monday-Friday: 12:00 pm-8:00 pm
• Weekends: 11:00 am-9:00 pm (including Dec 24 – Jan 1)

OTHER THINGS TO DO AT STUDIO CITY

• Legend Heroes Park - a highly-touted attraction in Macau where you can immerse yourself in virtual realities. Book through Klook and purchase tickets to enter this unique park and get to experience the surreal wonders conjured by cutting-edge technology! Through augmented reality, motion tracking, projection mapping, 4D+, and more, the park is able to mesh the virtual and physical planes together. You’ll be able to dive into beautiful video game worlds, participate in races and other kinds of sports while feeling the adoration of spectators.
• Studio City Super Fun Zone - Blast into 5 themed fun zones covering 29,600 square feet of pure excitement, leading to a world of discovery! The 4-level Super Fun Zone is capable of hosting up to 500 people. Divided into 5 zones—Mountain, Forest, Under the Sea, Outer Space and Space Station—it’s a space for kids of all ages to climb, jump and explore a wide range of experiences.

STUDIO CITY MACAU

The House of Dancing Water

Legend Heroes Park

Warner Bros. Fun Zone

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Sample Macau DIY Itinerary

• Arrive in Macau
• Check-in or drop your bag to the hotel
• Explore Macau Historical Core - UNESCO Heritage Site
• Leal Senado Building
• St. Dominic's Church
• Macau Cathedral
• Mount Fortress
• Macau Museum
• Have a taste of Portuguese Tarts and Almond Cookies
• Climb Macau Tower / Activities
• Watch the free shows at Wynn Hotel such as fountain show, dragon of fortune show, tree of prosperity show, etc.
• Enjoy the city lights
• Go back to the hotel
• Breakfast at Sei Kee Cafe in Senado Square
• Check-out of the hotel
• Take a bus or free shuttle bus to Cotai area
• Ride Studio City's Golden Reel Ferris Wheel
• Experience Venetian Macau's Gondola Ride
• Take photos at the grand hotels and casinos
• Go to the airport
• Dinner at the airport
• Depart for Manila

Sample 3 days / 2 nights Hong Kong and Macau Itinerary

Day 1 - macau.

• 07:00 - Ferry ride from Hong Kong to Macau
• 08:00 - Arrival in Macau
• 08:30 - Leave bags in the hotel
• 09:00 - Pick up at either the Macau Hotel or Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal
• 10:00 - Start of TKW Macau Tour (includes buffet lunch)
• Na Tcha Temple
• A Ma Temple
• From here, you may request the tour guide to leave you at the Macau Tower so you could avail the Macau Tower Observation Ticket.
• 02:00 - Macau Tower Observatory
• 03:00 - Travel to Broadway Macau (ride the free casino shuttle bus)
• 04:00 - Broadway Macau (not available every Tuesday)
• Avail Viva La Broadway Show
• Redeem Broadway Macau set meal using the voucher
• 06:00 - Dinner
• 07:00 - Visit Casinos
• 10:00 - Go back to the hotel, rest.

DAY 2 - HONG KONG PART 1

• 05:00 - Check out from the hotel
• 06:00 - Take the ferry to Hong Kong
• 07:00 - Arrive in Hong Kong
• 08:00 - Leave bags at the hotel
• 08:30 - Pick-up at Holiday Inn Golden Mile on Mody Road, TST, Kowloon for Ocean Park Hong Kong
• 09:30 - Arrive at Ocean Park Hong Kong
• 10:00 - 02:00 PM - Enjoy Ocean Park Hong Kong + Lunch
• 02:30 - Take the MTR to Kowloon (Sky100 is just outside Kowloon MTR Station)
• 03:00 - Go up to Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck + Avail Sky100 VR experience Ticket
• 04:00 - Take the MTR to Noah's Ark Hong Kong
• 05:00 - Go to Victoria Peak, avail roundtrip Peak Tram tickets
• 07:00 - Dinner
• 08:00 - The Art of Chocolate Museum Ticket
• 09:00 - Go back to the hotel

DAY 3 - HONG KONG PART 2

• 09:00 - Travel to Ngong Ping (take the MTR to Tung Chung)
• 10:00 - Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Ride
• 10:30 - Arrival at Ngong Ping
• Ngong Ping Village
• Walking with Buddha
• Ngong Ping Piazza
• Tian Tan Big Buddha
• Po Lin Monastery
• Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas
• Wisdom Path
• 12:00 - Lunch
• 12:30 - Travel back by 360 Cable Car Ride to Tung Chung
• 01:00 - Arrive at Tung Chung MTR Station
• 0200 - 05:00 - Rickshaw Sightseeing Bus Tour
• 06:00 - Watertours Pre-Sunset Cruise
• 09:00 - Dinner
• 10:00 - Go back to the hotel

Macau Trip Budget and Expenses

• Bus from airport to city center - 30.00
• 4G LTE SIM Card - 300.00 / 2 = 150.00 per person
• Hou Kong Hotel (1 night) - 3,000.00 / 2 = 1,500 per person
• Food expenses - 500.00
• Macau Tower Admission Fee - 646.00
• TOTAL - PHP 2,828.00
• Food expenses - 700.00
• Public bus to Cotai area - 30.00
• Studio City's Golden Reel Ferris Wheel - 535.00
• Venetian Macau's Gondola Ride - 721.00
• Bus to Airport - 30.00
• TOTAL - PHP 2,016.00

GRAND TOTAL - PHP 4,844.00

• Round trip airfare Manila-Macau-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Food expense for snacks
• Budget for pasalubong and tips

Macau Travel Blogs

• Hong Kong to Macau by Bus or Ferry via Sea Bridge - this is where I explained and provided instructions on how to get to Macau from Hong Kong via ferry boat or by bus. This is very useful especially if you're visiting Macau coming from Hong KOng.
• iVenture Card Hong Kong-Macau Review - this is where I explained the benefits of using an iVenture Card, how much will you save, and what are the included attractions when using an iVenture Card on your trip to Hong Kong and Macau.
• Batman Dark Flight Ride - this is where I shared our memorable experience at Batman Dark Flight Ride at Studio City Macau.
• Free things to do, Tourist spots and Attractions in Macau - this is where I shared the different tourist spots and attractions, as well as things to do in Macau. It also includes the free attractions in Macau!
• Sample Hong Kong-Macau Itineraries - this is where I shared some sample DIY itineraries for 3,4,5 days in Hong Kong and Macau.

I hope this First-timer's Macau Budget Travel Guide will help you in planning a memorable Macau Adventure! Enjoy and have fun!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 8 comments :.

Wow, nice photos sir! especially the solo shots. Did you use a tripod for those? or held by someone else?

Macau is an autonomous region on the south coast of China, across the Pearl River Delta from Hong Kong. A Portuguese territory until 1999, it reflects a mix of cultural influences. Its giant casinos and malls on the Cotai Strip, which joins the islands of Taipa and Coloane, have earned it the nickname, "Las Vegas of Asia." Explore Macau's streets, casinos, and tourist sights without breaking the bank. You can take a ferry to Macau from Hong Kong (Hong Kong–Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong-China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui or Hong Kong SkyPier at Hong Kong airport) or from other neighboring ports in China such as Shekou and Zhuhai.

Hello, Great post! Please correct me if I'm wrong: you can take the free hotel shuttle to Taipa and many other destinations in Macau. Thanks and more power!

Very helpful post. Thanks for sharing :) Question. The article mentioned that senior citizen and PWDs are free in taking the bus. Is this something we should apply for pagdating sa Macau? O they will honor the SC and PWD issued in the Philippines?

Good day! We will be traveling to Macau this Sept. We will go directly to HongKong once we arrive in Macau. Is it okay that we have no hotel reservations in Macau but we have in hongkong. Thank you

Good day, Planning to visit macau next year. The hotels are quite expensive and we're planning to book in HK. Okay lang po ba na upon arrival sa macao mag day tour lang and then sa HK ang hotel accommodation? Will there be any issues sa migration kapag ganun set up?

Gud pm po sir how much po pra Makapunta nang Macau Sapt na po ba yung 30 na bugdet 4 faus

Hi may I asked, still no need visa till now.. Manila-Macau ? Cuz we plan to travel on Aug to Macau?

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

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1 Day Macau Itinerary – A Day Trip From Hong Kong

Last Updated February 21, 2023 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.

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.

Read more on Hong Kong

• 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

Where to stay in Macau if you had to?

• If you have the budget to swing it, the Venetian Macau is absolutely superb and legitimately Vegas class.

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.

The 1 day Macau itinerary

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

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

Recommended activities

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

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.

Final thoughts

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.

What you should read next

• Where To Stay in Hong Kong – A Guide To Hotels and Neighbourhoods
• 2 Day Hong Kong Itinerary – Highlights in 48 hours
• Discovering Hong Kong’s Green Outdoors
• Three Best Side Trips from Hong Kong

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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May Ann Encarnacion says

May 13, 2023 at 4:41 AM

I wanted to have a 1 day macau tour a side trip of my hongkong tour.

mia Soerjadi says

October 10, 2018 at 10:32 PM

Your one day itinerary is very helpful. Thank you so much.

Will Tang says

October 11, 2018 at 12:31 AM

You’re welcome!!

September 13, 2018 at 11:01 AM

Very informative… 🤗

September 13, 2018 at 11:03 AM

Thanks Ely!

Carino says

February 20, 2018 at 1:17 AM

Great post! My one worry about Macau is getting from place to place as things are spread apart. Was it expensive cabbing it from place to place? Can we use the Octopus card here as well, or is it all just cash? How much is a bus ride, and how much longer do you think it would take to get from place to place?

February 20, 2018 at 2:04 PM

Hi Carino! Happy to help here. Cabbing from what I remember wasn’t too bad. For example, if you’re going from the Venetian to Taipa Village, you’re paying around 20-30 HKD. A ride to Ruins of St. Paul could easily be up to 100 HKD. If you’re looking at a bus, I feel like you’d end up wasting a lot of time, you wouldn’t be able to pay with an Octopus card (you can with a MacauPass). Each way would be around 3.2-5 MOP (more or less equivalent to HKD). Cheaper yes but perhaps not as convenient. That said, the casino shuttle busses are good because they get you to and from the ferry for free :)

Kain Harvey says

September 8, 2017 at 4:07 PM

Nice itinerary, Thanks!

August 8, 2017 at 3:49 AM

THANK YOU FOR YOUR BLOG. . .VERY HELPFUL. . .

May 5, 2017 at 8:06 AM

Absolutely loved this and definitely would be useful!

Kathryn says

April 28, 2017 at 8:44 PM

hi! great blog! wanna ask is there any free shuttle bus from Ruins of St Paul to The Venetian? Plan to visit Senado Square -> Ruins of St. Paul then back to Venetian :) thanks!

April 28, 2017 at 10:28 PM

Hey Kathryn! I took a look at the schedule and don’t see a free shuttle from the Ruins to The Venetian. The shuttle schedule can be found here: https://www.venetianmacao.com/content/dam/macao/venetianmacao/master/main/home/about-us/getting-here/venetian-shuttle-schedule-en.pdf . If you take a look, the closest it goes into the city is Sands which is a bit of walk from the Ruins of St. Paul. Does that help at all?

Dexter says

August 21, 2016 at 11:48 AM

Loved this place. A blend of east and west.

July 19, 2016 at 10:20 AM

How much was the TurboJet Ferry? Is it the same with Klook app (around USD41)?

July 19, 2016 at 5:47 PM

If you’re just doing Economy Class (which is perfectly fine) and you’re going on a weekday, round trip will cost $41.

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Travel & Photo Blog

One Day Macau Itinerary For Beginner

04.18.2016 by Leonard // Leave a Comment

If you read the other post about our Macau Trip , you must’ve already known our Macau itinerary. We spent 2 days 1 night in Macau staying at one of the most recommended Hotel and Casino, Venetian . But, you know as I said on the other post, you can actually enjoy Macau in just one day if you prefer not to spend overnight there. Here’s how you can do it.

Located to the southeast of Mainland China with one country two systems like Hong Kong, also as one of the world-class tourism industry in the world, Macau offers a lot for tourists or traveler to enjoy it. Either you are a gambler, which Macau can be a paradise for you, or you’re just a vacationer that travels with your family, it still one of that place to go.

Usually, people are just coming to Macau for a short period of time, since you can cover most of the Macau in only 2 days (at least that’s what I think). That’s why a lot of tour & travel company goes only for 1 or 2 days itinerary with Macau, then continue with Hong Kong or China.

You can fly to Macau if you prefer to go with flight . Just go check for the tickets . But as what will most people do, you can get to Macau by ferry from Hong Kong , you can read for more details here .

Gambling is one of the major industry for Macau , making up to 50% of the economy. Labeled as “Monte Carlo of the Orient”, Macau has 33 casinos, of which the biggest is  The Venetian Macao . Twenty-three casinos are located on the  Macau Peninsula  and ten on  Taipa Island .

I do recommend some of the casinos, for only in a 1-day trip. And this casino hopping can be done without cost for transport, thanks for the free shuttle bus! Just hop on the bus with the paint of the casino that you want to go. From casino to casino, or you can change bus at Ferry Terminal (exchange point).

Venetian Macao

Galaxy Macau

Well, there’s a lot more from casinos that you can visit in Macau, it’s easy to get lost eating, shopping, and sight-seeing the shows. But for the sake of 1-day itinerary, you don’t want to just spend all your 1 day in casinos, right?  Okay, enough casinos, now check out some exciting places from Old Macau.

The Historic Macau Attractions

After enough playing with casinos and the modern part of Macau, I suggest you see some history. Well in terms of 1-day itinerary, it probably better for you to start your day in Macau visiting these historical attractions first, then enjoy the casinos.

The best place to experience the history of Macau with such limited time is to start with going to the Senado Square. You can read some of our travel journal enjoying the historic site of Macau .

Senado Square Area

First maybe The Historic Center of Macau.  You can take a short free bus ride from the biggest casinos and hotels , such as the Venetian to historic Senado Square (The Largo Do Senado) . They leave about every 15 minutes.

And then from this square, you can start walking to see more history attractions. Such as San Ma Lo , Leal Senado Building, The Old Post Office  just right at the corner of the Senado Square, keep walking straight through  The Fountain  where the crowds are. You will pass another photo spot, the St. Dominic’s Church.

Ruins of St. Paul’s Area

Keep walking along the streets, just read the signs so you can decide what place do you want to go first, which direction. If you follow most of the crowd are going to the  St. Paul’s Cathedral  or known as  Ruins of St. Paul’s . A building dedicated by the Portuguese to St. Paul the Apostle. It is one of the best-known landmarks in Macau, tourist’s favorite spot.

Do make time to visit this place. You won’t regret it. And then you can go within the walking distance to  Monte Fortress, which was built in 1627. The fortress and the Macau Museum in it are probably the best places to go to learn about Macau’s history and culture. Museum tickets cost 15 HKD. It will usually take up to 3 hours to cover all these places, it’s a common thing for tour and travel companies to have this itinerary.

It’s wonderful to visit places that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. If you enjoy Chinese herbs, there are good traditional herb shops around it such as on Da Jie (Main Street).

Best Practice For This Macau Itinerary?

I would suggest to finish this historical Macau itinerary before mid-day, so you can enjoy another side of Macau, Casinos . Old Macau first, and then the modern Macau. That way is more convenient.

Don’t forget with your limited 1-day itinerary, you have to be very careful with your timing from place to place. Plus, if you’re going on a weekend you might really want to pay attention for the ferry back. The ferry that leaves from 5 – 9 pm usually ran out of tickets very fast.

My personal experience, we’re going to the ferry terminal by 7 pm, thinking about leaving by 9 pm. Guess what? We’re stuck until 00.30, the last ferry leaving. And that we still have to rush to buy some last tickets before they ran out of it.

That’s some recommendation from us if you plan to spend 1 day in Macau. Do enjoy Macau in your own way, the city itself is really nice. Hope you enjoy your trip!

• Looking for the  best deal to stay in Macau ?
• Find the best price for a  flight to Macau .
• Traveling to Macau will be much less worry if you have a travel insurance .

Here’s a map of the Macau Itinerary recommendation based on this post.

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The Travel Momento

Authentic 1 Day Macau Itinerary (Easy Day Trip From Hong Kong)

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Macau, also known as Macao, is a funny mixture of Chinese and western influence. For over 300 years, Macau was a Portuguese colony. Their culture is represented in the architecture and blended into the language, cuisine and way of life. With the decline of Portuguese power, the Chinese regained control of the region. Today, Macau is the Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China with its own currency and immigration policy. Give yourself authentic Macanese experience with this ultimate 1 day Macau itinerary.

Macau has also become Asia’s gambling capital. With its vast casinos, giant malls, beautiful beaches, resorts, and great food, it’s often referred to as the Vegas of Aisa.

One day Macau itinerary

Macau is only 55 minutes of the boat ride from Hong Kong making it a great day trip while visiting Hong Kong. It would be a shame not to spare a day to witness the perfect blend of cultures, traditions, modernization, tranquillity, and glitz.

