day trip macau itinerary

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

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

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

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!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

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.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

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.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

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!

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

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!

Table of Contents

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.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

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 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• 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

Like this post? Pin it on your Pinterest board!

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...

Trio Beach Hike From Sai Kung To Hebe Haven In Hong Kong

Rhino Rock Hike: See A Rocky Rhinoceros Head in Stanley, Hong Kong

Lamma Island Ferry: 5 Routes from Central and Aberdeen to Lamma Island in HK (Including Ferry Timetable and Schedule)

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!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

17 Easy Hiking Trails in Hong Kong For Solo Travellers

Where to stay in kyoto for first time traveller: best areas and hotel reviews, ms travel solo.

The Travel Momento

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

Share on facebook Share on linkedin Share on pinterest

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Articles

A perfect beijing itinerary: detailed 5 days guide for first timers, shanghai itinerary – the best 3 days for first time visitors, 7 most instagrammable and eye-catching places in tenerife, visiting tenerife 12 tips every traveller needs to know.

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

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.

In This Article

What to do in Macau in one day without staying overnight

The 1 day macau itinerary, what we missed, recommended activities, things to know before you go, useful addresses, affordable downtown, best casino hotel, macau in photos, final thoughts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 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.
• 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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

Find us on social media

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.

• South Africa
• Philippines
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Solomon Islands
• Itineraries
• About Travel2Next
• Hotel Reviews
• Travel2Next TV
• Travel Shop

• Best of Macau

Macau Day Trip – One Day Itinerary

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

If you’re visiting Hong Kong – or just passing through – there are many compelling reasons why a Macau day trip should be on your radar. A Portuguese territory until 1999, the Historic Centre of Macao has a collection of 22 World Heritage-listed sites to add to your Macau itinerary .

About 60km of water separates Macau from Hong Kong but unlike Hong Kong, which was colonised by the British, more than a hint of Portuguese flavour hangs in the air in Macau.

The fusion of Portuguese and Chinese flavours influences every aspect of Macau today, including architecture, food and culture. 

Macau is a Special Administrative Region of China (SAR) that is easy to explore independently and a self-organised Macau day tour is a fun way to spend the day.

Is one day in Macau enough? Most people say it isn’t. If you’re short of time, here are some reasons to take a day trip to Macau. 

1- Macau is right at Hong Kong’s doorstep

2- macau is compact and easy to get around, 3- macau is a world heritage destination, 4- macau is different to hong kong, 5- new attractions are opening in macau each year, 6- macanese egg tarts are delicious, 7- festivals in macau are frequent and fun, 8- you probably won’t need a visa, 9- getting from hong kong to macau is inexpensive, 10- the new hong kong macau bridge, 7 am hong kong ferry terminal, 8 am arrive at macau outer harbour ferry terminal, 8.30 am breakfast at senado square, st dominic’s cathedral, ruins of st paul’s, monte fort and museum of macau, 1 pm a macanese lunch, 2 pm climb the steps at a-ma temple.

• 3.30 pm Macau Tower

5 pm House of Dancing Water

• 7 pm Dinner in a Macau

9 pm Explore Cotai Strip

• Around midnight Taipa Ferry Terminal

How to get to Macau from Hong Kong

Cotai water jet, macau ferry terminals , hong kong to macau ferry options, helicopter to macau (15 minutes), direct flights to macau from other cities , macau airport transfers , resources for your macau day trip , where to stay in macau, 10 reasons to plan a macau day trip .

Macau is close to Hong Kong and can easily be visited on a day trip.

So, if you’re visiting or connecting through Hong Kong International Airport, the Hong Kong to Macau distance of only 60km makes it easy to pop over to Macau to explore. 

Being a compact city, with a land area of 115.3 km2, Macau is easy to explore on foot.

Many of Macau’s historic buildings, streets and squares are located within a manageable walking distance. 

You can cover a lot of ground in a few hours, which makes a Macau day trip particularly attractive to explore.

If you love historical places, one day in Macau provides enough time to see Macau’s main World Heritage treasures , which is a unique blend of ancient China flourished alongside colonial Portugal.

Making the time to visit Macau offers another perspective of the region.

The fusion of Chinese and Portuguese cultures coexists in a unique way not found anywhere else in the world.

