Why Visit Macau?
Macau dazzles as Asia's Las Vegas where mega-casino resorts dwarf the Strip's grandeur, Portuguese colonial facades preserve over 400 years of European presence in China, and Michelin-starred restaurants serve dim sum and Portuguese egg tarts in the world's most densely populated territory. This Special Administrative Region of China (pop. 700,000 on 33 km², returned to China 1999) generates more gambling revenue than Las Vegas—Cotai Strip's Venetian, City of Dreams, and Galaxy resorts replicate European cities indoors with canals, Eiffel Towers, and golden décor.
Yet historic center (UNESCO World Heritage) preserves Portuguese Macau: Ruins of St. Paul's iconic facade (1602 Jesuit church destroyed by fire, only front wall survived), Senado Square's wave-patterned mosaic plaza surrounded by pastel buildings, and A-Ma Temple's incense coils hanging from ceilings where goddess A-Ma blessed fishermen. The blend astounds—Catholic churches neighbor Chinese temples, Portuguese names (Rua, Largo) mark Cantonese-speaking streets, and egg tarts (pastel de nata, around MOP10/$1) sell from Lord Stow's Bakery attracting queues.
Taipa Village preserves old Macau atmosphere with colonial houses turned museums, while Coloane's beaches and Fernando's Restaurant serve African chicken far from casino chaos. Macau Tower (338m high) hosts observation decks around 220m and the world's highest commercial bungee jump at 233m for adrenaline junkies. The food scene rivals anywhere: Michelin 3-star Robuchon au Dôme, Cantonese dim sum at Lei Garden, Portuguese-Macanese fusion at Antonio's, and street food pork chop buns.
With Hong Kong 1-hour ferry away (HK$175–$220), no visa required for most visitors, and Portuguese-Chinese hybrid culture, Macau delivers gambling excess and colonial charm.
What to Do
Portuguese Heritage
Ruins of St. Paul's
The iconic 17th-century Jesuit church facade (1602-1640) stands alone after fire destroyed the building in 1835. Free to visit 24/7, but early morning (7-9am) avoids tour group crowds. Climb the 66 steps for photo opportunities and explore the crypt museum below showing Catholic relics. UNESCO World Heritage Site representing 450 years of Portuguese rule.
Senado Square Historic District
Walk the wave-patterned mosaic plaza surrounded by pastel colonial buildings housing cafés and shops. Free to explore. Visit the Leal Senado building (former municipal council, free entry) to see azulejo tiles. Best experienced evening (7-10pm) when buildings illuminate and locals gather. Christmas decorations spectacular November-January.
A-Ma Temple
Macau's oldest temple (1488, free entry, 7am-6pm) honors the sea goddess A-Ma who gave the territory its name. Massive incense coils hang from ceilings filling the air with smoke. Six pavilions cascade down the hillside. Respect worshippers—modest dress, no loud talking. Best visited morning for atmosphere, avoid on Chinese New Year when crowds surge.
Casino & Entertainment
Cotai Strip Mega-Resorts
Free to enter and explore casino resorts that dwarf Las Vegas. The Venetian replicates Venice with indoor canals and gondola rides (MOP128/$16). City of Dreams hosts the ticketed House of Dancing Water–style aquatic show and elaborate indoor fountains. Galaxy complex features wave pool and beach (resort guests only). Must be 21+ to enter gaming floors (strictly enforced)—no photos allowed.
Macau Tower Adventures
The 338m-high tower's observation decks (around MOP150-200 depending on deals, 10am-9pm) offer 360° views spanning Macau to mainland China. For adrenaline: bungee jumps from around MOP2,700-3,000 (≈US$330–$380), more with photo/video packages. The 233m jump is the world's highest commercial bungee. Tamer option is Skywalk X (MOP888/$113) around outer rim. Buffet dinner packages available.
Local Flavors
Portuguese Egg Tarts
Macau's most famous food—pastel de nata custard tarts (around MOP8-10/$1–$1 each). Lord Stow's Bakery in Coloane originated them; expect queues but worth it. Also try Margaret's Café e Nata (Taipa). Best eaten warm from oven. Each bakery claims to be 'original'—try both and decide for yourself.