Each step of this 1 day Macau itinerary will show you all the best places to see in Macau and all the best things to do in Macau. Let’s start your 24-hour adventure in Macau.

1 day Macau Itinerary

How to get from hong kong to macau.

There are two ways to enter Macau, by boat or by bus. The most cost-efficient is definitely by ferry.

The fastest way (55 minutes) to reach Macau is by taking the ferry. There are two leading operators, CotaiJet and TurboJet , departing from 3 terminals in Hong Kong.

• China Ferry Terminal : located in Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon beside the Harbour City Mall
• Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal : situated on the 3rd floor of Shun Tak Centre, which is next to the IFC Towers (go down at the metro station Sheung Wann and take Exit D)
• Sky Pier : at Hong Kong International Airport

You first have to take a shuttle bus or metro to reach Lantau island. There you will change to the bus that goes to Macau. Going with bus you will need to go through immigration checks on both sides (Hong Kong and Macau). 

The Travel Momento insider tip : Traveling by ferry, note that each passenger can only take 1 piece of luggage (max 20 kg).

How to get from Macau to Hong Kong?

There are two ways to visit hong Kong From Macau, by boat or by bus. The most cost-efficient is definitely by ferry.

There are two terminals where you can board on the ferry to Hong Kong:

• Macau Ferry Terminal : located on the Peninsula, which means it is closer to the city centre
• Taipa Terminal:  situated close to the airport and major hotels 

You can also take a bus that crosses the biggest sea bridge Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (HZMB).

You can either take a coach bus from Macau’s hotels like Grand Lisboa, Parisian Macau or The Venetian to take you to Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon. Two bus companies are departing to Hong Kong: HMO Express Bus and One Bus Hongkong Macau . 

We asked around in the hotels to find the departure point and it was complicated to find the ticket office. Maybe it’s better to buy it in advance. You have to be at the departure point 15 minutes earlier. 

Note that taking a bus is a long way of transportation. There is a stop at the Hong Kong airport, where you have to go through immigration. You have a limited time (20 minutes) to come back to the bus. It can be problematic if there is a queue at the airport as the bus will not wait for you. The final bus destination is Tsim Sha Tsui. 

How to buy ferry tickets in Hong Kong or Macau?

You can buy the tickets online in advance, but it isn’t straightforward. We suggest coming half an hour earlier and buy them at the terminal. The ferry departs every 15 minutes, so you don’t have to worry.

Can you use Hong Kong dollars to pay?

Yes, If you are coming to Macau from Hong Kong, you can use the Hong Kong dollars as they are accepted. The other option is to withdraw the money from ATM and pay with Macau currency. 

How to get around Macau?

Macau is a small city. It’s easy to navigate your way around the city. The best way to see all the popular things on this Macau itinerary is by walking. If you are not a fan of exploring on foot, you can use public busses or free hotel shuttles. All significant casinos have connections with each other and other prominent parts of the city with free shuttles.

What to see in Macau in 24 hours?

Actually you can see all the must-see attractions in Macau and still have the time to spend your evening gambling in one of the known casinos. Check the list of best things to do in Macau below. 

We will present the main Macau landmarks in the order we saw it arriving by ferry. 

Fisherman’s Wharf

  Recommended time: 10 min

A second name for Colosseum, which is greatly preserved. You can see the seats from the outside. There is not much more to do here, except to take a walk around it or maybe do some shopping in high-end shops. A few steps further you will already reach the next to see thing in Macau. 

Nearby attractions of interest not included in this Macau itinerary : Macau Cultural Centre, Kun Iam statue

Lotus Sqaure

The open square, also known as the Golden Lotus Square, features a large bronze Lotus sculpture in the middle. It’s 6 meters high and has 6,5 tonnes. For all those coming on a day trip from Hong Kong, you will find it somehow a replica of Golden Bauhinia.

The lotus flower represents Macau never-ending prosperity. It became the city symbol when the government gave two lotus sculptures to Macau to mark the establishment of the Macau Special Administrative Region.

Guia hill and Lighthouse

  Recommended time: 1 -2 hours

Guila Hill used to be a military fortress built in 1865 with the primary objective to defend the city. A 7th-century fort is one of the oldest ones on the Chinese coast. Today the UNESCO World Heritage Site features a chapel and a lighthouse overlooking the historic centre of Macau.

You can take an elevator to a certain level and continue walking. We found it quite confusing to locate which way to go from the last level. Therefore, it might be better to either use the cable car on the opposite side of the hill or hike.

Lou Lim Loc Garden

  Recommended time: 30 min

The garden design is similar to the most famous Suzhou Gardens. It was built in 1906 by local merchant Lou Kat and acquired by the Macau government in 1974. Since then, it became a public park and a popular spot for locals. You can walk through the narrow paths, bamboo trees, rock of all formation and lotus pond. In the centre is a beautiful pavilion, which is a combination of Chinese and Western culture.

Tap Seac Square

Macau’s largest public square is surfaced with a typical Portuguese cobblestone pattern and surrounded by several European style buildings. Here you will find the Macau Central Library, The Cultural Institute and Macau Historical Archives. This off the beaten path square is the main centre for festival celebration and performance throughout the year.

Nearby attractions of interest not included in this Macau itinerary : Macao Monetary Authority

  Recommended time: 45 min

A former military centre of Macau offers in-depth insights insight into diverse history and features interesting old artefacts. It’s one of the must-see things in Macau. The fort has a recognizable Portuguese style and was build in 1626 to defend the city against pirates. Back in time, the world heritage site was connected to the old city wall. Today most of the Monte Fort remains untouchable. Take a walk around and enjoy the views over the city. When descending, you will already see the next must-see attraction of Macau – the St. Paul’s ruins.

On the top of Monte Fort, you can also find the Museum of Macau , where you can learn more about Macau’s rich history.

Ruins of St. Paul’s

The prominent historic landmark attracting dozens of tourists are the remains of a 17-century complex. It includes the Catholic Church of St Paul burnt down in 1835 and St Paul’s college. Today you can only admire the front elevation remains that is an excellent representation of cultural blend. On the church facade, you can see Christian symbols as well as traditional Chinese symbols. Inside or underneath, you can also explore the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt.

The Travel Momento insiders tip : Explore different angles to get the best photo. With the biggest crowd being here, it is almost impossible to get a classic photo in front of the landmark.

Senado Square

  Recommended time: 15 min

A door to the historic centre is a square with wavy black and white pavings surrounded by building influences by Western neoclassical influence. It’s the centrepiece of Macau’s old part dating back to the 15th century and the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around the square, you will find restaurants, shops, and snack vendors.

Everything in that square will give you a unique feel for the Portuguese past. It’a a great instagrammable spot and a possible starting point of your Macau itinerary. 

Nearby attractions to see not included in this Macau Itinerary : Holy House of Mercy

The Travel Momento insiders tip : Senado Square is usually busy with tourists. Arrive early to beat the crowds!

Mandarin’s House

  Recommended time: 20 min

Mandarin House is the largest existing residential complex in Macau. It covers 4000 m2 and features 60 rooms in total. The home owned by Zheng Guanying, the late Qing Dynasty theoretician and reformist, is part of Macau’s Historic Centre. Its uniqueness lies in the amazing fusion of various architectural influences from Western and Chinese culture.

Moorish Barracks

While walking from the last Macau historic landmark to A MA Temple, make sure to stop by the barracks. It was built in 1874 to house Indian soldiers coming from Goa to reinforce the Macau police force. The strong ties can be seen in the interesting style not typical for the rest of Macau World Heritage. Looking closely, you will see the Moghul architectural elements incorporated into Neo-Classical style. Today, the building is home to the headquarter of the Macau Marine and Water Bureau. Unfortunately, you can only see it from the outside.

A-Ma Temple

A-Ma Temple or Mazu Temple is one of Macau’s oldest temples, dating back over 500 years. It was built to commemorate Mazu, the sacred sea goddess who could predict luck and protect fishermen. The common belief is that the city’s name comes from a mispronunciation of the temples’ name by the Portuguese conquers arriving on the island. They hear a word similar to Macau and named the island after it.

The temple has six parts guarded by lions on the entrances: Gate Pavilion, the Memorial Arch, the Prayer Hall, the Hall of Benevolence, the Hall of Guanyin, and the Buddhist Pavilion.

Taipa & Rua do Cunha

Part of the city which combines traditional with modern at its best. On the one hand, you can explore fishing villages and old streets while looking at the futuristic skyscrapers.

We found Taipa village the best part of our trip to Macau. The colourful buildings and Portuguese characteristics give this part a unique character. Take some time to wander around and enjoy various cafes, traditional shops, and colourful houses.

Coloane Village

Don’t have time to jump on the other side of the island for a step back into history? You can go few streets down from Taipa to get a stark contrast to glitz and glamour. Coloane will charm you with a pastel colour touch, a cobblestone valley and a waterfront promenade. A great spot to slow down and have a bit of traditional egg tart. This part of Macau is home to the original Stow’s bakery.

Macau itinerary for the night

You should leave the the largest man-made entertainment center in Asia for the night when it comes to life. The lights and performance overtake the streets and the sky at the Cotai Strip . 

We did take some time to gamble but find it completely different to what we saw in Europe. The best part was actually wandering around the hotels and admiring their luxurious interior.   

Venetian Macao

A huge complex is an awe-inspiring place and the largest casino in the world. You can find the best shopping malls, extensive cuisine offer and all kind of shops.

The name comes from its interior design, which is a replica of Venice. It aims to transport you to the most romantic place in Europe. The ceiling represents the sky and the gondolas are transporting tourist around small canals.

Parisian Macao

Known for its replica of the Eiffel Tower, it breathes the French atmosphere in its architecture outside and inside. Besides the casino, you can find shops of high luxury brands and an observation deck offering a panoramic view of Macau.

Wrap up of 24 hours in Macau

Reading about Macau and how it represents the Las Vegas of Asia, we expected much more. The city’s historical part is nice to see but packed with tourists, which makes you pay more attention to not bumping into someone than admiring the architecture.

The nightlife of casinos was a disappointment as well. Many games, except the machines, were not familiar to us, plus the tables were in the Chinese language. You do get free drinks as long as you are there. If you haven’t saved for a year before coming, you cannot afford to buy anything due to luxurious prices.

Seeing the replicas of any landmark for the first time, we didn’t understand why you would rather drive a gondola in an artificial interior instead of feeling the charm of Venice in the city itself. The experience of no one knowing where to find a bus to return to Hong Kong and almost missing the last possibility to return didn’t add to the overall experience.

However, it might surprise you. Following this 1 day itinerary of Macau, you will get to see all the must-see things in Macau while visiting off the beaten path landmarks important for history. The things to see and do in Macau presented above are the most comprehensive guide to feel the charm of the old and new part of Macau.

We are two travel passionistas, who are always in the minds of planning their next travel trip and creating memories. Get honest tips and all the details, learn from our mistakes and enjoy our travel guides so you can have the best time!

Get to know us

Asia is still on my bucket list. What an interesting mix of East and West Macao seems to be! I love a detailed post that mentions everything from transport to currency. Great work!

So happy to hear you find it great and useful. We tried to include all the informations we were searching for when preparing for the trip.

I didn’t visit Macau when I was in Hong Kong. I’ll definitely have to make the journey next time I am there

It’s nice to see it once, but we weren’t really blown away by it. It could be because of the timing of our visit during the protest but it was so different to our expectations.

Macau has been on my bucketlist for a long time. These are such amazing things to do over one day

There is a lot of things to do and to see to have a full and exciting day in Macau.

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MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE: (Budget + Itinerary) 2019

by thepinay solobackpacker | Jan 4, 2019 | Featured , Itinerary , MACAU , Travel Guide | 2 comments

Macau grew like a fantasy utopia on an island and reclaimed land southwest of Hong Kong.   The heart of this Special Administrative Region of China is littered with ostentatious hotels flaunting spectacular architecture, many of them recreating cities like Paris, Venice, Rome, and New York. They are best appreciated at night when the flashing neon lights turn on, screaming stunning, lavish views like nowhere else in Asia.  Macau’s luxury hotels aim to satisfy the needs and whims of visitors in one location; with shops, restaurants, rides, long-running shows, etc. In fact, they’re the largest revenue makers here, comprising about 40% of the economy. So, it’s no surprise why Macau is now dubbed as the “Gaming Capital of the World”, outshining the legendary Las Vegas Strip.

But Macau is more than just an entertainment mecca, it’s a place where modernity beautifully blends with timeless traditions.  This region also offers other attractions to satisfy tourists who want to take a break from the dazzling part of the island.  The downtown area in Macau Peninsula for example, is home to a historic center where you can take a leisurely stroll on cobbled streets hemmed in by colorful heritage buildings, age-old plazas, ancient forts and temples. Macau’s Eastern and Western fusion can be traced through its food, design, art and history.

Here’s a Macau Travel Guide with MACAU ITINERARY   with budget to help you plan your trip.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

ABOUT MACAU

Speaking of history, the first wave of Chinese settlers in Macau sought refuge from the invading Mongols. Eventually, the Portuguese traders arrived in Macau and where given rights to settle for trading purposes because they helped China against coastal pirates. The Portuguese dominated trading with India, China, and Japan, and eventually, the business was limited to Macau port. The Portuguese immigrants brought with them Malay slaves and African slaves who served as their sailors and interpreters. Their African slaves in turn owned Japanese slaves. As Portuguese settlers grew in Macau, they insisted on having their own government.

Because of the rise of trading in Macau Port, the Dutch wanted to take control of it, but they were defeated, thanks to the slaves who staunchly fought for Macau, according to the Dutch governor. Because of these economic and political transformations, the Macanese today are descendants of Chinese, Portuguese and Indian traders, and slaves from Africa, Japan and Timor thriving harmoniously in the peninsula.

Finally, after 400 years of Portuguese colonial rule, Macau became a Special Administrative Region of China, an autonomous territory just like Hong Kong, that has its own economic and political system, currency and immigration policies. This is why tourists going to and leaving Macau need to go through immigration, even those from Hong Kong.

MACAU PRACTICAL INFORMATION

When is the best time to visit macau:.

Source: NOOA

AUTUMN: The best season to travel to Macau is during autumn (September – December) when the climate is cool with infrequent typhoons, so you can stroll leisurely around the region. December is the peak season of travel to Macau.

WINTER: Winter in Macau falls on January to February.  During this season, the weather is cold but not that harsh, and there’s no snow.

SPRING: March to May is considered spring in Macau, characterised by mild weather in March, rainy in April and May is humid with frequent rains.

SUMMER: Summer in Macau is June to August with humid climate and recurring typhoons, rain and occasional thunderstorm.  Best to avoid summer because this is the typhoon season in Macau. Refer to the table above for the high and low temperatures as well as rain frequency.

MACAU VISA :  Filipinos/Philippine passport holders can enter Macau without a visa for 30 days.  Make sure your passport is still valid, at least 6 months before it expires.

Note: Macau doesn’t stamp Philippine passports. If you are a Filipino, the Immigration Officer in Macau will give you a small white paper that will serve as your entry permit.  Don’t lose it.

For other nationalities, you can refer to the Macau visa policy HERE.

MONEY IN MACAU:  Macau’s currency is the Macanese pataca (MOP), divided into avos. Coins come in 10,20 and 50 avo denominations while notes in 10, 50, 100 and MOP 1,000. Current exchange rate is around MOP 1 = PHP 6.60.  If using HKD, rate is MOP 1 = 0.97 HKD. For other currencies, MOP 1= 0.12 USD/EURO 11/SGD 0.17/AUS 0.17/MYR 0.51.

MACAU MODE OF PAYMENT :  Cash is preferred by most establishments, but some restaurants, stores and hotels also accept credit card payments.

MONEY EXCHANGE in MACAU :  The best rate is the bank’s rate, so you can withdraw from international ATMs. However, money exchange centers also abound in Macau especially around Senado Square and small streets nearby, cheaper than exchange rates at hotels or at Macau Airport. You can bring Philippine Peso, Hong Kong Dollars or US Dollars.

TIP: If coming from Hong Kong, you can use your Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) in Macau since the HKD and Macau pataca (MOP) are almost equal in value. But then again, if you are budget-conscious, then change your HKD to MOP in money changers. Take note though that you cannot use your Macau pataca (MOP) in Hong Kong.  If you plan on crossing toHong Kong after Macau, exchange your Macau pataca for Hong Kong dollars in Macau.

MACAU LANGUANGE:  English is not widely spoken in Macau. You may have a hard time asking for directions, use Google Maps instead. If you really need to ask something, I suggest you use Google translate. Staff at hotels, airport and other tourism establishments can generally understand and speak English. Macau’s official languages is Cantonese; however, many streets and buildings names are Portuguese.

MACAU POWER SOCKET: Macau uses D, F, G, and M power plug. The main power in Macau is 220V-240 V, 50Hz. You can buy adaptors on street markets and shops, or better yet, purchase at a hardware store before leaving the Philippines.