For example, you’ll see Chinese shop-house adorned with Portuguese tiles and European-style pavement cafés next to Chinese coffee shops .

Even if you have visited Macau once or twice before, Macau is growing so fast that a tour of Macau’s new resort developments will amaze you.

From lavish swimming pools to theme park rides, there’s plenty to see, especially if you haven’t visited recently.

Macau’s egg tarts are famous around the world and some people travel to Macau specifically to go to Lord Stow’s Bakery in Coloane to sample these egg tarts.

They’re not the same as the Chinese egg tarts in Hong Kong.

There’s a festival in Macau almost every month.

The historic precinct comes alive with light and colour during these festivals, many of which reflect the cultures of China (such as Chinese New Year ) or Portugal.

Unlike mainland China, visas for Macau are not required for travellers from 74 countries including Australia, New Zealand, USA and UK for stays of less than 30 days.

Transport from Hong Kong to Macau is readily available and inexpensive.

Hong Kong to Macau ferry prices are reasonable and ferries are fast and comfortable.

One-way fares cost from MOP170 (AUD28/USD21).  

The imminent opening of the new multibillion-dollar bridge connecting Hong Kong, Macau and Zhuhai, will soon provide another way to travel to Macau.

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is about 20 times longer than the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. 

BOOK YOUR MACAU TOUR

Macau Itinerary 

You’d be surprised at how much it’s possible to pack into a Macau day trip.

Here’s a sample Macau one day itinerary that provides a balance of historic and new attractions.

Depart Hong Kong for Macau’s Outer Harbour (there’s a 7 am ferry from Sheung Wan or a 7.05am ferry from Kowloon or a 7.40am ferry from Tuen Mun)

• The distance between Hong Kong and Macau – 60km
• Travel time from Hong Kong to Macau by ferry – about one hour

Check the Turbojet ferry details here

Check the Cotaijet ferry details here

Take one of the buses from the ferry terminal up Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro to Senado Square.

• Distance from Macau Outer Harbour Terminal to Senado Square – 2.5km
• Driving time from Macau Outer Harbour Terminal to Senado Square – 11 minutes

There’s a decent choice of cafes and restaurants around Senado Square.

For a local breakfast, look for somewhere that serves Chinese or Macanese food. A popular place for a Chinese breakfast is Wong Chi Kei.

For Portuguese egg tarts , try Koh Kei Bakery or Margeret’s Café. 

10 am Explore Macau’s top UNESCO World Heritage sites

Senado Square and the surrounding attractions are clustered in a small area and easy to explore on foot.

If it’s your first time to Macau, the main historic places to visit in Macau in one day are Ruins of St Paul’s, Senado Square, Monte Fort and A-Ma Temple.

The first three are right next to each other and the A-Ma Temple is within walking distance.

The streets around the Ruins of St Paul’s are full of character and there’s plenty to see.

For those who are keen on photography, there’s enough time while on a Macau day trip to zip back at night for a night photo of Macau’s most famous landmark.

If you linger, you’ll need more than a day.

For a deeper delve into Macau’s history, you could spend a week investigating Macau’s 22 World Heritage-listed buildings, squares, museums and temples and still not have enough time.

St Dominic’s Church is a 16 th -century Spanish Dominican and the site where the first Portuguese newspaper in China was printed. Climb up to the bell tower and visit the Treasure of Sacred Art Museum.

The remains of Asia’s most famous 17 th century Jesuit church has an impressive Italianate stone façade and a sweeping staircase.  

It’s the best place for a selfie!

Monte Fort or Mount Fortress was the fort used to defend Macau for 300 years. 

Adjacent to Monte Fort and built on part of the fort’s foundations is the Museum of Macau , which has three levels of galleries.

Walk down to A Lorcha restaurant for a Macanese lunch. Macanese cuisine is a fusion of flavours from Europe, Africa, India and China.

Typical Macanese dishes are African chicken and minchi. 

Alternatively, Café Sab 8, which is near the Ruins of St Paul’s, dishes up a contemporary twist on traditional Macanese cuisine. 

• Distance from Senado Square to A Lorcha – 1.3km
• Walking time from Senado Square to A Lorcha – 17 minutes
• Walking time from Senado Square to Café Sab 8 – 6 minute

Dedicated to the Taoist goddess of seafarers, A-Ma Temple’s first pavilions and halls were built by fishermen 800 years ago.

