Macau which is fondly called as the Vegas of Asia, and to some extent, it lives up to that title. While many visitors automatically imagine 'gambling' when they hear ‘Macau’, the historic Macau Peninsula is much more than just casinos and hotels. It is an autonomous administration region on the southeast coast of China and is not considered a separate country. The umpteen best tourist places in Macau attracts lakhs of visitors every year from across the globe. From the many casinos to the ancient Chinese temples, culturally rich museums, the ritzy shopping malls, arcades and the towering skyscrapers; Macau is indeed living up to its sobriquet. Witness the vestiges of its past as a Portuguese colony and the city's top historic attractions. It sees hordes of visitors every year for the best tourist places in Macau that people do not find anywhere else on earth.
Situated in the Pearl River Delta next to Hong Kong, Macau shares a good water connectivity with Hong Kong. It has a Portuguese historical influence, hence most of the population speaks Portuguese even being a part of China. People often come travel to visit both the regions to discover the best of South East Asia. Among the best tourist places in Macau, there is Ruins of St. Paul, Senado Square, Venetian Macau, A Ma Temple, Macau Fisherman’s Wharf, Macau Tower, Kun Iam Statue, Wine & Grand Prix Museum, St Lawrence Church, Greyhound Racing, Guia Fortress, City of Dreams, Dom Pedro V Theatre and Macau Museum.
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Recommendations for Macau
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People Also Ask About Macau
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Which are the best places to visit in Macau?
1. The Venetian Macao: One of the most elegant and best travel destinations in Macau is the Venetian, a Vegas-style and Venice-themed hotel. It is noted for its ultra-luxurious surroundings, outstanding décor, opulent amenities, and exciting activities. Both resorts are modelled after Venice, and their commercial areas include canals, stone bridges, cobblestone streets, and even a man-made blue sky ceili from the city.
It's no surprise that it's one of Macau's most popular tourist destinations. The Venetian Macao is one of the world's largest casinos. That means more than 500 gaming tables, ranging from poker to fan-tan, and 2,000 slot machines, dubbed "hungry Tigers" by locals.
The Venetian Macao also has deluxe poolside jacuzzis that can accommodate up to four individuals in semi-private settings for a really luxurious experience. There is a beautiful mall inside for those who enjoy shopping. You may also go swimming in the hotel's outdoor pools or take a relaxing gondola ride through the hotel's indoor canals.
Location: Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Macao
2. Ruins of St. Paul's: The Ruins of St. Paul, located within Senado Square, are undoubtedly Macau's most famous historical structure. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts a big number of people every day! It depicts the lives and times of Chinese populations who suffered at the hands of the Portuguese during the period.
Aside from its historical significance, the church's magnificent architecture combines Renaissance features with ornate facades. While you're there, you might as well hike to the top of Mount Fortress, a world heritage site that offers its own set of activities just adjacent to the ruins. It is an important element of Macau's history and houses various items dating back to the 1600s! The five-tiered construction of East Asia's largest catholic church is made of granite.
Timings: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
3. Macau Tower: You're in for a treat the instant you step into the glass-fronted elevators. In less than 60 seconds, soar up the tower to a stunning 223 metres. As you ascend, you can see Macau take shape beneath your feet. Enjoy the incredible 360° views from the Observation Lounge on level 58 while sipping a “Cafe on 4” coffee and treating the kids to some scrumptious ice cream or a soft drink.
Then take your Macau Tower adventure to the next level! On the level 61 Adventure Deck, you may expect a serious adrenaline rush. With world-famous A.J. Hackett's Urban Adventures, take an outdoor Skywalk or Bungy Jump from the tower. This tower, which is an honoured member of the World Federation of Great Towers, is not only a popular entertainment destination, but also a vital telecommunications and information hub.
Timings: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
4. Sandeo Square: It is the centre of the dynamic nation's cultural events and busy throng. The Square's surroundings are vividly active with colourful commercial centres and adorable Chinese eateries serving wonderful local dishes. You can window shop, stop by several shops and sample some wonderful dried meat, stay at a café and take in the ambience, and so much more. The main square is also adorned as per the current month's/festival, season's and it's just a picturesque location excellent for great shots.
5. Taipa: Taipa Village is an excellent area to look for the most authentic and tastiest street cuisine. The area has a lot of Portuguese-style architecture, and there are plenty of ancient temples and colonial-style mansions to visit. It is said that the best way to learn a culture is via its food, and Taipa Village has plenty of it. The village, with its charming street lamps and beautiful flower baskets hanging from the windows, will transport you to another dimension.