MACAU WI-FI:  Getting connected online really helps when you’re in Macau. Although there are free Wi-Fi available, I always avoid that for security reasons. Having your own Wi-Fi is recommended whenever traveling. You can rent a pocket Wi-Fi below.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE POCKET WI-FI HERE

MACAU SIMCARD :  If you are traveling alone, a cheaper way to connect online is by using a simcard. You can book below.

Hong kong  Pick Up – [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE SIMCARD HERE

Manila Pick UP –  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE SIMCARD HERE

WHAT TO BRING IN MACAU:

Extra batteries and power bank.

Bring universal adapter (see power socket information above).

Bring comfortable outfit and shoes as you will most likely do a lot of walking.

Shades and sunscreen to protect your skin from the harsh sun.

DRONE IN MACAU: Drone is allowed in Macau during the day and good weather condition, but you can’t fly it above 30 meters without government permission, nor can you fly it above people or large crowds.

MACAU SAFETY:  Macua is a relatively safe place for tourists even for solo female travelers.  This region is orderly and community-focused.  But as in any other place, take care of your valuables, lock your luggage inside your hotel.

MACAU ORIENTATION

Macau is composed of 4 districts, namely:

Macau Peninsula : This is home to the main city center where the old town is located. If you want to visit Macau tower,  Senado Square, the Ruins of St. Paul’s Church, Macau Museum, Monte Fort, Dominic Church and some luxury hotels like Hotel Lisboa, Sands Macau and Wynn Palace, this is the place to be.

Taipa:   This is where you need to go if you want to visit the Taipai Village, home to beautifully-preserved Macanese architecture.

Cotai: The reclaimed area between Taipa and Coloane is now known as Cotai. This is home to the new luxury hotels and gaming centers in Macau.

Coloane: Home to colonial villages (Coloane Village) and famed Macau’s beaches like Cheoc Van Beach (Bamboo Bay) and Hac Sa Beach (Black Sand Beach), next to it is the Ha Sac Reservoir Country Park.

MACAU DIY TRAVEL GUIDE  (BUDGET + ITINERARY)

  how to get to macau.

Macau International Airport is located in Taipa, near the Taipa Ferry Terminal and bus routes.  It takes roughly 36 minutes to Macau Peninsula city center by bus or abut 17 minutes by taxi or car, depending on traffic. It takes less than 10 minutes by bus and taxi to the Taipai Ferry Terminal while the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal in downtown Macau is approximately 35 minutes by bus. Taipa Village on the other hand is roughly 21 minutes by bus.

MANILA, CEBU and DAVAO to MACAU

If coming from the Philippines, there are daily flights from Manila, Cebu and Davao to Macau.  You can compare the flights through the link below.

  If you want to avail of Macau Airport Lounge: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE

Macau Airport to Macau City Center

• AIRPORT SHUTTLE BUS : There are FREE shuttle buses from Macau International Airport to the city center. To ride the airport shuttle bus, take the North exit of the airport and walk towards the parking lot. Buses leave every 15-20 minutes from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
• HOTEL BUS : Riding the FREE luxury hotel bus is a common way to travel around Macau. You can find them at Macau International Airport. You don’t need to reserve your seats, just hop into the bus. Don’t worry, you won’t be asked for your hotel booking, you don’t need to book a room to avail of the free hotel bus. I suggest you find the nearest luxury hotel  with free shuttle to your hotel. The schedules are posted at the bus terminal.
• PUBLIC BUS : You may opt to ride the public bus from Macau Airport to the city center,Cotai, Coloane or Taipa. Fare is MOP 6. You can find the bus schedule HERE

TIP: If your hotel is around  Senado Square, you can use AP1 bus from Macau Airport to city center for MOP 6  (+ MOP 3 for big luggage). Then you can get off at one of the luxury hotels like Wynn Macau or Lisboa in Macau Peninsula or at the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal. Then take a taxi to your hotel (use Google Maps to show the hotel location to the driver in case driver doesn’t speak English).

HONG KONG TO MACAU

  Macau is accessible from Hong Kong, so consider adding Hong Kong on your itinerary. You can do the following :

• Philippines  → Macau  → Hong Kong  → Philippines: Fly to Macau and cross to Hong Kong, then exit in Hong Kong back to the Philippines or whatever your home country is. Or you can fly to most popular mode of transportation here is the ferry, see details below.
• Philippines →  Hong Kong  → Macau →  Philippines: Fly to Hong Kong then cross to Macau, then fly out back to the Philippines or whatever your country is.
• Philippines → Macau →  Hong Kong → Macau → Philippines

Because Macau is about an hour away from Hong Kong by ferry, many tourists usually do a Macua-Hong Kong trip or Hong Kong-Macau trip. The most cost-efficient mode of transportation is by ferry.

In Hongkong, there are 3 ferry terminals where you can board a ferry to Macau:

• Hongkong Macau Ferry Terminal (Sheung Wan Terminal): This is where we took the ferry to Macau. It is located on the 3 rd floor of Shuntak Tak Center in Hong Kong.

How to get there: Take MTR to Sheung Wan and take Exit D. Proceed to the ferry terminal on the 3 rd floor.

2.China Ferry Terminal: This is beside Harbour City Mall in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon.

How to get there: Take MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station and take Exit A1.

3.Sky Pier: If you want to go straight to Macau the moment you arrive in Hongkong, you can go straight to Sky Pier.

How to get there: Go to Hongkong International Airport.

TIP: Avoid crossing to/from Hongkong and Macau during weekends and holidays, it’s too crowded.

Take note that there are 2 ferry terminals in Macau for trips to/from Hongkong:

1.Macau Ferry Terminal : This is located in Outer Harbour at Macau mainland, close to the city center.

How to get there: Take the free hotel shuttle bus to Macau Ferry Terminal (Outer Harbour). Ride public bus 3,10A, 12 and 28 A.

  2.Taipa Terminal (Cotai Ferry Terminal): This is near Macau International Airport.

Fare: MOP 160/PHP 1,061 – MOP 327/PHP 2,169

Travel time: Approximately 1 hour

Departures: Every 30 minutes from 7:00 AM – 1:00 AM (from Macau) and 7:00 AM – 11:30 PM (from Hongkong).

You can book discounted ferry tickets below:

(Cotai Ferry) Hongkong Macau ferry Terminal to Taipa Ferry Terminal : [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE  

  (Turbo Jet) Hongkong Macau Ferry Terminal to Outer Harbour Terminal: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE  

(Turbo Jet Ferry) Hongkong Airport to Macau Outer Harbour Terminal:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE  

If you need a roundtrip ferry ticket between Hongkong and Macau, you can book below:

  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE DISCOUNTED RT FERRY TICKETS HERE (HK DEPARTURE)

TIP: If you have an Iventure Card Hongkong and Macau Pass , you can get 15% off your Cotai water jet ferry tickets. [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE

HOW TO BOARD THE FERRY BETWEEN MACAU HONGKONG

• Purchase or redeem your ferry ticket at the ticketing counter of the ferry terminal.
• Walk to the Check-in Gate.
• Proceed to the Immigration Counter for clearance.
• Go to Seat Allocation Counter for your seat assignment. You will be provided a number, which is your seat number. Don’t forget this!
• Ride the ferry. That’s it!

Each passenger is allowed 1 piece of luggage for up to 20kg.  There’s a fee for excess baggage.

Arrive at least an hour at the ferry terminal before your departure time.

TAIPA FERRY TERMINAL TO CITY CENTER

• FREE Hotel Shuttle Bus: Board one of the free hotel shuttles in Macau, like I said earlier, you can ride even if you will not be staying in that hotel. If your hotel doesn’t have a free shuttle bus, take the shuttle bus of the nearest luxury hotel to your Macau hostel/hotel.
• Public Bus: Macau public buses are available from 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM, refer to Google for the bus number that you should ride, the bus route, the bus stop and estimated travel time.
• Taxi : Standard taxi rate in Macau is MOP 19/PHP 126 (HKD 19/USD 2.36/SGD 3.22/MYR 10) for the first 1,600 KM and MOP 2/PHP 13 (HKD 2/USD 0.25/SGD 0.34/MYR 1) for every 240 meters. There’s also an MOP 3/PHP 20 (HKD/USD/SGD/MYR) charge for each piece of luggage plus additional MOP 5/PHP 33 (HKD 4.88/USD 0.62/SGD/MYR) charge at the Taipa Ferry terminal taxi stand. There’s also an MOP 2/PHP 13 (HKD 2/USD 0.25/SGD 0.34/MYR 1) surcharge between Taipa and Coloane.

MACAU TO HONG KONG BY BUS

Getting around macau.

It’s quite easy to get around Macau or to tour around Macau.  Many of its historic attractions are concentrated in one area, around Senado Square and are just walking distance of each other.  But if you will be covering areas outside the Macau Peninsula, say Taipa, Cotai or Coloane, you have the following options:

• FREE Hotel Shuttle Bus: Luxury hotels in Macau have free shuttle buses, you can ride even if you are not booked in that hotel. If your hotel doesn’t have a free shuttle bus, you can ride the shuttle bus of the nearest luxury hotel to your Macau hostel/hotel.

2.Public Bus:   Macau buses operate on a circular route.  They are available from 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM. You can consult Google as it will give you the bus number you should take, the bus route, the bus stop and estimated travel time. Or better yet, download this Macau Bus guide and Offline App  , for I phone users, you can use this Macau App  . Fare starts at MOP 3.20/ PHP 21 (HKD 3/USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 1.63)

You can ride Macau public buses at Macau Airport, Taipa Terminal (Cotai Terminal) and Macau Ferry Terminal. The main terminals and bus stops are located outside the Jetfoil Terminal, in front of the Lisboa hotel, near the Maritime Museum and A-Ma Temple, and along Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro.

Pay the driver as you board the bus if you will pay by cash. Make sure you have exact coins with you as the driver doesn’t give change. You can also buy a prepaid smart card calls Macau Pass (similar to the Octopus Card of Hongkong) to pay for your bus fares. When riding the bus, take the front door and when getting off, take the rear door.

Here’s the list of bus fares in Macau:

  Within Macau Peninsula : MOP 3.20 –  ₱ 21 (HKD 3/USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 1.63)

Within Taipa (includes Taipa Village): MOP 2.80 –  ₱ 19 (HKD 3/USD 0.35/SGD 0.48/MYR 1.43)

Within Coloane: MOP 2.80 –  ₱ 19 (HKD 3/USD 0.35/SGD 0.48/MYR 1.43)

Macau Peninsula to Coloane and back: MOP 5 – ₱ 33 (HKD 5/USD0.62/SGD 0.85/MYR 2.60)

Taipa to Coloane Village: MOP 3.20 –  ₱ 21 (HKD 3/USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 1.63)

Macau Peninsula to Taipa and back: MOP 4.20 –  ₱ 28 (HKD 5/USD 0.52/SGD 0.71/MYR 2)

Macau Peninsula to Hac Sa Beach and back: MOP 6.40 –  ₱ 42.44 (HKD 6/USD0.79/SGD1/MYR 3)

Taipa to Hac Sa Beach or Ka Ho: MOP 3.60 –  ₱ 24 (HKD 6.25/USD 0.80/SGD 1/MYR 3.26)

3.HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR BUS:   If you don’t want to go through the hassle of figuring out which bus or route to take, or maybe you are traveling with seniors or kids, a pretty convenient way to tour Macau is by riding the Macau hop-on hop-off bus. This sightseeing bus will take you to the main tourist attractions in Macau, with 16 bus stops.  The bus operates from 9:30 AM to 4:15 PM with guided commentary in English and Mandarin (you need to use the headphone that will be provided to you).  Basically, you can hop-on the bus to reach your destination, get off, explore and then hop-on the bus again to your next destination.  To ride this bus, you can purchase an unlimited 1 day pass through the link below:  

[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE DISCOUNTED PASS HERE

You can even do the bus tour at night, book below:

  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE NIGHT TOUR HERE

4.By Taxi: We’d usually take a taxi in Macau when in a hurry, and it’s not as expensive as I thought since the key tourist destinations are quite compact. Take note that if you’re going to ride the taxi at the ferry terminal taxi stand or Macau Airport Taxi stand, there’s an addition MOP 5 charge. There’s also an MOP 2/PHP 13 (HKD 2/USD 0.25/SGD 0.34/MYR 1)surcharge between Taipa and Coloane.

Here’s the standard taxi fare:

First 1,600 KM: MOP 19/PHP 126 (HKD 19/USD 2.36/SGD 3.22/MYR 10)

Every 240 meters: MOP 2/PHP 13 (HKD 2/USD 0.25/SGD 0.34/MYR 1)

Plus, MOP 3/PHP 20 (HKD 3/USD 0.37/SGD 0.51/MYR 2) for each piece of luggage.

WHERE TO STAY IN MACAU

  Macau has a reputation of being expensive, but it is possible to stay here on a budget.  There are several budget hotels in Macau that are concentrated around Senado Square on Macau Peninsula.  It is a good base since most of the historical attractions here are walking distance of each other.  On top of that, the area is littered with dirt cheap cafes and restaurants.

MACAU BUDGET HOTELS

Here’s a list of some top-rated Macau budget hotels according to confirmed guests.

IMPORTANT: To check the room rates on mobile, once you click the link, you can change the date to your preferred date/s of stay in the selected hotel then hit “Search”.  Then, scroll down for different types of rooms and their rates.

5 Footway Inn

No. 8 Rua de Constantino Brito, Macau City

[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

Macau Masters Hotel

162 Rua das lorchas, Macau City, Macau

Asia Boutique Inn

Rua Correia Da Silva No.146, Taipa, Macau

Home of Macau

3/F, 4 QunXing New Street, Macau City, Macau

Towns Well Hotel

No 6-6A Calcada das Verdades, Macau City

  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

FIND MORE HOTELS HERE:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   BUDGET HOTELS IN MACAU

Luxury hotel in macau.

We stayed in Ascott Macau, a luxurious business hotel in the Dynasty District of Macau Peninsula. The location is pretty convenient as it is walking distance to some famous attractions in the city, about 20-minute walk. The room I got is the Executive Suites, pretty spacious and a beautiful blend of contemporary flair and glam. It’s perfect for couples or family who wants to enjoy a convenient vacation in Macau. Its opulence is unpretentious, not too glaring for the eye that adds up to its elegance. It is also peaceful since there’s no gaming center inside the hotel, so you will be assured of a relaxing stay. But if you want to see Macau Peninsula at night and enjoy the glitz of other big luxury establishments, just cross the street

Ascott Macau

No. 339 R.Cidade de Braga, Nape, Macau, Macau City, Macau

ALSO READ:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   BUDGET HONGKONG HOTELS

  where to eat in macau.

Some restaurants in Macau Peninsula around the luxury hotels have Portuguese restaurants with exorbitant prices.  If you want to stick to your budget, eat in one of the restaurants or cafes near St. Paul’s Church Ruins. Taipa Village is also a good place to eat as there are a lot of good restaurants scattered here at reasonable prices. Luxury hotels in Cotai also offer delectable cuisines and buffet meals for around PHP 900 +, better than the expensive restaurants in Macau.  If you want to avail of this, you can purchase the coupons below.

SOFITEL MISTRAL BUFFET: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE

GRAND ORBIT BUFFET AT SANDS COTAI CENTRAL:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE

CAFÉ DECO BUFFET IN VENETAIN MACAU:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE  

MACAU VENETIAN BAMBU BUFFET :  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE

888 GOURMET PLACE BUFFET IN SAND MACAU:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE HERE

SPOTLIGHT BUFFET5 IN STUDIO CITY: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE  

LE BUFFET AT THE PARISIAN MACAU:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE

OTHER PLACES TO EAT:

XIN DAU JI IN BROADWAY MACAU: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE  

MYUNG GA IN GALAXY MACAU: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE  

TOP ATTRACTIONS IN MACAU

  What I like about Macau is, the tourist spots here are walking distance of each other especially in the old district. Don’t miss walking around here at night to witness its grandeur.

  Here are some of the top tourist spots in Macau to help you organize your trip:

TIP: If you will be touring Hong Kong and Macau and visiting most of its top tourist spots, you can save money if you avail of the iVenture Card.

 iVENTURE CARD:   [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE

1.MACAU TOWER

When Hongkong billionaire Stanley Ho Hung-Sun visited New Zealand New Zealand , he was inspired and wanted to build a similar tower to Auckland ’s   Sky Tower. He then commissioned an architect to build a similar tower that is now used for broadcasting and telecommunications. The Macau Tower has an observation deck offering a panoramic view of Macau and home to many adventure activities like the popular Macau bungee jump and the skywalk.

  Things to do in Macau Tower:

  Macau Tower Observation Deck:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE HERE  

Macau Tower Tea Delights and Sky-High Views:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE HERE

Lunch Buffet:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE

Macau Tower Dinner Buffet:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE HERE  

Macau Tower Skywalk:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE

Macau Tower Bungee Jump :  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE HERE

Macau Tower Sky jump:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE HERE

Macau Tower Climb:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE HERE

Entrance Fee: FREE for  cinema, shopping mall and restaurants.