It was one of the first landmarks sighted by Portuguese traders who landed 450 years ago when Macau was a fishing port.

If you have time, near the temple, the Maritime Museum tells the story of Macau’s relationship to the sea, traditions of its fishermen where families lived and worked on boats and the role Macau played in the trade of Chinese silk and Japanese silver during the 17 th century.

3.30 pm  Macau Tower

If it’s a clear day, include a visit to Macau Tower to your Macau day tour itinerary as it’s the best spot for a view from the sky or to try a bungy jump, if you dare.

The vantage point from the observation gallery is the place to look down and see how this former Portuguese colony has grown.

Another way to see Macau from above is Studio City’s Golden Reel, which is Asia’s first figure eight Ferris wheel.

A quick visit to Macau Tower will give you a bird’s-eye view of Macau from the sky but if you want to catch the 5 pm House of Dancing Water show, there’s not quite enough time to squeeze in one of the adventurous activities, such as a bungy jump.

At the City of Dreams, Macau’s most famous show is an impressive acrobatic extravaganza with amazing special effects and stunts.  

There’s also an 8 pm House of Dancing Water show if you prefer but make sure to reserve your spot for the show as tickets sell out quickly. 

7 pm  Dinner in a Macau

After the show, hit the bars and  restaurants on the Cotai Strip .

In the City of Dreams, Macau’s newest and boldest design hotel (Morpheus) is an impressive architectural landmark of contemporary Macau.

Top dining experiences in the City of Dreams are fine French dining at the Tasting Room and two Michelin starred Chinese restaurant Jade Dragon.

Here are some Macau buffet choices too. 

In recent years, the casino developments of the Cotai Strip have brought an explosion of exciting attractions and plenty of things to do in Macau for kids .

After dinner, slip into a casino for a flutter or whip around the Cotai Strip to ogle at the luxury shopping malls and bright lights.

All the Cotai resorts have a roster of events, shows and festivals all year round.

The top attractions on the Cotai strip are:

• The Venetian Macao canals
• Parisian Macao – Eiffel Tower and Light Show (6.15 pm to midnight, every 15 minutes)
• Wynn Palace – SkyCab, Performance Lake and the Floral Creations display
• Galaxy Macau – Diamond Show (in the foyer every 20 minutes) and China Rouge nightclub
• Studio City – Golden Reel, Batman Dark Flight, Warner Brothers Fun Zone and Pacha Macau ( Macau’s coolest nightclub starts rocking at 11 pm)

Around midnight  Taipa Ferry Terminal

Catch a resort shuttle to the Taipa Ferry Terminal. The last ferry from Taipa to Sheung Wan leaves at 1 am.

 BOOK YOUR MACAU TOURS HERE

How to get to Macau

Most major international airlines have flights to Hong Kong International Airport from cities around the world.

Cathay Pacific , Qantas, Hong Kong Airlines and Virgin Australia have direct flights to Hong Kong from Australia.

Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand and Hong Kong Airlines have direct flights from New Zealand to Hong Kong.

Travel from HongKong to Macau by ferry or helicopter and when the Hong Kong to Macau bridge opens, getting to Macau by road should be even quicker.

Hong Kong to Macau ferry services (1 hour)

The ferry ride from Hong Kong lasts about one hour and there are regular services at 15 to 30-minute intervals.

There are two ferry operators and four ferry terminals in Hong Kong. When choosing a ferry, keep in mind there are also two ferry terminals in Macau.

Turbojet operates services from Hong Kong to both Macau ferry terminals.

There are four classes of service: Economy, Super Class, Premier Grand Class and Premier VIP Cabin.

Super Class has more comfortable seating and extras such as complimentary meal, newspapers, priority disembarkation and use of a lounge at the ferry terminals.

Premier Grand Class includes hot meals, wine and beverages during the journey.

VIP cabin offers champagne and more space.

Cotai Water Jet operates services to Taipa from Sheung Wan, Kowloon and Hong Kong International Airport.

Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal – This Macau ferry terminal is located on the Macau Peninsula and close to Senado Square, the Ruins of St Paul’s and other historic landmarks.

Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal – The new Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal is a massive modern structure with lots of space and facilities. It’s on Taipa Island, near the Macau International Airport, close to Coloane and the Cotai Strip.

There are four ferry terminals in Hong Kong.

• Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal at Shun Tak Centre in Sheung Wan on Hong Kong Island. Regular ferries depart from Sheung Wan from to the Macau Outer Harbour 7 am all day every 15 minutes. Premier Jetfoils leave every 30 minutes
• China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
• Tuen Mun Ferry Terminal in New Territories
• Sky Pier at Hong Kong International Airport

Both Turbojet and Cotai Water Jet operate services from Hong Kong International Airport.

If you’re planning on a staying a few days in Macau, connecting with the ferry at HKIA is a good option.

Bypass Hong Kong Customs and Immigration queue by buying a ferry ticket at the Air/Sea Transfer desk.

Present your baggage tag and your luggage will be transferred to the ferry for you.

If you’re only planning on visiting Macau as a day trip, keep in mind the earliest ferry departures from Hong Kong International Airport to Macau are 11 am (Turbojet) and 10.15 am (Cotai Water Jet).

The ferry from Hong Kong International Airport to Macau takes about 70 minutes.

Fly from rooftop to rooftop between Hong Kong and Macau. The 15-minute helicopter flight to Macau is the way to arrive in style.

Sky Shuttle Helicopters Limited departs from the rooftop helipad of Shun Tak Centre in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, and lands at the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal on the Macao Peninsula.

Taking a helicopter to Macau will set you back MOP4450 (AUD750)

Other ways to get to Macau is to combine a visit with a stop in another Asian hub, such as Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Manila.

Xiamen – Xiamen Airlines flies to Macau via Xiamen and offers a 72-hour stopover in Xiamen without a visa. Here are some Xiamen attractions .

Kuala Lumpur – Air Asia flies from Kuala Lumpur to Macau

Singapore – Scoot Airlines flies from Singapore to Macau.

Bangkok – Air Asia Thailand flies from Bangkok to Macau. Here’s what to do in Bangkok .

Manila – Cebu Pacific flies from Manila to Macau. Read this for things to do in Manila .

Here are some of itineraries to help you plan your travels across Asia:

• Japan Itinerary
• Osaka Itinerary
• Nagoya Itinerary
• Hong Kong Itinerary
• Macau Itinerary
• Sri Lanka Itinerary
• Philippines Itinerary
• Taiwan Itinerary
• Thailand Itinerary
• Bali Itinerary

There are several options to transfer from Macao Airport to the city.

Free Hotel Shuttles – Free shuttle buses are available for anyone to use, even if you are not staying at that particular hotel.

Free Airport Shuttle – Shuttle buses are available from 11 am to 9 pm (every 15 minutes) in the parking lot near the northern exit.

Public Bus – Bus fares are around MOP5.

Taxi – Catch a taxi if you’re heading to parts of the city that are not on the bus or shuttle routes. The fare from Macau International Airport to Senado Square is approximately MOP100.

1- Download the free MacauMap ™ (updated in June 2018) for smartphone and tablet. The app has 1247 streets, 68 hotels, 461 restaurants and 121 sightseeing spots in Macau mapped. It’s also useful for bus routes and bus stop.

2- Use the Step Out, Macao mobile app for eight popular walking tour routes. Here’s an overview of the tourist spots on those walking routes around Macau.

3- Look for free hotel buses at the ferry terminals, such as the Venetian Macau shuttle bus. Many of these hotel buses will be heading to the Cotai Strip, where many of Macau’s glitzy resorts are located. Hotels closer to the historic centre are Sofitel, Mandarin Oriental, Wynn Macau and MGM Macau.

4- For Macau tours, tickets and transfers click here .

5- If you prefer an organised day tour from Hong Kong where everything is arranged for you check out these options . 

If you decide you’re having too much fun, Macau has plenty of hotels to choose from.

Book your Macau hotel here

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

18 Macau Landmarks For Your Bucket List

Is macanese ready to go mainstream, macao buffet bible – how to choose the best buffet in macau, macau nightlife – 20 cool bars and clubs, coloane hiking trail, editor's picks, 101 travel quotes – inspiring the journey, 60 luxury escapes for your bucket list, 25 australian landmarks.

Why Spend 1 Day in Macau?

