The Best Travel Guide to Macau

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Macao

Macau

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Overview

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Macau The guide was updated: 2024-06-04

Macau has a plethora of sites despite occupying just 30.8 square kilometres of the Chinese mainland. From neon-lit casinos to charming markets, cobbled streets to modern cafés, and Baroque churches to Art Deco architecture, there's a wonderful mix of East and West in the city. Many buildings and squares reflect Macau's colonial Portuguese legacy, as does the food, laid-back lifestyle, and the blue azulejo-tiled street names. Yet Macau has a modern Asian look, rivalling Singapore and Hong Kong.

Facts

Population:	713,082 (2024)
Currency:	Macanese Pataca (MOP) = 100 avos
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police, fire & ambulance: 999 24-hour tourist emergency hotline from mainland China: 110 24-hour tourist emergency hotline from overseas: 112
Newspapers:	Hoje Macau (Portuguese) – www.hojemacau.com.mo Jornal Tribuna de Macau (Portuguese) – www.jtm.com.mo Macau Daily News (English) – www.macaudailytimes.com.mo O CLARIM – www.oclarim.com.mo/en Ponto Final (Portuguese) – www.pontofinal-macau.com Tai Chung Pou (Chinese) – www.taichungdaily.com
Website:	www.macaotourism.gov.mo
Opening hours:	General business hours are from 9am to 8pm.
Tourist information:	Macao Government Tourist Office Alameda Dr Carlos d'Assumpção, # 335-341, 12th floor, Macau +853 2831 5566

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Section in Macau

Macau is based on a peninsula with a couple of islands including Taipa and Colôane. Most of the sights including St Dominic's Church and Basilica of St Paul are packed around a few blocks in the old core around Largo do Senado, a good starting point of your tour.

Senado Square

Senado Square

From the central fountain and swirling floor tiles, this square is a real taste of what lies within the UNESCO Historic Centre of Macau World Heritage Site. Around the edges of its triangular shape, the square is laced with European buildings featuring shuttered windows, Portuguese tiles and colonnades. Senado Square stands today as the most popular spot for events and celebrations in Macau.

Leal Senado

Leal Senado

Located at one end of the Senado Square, This neo-classical building is one of the finest buildings in Largo do Senado. It used to be the seat of the Portuguese government during colonial times; however, today it houses the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, and a public library.

St Dominic's Church

St Dominic's Church

At the northern end of Largo do Senado you can find this superb 16th century Baroque church said to be the most beautiful in Macau. Make sure not to miss the small museum in the back that collects around 300 artefacts dated from 17th to 19th century.

Walls of St Paul Church

Walls of St Paul Church

Located a short walk from Largo do Senado, along cobbled lanes, is the broad stone staircase leading to the beautiful ruins of St Paul Basilica. The original 1602 church was destroyed by a fire in 1835 but is still considered a symbol of Macau. The crypt and nave house a religious museum.

Monte Fort

Monte Fort

Monte Fort is a historical military establishment built during Macau's Portuguese colonial era. The 17th-century Vauban-style fortress features old ramparts with huge canons looking out over the city. You will be able to enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of central Macau from this vantage point.

Macau Museum

Macau Museum

Located within the Monte Fort premises, the Museu de Macau houses an excellent collection that outlines the traditions, culture and habits of the Macanese. Here you will find 2,100m² of exhibition space with a vast number of objects of great historical value. There's a lot to explore, so be sure to take your time during your visit.

Guia Fortress & Lighthouse

Guia Fortress & Lighthouse

The Guia Fortress lies on the highest, steepest hilltop in Macao. You can either get there on foot or by taking the cable car. The entire Guia Fortress complex offers more than just panoramic views of the city; you can also explore its underground bunkers, the 91-metre tall lighthouse and the chapel, adorned with elaborate frescoes.

Macau Tower

Macau Tower

Located in the Sé district, this 338-metre tall edifice is among the highest in the world. Besides its 360-degree view of Macau and neighbouring cities, it features shopping, dining, theatre performances and walking tours around the outer rim. If you're seeking an adrenaline rush, bungee jumping is also available.

Taipa Island

Taipa Island

Taipa is a historical village situated on an island connected to the Macau peninsula by three bridges. This charming area features a colonial promenade, fascinating temples, stately churches, and picturesque markets. Don't miss the opportunity to savour the street food on Rua do Cunha, Taipa's most famous pedestrian street.

The House of Dancing Water

The House of Dancing Water

The House of Dancing Water is one of the most spectacular shows you will ever watch. This small and circular theatre, located in the City of Dreams casino, provides an engaging show featuring gymnasts, dances, actors, and more. With two shows available each day, you're guaranteed to leave feeling thrilled and impressed.

Coloane Village

Coloane Village

Pirates took Coloane as their island after the Portuguese had arrived. Nowadays; however, it's famous for being a nice spot for a break from the city bustle. You can discover the old Macau here by walking through the old ship building sheds while trying the Portuguese egg tart. Don't forget to visit the A Tam Kung Temple.

Macau Giant Panda Pavilion

Macau Giant Panda Pavilion

The Panda Pavilion is located on the island of Coloane, and is one of its top attractions. They have both and indoor and outdoor areas where the pandas live, along with an exciting exhibition area. Besides, it isn't just pandas alone, other animals inhabit these quarters as well.

Macau Science Centre

Macau Science Centre

If you are interested in space science, robotics, genetics, physics and mechanics, the Macau Science Centre is for you. Explore its 14 permanent galleries and the planetarium, which was awarded the Guinness World Record for having the highest 3D resolution.

Lou Lim Lok Garden

Lou Lim Lok Garden

Lou Lim Lok Garden, located just five minutes from Coronel Lacerda square, offers a pleasant and relaxing environment. Once privately owned, the now public park possesses one of the finest gardens in Macau. Local residents gather here to do tai chi, play cards and spend quality time with their families.

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