MOP 145/HKD/PHP/USD/SGD/MYR for observation lounge and adventure deck.

Open Hours: Monday – Friday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM , Weekend – Holiday – 9:00 AM -9:00 PM

Address: Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment, Macau

How to get there: Take a taxi to Macau Tower or ride any of the following buses: 9A, 18,21, 23,32 and 26 .

Nearby Tourist Attractions: Macau Bridge

2. SENADO SQUARE

A DIY walking tour of the old Macau usually starts at Senado Square, an old plaza adjacent to Leal Senado Building, hence the name. This place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of the Historic Center of Macau. Here, you’ll come face to face with historic age-old buildings, churches and delicious Macau traditional street food. While you are here, you can also visit the nearby yellow-colored St. Dominic’s Church as well as the Macau Cathedral.

Entrance Fee: FREE

Open Hours: 24 hours, but shops close around 9:00 PM

How to get there: Ride any of the following buses: 3, 3X, 4,6A,8A,18A,19,26A,33 or N1A to Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro and walk from there. You may also ride bus 2,5,16 or 28 B to Avenida da Praia Grande. Alternatively, you can take the free shuttle bus to Grand Lisboa and walk down Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro to reach Senado Square.

Nearby Tourist Attractions: St. Dominic Church, Macau Cathedral, Camoes Garden, Lou Kau Mansion, Grand Lisboa, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Macau Museum, Ruins of St. Paul, Monte Fortress.

3. ST. PAUL’S CHURCH RUINS

Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Senado Square, is the iconic St. Paul’s Church Ruins, probably the most photographed tourist attraction in Macau. It’s a charming mix of European and Asian architectural flair. There are also several shops, stores and restaurants down the stairs of the church’s façade. The food and the drinks are really good here at cheap prices. This is where you can try the delicious Portuguese tart and pork buns.

Entrance Fee: FREE for the façade of the Church of Mater Dei but there’s admission for the following:

Ruins of St Paul: Open Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (no admission after 5:30 PM)

Sacred Art Museum & Crypt: Daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (no admission after 5:30 PM) except Tuesday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM only

How to get there: Ride any of the following buses to Camoes Square: 8A, 18A, 18B, 18, 19 or 26. If you are already in Senado Square, just follow the sign to Ruins of St. Paul’s Church.

Nearby Tourist Attractions: Macau Museum, Monte Fortress, St. Dominic Church, Macau Cathedral, Camoes Garden, Senado Square, Lou Kau Mansion, Grand Lisboa, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

4. MONTE FORTRESS

  Monte Fortress is the historical center of Macau military.  Standing beside St.Paul’s Church and home to Macau Museum, you can trek the hill where it is located to get a panoramic view of Macau. If you visit early in the morning you will most likely chance upon some elders exercising and practicing tai chi.

Open Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

How to get there: Board any of the following buses to Hospital Kiang Wu: 8A, 17, 18 A, 18, 18B, 19 or 26. If you are in Senado Square follow the sign to St. Paul Ruins, the fortress is beside  it.

Nearby  Tourist Attractions: Macau Museum, Ruins of St. Paul, St. Dominic Church, Macau Cathedral, Camoes Garden, Senado Square, Lou Kau Mansion, Grand Lisboa, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

5. MACAU MUSEUM

Proudly standing on Monte Fortress, Macau Museum houses the history of Macau as well as the different nationalities thriving here over the years.

The Macau Museum

Entrance Fee: (adult)  MOP 15/PHP 99/HKD 14/USD 2/EURO 2/SGD 2/MYR 7

                                     (children under 12 years old and seniors over 65 years old) FREE

Open Hours: Daily except Monday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (ticket counter closes at 5:30 PM)

Address: No.112 Praceta do Museu de Macau

How to get to Macau Museum: Take any of the following buses: Bus 2,3,3A,4,5,6,7,8A,10,10A,11,17,18,21A or 26. Once you are in Senado Square, just follow the sign to Ruins of St. Paul’s, Macau Museum is beside it (on Monte fortress).

Nearby Tourist Attractions: Ruins of St. Paul, St. Dominic Church, Macau Cathedral, Camoes Garden, Lou Kau Mansion, Grand Lisboa, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Senado Square.

6. MACAU GONDOLA RIDE

One of the top activities in Macau is cruising along the Venice replica on a traditional gondola boat while being serenaded by a gondolier.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE DISCOUNTED RIDE HERE

Fee: MOP 914/PHP 914/HKD 138/USD 17.09/EURO 97/SGD 23.35/MYR 56

Open Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last redemption 8:45 PM)

Address: Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperanca, Macau

How to get to Gondola Ride in Venetian: Board the free hotel shuttle to Venetian Macau from Macau International Airport, Macau  Ferry Terminal, Taipa Ferry Terminal and other hotels.

7. GOLDEN REEL FERRIS WHEEL

Macau’s latest attraction is the world’s first figure 8 Ferris Wheel, soaring at 425 feet above the ground in Studio City!

[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]  RESERVE DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE

Entrance Fee: MOP 103/PHP 552/HKD 100/USD 12.75/SGD 17.39/MYR 52

Open Hours: Monday – Friday 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday 11:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Address: Estr.do Istmo, Macau (It’s on Studio City Macau)

How to get to Golden Reel Ferris Wheel: Take the free hotel shuttle bus to Studio City Macau from Macau International Airport, Macau  Ferry Terminal, Taipa Ferry Terminal and other resorts.

Nearby Tourist Attractions: Parisian Macau, Studio City Macau

8. BATMAN 4D RIDE

photo provided by Klook

Another latest addition to the long list of things to do in Macau is the Batman Dark Flight, a 4D ride where you will combat villains on Gotham street with Batman himself!

9. MACAU EIFFEL TOWER

Another new addition to Macau’s iconic landmarks is the replica of Eiffel Tower, proudly standing at The Parisian Macau.  Beside the structure is a French-inspired Building that pretty much exudes a romantic French atmosphere. You can get a panoramic view of Macau city on its observation deck at the peak of the tower. Book discounted tickets below.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE TICKET HERE

10. MACAU SHOWS

Photo provided by Klook

Many luxury hotels in Macau offer shows that you can watch for free or with a fee. The top Macau shows according to TripAdvisor are: The House of Dancing Water in City Dreams, Dream Works Experience at Cotai Strip Resort, Performance Lake at Wynn Palace and Tree of Prosperity at Wynn Palace. You can book discounted tickets below for some Macau shows:

 The House of Dancing Water:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE HERE

 Batman Dark Flight:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   RESERVE HERE

 Monkey King China Show:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE

 Hengquin Theatre Ocean Kingdom Macau: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”] RESERVE HERE

TIP: If you want to save on entrance fees to Hong Kong and Macau’s top tourist attractions, you can avail of the iVenture Card. This includes discounts to Ngong Ping 360, Noah’s Ark, Ocean Park, Sky100 Observation Deck, Macau Tower, and more

11. TAIPA VILLAGE

This charming traditional village is hemmed in by colorful houses, traditional shops, age-old temples, beautiful churches and a plethora of restaurants.  It is located in Taipa close to the Cotai strip. It is a good place to try Macau street food and snacks! Visit the Museum of Taipa and Coloane History, Taipa Village Art Space, Our Lady of Carmel Church and Tin Has Temple and Pek Tai Temple.

Open hours: 24 hours

How to get to Taipa Village: 

Take any of the following buses to Taipa Village: 11, 15, 22, 28A, 30, 33 & 34 and get off at either one of the following stations:

1.Station in Rua Correria da Silva

2.Station at the junction between Rua Correria da Silva and Rua do Regedor

3.Station in Rua da Ponte Negra

From Cotai Resorts like Galaxy Macau, Studio City or Wynn Palace, take the shuttle bus to Taipa Village. Travel time is about 15-30 minutes.

1.At Macau Ferry Terminal or Taipa ferry Terminal, take the free shuttle bus to The Venetian Macau.

2.Get off at the Venetian Macau shuttle bus station.

3.From Venetian Macau’s West Loby, walk to Galaxy Macau.

4.Before you cross the street, you should see an escalator to a pedestrian walkway. Proceed to the walkway that will take you to Taipa Village in about 10 minutes.

12. MACAU FISHERMAN’S WHARF

I was pretty excited to visit here because of the photos I’ve seen on Facebook. But to be honest, it’s quite disappointing.  Fisherman’s Wharf is promoted as a theme park but it’s pretty deserted. The place is actually a collection of restaurants, high-end shops and bars that are set in Arabian Nights and Renaissance-era Europe. There are some rides here for children, but it’s almost empty.  If you decide to visit, you can go there to dine as it has a good selection of international restaurants serving American, Thai and Indian food.

Open Hours: 24 hours

Address: Avenue Dr.Sun Yat-Sen, Macau

How to get there: Ride bus No. 1A, 3, 3A, 8, 10, 10A, 10B, 17, 28A, 28B, 28 BX, 28C or 32.

Alternatively, you may also take the shuttle to Hotel Sands Macau or shuttle buses to Macau Fisherman’s Wharf from downtown Macau.

OTHER TOURIST SPOTS IN MACAU:

GUIA FORTRESS: Perched on Guia Hill, the Guia Fortress is one of the oldest western-style bastion in China. It is part of the Historic Center of Macu listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is a Guia cable car running to the top if Guia Hill where tourists can ride from the entrance of Flora Garden at Avenida de Sidonio Pais.

How to get there: Take bus# 2, 6, 9, 9A, 12, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 28C, and 32.

A-MA TEMPLE: Dedicated to the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu, A-ma Temple is one of the oldest temples in Macau built sometime in 1488.

 Entrance Fee: FREE

Open Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Address: Largo de Barra, Macau

How to get to A-Ma Temple: Take bus 6,8, 9 or 28 B

  GRAND PRIX MUSEUM: Built to commemorate the 40 th anniversary of Grand Prix Racing in Macau. This building houses everything related to the Grand Prix from photos, to videos, cups, commemorative items, etc.

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesday)

Address: 431 R. de Luis Gonzaga Gomes, Macau

How to get to A-Ma Temple: Take bus 1A, 3,10B, 10X, 10,23,28A,29, or32 to Tourism Activities Center.

WINE MUSEUM:  Beside the Grand Prix Museum is the Wine Museum that aims to showcase the brewing culture of wine. It has over 1,000 brands of wine from all over the world.

ALSO READ:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   MACAU TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AND HOW TO GET THERE

  macau itinerary + budget, macau itinerary (3 days 2 nights).

I wrote some sample Macau itineraries here.  Itinerary 1 is Macau Itinerary only. Itinerary 2 is Macau + Hong Kong itinerary.

This is a sample Macau Itinerary for 3 days 2 nights, take note that this is for Macau only. This entails that you fly to Macau first from the Philippines. Feel free to tweak this depending on your schedule, budget and likings. I wrote a separate Macau and Hong Kong itinerary below with sample budget.

MACAU TRIP EXPENSES (BUDGET BREAKDOWN)

MACAU TRIP BUDGET

Here’s a sample Macau trip expenses if you follow the itinerary above. This assumes that you are two persons, sharing the hotel and taxi costs.

*Ticket prices, rides, and hotel rates are subject to change without prior notice.

If you follow the sample Macau itinerary above for 3 days 2 nights, it’ll set you back approximately MOP 633.50/ ₱ 4,197 (HKD 617/USD 78/SGD 91/MYR 468) per person if you are a 2 pax.

This assumes that you will be staying at a hotel for MOP 181/ ₱ 1,200 (HKD 176/USD 22/SGD 31/MYR 92) per person, your food budget is limited to around MOP 50/ ₱ 331- MOP80/ ₱ 530 and you will be using the free hotel shuttles.

Macau + Hong Kong Itinerary (5 Days 4 Nights) with Budget

Here’s a 5 days 4 nights Macau and Hong Kong itinerary with budget. My friend Kenneth and I tried most of the activities this on a recent trip. I wrote the budget breakdown below.  Feel free to amend this depending on your schedule, budget, and activities that you want to try and experience.  This sample itinerary entails that you fly to Macau from the Philippines or wherever your home country is, then cross by ferry to Hong Kong. Then fly out from Hong Kong to your home country or your next destination.

If Hong Kong is your point of entry and you will be crossing to Macau, you can read my Hong Kong travel guide below with sample Hong Kong + Macau budget itinerary.  The sample itinerary there assumes that you will fly to Hong Kong first and fly out from Macau.

ALSO READ:  [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”I”]   HONG KONG + MACAU BUDGET ITINERARY

(macau + hong kong 5 days 3 nights).

Here’s the sample Macau + Hong Kong trip budget if you follow the above itinerary.  This assumes that you are a party of two and you are staying in a budget hotel in Macau for MOP 362/PHP 2,399 (good for two persons) per night or MOP 181/PHP 1,200 per person per night. While in Hong Kong, HKD 150/PHP 1,020 per person per night. Also, if your food budget is limited to MOP 80 (PHP 530) and HKD 70 (PHP 476) per meal.

IMPORTANT: The sample Macau budget doesn’t include airfare, terminal fees, shopping and gaming expenses, rides, and show tickets.

Total expenses for a 5 day 4 nights Macau-Hong Kong trip if you follow the itinerary above and if you are two persons sharing the cost of hotel and taxi is MOP 2,492 –  ₱ 17,532 (HKD 2,432/USD 353.80/SGD 427/MYR 1,233).

A large portion of the Hong Kong budget is for Disneyland, if you want to skip Disneyland, you can subtract the Disneyland Resort budget for HKD 537- ₱ 3,670 (MOP 562/USD 69.80/SGD 94/MYR 280), it should be down to about MOP 1,930 – ₱ 13, 862 (HKD 1,895 /USD 284/SGD 333/MYR 953) per person.

MACAU TRAVEL TIPS and REMINDERS

Photocopy the profile page of your passport and bring it with you when leaving your hotel. Keep your passport inside a safe in your hotel.

You can use your Hong Kong Dollars in Macau, but you can’t use your Macau pataca in Hong Kong. Change your Macau pataca in Macau to Hong Kong Dollars if you will be crossing the border.

Download the Macau Bus guide and Offline App     for Iphone users, you can use this Macau App

Use the free shuttle bus of luxury resorts to save on transportation.

If you’re wondering what to eat in Macau, you can buy one of those delicious Macanese tarts (Lord’s Stow Bakery is a famous brand) and pork buns near touristy areas.

Restaurants in Macau Peninsula near the luxury hotels are pretty expensive.  You can find cheaper restaurants and cafes around Senado Square and Taipa Village.

About the Blogger : Gael is a Filipina travel blogger. Her work has appeared in local and international publications.

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MACAU Itinerary – MUST READ!

Introduction.

Welcome to the vibrant and enchanting city of Macau! Located on the southern coast of China, Macau is a fusion of cultures, blending the traditions of its Chinese heritage with the influence of its Portuguese colonial past. Known as the “Las Vegas of Asia,” Macau is famous for its glamorous casinos, luxurious resorts, and world-class entertainment. But beyond the glitz and glamour, this city has so much more to offer.

In this comprehensive itinerary, we will guide you through the must-see attractions and hidden gems of Macau, ensuring that your visit is nothing short of unforgettable. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or a shopaholic, Macau has something for everyone.

With its compact size and efficient transportation network, Macau is eminently explorable. You can easily navigate between its various districts, each offering a unique experience. From the historic landmarks of the Macau Peninsula to the modern entertainment hub of the Cotai Strip, every corner of Macau has its own charm.

Throughout this itinerary, we will provide you with insider tips and recommendations to make the most of your time in Macau. Whether it’s the best spots for Instagram-worthy photos, the must-try local delicacies, or the hidden backstreets where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, we’ve got you covered.

So, get ready to embark on an incredible journey through the captivating streets of Macau. From ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage sites to thrilling entertainment and delectable cuisine, Macau will surprise and delight you at every turn. Let’s dive into this ultimate Macau itinerary and make the most of your time in this extraordinary city.

Day 1: Arrival and Macau City Tour

Welcome to Macau! After arriving at the vibrant Macau International Airport, take a moment to soak in the excitement and energy of this bustling city. Start your day by checking into your hotel and freshening up for the adventures that lie ahead.

Once you’re ready, head out for a Macau City Tour to get acquainted with the city. You can begin by exploring the charming streets of Senado Square, located in the heart of the Macau Peninsula. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a pedestrian-only zone, adorned with Portuguese-style architecture, vibrant pastel-colored buildings, and mosaic-tiled pavements. Take a leisurely stroll through the square, admire the surrounding colonial buildings, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

From Senado Square, make your way to the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s, one of Macau’s most famous landmarks. As you approach the site, you’ll be greeted by the dramatic sight of the Ruins’ facade, the remaining structure of the Church of St. Paul, standing tall against the skyline. Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and take in the historical significance of this ancient Catholic church.

After exploring the Ruins, venture into the nearby Mount Fortress, which offers a spectacular panoramic view of Macau. This fortress, built in the 17th century, was once a strategic defense point for the Portuguese. Today, it houses the Macau Museum, where you can delve into the city’s rich history and learn more about its multicultural heritage.