Taipa Village Food Streets
Wander Rua do Cunha and side alleys packed with shops selling almond cookies, pork jerky, and egg rolls. Sample before buying. Restaurants serve Macanese fusion—African chicken (Portuguese-influenced spicy coconut curry), minchi (minced meat with potato), and bacalhau (salted cod). Lunch sets MOP80-150/$10–$19
Gallery
Travel Information
Getting There
- Airports: MFM
Best Time to Visit
October, November, December, March, April
Climate: Warm
Weather by Month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21°C | 15°C | 4 | Good |
| February | 20°C | 15°C | 8 | Good |
| March | 23°C | 19°C | 12 | Excellent (best) |
| April | 23°C | 19°C | 9 | Excellent (best) |
| May | 29°C | 25°C | 23 | Wet |
| June | 30°C | 27°C | 20 | Wet |
| July | 31°C | 28°C | 16 | Wet |
| August | 29°C | 26°C | 29 | Wet |
| September | 29°C | 26°C | 30 | Wet |
| October | 26°C | 22°C | 10 | Excellent (best) |
| November | 25°C | 20°C | 3 | Excellent (best) |
| December | 20°C | 13°C | 1 | Excellent (best) |
Weather data: Open-Meteo Archive (2020-2024) • Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0) • Historical avg. 2020–2024
Budget
Excludes flights
Visa Requirements
Visa-free for EU citizens
💡 🌍 Traveler Tip (November 2025): November 2025 is perfect for visiting Macau!
Practical Information
Getting There
Macau International Airport (MFM) is on Taipa. Buses to city center MOP6/$1 (20 min). Taxis MOP50-80. Many casinos offer free shuttle buses. Ferries from Hong Kong take about 1 hour and cost roughly HK$175–$220 one-way in economy, depending on day/time (Turbojet/Cotaijet, frequent). Bridge from Zhuhai, China (border crossing). Helicopter from Hong Kong ($420 15 min).
Getting Around
Free casino shuttle buses connect major properties—use without gambling. Public buses cheap (MOP6/$1). Taxis metered (MOP19 start). Walking works in historic center. Cotai Strip: free shuttles between resorts. No metro. Rent cars unnecessary. Buses reach all attractions.
Money & Payments
Macanese Pataca (MOP) and Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) both accepted 1:1 (MOP slightly less valuable). Exchange $1 ≈ 8.30-8.50 MOP, $$1 ≈ 8.00-8.20 MOP (pegged to HKD). Cards at casinos/hotels, cash for street food. ATMs everywhere. Tipping: 10% in restaurants often included, round up for services.
Language
Cantonese and Portuguese are official. Cantonese dominant. English in casinos and tourist areas. Portuguese still spoken by some. Mandarin Chinese increasingly common. Signs often trilingual (Chinese/Portuguese/English). Communication easy in tourism.
Cultural Tips
Casinos: 21+ to enter gaming floors, dress code (no shorts/flip-flops in VIP areas), no photos on floor. Free drinks while gambling (tip dealer MOP20-50). Portuguese influence: egg tarts mandatory, wines available. Historic center: respect Catholic sites. Chinese culture: temples burning incense. Gambling: set budget, house always wins. Ferries: book ahead for weekends/holidays. Day trip from Hong Kong common (or vice versa). Cotai Strip: overwhelming scale. Portuguese phrases rare but appreciated.
Perfect 2-Day Macau Itinerary
Day 1: Historic Macau
Day 2: Cotai & Casinos
Where to Stay in Macau
Historic Centre (UNESCO)
Best for: Ruins of St. Paul's, Senado Square, colonial buildings, Portuguese heritage, walkable, cultural
Cotai Strip
Best for: Mega-casinos, shopping malls, shows, luxury hotels, Venetian, gambling, nightlife
Taipa Village
Best for: Colonial houses, museums, restaurants, Portuguese egg tarts, quieter, charming, local feel
Coloane
Best for: Beaches, Fernando's restaurant, A-Ma statue, quieter, residential, escape casinos
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Macau?
What is the best time to visit Macau?
How much does a trip to Macau cost per day?
Is Macau safe for tourists?
What are the must-see attractions in Macau?
Popular Activities
Top-rated tours and experiences in Macau
Ready to Visit Macau?
Book your flights, accommodation, and activities