I’ll be honest; I found Macau to be kind of weird. It was an odd mix of colonial buildings and skyscrapers and crazy casinos that looked like they came off the Vegas strip. It didn’t really feel like a real city to me, more like some kind of crazy amusement park that was made to entertain visitors. However, the wackiness of this destination is what makes it fun to explore. While I wouldn’t want to spend long here, I highly recommend planning a day trip to Macau from Hong Kong if you have the time.

Hong Kong to Macau Ferry

Getting from Hong Kong to Macau is actually really easy. There are regular ferries that go back and forth between the two and the trip only lasts about an hour. The ships are fairly comfortable with seats for everyone, though the crossing can be a bit rough so if you are someone who gets seasick, or motion sick, then take some anti-nausea medicine ahead of time.

You can catch the ferry from Hong Kong at the Shun Tak Centre on Kong Kong Island or the China Ferry Terminal in Kowloon. I got the ferry from the Kowloon Terminal, however the ferries are more regular from Hong Kong Island (every 15 minutes from Shun Tak vs every 30 minutes from Kowloon Terminal).

The destination in Macau will be either downtown Macau (The Outer Terminal) or the Cotai Strip. The Coitai Strip is where you will find most of the casinos versus downtown Macau is better for those looking to explore the Portuguese parts of Macau. I recommend you use downtown Macau as your start/finish point since it has the most frequent service.

Tickets for these routes can be purchased at the ferry terminal ahead of time. You have until 30 minutes before the boat’s departure to purchase a ticket. No advance reservations are necessary.

If you don’t love the idea of taking a ferry between Hong Kong and Macau you can also take a bus. 

How to Get Around Macau in 1 Day

Once you arrive in Macau, you’re going to want to figure out a way to get around. Like Hong Kong, it’s pretty spread out so don’t think you can just rely on your feet.

The best way to figure out how to get around will depend on what you want to see and do. If you are just interested in the historic area with the Portuguese influence, then you can use the local bus. There is an information center in the ferry terminal who will be happy to help you figure out routes and bus numbers.

If you want to see as much as possible for your day trip from Hong Kong to Macau, then consider taking a hop on hop off bus. It’s an easy way to see the main stops and attractions, without having to worry about getting lost or doing any navigating. 

It’s also worth noting that a lot of hotels and casinos have free shuttle buses. The best part? You don’t need to be a guest of the hotel to use them. I took advantage of this during my visit to explore the flashy casinos and hotels in Cotoi. Since the properties are so big it’s hard to walk to them all, but there are shuttles between them that anyone can get on. You can also take these free shuttle buses to the city centre, and to the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.

Of course, you can also use taxis and uber. Ubers are especially handy for those who don’t have a lot of cash on them.

The Best Things to do in Macau for 1 Day

As mentioned earlier, the main attractions in Macau vary between Portuguese heritage and flashy casinos. It’s a bit of an odd mix, but there’s definitely lots to see and do. I recommend the adding the following to your list if you are visiting Macau as a day trip from Hong Kong.

Visit the Ruins of St. Pauls

The Ruins of St. Paul’s are probably Macau’s best-known landmark. The ruins date back to the 1600s when it was once a Roman Catholic Church known as ‘The Vatican of the Far East’. Today, these ruins are perhaps the most photographed part of the city and a must see.

Explore Mount Fortress

Located right beside the ruins of St. Paul’s, Mount Fortress is another great place to stop, explore, and take some photos. Originally, this structure was used to fend off a Dutch invasion in 1622. Today, it serves as one of the best view points of the city. You can also check out the Macao Museum inside which offers visitors a peek into Macau’s history and culture.

Take in the Views (and even Bungee Jump) from Macau Tower

The Macau Tower is also known as the World’s Most Extreme Tower thanks to the fact that it also serves as a place to bungee jump. In fact, at 233m high, the Macau Tower is the world’s highest bungee jump. So, if you are up for one hell of an adrenaline rush, it might be worth adding this bucket list-worthy item to your list of things to do in Macau. 

Not keen on bungee jumping? Don’t worry, you can still visit the Macau Tower to take in the views!

People Watch in Senado Square

Senado Square is the main town square in the historic part of Macau. It’s busy with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes making it a good place to take a break and grab a cold drink or a bite to eat. It’s a pedestrian only zone surrounded by a number of beautiful buildings and monuments.  