Continue your city tour by visiting the A-Ma Temple, dedicated to the Chinese goddess Mazu, the protector of fishermen. This exquisite temple complex is not only a spiritual hub but also a showcase of Chinese architectural beauty. Take your time to explore the intricately decorated halls, peaceful courtyards, and scenic viewpoints.

As the day draws to a close, make your way to the dazzling Macau Tower, an iconic landmark soaring 338 meters above the city. For adrenaline junkies, challenge yourself with a bungee jump from the tower’s observation deck, or simply enjoy a breathtaking view of Macau’s skyline during sunset.

After a day of exploration, indulge in Macau’s culinary delights. Head to a local eatery and savor mouthwatering Portuguese-inspired dishes, such as bacalhau (salted cod fish) or African chicken. Don’t forget to try the famous Macau egg tarts, a delectable pastry that has become a symbol of the city’s culinary heritage.

With fascinating historical sites, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, your first day in Macau will set the stage for an unforgettable journey. Rest up and get ready for more exciting adventures tomorrow!

Day 2: Historic Macau

On day two of your Macau itinerary, delve deeper into the city’s rich history and explore its historic landmarks. Start your day with a visit to the Macau Museum of Art, located near the Macau Cultural Centre. This museum showcases a diverse collection of artwork, including both traditional and contemporary pieces by local and international artists. Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene and gain a deeper understanding of Macau’s cultural heritage.

Next, make your way to the Mandarin’s House, a beautifully preserved residential complex that was once the family home of the renowned Chinese reformist thinker, Zheng Guanying. This architectural gem showcases a blend of traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the Chinese elite during the late Qing Dynasty.

Continue your historic journey by visiting the Dom Pedro V Theatre, the first Western-style theater in China. Admire the neoclassical design of this well-preserved building and step inside to witness its grand interior. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live performance or cultural event taking place at the theater.

For lunch, head to Rua do Cunha in Taipa Village, a charming and picturesque neighborhood that still maintains its traditional Portuguese atmosphere. This vibrant street is famous for its food stalls and restaurants, offering a wide variety of local delicacies. Savor traditional Portuguese dishes, Macanese fusion cuisine, and delectable street snacks, such as almond cookies and pork chop buns.

After lunch, take a walk along the Taipa Houses-Museum, a collection of five beautifully restored traditional Taipa houses. These brightly colored houses were once home to the island’s affluent Portuguese families and offer a fascinating glimpse into Macau’s colonial past. Wander through the houses, which now showcase exhibits related to Macanese history, culture, and traditions.

End your historic Macau exploration by visiting the iconic Guia Fortress and Lighthouse. Located on Guia Hill, this historic site offers panoramic views of the city, as well as the chance to explore the fortress and its surrounding gardens. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view of Macau’s skyline and the Pearl River Delta.

After a day of immersing yourself in Macau’s history, wind down with a relaxing evening at a local café or bar. Enjoy a cup of traditional Chinese tea or try Macau’s famous milk tea. Engage in conversations with the friendly locals and soak in the unique blend of cultures that make Macau such a vibrant and diverse city.

As the day comes to an end, reflect on the historical richness you’ve experienced in Macau and get ready for more exciting adventures on day three of your Macau itinerary.

Day 3: Coloane Island Exploration

Escape the bustling city and embark on a journey to Coloane Island, a tranquil oasis in Macau. Begin your day by taking a short ferry ride from the Macau Peninsula to Coloane. Upon arrival, be captivated by the island’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

Start your exploration by visiting the Coloane Village, a charming area that exudes a traditional Portuguese fishing village charm. Stroll along narrow streets lined with pastel-colored houses, browse through local shops selling handicrafts, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the Tin Hau Temple, dedicated to the goddess of the sea, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of this historical site.

Next, make your way to the famous Coloane Trail, a scenic hiking path that winds through lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the island. As you traverse the trail, you’ll come across beautiful viewpoints, such as the Alto de Coloane viewpoint, where you can take in panoramic vistas of the South China Sea and the surrounding landscapes.

After working up an appetite, head to one of Coloane’s renowned seafood restaurants. Indulge in an array of fresh seafood dishes, including steamed fish, grilled squid, and crispy salt and pepper prawns. Pair your meal with a glass of locally produced Macanese wine for a true gastronomic experience.

Continue your Coloane Island adventure by visiting the iconic A-Ma Cultural Village. This cultural complex offers insight into Macau’s fishing traditions and houses a museum that tells the story of the island’s fishing heritage. Explore the themed pavilions, learn about traditional fishing techniques, and enjoy a boat ride along the scenic river.

For a touch of spirituality, visit the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier, located atop a hill in Coloane. This small chapel offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a peaceful place for reflection and contemplation. Light a candle and take a moment to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere.

End your day in Coloane by unwinding at Hac Sa Beach, known as the “Black Sand Beach.” Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, feel the sand between your toes, and simply enjoy the soothing sound of the waves. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at water sports like windsurfing or kayaking.

As the sun sets over Coloane Island, savor a delicious dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines ranging from seafood to international fare. Indulge in a mouthwatering meal while taking in the mesmerizing views of the sea.

With its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Coloane Island provides a perfect retreat from the bustling city life of Macau. Take the time to relax, recharge, and immerse yourself in the island’s serene surroundings before continuing your Macau adventure.

Day 4: Taipa Village and Cultural Experience

On day four of your Macau itinerary, immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Taipa Village. Located on the island of Taipa, this charming neighborhood is a blend of traditional Chinese and Portuguese influences, offering a unique cultural experience.

Start your day by exploring the narrow streets of Taipa Village, filled with beautifully preserved colonial-style buildings and traditional Chinese temples. Admire the unique architecture, colorful facades, and intricate detailing that give this village its distinct charm.

Visit the Taipa Houses-Museum, a collection of five historical houses that have been transformed into a museum. Each house represents a different aspect of Macau’s cultural heritage, showcasing displays on traditions, customs, and daily life. Take your time to explore the exhibits and gain a deeper understanding of Macau’s vibrant culture.

As you wander through the village, don’t miss the chance to try some of Taipa’s famous local delicacies. Sample the famous pork chop buns, a local favorite filled with tender pork slices and served in a soft bun. Indulge in traditional snacks like almond cookies and egg rolls, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a bowl of Portuguese-inspired serradura, a rich and creamy dessert.

Continue your cultural experience by visiting the Carmel Garden, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling streets of Taipa. This beautiful garden features lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and scenic walking paths. Take a leisurely stroll and find a peaceful spot to relax and soak in the serenity of your surroundings.

For a deeper understanding of Macau’s unique blend of cultures, visit the Taipa Houses-Museum, a collection of five historical houses that have been transformed into a museum. Each house represents a different aspect of Macau’s cultural heritage, showcasing displays on traditions, customs, and daily life. Take your time to explore the exhibits and gain a deeper understanding of Macau’s vibrant culture.

End your day in Taipa Village by experiencing the local arts scene. Check out the Taipa Village Art Space, which hosts regular exhibitions featuring the works of local and international artists. Alternatively, catch a live performance or cultural show at the nearby Taipa Village Cultural Association, where you can immerse yourself in Macau’s traditional music, dance, and theater.

As the day comes to a close, relax at one of the village’s cozy cafes or rooftop bars. Enjoy a cup of local tea, sip on a refreshing cocktail, or simply unwind and reflect on the cultural discoveries you’ve made throughout the day.

With its blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences, Taipa Village offers a unique cultural experience that is sure to enchant and captivate. Immerse yourself in the traditions and flavors of this vibrant neighborhood, and get ready for more exciting adventures on day five of your Macau itinerary.

Day 5: Cotai Strip and Entertainment

Get ready to experience the glitz and glamour of Macau’s entertainment hub – the Cotai Strip. Day five of your Macau itinerary is all about indulging in world-class entertainment and luxurious experiences.

Start your day by exploring the major resort complexes that line the Cotai Strip. Marvel at the iconic architecture and extravagant designs of properties such as The Venetian Macao, Studio City, and Galaxy Macau. These resorts boast a wide range of entertainment options, including luxurious shopping malls, thrilling amusement parks, and stunning performances.

If you’re a fan of adrenaline-pumping rides, head to Studio City’s Golden Reel Ferris Wheel. This immersive attraction takes you on a breathtaking journey through the replica of a film-inspired New York City skyline. Enjoy panoramic views of the Cotai Strip and capture unforgettable moments.

For a taste of Venice in Macau, visit The Venetian Macao, a grand resort that replicates the charm and romance of the Italian city. Take a gondola ride along the canals, serenaded by singing gondoliers, and marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate details of this opulent establishment.

Indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the many upscale restaurants in the Cotai Strip. From world-renowned celebrity chef restaurants to international cuisines and Michelin-starred dining experiences, there is something to satisfy every palate.

After lunch, catch a mesmerizing show or performance at one of Macau’s renowned entertainment venues. The City of Dreams offers the famous House of Dancing Water show, a breathtaking spectacle that combines acrobatics, diving, and theatrical storytelling. Alternatively, the Parisian Macao boasts the Franco Dragone-produced show, “The Legend of Sherwood,” which brings the famous tale of Robin Hood to life through a mix of action, music, and dance.

In the evening, embrace the vibrant nightlife of the Cotai Strip by visiting one of the luxurious bars or clubs. Enjoy a signature cocktail while taking in the panoramic views or dance the night away to the beats of internationally acclaimed DJs.

If you’re feeling lucky, try your hand at the casinos that dot the Cotai Strip. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a casual player, the casinos offer a variety of games, from traditional table games to slot machines. Set a budget and enjoy the thrill of the gaming floor responsibly.

As the night winds down, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at one of the Cotai Strip’s fine dining establishments. Enjoy a sumptuous meal crafted by world-class chefs and savor the exquisite flavors and culinary artistry.

The Cotai Strip offers a world of entertainment and luxury, making day five of your Macau itinerary an unforgettable experience. Take in the sights, immerse yourself in the shows, and indulge in the vibrant energy of this entertainment oasis.

Day 6: Macau Food and Shopping Guide

Day six of your Macau itinerary is all about indulging in the city’s delectable cuisine and exploring its vibrant shopping scene. Get ready for a day filled with culinary delights and retail therapy.

Start your day with a traditional Macanese breakfast at one of the local cafes or street food stalls. Try the iconic Macau egg tarts, with their flaky pastry crust and creamy custard filling. Pair it with a cup of fragrant Macanese-style milk tea for a truly authentic start to your day.

Once you’re fueled up, head to the vibrant Red Market, located in the heart of Macau. This bustling market is a hub of activity, with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, browse through the stalls, and maybe even pick up some ingredients to take home.

For a unique cultural experience, visit some of Macau’s hidden food gems. Explore the narrow alleys and backstreets to discover local eateries serving up authentic Macanese and Cantonese cuisine. Sample dishes like African chicken, Portuguese-style seafood rice, and tacho, a traditional Macanese stew.

After satisfying your taste buds, it’s time to embark on a shopping adventure. Head to the bustling shopping districts of Senado Square and the surrounding area. These pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with shops offering a wide range of products, from fashionable clothing and accessories to souvenirs and local crafts. Take your time to explore the shops, hunt for unique finds, and maybe even bargain for a good deal.

For luxury shopping, make your way to the high-end shopping malls along the Cotai Strip. Here, you’ll find international designer brands, upscale boutiques, and elegant flagship stores. Indulge in some retail therapy and pamper yourself with the latest fashion trends and luxury items.

Feeling peckish after all that shopping? Macau is known for its street food, so be sure to explore the local food stalls and try some of the delicious snacks on offer. From shrimp dumplings and fish balls to beef jerky and almond cookies, there is a wide variety of tasty treats to satisfy every craving.

As the day comes to an end, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of Macau’s renowned restaurants. From Michelin-starred establishments to celebrity chef-helmed eateries, Macau offers a diverse culinary scene that promises to delight even the most discerning food connoisseurs.

End your day by relaxing at a rooftop bar or one of the city’s trendy lounges. Sip on a cocktail while enjoying panoramic views of the cityscape and reflecting on the delightful culinary and shopping experiences of the day.

Day six of your Macau itinerary is a feast for the senses, allowing you to indulge in the city’s delectable cuisine and experience its vibrant shopping scene. Enjoy every bite, find unique treasures, and create lasting memories in the culinary and shopping paradise of Macau.

Day 7: Departure and Final Tips

It’s the final day of your incredible journey through Macau. As you prepare to bid farewell to this enchanting city, make the most of your remaining time with some final activities and take note of some essential tips for a smooth departure.

If you have some spare time before your departure, consider visiting one last landmark that you haven’t had the chance to explore yet. Whether it be the Macau Science Center, the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion, or the Maritime Museum, take advantage of these last moments to soak up as much of Macau’s culture and attractions as possible.

Before checking out of your hotel, double-check that you have packed your belongings and settled any outstanding bills. It’s also a good idea to keep some local currency on hand for small expenses on your way to the airport or ferry terminal.

If you have any souvenirs or gifts you’d like to purchase, this is the perfect time to do so. Visit one of the many souvenir shops or markets to pick up something special to remember your time in Macau. Popular choices include Chinese handicrafts, local snacks, or Macau-themed merchandise.

Ensure you have your travel documents handy, including your passport and any necessary visas. Double-check your flight or ferry departure time to avoid any last-minute rushes. Transportation options to the Macau International Airport or ferry terminal include taxis, private transfers, or the convenient shuttle buses that connect various points in the city.

While waiting for your departure, you may want to grab a quick bite to eat at the airport or ferry terminal. Macau’s transport hubs offer a range of dining options, from international fast-food chains to local eateries. Take this opportunity to savor your last taste of Macau’s culinary delights.

Lastly, as you bid farewell to Macau, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had during your visit. Whether it was exploring the historic sites, indulging in the local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the vibrant entertainment scene, Macau has surely left a lasting impression.

Remember to allow yourself plenty of time before your departure for necessary security checks and customs clearance. Keep all important travel documents within reach, and stay informed about any last-minute changes or updates regarding your mode of transportation.

As you head back home or continue on your journey, let the memories of Macau stay with you. The city’s unique blend of cultures, captivating sights, and delectable flavors will continue to inspire and enchant long after you’ve left its shores.

Farewell, and safe travels!

As your Macau adventure comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had in this vibrant city. From its rich history and cultural heritage to its glitzy entertainment and mouthwatering cuisine, Macau has proven to be a destination like no other.

Throughout your journey, you’ve explored the historic landmarks of the Macau Peninsula, marveled at the tranquil beauty of Coloane Island, and indulged in the luxurious entertainment scene on the Cotai Strip. You’ve immersed yourself in the city’s diverse cultures and savored the flavors of Macau’s unique culinary heritage.

From the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s to the enchanting temples, from the street food stalls to the fine dining establishments, you’ve embraced the blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences that make Macau truly special.

As you depart, don’t forget to take with you the memories of the vibrant streets, the friendly smiles of the locals, and the charm that has made Macau a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.

Just like the city itself, your journey through Macau has been a fusion of cultures, experiences, and flavors. Whether you’re a history buff, a food aficionado, an adventure seeker, or a lover of entertainment, Macau has offered something to fulfill every aspect of your traveler’s spirit.

As you continue your travels or return home with a newfound appreciation for Macau, carry the memories of this extraordinary city in your heart. Remember the sights, the tastes, and the feeling of being immersed in a place where tradition meets modernity, where East meets West, and where excitement meets serenity.

Macau has shown you that it is more than just a bustling metropolis or a gambling mecca. It is a destination that celebrates its rich heritage while embracing the future. It is a city that invites you to explore, to indulge, and to create lasting memories.

So, as you journey on, take the spirit of Macau with you. Let it inspire your future travels, ignite your curiosity, and remind you of the beauty and diversity that exist in this vast world we call our home.

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey through Macau. We hope that you’ve enjoyed every moment, and we look forward to welcoming you back to this extraordinary city in the future. Safe travels!

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Sample HONG KONG-MACAU ITINERARIES: 3, 4, 5, 6 Days

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 1️⃣0️⃣ • 1️⃣6️⃣

Travelers often bundle Hong Kong and Macau together because of their proximity to each other, just one-hour ferry ride apart. It is common for travelers staying in Hong Kong to visit Macau on a day trip. Likewise, those whose lodging is in Macau can easily do a day tour of Hong Kong. It is also not unusual for travelers to enter the region via Hong Kong and exit via Macau or the other way around.

Whether you’re holding a roundtrip ticket or a Hong Kong-Macau ticket, we might have a sample itinerary for you.

If you need help planning your Hong Kong-Macau trip, check out our travel guides below:

✅ HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE

✅ MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE

But first: Rent a pocket wi-fi!

If you’re holding a roundtrip Hong Kong plane ticket, you might want to rent a pocket wifi. Being connected to the Internet all the time can make your travel worry-free. You can use it to access Google Maps, currency converters, share photos on your Facebook or Instagram, and search for more tips and recommendations. Please note that these pocket wifi services are only advisable if you have a roundtrip Hong Kong ticket. If you’re arriving via Hong Kong and leaving via Macau, this isn’t for you because you might not be able to return the device.