6. Fisherman's Wharf: Fisherman's Wharf is a beautiful amusement park with sections specific to various port cities such as Miami, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Venice, and Cape Town. The park contains a variety of shopping malls and restaurants, as well as several vivid casinos and lively pubs.
Restaurants, shops, and models of renowned landmarks such as the Roman Coliseum, as well as a spectacular view of the waterfront, are all available. You can take some amusing shots here, especially if you bring your kids, and many of the themed restaurants and bars have delicious food.
Location: Av. Dr. Sun Yat Sen, Macao
7. Cheoc Van Beach: Cheoc Van Beach is a beautiful sandy beach in a small bay filled with green hills with a breathtaking view of the sun setting on the skyline at the end of the day. A favourite area for locals to spend a day by the sea, it is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer, making it safer for swimmers and more reassuring for families with little children.
The beach has a maritime sports centre where you may rent sports equipment and sign up for different sessions with an instructor. Canoeing, windsurfing, and sailing are among the activities available. Overall, this beach is a great place to spend a weekend.
8. Nam Van Lake: With 288 vibrantly coloured spotlights blazing and dancing over sprays of pure water, the effect created is undoubtedly amazing. Computers control the entire performance, creating a captivating effect that can halt anyone in their tracks. By the lake, you can view the Macau Tower in addition to the melodic fountain. Nanwan Lake is also a fantastic site to see fireworks when Macau hosts a fireworks festival.
Strolling around the lake is a very pleasant and familiar activity for Macau residents, and it is a place where calm and activity coexist. On the other side, you can see the picturesque locations and the observation tower. On weekends, there are cultural and creative stalls as well as local performances on the edge of Yawen Lake. Overall, it's a fantastic location to unwind!
Location: Sé, Macau, China
9. Macau Ferry Terminal & Heliport: Sky Shuttle Heliport is a commercial heliport that provides ground management and transport services in Hong Kong's central business area. Two helipads, a flight operations control centre with a premium passenger lounge, and custom-designed supporting facilities for the ultimate customer experience, safety, and operational efficiency make up the award-winning heliport.
Location: Soonvar House, 7號 Connaught Rd W, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
10. St Lawrence Church: The church, which was built in 1560 and features neoclassical architecture with delicate Baroque ornamental elements, is one of Macau's must-see attractions. Feng Shun Tang, which translates to "church of smooth-sailing wind," is another name for it. After a long day of exploring the church, take a break in the courtyard to relax and absorb the spiritual energy of the site. St. Lawrence Church's ornate pillars, chandeliers, and beautiful ornamentation make it an architectural marvel that will be admired for years to come.
Location: R. de São Lourenço, Macao
Timings: 5:30 AM - 11:30 PM -
What are the best things to do in Macau?
1. Casino hopping: Like Vegas, what anyone can normally think of is its extravagant casinos, Macau is one of the sister places where you can find dazzling, well-lit, illuminated, and eye-catching buildings dedicatedly made into casinos. In Macau, there are numerous casinos, many of which are so gorgeous that gambling isn't even the main attraction.
The Grand Lisboa, The Venetian Casino, and the Galaxy are among the most popular. Grand Lisboa is one of Macau's oldest and most enduring hotels. Now it has become a symbol of the city and center of attraction.
2. Explore the Monuments: Macau is a place that is drawing a lot of attention because of its eye-catching contemporary architecture and well-known historic landmarks. The Historic Center of Macau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Baroque churches and old Chinese temples.
Yet for the present day, Macau's skyline is being redefined by spectacular 21st-century structures. Macau's monuments and structures are on par with some of China's most famous sites. Hence go ahead to witness this city filled with man-made marvels and historic buildings.
3. Visit the Fortaleza de Monte: Fortaleza do Monte is yet another UNESCO acknowledged heritage site which belongs to the historic center of Macau. Fortaleza do Monte is a 17th-century structure that was primarily built as a safe house to be protected from the pirates. Since then this historic structure has been used as the governor's residence and now it works as a museum.
The big steel gun and historic pagodas, which were originally the sites of the Society of Jesus, are also on display. Grab the chance of climbing to the top of the fort, where you'll be delighted with 360-degree views of Macau's scenery. Otherwise known as Monte Forte, this place is the oldest military fortification of Macau.
Timings: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
4. Pray at A-Ma Temple: A-Ma Temple happens to be the oldest temple in Macau. It is located in the southeast corner of the peninsula. According to the local legends the Portuguese landed on a sea promontory near a temple some 400 years ago and the A-Ma temple was discovered.