Try a Famous Egg Tart

Portugal is famous for its egg tarts and since Macau was once a Portuguese colony, it makes sense that these tasty sweets made their way to Macau as well. The egg tart has become a food icon of Macau and is a must try. That being said, some places make them better than others. Top picks for the best egg tarts in Macau include: Lord Stow’s Bakery , Koi Kei Bakery, and Margaret’s Café e Nata.

Wander Through Taipa Village

Taipa Village is where you can get a real feel for ‘old Macau’. It’s a popular place to photograph thanks to the colourful houses and buildings that line the streets, but there are also some museums in this area along with some great foodie spots. Head to Rua do Cunha, Macao’s ‘Eat Street’, for a midday meal.

Test Your Luck at a Casino

Macau is known as the ‘Las Vegas of the East’, so it would really be a shame to do a day trip to Macau without checking out at least one of the properties. Personally, I’m not a gambler (I have zero luck) so I didn’t risk any money, but I did check out a couple of the big hotel and casino properties which was still fun. Try the Venetian Casino Resort or the City of Dreams, Macau.

Want to Stay the Night in Macau?

I chose to just visit Macau from Hong Kong as a day trip, however if you want you can spend a night or two. It might be a good idea if you are into gambling and casinos, because nighttime is when this aspect of Macau really comes to life.

Need a place to stay? Try:

• The Parisian Macau
• Galaxy Macau

Oh, and if you do stay the night then consider getting tickets to the House of Dancing Water at the City of Dreams. It’s known to be ‘the largest water extravaganza’ in the world.

Final Tips for 1 Day in Macau 

Planning a day trip from Hong Kong to Macau is easy, but there are a few things you do need to keep in mind for your 1 day in Macau. 

The first thing to note is that Macau has a different currency than Hong Kong. Now, Hong Kong dollars are frequently accepted in Macau, but the exchange rate isn’t great. It might be worth it to exchange a bit of cash ahead of time so that you can have local currency for little things like bus fare or money for food and drink. Credit cards are also widely accepted.

Secondly, you will need your passport to travel between Hong Kong and Macau, so don’t forget it!

Finally, while most visitors do not need a visa to visit Macau, some do. So, take a look ahead of time and make sure you are good to just arrive and don’t need to arrange anything beforehand.

Macau is a fun but quirky place, and although I have no need to go back, I definitely recommend a day trip from Hong Kong to Macau if you have the time. You don’t need a ton of time here, my 1 day Macau itinerary will show you the highlights. 

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

By leaving a comment you agree with the storage and handling of your name and email address by Eat Sleep Breathe Travel. *

Dreaming of Adventure?

Sign up to the Eat Sleep Breathe Travel mail list and stay up to date with all the latest travel tips and stories.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Hal Your Travel Pal

Macau day trip: Itinerary & what to know

14.03.24 | Hallie Kielb | No Comments

This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. You can read my full privacy policy  here .

Just a 1-hour boat ride from Hong Kong, Macau offers a fascinating blend of Portuguese and Chinese cultures, stunning architecture, and world-class entertainment . Although it’s known as the “Las Vegas of Asia,” it has so much more to offer than its casinos. In this guide to everything you need to know for your Macau day trip, you’ll discover the best itinerary and essential travel tips . From historic landmarks to modern casinos, we’ll ensure you make the most of your day in this vibrant city.

Table of Contents

Macau Day Trip: What to Know

You don’t have to gamble to enjoy macau.

Although Macau is known for its bustling gambling industry, that is not all it offers. Other than its world-class casinos, Macau has many interesting historical sites, museums, live productions, shopping centers, and a distinct cuisine . You can easily spend a day visiting its unique sites, no matter your interests.

Even as a non-gambler, you can still enjoy exploring the Cotai Strip. The hotel casinos are extremely impressive, with stunning architecture, glamorous malls, and delicious restaurants . It can also be fun to people-watch in the casinos!