If you have a roundtrip HK ticket, reserve a pocket wifi as early as you can because only a limited number of devices are available per day.

As always, here are a few reminders that you must bear in mind should you decide to use the sample itineraries below.

• All itineraries assume you’re staying in Tsim Sha Tsui area on the Kowloon side in Hong Kong or near the historic center in Macau. This is where most budget accommodations are located.
• Book your tickets and tours with Klook. I have provided links where you can purchase tickets or book tours. These are affiliate links, many of which offer discounts. You’ll also help our blog in the process if you purchase tickets via Klook.
• Cost estimates are only ballpark figures. Actual prices may vary. However, these are overestimates. We added some wiggle room or allowance to accommodate other additional incidental expenses.
• Double check schedules. These are not exact times, especially train times. They’re meant to only give you an idea of how long you should spend doing an activity or staying in a spot. Actual schedule may be different.

And of course, if you want to change anything in the itinerary to match your flight sched or whatever preferences, feel free.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Roundtrip Hong Kong with Macau Day Tour: 3-Day Itinerary

Entry point: Hong Kong Airport Exit point: Hong Kong Airport Duration: 3 days, 2 nights Stops: 2 nights in Hong Kong, day tour in Macau Places to visit: Victoria Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui, Ngong Ping in Lantau Island (HONG KONG); St. Paul Ruins, Senado Square, Hotels (MACAU)

Cost Estimate: HK$1200 (MOP1237, USD153, SGD211, PHP8300, EUR132), excluding airfare and hotel.

Roundtrip Hong Kong with Macau Day Tour: 4-Day Itinerary

Entry point: Hong Kong Airport Exit point: Hong Kong Airport Duration: 4 days, 3 nights Stops: 3 nights in Hong Kong, day tour in Macau Places to visit: Victoria Peak, Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui, Disneyland Hong Kong, Ngong Ping in Lantau Island (HONG KONG); St. Paul Ruins, Senado Square, Hotels (MACAU)

Cost Estimate: HK$2000 (MOP2060, USD255, SGD351, PHP13800, EUR220), excluding airfare and hotel.

Roundtrip Hong Kong with Macau Day Tour: 5-Day Itinerary

Entry point: Hong Kong Airport Exit point: Hong Kong Airport Duration: 5 days, 4 nights Stops: 4 nights in Hong Kong, day tour in Macau Places to visit: Victoria Peak, Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui, Disneyland Hong Kong, Ngong Ping in Lantau Island (HONG KONG); St. Paul Ruins, Senado Square, Hotels (MACAU)

Day 5: DEPARTURE 10:00 am – Check out 10:30 am – Bus to Airport, HKD15.5 11:00 am – Check in at airport 12:00 am – Lunch, HKD70 01:30 pm – Flight out

Cost Estimate: HK$2250 (MOP2320, USD287, SGD395, PHP15,500, EUR247), excluding hotel, airfare, and shopping expenses.

Hong Kong-Macau: 6-Day Itinerary

Entry point: Hong Kong Airport Exit point: Macau Airport Duration: 6 days, 5 nights Stops: 3 nights in Hong Kong, 2 nights in Macau Places to visit: Victoria Peak, Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui, Disneyland Hong Kong, Ngong Ping in Lantau Island (HONG KONG); Macau Tower, St. Paul Ruins, A-Ma Temple, Senado Square, Hotels (MACAU)

Day 5: MACAU HISTORIC SITES 09:00 am – Walk to Ponte Cais n. 14 Bus Stop 09:15 am – Ride Bus No. 2, MOP 3.2 09:30 am – Alight at Jardim da Flora 10:00 am – Take cable car to Guia Fortress, MOP 3 11:40 am – Walk to Macau Museum 12:10 pm – Lunch, MOP 70 01:30 pm – Macau Museum, MOP 15 03:00 pm – St. Paul Ruins 03:45 pm – Stroll to Senado Square 06:00 pm – Dinner, MOP 70 07:00 pm – Walk to Wynn Hotel 07:30 pm – Dancing Fountain at Wynn Hotel, FREE 08:00 pm – See Tree of Prosperity 08:40 pm – Walk to Praca Ferreira Amaral Bus Terminal 09:00 pm – Take Bus 3A to Ponte Cais n. 14 Bus Stop, MOP 3.2 09:50 pm – Alight bus and walk to Hotel

Day 6: LUXURY HOTEL HOPPING 07:00 am – Walk to A-ma Temple 07:30 am – A Ma Temple, FREE 09:00 am – Walk back to Hotel 09:30 am – Hotel Check-out 10:00 am – Walk to Ponte Cais n. 14 Bus Stop 10:30 am – Ride FREE Shuttle to the Venetian 11:00 am – The Venetian, Leave luggage at Concierge, FREE 11:15 am – Explore the Venetian, shop around 12:00 pm – Lunch, MOP 100 01:00 pm – Cross the street to City of Dreams, explore, shop 03:00 pm – Walk to Studio City, enjoy rides if budget permits 06:00 pm – Move to the Parisian and take photos 07:00 pm – Pick up luggage at Venetian 07:15 pm – Board the FREE shuttle to the airport 08:00 pm – Airport Check in, dinner at airport, MOP 100 10:15 pm – Flight out

Cost Estimate: HK$2400 (MOP2475, USD306, SGD421, PHP16,600, EUR265), excluding hotel, airfare, and shopping expenses.

Macau-Hong Kong: 5-Day Itinerary

Entry point: Macau Airport Exit point: Hong Kong Airport Duration: 5 days, 4 nights Stops: 3 nights in Macau, 2 nights in Hong Kong Places to visit: St. Paul Ruins, Senado Square, Hotels (MACAU); Victoria Peak, Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui, Disneyland Hong Kong, Ngong Ping in Lantau Island (HONG KONG)

Day 2: HISTORIC SITES 09:00 am – Walk to Ponte Cais n. 14 Bus Stop 09:15 am – Ride Bus No. 2, MOP 3.2 09:30 am – Alight at Jardim da Flora 10:00 am – Take cable car to Guia Fortress, MOP 3 11:40 am – Walk to Macau Museum 12:10 pm – Lunch, MOP 70 01:30 pm – Macau Museum, MOP 15 03:00 pm – St. Paul Ruins 03:45 pm – Stroll to Senado Square 06:00 pm – Dinner, MOP 70 07:00 pm – Walk to Wynn Hotel 07:30 pm – Dancing Fountain at Wynn Hotel, FREE 08:00 pm – See Tree of Prosperity 08:40 pm – Walk to Praca Ferreira Amaral Bus Terminal 09:00 pm – Take Bus 3A to Ponte Cais n. 14 Bus Stop, MOP 3.2 09:50 pm – Alight bus and walk to Hotel

Day 3: LUXURY HOTEL HOPPING 07:00 am – Walk to A-ma Temple 07:30 am – A Ma Temple, FREE 09:00 am – Walk back to Hotel 09:30 am – Hotel Check-out 10:00 am – Walk to Ponte Cais n. 14 Bus Stop 10:30 am – Ride FREE Shuttle to the Venetian 11:00 am – The Venetian, Leave luggage at Concierge, FREE 11:15 am – Explore the Venetian, shop around 12:00 pm – Lunch, MOP 100 01:00 pm – Cross the street to City of Dreams, explore, shop 03:00 pm – Walk to Studio City, enjoy rides if budget permits 06:00 pm – Move to the Parisian and take photos 07:00 pm – Pick up luggage at Venetian 07:15 pm – Board the FREE shuttle to Taipa Ferry Terminal 08:00 pm – Board Ferry to Hong Kong, HKD 160 09:15 pm – MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui, HKD 11 09:50 pm – Check-in 10:30 pm – Late dinner (fast food), HKD 50 11:30 pm – Lights out

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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NO cable car ride to Ngong Ping at 07:30 am; the earliest Cable Car ride starts at 9am (sun) or 10am (mon-sat), please be informed.

Thanks for pointing it out! We’ve updated the times.

is this an independent tour or you are referring to a company who is doing the tour

Hi Edith, these are DIY (do-it-yourself) tours, so yes, independent.

Just want to inform you that for your 4 day itinerary, The supposed to be “Day 4” has been tagged as “Day 3”. Just FYI. =)

Woot! Nice catch! Thanks for letting us know. We’ll fix it.

No ferries to Macau in Hong Kong China Ferry Terminal. It costs a lot of money for that mistake

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4 Days Macau Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Macau

by Trip.com

December 19, 2022

• Macau 4-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights to Macau

• Sort by: Lowest Price
• Sort by: Earliest Flight

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Day 1 | Morning

Macau tower.

Opening Hours: Open on Mon-Fri,10:00am-7:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,11:00am-8:00pm

Ticket Price: 165 MOP

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: Lot 1 of Area d, New Reclamation Area, Nanwan, Macau

The Macau Tower is one of the landmark buildings in Macau . When you travel back and forth between the Macau peninsula and the islands of Taipa and Coloane, you will see its lone silhouette. Entering the tower, you can take a bullet lift to the sightseeing level, where you can enjoy the scenery within 55 kilometers. The Macau Peninsula, Taipa Island, Coloane Island, and the Pearl River Delta make up a panoramic view.

Reviews from Real Guests:

访客: The tower is 338 meters high and is one of the landmarks of Macau. If you want to make your trip to Macau unique and memorable, you can go to the 61st floor of the tower to experience the "stupid pig jump" of the Macau Tower, which is also known as bungee jumping. After jumping down from 233 meters, and when the cable is fully extended, it will bounce back to 30 meters again, and after several times, slowly land on the special air cushion. The challenge will be successful and will receive a certificate, membership card and "stupid pig jump" T-shirt.

anne26: Macau Tower, measuring over 1100 ft with an observation deck in the 61st floor, featuring panoramic views of the Macau City, , restaurants, shopping malls and the Skywalk X, a thrilling walking tour around the outer rim. At 233 metres, the Macau Tower's tethered "sky jump" and Bungee jump from the tower's outer rim and is the highest commercial sky jump in the world , and the second highest commercial decelerator descent facility in the world. dare devil skills by jumping down.

Day 1 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Macau Tower, The House of Dancing Water next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

The House of Dancing Water

Opening Hours: 17:00, 20:00 each, about 85 minutes each time.

Ticket Price: 617 MOP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-3 Hours

Location: City of Dreams, Estr. do Istmo, Macao

The City of Dreams "Water Dance Room" performance is a large-scale water show. The planning took 5 years and its expenditure was more than 2 billion RMB. The world-renowned inspirational creative master Franco Drago tailored this performance for City of Dreams. The "Water Dance Room" performance of City of Dreams is a high-level stunt show adapted from local legends. The performance is impressive and people will never forget it.

Trip.com User: Not a waste of five stars at all. It's really nice, gorgeous, entertaining and fantastic performance. Recommend those who are going to see it in the central seat A seat. I watched it in the side seat, but it is a pity to watch the stage performance background. If you have the next chance, you will want to see it in the central front seat even if you spend tens of thousands of won. I couldn't take a picture because I couldn't take a picture, but it is really recommended. There will never be regret after the performance.

killerG47: I have seen it twice, sitting in the VIP area, sitting in the front of the VIP area, the last row of A. It is recommended that if the vote can be selected in the last row of A, next to the VIP area, the location is secret, not easy to be seen by the staff, the view is good, the normal performance is a cold experience. Fucking, circus, water dance, motorcycle stunts, drama, altitude stunts, basically after watching this show, you'll see all the performances you can see for an hour and a half.. Great value for money..

Day 1 | Evening

Don’t forget to book The Londoner Hotel in advance, because all the tourists head to The House of Dancing Water love staying at it.

The Londoner Hotel

Destined to become a bold new landmark, The Londoner Macao brings the best of London to Macao. Delivering an authentic experience of London’s rich, colorful history combined with unforgettable modern features, characters and entertainment, it represents a US$1.5 billion investment. Previously Sands Cotai Central, The Londoner Macao is located in the heart of Cotai Strip opposite The Venetian Macao and features some of London’s most recognizable landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament and Elizabeth Tower. The Two new hotels include The Londoner Hotel offers 594 all-suites alongside The St. Regis Macao with 400 rooms, Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel with 4,001 rooms and Conrad Macao with 654 rooms. The Londoner Macao also offers 11 exciting new dining outlets including signature, British-inspired and celebrity chef restaurants as well as famous international brands, Shoppes at Londoner with over 150 boutiques, Londoner Events Center featuring a wide range of meeting space and a 6,000-seat arena.

Swimming pool

Check Availability

Studio City Macau

Opening Hours: Reminder: Routine maintenance will be performed on the following days and the resort will be temporarily closed. We apologize for any inconvience caused. The Star Ferris wheel May 14th - May 19th, Batman May 8th -May 12th, and the magical performance May 22nd- May 26th. The Star Ferris Wheel: 12:00-20:00 (weekdays); 11:00-21:00 (weekends and holidays). Batman: 12:00-20:00 (weekdays); 11:00-21:00 (weekends and holidays).

Ticket Price: 60 MOP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Days

Location: Cotai Road, Cotai District, Macau, Macau Studios Hotel

Studio City Macau, located on Cotai Strip, neighbors Hengqin Island's Lotus Port. It is a TV and movie-themed resort, shopping and vacation destination. Travelers can enjoy a variety of forms of entertainment. Meet famous DC/Warner Bros. characters, go shopping, or just chow down! You can also go to the roof, ride the "Shadow Star Ferris Wheel," and enjoy the city of Macau.

Trip.com User: Studio City Hotel with a different concept in Macau hotels. Buy Batman Dark Flght & Golden Reel package from Trip.com. It was very easy to book and use two things, but it was great to proceed without waiting time. Batman Flight was a fun experience, but it was a pity that the motion sickness was a little bit. Then you can see the Golden reel. Macau night view. Just the view is satisfactory. It's worth exploring once. Especially if you use it with your children, you are satisfied with the hotel.

Trip.com User: I came to Macau to celebrate my birthday with my friends. We originally checked-in at 3 pm. We arrived at 12 o'clock. I was very anxious if the waiter could arrange for us to see the room in the Paris Tower. The waiter was very good. I knew that my colleague had a birthday. Not only can we arrange to go to this room, Also prepared birthday cake. The hotel is clean and the room is spacious. This love-filled hotel will definitely come again next time.

Day 2 | Evening

Don’t forget to book City of Dreams - Nüwa Macau in advance, because all the tourists head to Studio City Macau love staying at it.

City of Dreams - Nüwa Macau

Inspired by the eponymous heroine from Chinese mythology, Nüwa is a homage to Asia’s rich cultural inheritance; a place where the past is reimagined, and luxury redefined. Traditional aesthetics and contemporary sensibility intertwine to create a world of comfort. Handcrafted details are evident in every corner, personalized hospitality awaits at every turn; and every stay is an experience of impeccable standard.

Airport pickup service

Day 3 | Morning

Golden reel.

Opening Hours: Open on Mon,Thu-Sun,2:00pm-8:00pm

Ticket Price: 100 MOP

Recommended Length of Stay: 0.5-1 Hours

Location: 3rd Floor, Studio City Macau

The Golden Reel Figure 8 Ferris Wheel is an iconic landscape feature of the Studio City Resort in Macau. This huge figure-eight ferris wheel stands between two hotel buildings and reaches up to 130 meters high. The design concept comes from a Hollywood movie scene, like two planets impacting the exterior of the building, resulting in an “8” shape. The Golden Reel Figure 8 Ferris Wheel has 17 cars of different themes, each capable of holding up to 10 people. A ride on the ferris wheel is a great option for visitors seeking a panoramic, bird’s-eye view of Macau.

Mobin: Be amazed by the beautiful architecture and serene landscape. We reached just on time for the sunset at around 7pm. just magnificent.

Trip.com User: The reel was quite pleasant with views all around Macau. It's a worthwhile experience and I got some interesting pictures.

Day 3 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Golden Reel, you can head to Macau Eiffel Tower, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Macau Eiffel Tower

Opening Hours: Open from 2:00pm-10:00pm

Ticket Price: 108 MOP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Parisian Tower, Paris, 7th Floor (from the 550th floor of the 5th floor of the Eiffel Tower souvenir shop to the main entrance of the 7th floor)

Macau Eiffel Tower has been carefully constructed according to the original design of the Eiffel Tower. You can enjoy the romance of the Eiffel Tower right here in Macau! Go up to the viewing platforms on the 7th and 37th floors for panoramic views of Macau and the Cotai Strip. At La Chine (6th floor), you can savor delicious foods while taking in the scenery for an even more awesome experience!

Trip.com User: This must be a must-see attraction for the tadpole! Although it is difficult to compare with the real Paris Tower, the night lighting makes the Macau Tower too beautiful. It is very domineering and gorgeous. The hotel building next to Paris is also very matched. Many people take wedding photos here because it is too beautiful. Every time I pass by, I take a photo from different angles.