The A-Ma Temple is a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views. It is divided into six sections, each of which has a collection of ancient Chinese architectural masterpieces guarded by stone lions. After entering and passing through a gateway, a winding road leads to Horngren Hall where a statue of Mazu is worshipped. This place is said to have the longest history and is one of the most sought places to visit in Macau.
5. Relax at Hac Sa Beach: Hac Sa Beach is simply one of Macau's many wonderful attractions and has the most affordable hotel rates in town. Being here is like a million miles away from the insanity of the casinos, you will find this beach is more of a place to unwind than a shopping or sight-seeing destination.
It's a remarkable black sand beach, enriched with minerals and ore contents which give its amazing color. The beach's allure rests in its seclusion, promising an unrestricted day of fun and relaxation. The swimming pool, barbecue pits, and a campsite, as well as several food vendors and restaurants, are the primary attractions at Hac Sa Beach.
Location: Coloane, Macau.
6. Marvel at Coloane Island: Coloane Island is home to several intriguing and historically significant tourist attractions. Coloane Village is still a prominent fishing hamlet in the island's southwest corner, with local stores and colorful temples along its narrow streets. Located on the island's southern coasts it homes the best man-made historical marvels. This magnificent and culturally rich island is a definite visit when you are in Macau.
7. Enjoy at Chimelong Ocean Kingdom Park: Chimelong Ocean Kingdom Park, in Hengqin, is a large aquarium housed within the Chimelong International Ocean Resort. Visitors can observe unique whale sharks, mesmerizing beluga whales, fluffy polar bears, and other exotic breeds at the location.
It's a one-of-a-kind Chinese destination with entertaining themed zones, exotic animal displays, thrilling rides, and spectacular theatre acts. In addition, the park contains several international restaurants and cafes that provide a variety of dining alternatives in a beautiful setting. The bright souvenir and gift shops will entice you to buy a few mementos to take back home with you.
Location: 3GWP+VHX, Xiangzhou, Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, China
8. Ride in Skycab Cable Car: Skycab cable car offers you a variety of entertainment experiences. Skycab Cable Car brings you into the upmarket resort's garden, with a fantastic view of the dancing fountains and nearby hotels.
The air-conditioned cable vehicle, which seats no more than six people, has an inbuilt audio tour that describes the scenery. The fountains are illuminated at night, but if you want to watch the dancing show, take a trip at about noon. Attractions in Macau, such as the Skycab Cable Car might be the focal point of your vacation plans.
Timings: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
9. Visit infamous Guia Hill: In So Lázaro, Macau, China, the Guia hill is a 17th-century colonial military fort, chapel, and lighthouse complex. The complex is part of the Historic Centre of Macau and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guia Hill features numerous green areas with various plant and tree types, hiking trails, seating spots, a lighthouse and a chapel housed within an ancient fortress, and more.
The fort was built in 1865 and served as the city's primary observation point during colonial times. It has barracks, a water cistern, and an ammunition depot and is well preserved. This hill is well-known for its viewing platform.
It is also well-known among hikers because it has two well-known hiking/walking trails. Don't miss the opportunity to tour the lighthouse and witness the interior, which is only open to the public for a few days each year during the summer. For an adventure experience, head to Guia Hill and take in the vistas while soaking in the fresh air.
Location: Guia Fortress, São Lázaro, Macau, People's Republic of China
10. Day out at an Ecological Park: The autonomous province of Macau is a well-known and popular tourist destination in Asia with a spectrum of colors, ethnicities, and casinos. There are numerous interesting sights and activities to do in Macau that attract thousands of people each year from all over the world.
Seac Pai Van Park is an example of an ecological park that is not only a popular tourist destination but also plays a vital role in educating visitors about environmental preservation. The site is home to a variety of terrestrial and aquatic species, with the giant panda being a major attraction. You can have a fantastic time watching the pandas, but remember to bring a jacket because it might get chilly inside. -
What are the best things to do in Macau at night?
1. Stroll along the Cotai Strip: Home to famous casinos, luxurious resorts, restaurants and a plethora of activities, the Cotai Strip is the best place to go to if you wish to enjoy the vibrant Macau Nightlife. Head to the Cotai Strip at night, and take a relaxing stroll amidst the hustle and bustle of the crowds, whilst soaking in views of the illuminated structures.
The beauty of this attraction in Macau is on another level once nightfall arrives. From bright lights and colourful displays, to the opulent structures that offer stunning aesthetics, a stroll along the Cotai Strip is nothing short of mesmerising.
Location: Estrada do Istmo, Macau
2. Try Your Luck at Casinos: Known as the Las Vegas of the East, the best way to experience the Nightlife in Macau is to try your luck at the many casinos present here. From the Venetian, which is the largest casino in the world with more than 3,000 slot machines and 800 gambling tables, to the luxurious Grand Lisboa Casino, MGM Casino and more, there is something for every kind of gambler in Macau.
However, it is best to take time to decide which casino you’d like to go to, according to your budget, since the Macau casino scene may get daunting and overwhelming for some.
3. Shake Your Legs at D2 Nightclub: Besides the wide array of casinos, nightclubs and pubs are the next best thing in Macau. So, when you are here on your holiday, take some time out at night and head to one of these nightclubs to spend some time shaking your legs away on the dance floor.
One of the best nightclubs you can go to is the D2 Nightclub, which has been inspired by European nightclubs and exudes an elegant design and ambience. Located in Fisherman’s Wharf, this club offers amazing drinks and food, in addition to music by top international DJs, and more.
Location: Fisherman’s Wharf, Macau
Timings: 09:00 p.m. to 05:00 a.m.
3. Take a city tour: One of the best experiences that you can have of the Macau Nightlife is to go on a unique city tour at night. From exploring the Cotai Strip and seeing all the beautiful bright lights and buildings, to exploring attractions like the Macau Tower, Fisherman’s Wharf, Senado Square and more, you can take the chance to explore Macau in your own way, while trying to discover hidden gems and mysteries in the city. You can also head to one of the night markets and indulge in lip-smacking local delicacies, such as Laksa, curry noodles and a lot more.
4. Attend Pool Parties: Want to do something out of the box when you are in Macau? Do your research of the current events and attend one of the pool parties in Macau. Not only do you not have to dress up, but you can also spend some time simply meeting new people, tucking into good food and drinks, listening to good music, and soaking in the verdant vistas of the brightly lit Macau.
Most of the famous hotels in Macau, such as Studio City, the Venetian Macao and Hard Rock Hotel, among others, tend to organise pool parties on a regular basis, which you can attend for a little fee and then party the night away.
5. Get Drunk at Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge: Head over to Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge and try the many cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks and food here to enjoy the Nightlife in Macau. This bar is known all over Macau for its stylish and sophisticated décor and ambience, and is complete with wooden furniture, leather sofas, an artisanal fireplace, as well as chandeliers made of stag antlers.
Offering one of the most extensive selections of whiskey from all over the world, it is here where you can try more than 400 malt whiskeys, including rare ones from the Macallan Distillery as well. If you aren’t a whiskey fanatic, you can also try other cocktails and mocktails here, and pair those up with delicious snacks.
Location: Galaxy Macau, Level 2, 203, Estrada de Baía de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Cotai Strip, Macau
Timings: 06:00 p.m. to 01:00 a.m.
6. Dine in some traditional Chinese cuisine: Of all the things that you can do to enjoy the Macau Nightlife, exploring the markets and trying out traditional Chinese cuisine is quite possibly the very best. Macau boasts of a fusion cuisine, with a major influence from Chinese dishes, spices and more. You can choose to head to the night markets and street food stalls that sell authentic Chinese dishes like egg tarts, and Sichuan noodles, or pay a visit to some of the top restaurants to indulge in a Chinese meal.
Some of these restaurants include the Sichuan Moon for ma po tofu, the Eight restaurant for steamed crab claw with ginger and Chinese wine and the Feng Wei Ju restaurant for braised pork belly, boiled mandarin fishes and handmade Chinese noodles. Some of the famous Chinese meals and dishes that you can try in Macau include dried crab roe tossed noodles, traditional pork chop bun, deep fried fish skin noodles and deep-fried crackling.
7. Shop at Hong Kong Night Market: Amongst the best things to do for a varied experience of Nightlife in Macau, head over to the famous Hong Kong Night Market and shop to your heart’s content here. Located on Rua de Cinco De Outubro street, the night market is great to get your hands on local traditional street food, snacks, arts and crafts as well as vintage items. The night market also has many game booths and photo booth walls, where you can spend some time with your friends.
Location: Rua de Cinco de Outubro, Macau
Timings: 06: 00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. -
What is the best time to visit Macau?
The best time to visit Macau is from October to December. Hong Kong and Macau have distinctive dry and wet seasons. As a result, the post-summer and pre-winter season falls between October and December, making it the finest time to visit Hong Kong and Macau. -
What is Macau famous for?
There are numerous interesting sights and activities to do in Macau that attract thousands of people each year from all over the world. Numerous casinos, historic temples, culturally rich museums, skyscrapers, ritzy shopping malls, and arcades. -
How to reach Macau?