Carrie & Maggie: Parisian Hotel Macau and the Paris Tower are built on the same height as the real Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. Every night, there are different theme neon lights shining, very beautiful 😀 The 7th and 37th floors of the tower are sightseeing floors. If you are not afraid of height, it is definitely worth a try!

Day 3 | Evening

Don’t forget to book The St. Regis Macao in advance, because all the tourists head to Macau Eiffel Tower love staying at it.

The St. Regis Macao

The award-winning St. Regis Macao, Cotai Strip is touted as the most prestigious address on the Cotai Strip, offering 400 exquisitely styled and lavishly appointed guestrooms. St. Regis hotels are renowned for delivering exceptional bespoke service, and The St. Regis Macao is no exception. It is the only hotel in Macao to offer the signature St. Regis Butler Service for all guests, 24 hours a day, customizing each guest’s stay to their specific needs, tastes and preferences.

Day 4 | Morning

Macau museum.

Opening Hours: Open on Mon-Fri,Sun,10:00am-5:30pm

Ticket Price: 15 MOP

Location: 112 Praceta do Museu de Macau, Macao

The museum is located on Persimmon Hill near the archway of the Great Sanba, and you can visit the fort together. The museum displays the local history and social changes, and records the process of cultural convergence and harmonious coexistence in the local area through rich exhibits, and the formation of a unique folk culture. The museum building is three-storey high, two of which are built under the platform of the fort, and only the upper floor is rebuilt from the ground building of the original weather station, thus retaining the original architectural style and landform features of the fort to a great extent. After visiting the museum, you will come out of the fort, overlooking the scenery of the whole city. The theme of the first floor of the museum is the primitive of local civilization, introducing the origin and development of the local area; the second floor is folk art and tradition, and the exhibits reveal all aspects of local history, including entertainment, daily life, religious rituals and celebrations, etc. The third floor displays Features of contemporary urban life and a vision for the future. In addition, the museum also displays the works of some well-known writers, including Portuguese writers Camés and Pessanille.

Trip.com User: Tickets cost 60 MOP per person, and I watched many people go in, so I followed me to buy a ticket. I didn't expect that the exhibition inside is very rich. From the history of Macau and the contrast of various exhibits in Chinese and Western styles, the exhibition is rich. 60 MOP is very worth the fare. If you have arrived at Xingtai, it is recommended to go in and see!

KVNSCPR28: The Macau Museum is located on the hill of the Fortaleza do Monte in Santo António, Macau, China. The museum presents the history of the city and territory of the former Portuguese colony of Macau, now a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China

Day 4 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Macau Museum, you can head to Macao Science Center, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Macao Science Center

Opening Hours: Open on Mon-Wed,Fri-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm

Ticket Price: 25 MOP

Location: Macau Science Museum, Da Ma Road, Macao Sun Yat-sen

The Macau Science Center was designed by the well-known architect I.M. Pei. The main body consists of an inclined cone, a hemisphere and a rhombus-shaped pedestal. The functions of these three parts are the exhibition hall, the planetarium and the conference center. The exterior walls of the building are finished in silver-gray metal aluminum panels, supplemented by dark granite. Viewed from a distance, the appearance is very scientific. The exhibition center is six floors high, with a lobby and four floors of exhibition halls, and the top floor is an observation deck. The exhibition focuses on interactive exhibits with equal emphasis on knowledge, science and fun, allowing visitors to enjoy the fun of exploring science from the hands-on process. The part of the hemisphere design is the Planetarium of the Science Museum, which has multi-functional facilities, including a 360-degree sky theater, which plays different types of dome films and short films related to astronomy. The diamond-shaped base is the conference center, which is a building with one basement and two floors, with four conference rooms and a multi-functional conference hall, equipped with functions such as simultaneous interpretation.

Hyde Kam: The Macau Science Museum is hosting a Photo Festival. This year's theme is an alien party, which is perfect for a family.

uvuvwevwevwe onyetenyevwe vgwemubwem ossas: Children like to go the most ah tickets are not expensive push!

• Macau 4-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights from Macau

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.

Table of Content

• Day 1: Macau Tower, The House of Dancing Water
• Day 2: Studio City Macau
• Day 3: Golden Reel, Macau Eiffel Tower
• Day 4: Macau Museum, Macao Science Center

Macau Weather

Find What to Do in Macau in 4 Days Tour

Macau tower 360 revolving restaurant buffet [official ticketing].

• Enjoy stunning 360-degree views of Macau A brand-new landmark in Macau The 10th tallest tower in the world where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the whole Macau and try thrilling Tower Adventure!

Macau Grand Lisboa Palace Resort: The Grand Buffet Meal Voucher

• Limited seats available. If you've received a booking cancellation email, please select a new date and time before booking again. At the Grand Buffet, you can explore a sumptuous and unrivaled buffet dining experience featuring mouth-watering gourmet delicacies from around the world. Indulge your taste buds in a comprehensive menu made with premium ingredients, meticulously updated to honor the freshest tastes of the season.

Studio City Spotlight Buffet

• Reflecting the premium décor that can be found throughout Studio City, Spotlight is an Art Deco, cinema-themed food lover’s paradise serving buffets with a diverse array of delicious international cuisine, fresh seafood and delicate desserts all day long.

Le Buffet, The Parisian Macao (Lunch/Dinner)

Jw marriott hotel macau urban kitchen lunch/dinner buffet.

• Experience the buffet that's forever winning the praise of its customers, as well as "Hong Kong Tatler 2019 - Macau's Best Restaurants (International)" and "China's Best Wine List 2018" awards Choose from lunch or dinner buffets – and come with an appetite Sample your pick of Australian, Portuguese, Italian, Beijing, Sichuan, Cantonese, Japanese, and Korean delights, plus ice cream, dessert, and juice - if you're still hungry! Watch your food be cooked fresh before your eyes by a professional chef at each cuisine station Book in advance on Trip.com and simply scan the QR code to enter the restaurant directly

Sheraton Sands Cotai Central's Feast Buffet (Lunch/Dinner)

• The beautifully crafted and colorful desserts are enough to make one fall head over heels Enjoy freshly-made and delicious dishes from all over the world and sample a variety of traditional seasonal dishes from different regions

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Hong Kong Itinerary w/ Macau Day Trip: DIY 1-5 Days or More (Travel Guide)

by Aileen Adalid Itineraries , Hong Kong , Macau 203 comments

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Hong Kong is the first place abroad that I have traveled to; but on that particular trip, what I mainly did was just eat and shop as I accompanied a friend of mine back in university. So when I was able to finally come back again to do a more proper ‘tour’ of the city, I did my best to cover as many activities and attractions as possible! And today, I am sharing with you my 5-day Hong Kong itinerary , which also includes a day trip to the nearby city of Macau. Plus, it includes an array of other must-dos that you can consider doing in case you have more days to spare or if you have a different travel style.

But before I go on, I think it’s best that I give you a bit of background about the geographical area of Hong Kong because a lot of people actually have this misconception that there’s not much to do there, or that there’s not much green at all — two things that are absolutely NOT true.

First things first, there’s more to the well-known urbanized center because 2/3 of the country is actually made up of the countryside which is full of countless small mountains and several islands.

What are the top tours to do in Hong Kong?

Check out these activities and tours to do: [ click ]

– – –

» About Hong Kong

As shown below, Hong Kong is made up of  Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, and over 200 offshore or outlying islands  (the largest of which is Lantau Island).

The area that most tourists tend to only explore is that of the center: Kowloon Peninsula, and the northern edge of Hong Kong Island.

Rest assured, everything is well-connected by bus and train (MTR – Mass Transit Railway), so going from point A to point B wouldn’t be a big problem at all. If in case you get lost or you get confused about public transportation, Google Maps ‘ directions feature is your best friend — this nifty piece of technology has helped me numerous times whenever I’m traveling to foreign countries.

RELATED READ: Best Travel Apps for Travelers

…Now, with all that said and done, let me present to you the things to do in Hong Kong when you’re traveling there for 5 days (or even more!)

Top photo by: Shutterstock

Table of Contents

Hong Kong Travel Guide

» quick travel planning.

• Top tours & experiences
• Find flights to HK
• Visa requirements
• Best places to stay
• Travel insurance (5% discount)
• Stay connected

» Best Time to Visit

It is said that the best time to visit Hong Kong is around late September to late December due to better weather conditions.

• Spring:  This is usually referred to as the ‘low season’ primarily because of unpredictable weather in which the city gets a bit warm and humid with fog — with chances of significant rain. Nevertheless, there are some key celebrations such as the Hong Kong International Film Festival.
• Summer: It can get very hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 26 to 32°C.
• ★ Autumn: This is the best time to visit with more ideal temperatures and plenty of sunshine that doesn’t bring too much humidity. You can also participate in the Mid-Autumn Festival which is the second biggest Chinese holiday next to the Chinese New Year.
• Winter:  Next to autumn, this is also a great time to visit as the temperature dips between 14 to 19°C. There’s no snow but it can get quite chilly, so make sure to pack a jacket. With Chinese New Year celebrations on the way, you’ll even be rewarded with spectacular fireworks and parades too — but of course, this also means that there will be more crowds.
• WINTER: Dec to Feb
• SPRING: March to May
• SUMMER: June to Aug
• AUTUMN: Sept to Nov

» Getting in to Hong Kong

Hong Kong International Airport (IATA: HKG) is Hong Kong’s main airport — from there, you can ride an  airport shuttle bus  that has key drop-off locations in the city (see details  here ). Otherwise, you can ride the Airport Express train and you can buy discounted tickets for this  online .

If however you are coming with a group of people and want a more hassle-free experience, you can save on transportation costs by simply booking a  private transfer .

To get to these points, I recommend browsing through  Skyscanner  to find the best flight deals from your point of origin. If you’re from the Philippines like me, Skyscanner also scans through the budget airlines such as Air Asia and Cebu Pacific in order to find which of the 2 has the cheapest rate on the dates you choose.

» Visa for Hong Kong

If you’re NOT a citizen of any of Hong Kong’s  exempted countries , you are then required to avail of a visa beforehand. (If you’re from the Philippines, you don’t need to apply for a visa if it’s a stay of no more than 14 days.)

• Check full visa requirements here as per your nationality.

» Where to Stay (Hongkong Accommodations)

To search for the best hotel accommodation in Hong Kong at the best prices, I suggest cross-checking hotel prices between  Agoda  and  Booking.com . But if you’re rather interested in renting comfortable houses or apartments, you should search through AirBnB .

For a more comprehensive list, see this post of the top ‘ Best Hotels in Hong Kong ‘ or ‘ Best Hotels in Macau ‘.

» Hong Kong Currency

Hong Kong Dollar (HKD / HK$) wherein HK$8 is equal to about USD $1~ / €0.85~ / Php 52~ (this is as of June 2022). In the event that you want to exchange your money for HKD, I highly advise that you do NOT exchange your money at the airport since the rates there are not competitive.

• How to best exchange your currency? Either exchange it at a bank or at a money exchanger in your home country or in HK’s city center. Better yet, just withdraw from an ATM with your debit/credit card — however, you must do one big withdrawal to minimize fees with your bank. Speaking of cards, a lot of Hong Kong’s establishments accept credit cards but it’s always advisable to have cash on hand because a lot of smaller shops do not accept international credit cards.

» Cost of Travel in Hong Kong

To give you an idea, you should expect to travel to HK with an average daily cost of about USD $55~ per person on a budget, or at least $130~ if you want to experience more comfort in activities, tours, hotels, and more. (Values below show low budget to medium budget ranges).

• Hotels: $25 to $60 USD / day
• Food: $11 to $25 USD / day
• Fun: $25 to $70 USD / day
• Transport: $20 on average per day

» How to Get Around Hong Kong

It’s always best to avail yourself an  Octopus Card  — a prepaid contactless debit card that can be used to pay for all kinds of public transport  (except taxis and some red minibusses; and if I may add, this can even be used to pay at convenience stores, supermarkets, restaurants, museums, and more) . After all, Hong Kong is best explored by train (MTR) as it is the fastest mode of transportation (not to mention the efficient Airport Express train).

The only time that I can recommend using a taxi is if you’re in a hurry, if you get lost, or if you have 3 other people with you to share the cost (the meter starts at HKD $22) .

NOTE : Another alternative is to buy an  MTR Tourist Day Pass .

To better navigate yourself within Hong Kong, use  Google Maps ‘  directions  feature (signified by a blue icon with an arrow inside it) — I really find it a very helpful tool if I want to reach a certain place from a particular location. However, Google Maps doesn’t work offline if you want routes or transportation schedules, so I recommend that you get a  pocket WiFi  or a  SIM card  to stay connected; or better yet, get an eSIM for a hassle-free experience (use code AILEEN684 to get $3 off) .

You can avail an Octopus Card  online , at the airport or at any MTR station, and it can also be reloaded at any MTR station or merchant stores that accept Octopus (7-Eleven, McDonalds, etc.). A basic Octopus Card costs HKD $150 in which $100 can be used as credit and the remaining $50 serves as refundable deposit. You can load it to a maximum of HKD $1,000 but you can only refund remaining credit if it’s less than $500. . It stays valid for 1,000 days after your last top-up or ‘load’ and can be reactivated anytime afterwards. Rest assured, your card can go negative (for as low as HKD $-35 but this isn’t really negative since your $50 deposit secures it). However, it can only go negative once and you can only use the card again after you reload.

» Staying Connected in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has one of the fastest internet connections in the world so you’re assured of great connections wherever you go. Hotels and most shops (even convenience stores) offer FREE WiFi connections — but in order to stay connected online at all times during your Hongkong trip, I recommend getting your own  pocket WiFi  or a  SIM Card ; or better yet, get an eSIM for a hassle-free experience (use code AILEEN684 to get $3 off)

» Safety in Hong Kong

Hongkong is one of the densest cities in the world and serious crimes are rare — but petty crimes like pickpocketing can still occur. As such, it helps to stay street smart at all times. Rest assured, it’s one of the safest countries to travel in even as a solo traveler ; just stay vigilant and you’ll be fine.

• HOW TO: Find the right travel insurance for you

» Helpful Cantonese Phrases

• RELATED READ: Best translation apps for travel

Hello:  Néih hóu Thank you:  M̀h’gōi Please:  Chíng Goodbye:  Joigin

Excuse me (to get attention):  M̀h’hóu yisi I’m sorry:  Deui-m̀h-jyuh How much:  Géidō chín a? Is there someone here who speaks English?:  nī douh yáuh móuh yàhn sīk góng Yīngmán a? Help!:  Gau mehng ā! Cheers!:  Yámbūi!

Other F.A.Q.

To date, Hong Kong is not particularly conscious of tipping, and there is even NO obligation to tip. Though if you’re feeling generous, you can extend a 10% tip if there is no service charge (but most HK hotels and restaurants already set a 10% service charge on your bill).

Hongkong typically uses two plug types: type D (three round pins in a triangular pattern) and type G (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern). The country operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.

 Please check their  latest travel advisories  page, or visit the  Hong Kong Government COVID-19 thematic website  for more details.

All visitors to Hong Kong must have a passport that is valid for at least 1 month after the period of their intended stay in Hong Kong.

In general, no. All goods, apart from alcohol and tobacco, are tax-free.

Hong Kong Itinerary Guide

Before I begin with the itinerary guide, if in case you’re more of a visual person, you can already watch my video below to get a ‘peek’ into the adventures that I did during my recent trip to Hong Kong and Macau!

Take note that the 5-day Hong Kong itinerary (with a stopover to Macau) below does not take into account your arrival day in Hong Kong.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

• The following Hong Kong itinerary section is in a tabbed format; so, in order to see the next day’s contents, just click the headings below.
• if you’re staying longer in the city, you can make use of the last tab called ‘ Extra Days ‘ to see the other activities or trips you can do for filling up the rest of your vacation days both in Hong Kong and Macau.

Explore Tsim Sha Tsui area in Kowloon

During my stay, I got a hotel in Hong Kong Island — but you can also opt to get your accommodation in Kowloon as it is more in the ‘middle’ of everything.

That being said, you might find it odd that I explored the Kowloon area during my first day instead of Hong Kong Island itself… well, the thing is, I wanted to see the harbor during the day as well, so it made more sense to sail to Kowloon and explore it and then sail back at night to see the evening cityscape too.

To add, it was a Wednesday when I arrived, and it was timely that the Symphony of Lights had English narration for that day.

RELATED READ: – Top Fun Things to Do in Hong Kong

Photo by: Shutterstock

• TIP : Reserve your spot on Star Ferry by booking online .
• Walk around Kowloon Park. (Nearest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui Station) This is a large public park smacked in the middle of the bustling area of Tsim Sha Tsui but it offers tranquility for its guests what with its Chinese garden, lotus ponds, aviaries, and more. If you come here on a Sunday from around 2PM to 5PM, you can even witness a kung fu and lion dance performance. .
• TIP : For more food options, book online and score special deals! .