<p><strong>- By air: </strong>Flights arrive and depart from both airports from all over the world. Major airlines serving the city include Air Asia, China Eastern, Air China, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Spicejet.<br /><strong>- By Ferry: </strong>A ferry ride from Hong Kong to Macau takes one hour.</p> -
What food is Macau famous for?
Macanese cuisine is famous for its variety and excellent flavors all over the world. Because of its past as a Portuguese colony, the city has developed a culinary culture that combines Cantonese, Portuguese, and cuisines from Portugal's other former colonies. Yet some of the best dishes happen to be bacalhau, serradura, Portuguese Egg Tarts, bakkwa, crab confer which are a must try.
- Portuguese egg tart: It has a flaky pastry shell and a creamy, sweet egg custard inside with a creme brulee-like consistency. The caramelized top contributes much to the flavor. It's preferable to eat it when it's still warm.
- Pork chop bun: A seasoned pork chop atop a bun is what the pork chop bun is all about. The bone-in, wonderfully delicate and tasty pork chop is served.
- Portuguese seafood rice: The Portuguese version of seafood rice is soupier than the Spanish and Italian versions. The soupy rice simmered with a host of other ingredients in the tomato seafood broth is the star ingredient, which can be enjoyed with delicious mussels or the massive prawns.
- The prawn tartare: The prawn tartar is a standout, with delicious, sweet prawns marinated in lemon juice and blended with olive oil for a wholesome feeling in the tongue. -
Do you need a visa to go to Macau?
If a visitor to Macau intends to stay for less than 30 days, there is no need to apply for a Macau visa. All visitors must, however, have a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months. -
What is the biggest casino in Macau?
The Venetian Macao happens to be the largest casino in Macau with 800 gambling tables. -
What are the best things to buy in Macau?
- Chinese Antiques- Jewellery- Cookies- Traditional Portuguese Wine- Macau postcards- Almond Cookies of Macau- Peanut Candy- Meat Jerky- Custard Egg Tarts -
How is the nightlife in Macau?
1. The Venetian: Macau is a hot favorite party destination in Asia, with a symphony of luxury, casinos, and gastro pubs. The Venetian, the world's largest casino, is one of them and is the epicenter of Macau's casino hotels. It has about 3400 slot machines and 800 gambling tables and is organized into four gaming areas: Golden Fish, Imperial House, Red Dragon, and Phoenix.
2. City of dreams: The City of Dreams is a fantastic gaming venue that lives up to its name. There are approximately 1000 slot machines and 350 gaming tables, including three-card poker, casino war, baccarat, fan tan and craps.
3. Spending the night in Taipa village: Taipa, which is located on the Cotai Strip, is home to temples, museums, gift shops, and good old taverns. Live music and ballads, as well as draft beer, may be found at the Old Taipa Tavern. The Macau Jockey Club, which frequently hosts midnight races, is also a good option to witness and enjoy at night.
4. The House of Dancing Water: The House of Dancing Water is a cultural feast for art lovers and is one of the top Macau events. The play tells an epic love story with beautiful costumes, special effects, and around 3.7 million gallons of water.
5. Restaurante Litoral: Restaurante Litoral, which is noted for its eccentric decor and romantic lighting, is a good place to enjoy your night. They serve real Portuguese cuisine, including curry crab, duck, and Portuguese sausages. -
Which are the best casinos to visit in Macau?
1. The Venetian: The Venetian is known to be the largest casino in the whole world. This gigantic gambling dungeon has 800 game tables. And also magnificent lightning and gambling experience.
2. The Sands Macau: The Sands Macau is one of Macau's best casinos, including complimentary beverages and buffets for all visitors. Because of its proximity to the Hong Kong ferry terminal, it is one of Macau's busiest casinos.
3. StarWorld Hotel & Casino: The StarWorld Hotel & Casino, which is located in the heart of Macaus' gaming sector, has over 140,000 square feet of gaming space. It's extraordinary ambiance is definitely a check in.
4. Pharaoh's Palace Casino: The Pharaoh's Palace Casino, housed in the historic Landmark Hotel, is one of Macau's most popular gaming destinations. The gaming experience is enhanced by the magnificent and ancient decor, which includes paintings and carvings of sphinxes and Egyptian figurines, foreign food, and shopping arcades.
5. Hard Rock Casino: The casino is jointly run by The Hard Rock Hotel, Crown Towers, and Grand Hyatt, and is a favorite among rock n roll fans. There are two VIP high stacks tables where players can try their luck while dancing to some upbeat music.
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