Wanna see a complete list of the top Hong Kong food and drinks that you MUST try? — Check out this blog post to find out: Top 20 Hong Kong Food Dishes to Try

• Head to Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade . If you’ve got time, the promenade is a charming place to stroll in. Around this area you can find the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the Hong Kong Space Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Avenue of Stars where you can see exhibits dedicated to film stars like Bruce Lee, etc. .
• Live narration in English is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (the rest of the days are in Mandarin and Cantonese) — it starts at 8PM daily and lasts for about 13 minutes.
• TIP : You can also ride a cruise while you watch this show of lights! .
• Temple Street Night Market : This is basically a flea market bazaar where you can find tons of affordable trinkets, souvenirs, electronics, jade, antiques, etc. Officially, it is open from 2PM until midnight each day between Jordan Road and Kansu street; but most stalls usually open at 4PM, and its lively atmosphere starts at about 9PM.
• MRT: board the train going to Tsuen Wan and get off at Mongkok Station, exiting at Bank Centre signed E ad then E2.
• Mongkok Computer Centre : For all the techies, this is where you must head off for all your computer-related needs; after all, it houses more than 70 computer shops! .
• Or if you want to ride a more iconic Hong Kong boat while viewing the Symphony of Lights, check out Aqualuna sampan boats .

◘◘ Substitute Activities

• TIP: Book online to get the best rate .
• Visit the Hong Kong Museum of Histor y. Come here for your Hong Kong Itinerary if you want to learn more about the country’s historical and cultural heritage. There are audio guides for HKD $10 and you can get in for free if you come on a Wednesday (a majority of Hong Kong’s museums have FREE admittance on Wednesdays actually). .
• TIP: Book online to get the best rate

Explore Hong Kong Island

• Take the Hong Kong Tramway (Dingding) . (As low as HKD $2.30, payable with Octopus Card) This 1920s-style tram is the best way to discover Hong Kong Island. Just head over to this site to decipher the route you want to take and to map out your stops. If you rather want a planned route prepared for you, well then for only HKD $95, you can already be a part of their signature 1-hour TramOramic tour. .
• I highly recommend going there late in the afternoon for your Hong Kong Itinerary so that you can see both the HK skyline during daylight and nighttime (NOTE: Madame Tussauds is located in the same building as Sky Terrace).
• TIP: Book online because not only is it cheaper than the normal price, but it also helped me steer clear of the long line at the ticket counter for the Peak Tram (it’s Fast Track). .

• TIP: Book online to reserve a spot .
• TIP: To book a spot, go here . .
• Shop around Causeway Bay . (Nearest MTR: Causeway Bay Station) If you’re up for a high-end shopping spree during your Hong Kong Itinerary, go to the big shopping malls like Time Square, IFC, and Landmark among others. For gadgets and computers, there’s the Wan Chai Computer Centre.

Visit Disneyland Hongkong

(MRT: Disneyland Resort Station) This is perfect for families, or simply for those who are kids-at-heart!

Starts from HKD $500~ for adults – You can purchase day tickets online for Disneyland through Klook given that it’s cheaper than buying from the official website and also cheaper than paying the walk-in price.

Since I already visited OceanPark before, I opted to put Disneyland on my 5-day Hong Kong Itinerary and it was fun!

Naturally, there are various attractions and themed areas here for you to choose from — furthermore, there are even parades and stage shows that happen daily. My favorites are the ‘ Festival of the Lion King ‘ at Adventureland and ‘ Mickey and the Wondrous Book ‘ at Fantasyland. You can go to this link for an accurate schedule of activities during your day of visit.

Be sure not to miss out on the 4D attraction that they have, as well as the 8PM fireworks display!

TIP : Grab discounted Disneyland meal coupons in advance here !

…or go to OceanPark . (Starts from HKD $370) Disneyland is best explored if you just want some ‘calm fun’ for your Hong Kong Itinerary; hence, if you want crazier rides, I suggest going to OceanPark instead!

They have varied attractions that let you take a closer look at marine life. To purchase tickets, you can buy them online here which is set at a cheaper price

(Transportation: Ride the Citybus’s Ocean Park Express bus service Route 629 located just outside the Star Ferry Terminal on Hong Kong Island side or from Admiralty West Bus Terminal outside Admiralty MTR station)

Explore the New Territories

It’s time to explore the other top areas outside of Hong Kong’s city center!

Do you rather want to do a guided tour?

You can join a New Territories guided day tour if you want a more hassle-free experience. To reserve your spot, go here .

It helps to note that NOT everything listed below for both can be done in a day. Therefore, what I suggest is that you do half a day per area as you pick just one or a few activities for each (or just explore one area that you like best for the whole day).

• Go through a heritage trail. There are two of these that you can choose from: the  Ping Shan Heritage Trail links up a number of traditional Chinese buildings that are within walking distance to one another as it gives you the chance to learn more about the traditional life in the New Territories. Meanwhile,  Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail  will take you through the history of the Tang clan, one of the 5 largest clans in the New Territories. .
• Go hiking . Hiking is slowly becoming a favorite pastime of the people in Hong Kong and with the vast green terrain that surrounds the country, there are surely various hiking trails that you can choose from (such as Lion Rock Peak Hill among many others).   This website perfectly sums up all of those places and they’re even labeled accordingly with difficulty, time, etc. .
• Chi Lin Nunnery :  (Nearest MTR: Diamond Hill Station) A large temple complex that has been established as a retreat for Buddhist nuns. You can find here statues of the Sakyamuni Buddha, Guanyin, and other bodhisattvas made from gold, clay, wood, and stone.
• Che Kung Temple : (Nearest MTR: Tai Wai Station) This honors Che Kung, a military commander of the Southern Song dynasty. Naturally, you will find a giant statue of Che Kung at the main worship hall’s altar.
• Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery : (Nearest MTR: Sha Tin Station) There are actually no resident monks in this Buddhist temple as it is now managed by laypersons. However, the beauty of this place’s temples, pavilions, and pagodas are not to be missed; plus, the journey up to this monastery is an attraction itself due to the golden Buddhas that line up the path. .

Explore Lantau Island

• TIP: Purchase your tickets online here . .
• See the Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) . Po Lin Monastery is one of Hong Kong’s most important Buddhist places and has been called the ‘Buddhist World in the South’. Opposite this is the famous bronze Big Buddha statue that sits 34 meters high and faces north to look towards Mainland China (it is open from 10AM to 5:30PM). .
• Go around Ngong Ping Village . This is a 1.5-hectare place where you can find an array of shops and eateries. If you have HKD $40 to spare, you can also watch the multimedia show ‘Walking with Buddha’. .
• TIP: You can do a guided tour here by booking online .

Explore Macau

Macau is just a 1-hour boat ride away, so why not take this opportunity to come and visit as part of your Hong Kong Itinerary? Besides, your main expenses here will only be for food and the boat tickets (unless of course, you want to do shopping here too and some casino playing). I say this because once you’re inside the city, you wouldn’t need to pay for transportation at all due to the number of FREE casino shuttle buses that go all over. It can even be used by literally anyone; you really don’t have to be a casino guest to use it.

CURRENCY : Macau has its own called Macanese Patacas (MOP). But don’t worry about exchanging your HKD to MOP because HKD is already widely accepted in Macau. . Otherwise, if you want to stay in the city for some few nights, you can check out these top hotels in Macau . .

Do you rather want to do a guided tour in Macau?

Reserve your spot on a day tour of Macau so you don’t miss out on anything! It even includes lunch at a 4-star hotel. To book, go here .

• It helps to note that this is the one that lands in Macau Outer Harbour and NOT Macau Taipa. Also, the ferry operates every 15 minutes between 7AM to 12PM, and every 30 or 120 minutes between 12:30AM to 6:30AM. .
• Senado Square : This is a paved town center of Macau and it is part of the UNESCO Historic Centre of the Macau World Heritage Site. As per history, this used to be a meeting place for the Chinese and Portuguese people. Many large events were also hosted here and it still continues up to today.
• St. Dominic’s Church : Located near the Leal Senado Building, this Baroque-style church is noted for its mixture of European and Macanese design features.
• Ruins of St. Paul’s : This was originally the St. Paul’s College and the Church of St. Paul; today, however, what remains of it after a fire back in 1835 is only that of the southern stone facade and some other parts of the ruins that are now turned into a museum.
• Monte Forte (Fortaleza do Monte) : This is the historical military center of Macau, located just beside the Ruins of St. Paul’s. Originally, this was built to protect the properties of Jesuits from pirates, but later on, seized by the governor for defending the city. .
• SkyJump with Entry Ticket
• Bungee Jump with Entry Ticket Tower Climb with Entry Ticket
• SkyWalk with Entry Ticket .
• City of Dreams : Bring your kids here to Kids’ City, or party at Club Cubic — better yet, come witness the world’s largest breathtaking water show that is directed by Franco Dragone (known for his work with Cirque du Soleil): the House of Dancing Water ! (Ticket starts at about HKD $480~ or Php 3,250 for adults).
• Galaxy Macau : Smacked right in the main lobby of Galaxy Macau is the Fortune Diamond which is a huge 3-meter gem that serves as a backdrop for a waterfall. You can also watch a movie here in their big 10-screen 3D cineplex or just shop at The Promenade.
• Venetian : Apart from the luxury shopping experience, a sight to be seen here is their Venice-inspired interiors. You will see here an actual network of canals and you can even rent a gondola in order to be serenaded by a gondolier. One of Lord Stow’s Bakery’s food stalls can also be found here, so make sure you buy yourself some of those famous egg tarts!
• Studio City : Apart from witnessing its amazing architecture, it’s a MUST to ride the Golden Reel Ferris Wheel to capture breathtaking views of Macau from 130 meters up in the air and to also get the amazing chance of riding the world’s highest 8-figure Ferris wheel! The ticket is priced at HKD $80 or Php 535; you can purchase your tickets online . Otherwise, for those who want some fun, come and experience the 4D ride: Batman Dark Flight .
• Sands : Come here to watch the world’s largest indoor stage performance: Monkey King! You will definitely experience a high-class show here; after all, the performance team spent 8 years mastering this exquisite show!
• Wynn Casino : If you’ve got some time, pass by Wynn casino to watch their spectacular water show. It happens every 15 minutes and runs until midnight. .

TIP : Book these Macau restaurants online to score special meal deals!

• Walk over to Taipa Village Old Taipa Houses . This complex contains 5 houses that depict the old colonial residences that used to be owned by well-off Portuguese families in Macau. .
• Rua do Cunha . This is a narrow but well-lit street in Vila di Taipa that’s known for its restaurants and shops. Some of the well-known stores here where you can buy great Chinese fares to take back home and give away as gifts (or eat for yourself, of course)  are Choi Heong Yuen and Koi Kei. .
• Ride a shuttle bus and ogle at the casinos’ colorful facades . Macau becomes even more of a beauty at night and if you’re pressed on time but still want to see the rest of the casinos in Taipa that you can’t easily reach by foot, just ride any of the free shuttle buses that pass by the casinos you want to see, and then stay there until it reaches its starting point again. (Personally, I love the ostentatious buildings of Studio City, Galaxy, and the Parisian.) .
• TIP : It’s best to purchase your tickets online . .

• Club & Bar Hopping . Book online to party like a boss in Macau whilst a fancy van or stretch limo takes you to the best clubs and bars in town! .
• Mandarin’s House . This residential complex depicts the typical characteristics of traditional residences and also used to be the home of late Qing theoretician, Zheng Guanying. .
• Guia Fortress . This is a military fort, chapel, and lighthouse complex that is also part of the historic center of Macau. .
• A-Ma Temple (Ma Kok Miu) . One of the oldest Taoist temples in the country and it is said that the name ‘Macau’ was derived from the name of this temple when natives replied to Portuguese sailors with “A-Ma-Gau” (when asked what the name of the place was).

Other Hong Kong Activities

TIP : For a complete list of amazing tours and activities to do for your Hong Kong itinerary, see here !

◘◘ Family Fun

Hong Kong Disneyland Discover the magical world of Disney.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Theme park and a zoo.

Noah’s Ark World’s first full-size Ark replica!

Madame Tussauds Meet the world’s most famous faces.

Princess Transformation Dress your kids as Disney princesses.

◘◘ City Activities

Hop-On Hop-Off See Hong Kong’s main sights from your seat.

Crystal Bus Tour See landmarks from a double decker luxury bus!

Sightseeing Tour Perfect for the shopaholics!

Sky100 See spectacular 360° views of the Victoria Harbor.

AquaLuna Evening Sail See the city in traditional junk boats.

Symphony Lights Cruise The iconic light and sound show.

Star Ferry Harbour Tour Sail along Victoria Harbour.

Helicopter Tours See famous sights from up high.

Guided Walking Tour Discover Hong Kong in 3 hours with a guide.

Central and Victoria Peak Tour Explore and experience Hong Kong culture.

Street Art Tour See famous sights from up high.

Qipao Rental & Photoshoot Wear a traditional Qipao outfit.

Taichi with a Master Learn entry-level Taichi and Qigong.

Chinese Painting Class Discover the traditions of Chinese painting.

Pub Crawl Party it up at HK’s best nightspots!

◘◘ Day Trips

Cliff Ziplining & Abseiling Experience Hong Kong in a whole different way!

Dragon’s Back Trail Adventurous hiking on Hong Kong Island.

Rock Climbing Try your hand at rock climbing at Black Crag.

Biking and Kayaking Explore Hong Kong’s natural reserves in Sai Kung.

Tai Mo Shan Waterfalls Hike Hike to waterfalls and secluded villages.

Pink Dolphin Sighting Hike to waterfalls and secluded villages.

Lantau Heritage Tour Full tour of Lantau Island’s most famous attractions.

Ngong Ping 360 Crystal Cabin 360 crystal views all around!

◘◘ Food & Restaurants

Tai Cheong Bakery Enjoy traditional Hong Kong baked goods.

Emack & Bolio’s A specialty ice cream shop.

Ding Dim 1968 Holding 50 years of history

Victoria Harbour Restaurant Indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine.

Jumbo Kingdom Famous seafood r estaurant .

Nam Kee Noodles Enjoy a steaming hot bowl of noodles.

Under Bridge Spicy Crab HK’s famous crab restaurant!

Wing Wah Cake Shop A must-try Hong Kong cake.

Hee Wan Roasted Kitchen Local delicacy.

Block 18 Doggie’s Noodle Try popular street snacks since 1950s!

Chinese Pastry Baking Learn to make sweet Chinese treats.

Dumpling Yuan Tasty Northern China dumplings.

Other Macau Activities

Batman Dark Flight 4D adventure with Gotham’s hero.

Warner Bros. Fun Zone Let kids loose in Warner Bros.

Macau Science Center A day of hands-on science!

Planet J Role Play World’s 1st live-action role-play theme park.

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom See whale sharks and manta rays up close.

Open Top Bus Tour hop-on-hop-off sightseeing pass.

Sightseeing Day Tour Get the best of Macau in a day!

Gondola Ride A romantic serenade.

Golden Reel Ferris Wheel The world’s first figure 8 ferris wheel.

QiPao Rental & Photoshoot Wear traditional Chinese clothing.

Luxury TRIA Spa Package The 1st Macau spa to utilize sound therapy.

◘◘ Up High Fun

Macau Tower Skywalk X Walk around the outer rim of Macau Tower.

Macau Tower Climb Scale the 338 meters to the top.

Macau Tower Skyjump Descend feet-first from a height of 233m!

Macau Tower Bungy Jump Plunge from a height of 233m!

Macau Eiffel Tower Observation Deck Feel like you’re in Paris at Macau’s newest landmark.

The House of Dancing Water World’s largest water extravaganza show.

ELEKRON Show Parkour, wild pyrotechnics and more!

Zhuhai Chimelong Circus Visit Zhuhai’s theater, theme park & aquarium!

Walking Food Tour Enjoy the best of Macau’s delicacies.

Putajanai in San Ma Lo First Baumkuchen cake shop in Macau.

JW Marriott Macau Buffet ‘Macau’s Best Restaurant’!

Lunch Buffet at Macau Tower View-gazing and dining 223m up!

Chinese Restaurant Enjoy sophisticated Chinese cuisine.

Dim Sum Set Lunch Traditional and modern Chinese Dim Sum.

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

The Best Tours in Hong Kong?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in Hong Kong which features the best activities and tours to do!

Hong Kong may be a small destination, but it has more than enough activities and attractions to keep you occupied.

I tried my very best to be as detailed as I could with this guide so that you won’t be missing any of Hong Kong’s (and Macau’s) highlights! That being said, feel free to tweak this itinerary as well as my suggestions to make your trip shorter or longer and better fitting for your travel style. Enjoy and do let me know how your trip goes!

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Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission?  To show you how it is absolutely possible to  create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

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How to start a successful blog, 203 comments.

I was looking for some useful information and fortunately landed on your content and I found it highly useful. Learnt a lot. Thank you so much. Nicely written and correctly presented. Best of luck

What a great blog! Hongkong is such a great country to visit. It’s really a wonderful place for visiting and shopping. The view on the peak is very wonderful. HK history museum is a must! Such a nice museum it is. Can’t wait to visit again after pandemic!

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