You can pay with HKD in most (but not all) situations

Before I visited Macau, all my research indicated that Hong Kong dollars (HKD) would be accepted everywhere. So, I went to Macau with only HKD and no intention of withdrawing Macau Patacas (MOP). While HKD is accepted in most places, it’s not accepted everywhere ! You’ll be able to get by on a day trip with only HKD, but there were times when I had to use my credit card or change plans because I couldn’t use HKD. For example, I couldn’t pay for the Light Rapid Transit (LRT) with HKD.

Also, be aware that if you pay in HKD, the cash returned will be in MOP. Don’t accumulate more change than you can spend in a day!

Octopus Card is not accepted on public transportation

Going off of my previous point, I was under the impression that I could tap my Octopus Card to pay for public transportation in Macau. However, you cannot use an Octopus Card on Macau transportation . Instead of buying a Macau Pass, I used HKD coins for bus fares.

If you don’t want to buy a Macau Pass for only a day trip, bring plenty of coins from Hong Kong to pay for buses!

Google Maps doesn’t work well

While in and around the Historic Centre of Macau, Google Maps had no idea where I was. I later learned that this is because Macau is too close to mainland China, where Google Maps is blocked . I found that Apple Maps worked just fine.

Check if you need a Macau phone plan

Many phone plans for Hong Kong don’t include Macau and vice versa . Before you leave, check if you need a separate Macau plan. Luckily, it’s easy and cheap to get an eSIM for your Macau day trip. Instead of wasting time looking for a local plastic SIM, you can activate the eSIM on the boat ride over. I always use Airalo eSIMS, which are easy, cheap, and reliable. Airalo eSIM plans for Macau start at just $4.50 for 1GB.

You need to bring your passport

Macau is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, with its own immigration policies . When traveling between Macau, Hong Kong, and mainland China, you need to bring your passport to clear each region’s immigration.

Your country might not have an embassy in Macau

There are only 15 consular missions in Macau, most of which are honorary consulates. Few countries have permanent embassies, meaning there is limited ability to provide emergency consular services . If you lose your passport or get in trouble with the local law, there might not be someone from your home government to support you. If you don’t have consular services in Macau, be extra alert and vigilant to not need them.

The ferry from Hong Kong is short but rough

The ferry from Hong Kong to Macau takes about 1 hour, but it’s a rough hour. I don’t get seasick but I felt unwell by the end of the journey. The boat is fast and the ocean can be rough . The combination of the two can be hard to endure, even for those who don’t usually get seasick. I recommend taking motion sickness medicine before the journey if you’re worried.

Macau Day Trip Itinerary

Historic centre of macau → a-ma temple → r. do cunha → cotai strip, historic centre of macau.

Catch an early morning ferry to Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal. From there, you’re a short bus or taxi ride from the Historic Centre of Macau , where you can spend your morning wandering the history-packed streets. Make sure to include stops at the Ruins of St. Paul, Monte Fort, St. Dominic’s Church, and Senado Square . There are historic sites from the Portuguese colonial period on every corner, so this is a great time to explore without a set route and see where it takes you.

A-Ma Temple

From the Historic Centre of Macau, you can walk or take a quick taxi or bus ride to A-Ma Temple . This is Macau’s oldest temple, built in 1488 to honor the sea goddess. It’s small but tranquil and scenic.

Rua do Cunha

From A-Ma Temple, you can take a bus across the bridge to Taipa. Taipa is a historic area that reveals Macau’s past with its traditional houses and Portuguese architecture. Its most acclaimed spot is Rua do Cunha , a narrow pedestrian street known for its street food. Lord Stow’s Bakery is said to have the original egg tart in Asia, so the line will be long but worth the wait.

Cotai Strip

Finally, you can end your Macau day trip by exploring the impressive hotel casinos on the Cotai Strip . Like the Las Vegas Strip, the Cotai Strip features luxury hotels with world-class casinos. If gambling isn’t your thing, it’s still a worthwhile place to check out. The casinos are interesting for people-watching, and the hotels have expansive malls and restaurants. The Venetian, Parisian, and Londoner are the three most impressive hotel casinos.

As the sun sets on your Macau day trip, you’ve spent a full day exploring the highlights of both its historic and modern sides. It was a day full of unique memories, from exploring the Historic Centre of Macau and the Cotai Strip to trying the unique Macanese cuisine. Whether you visit its world-class casinos or fascinating historic sights that blend East and West, you’ll be glad you spent a day exploring all the “Las Vegas of Asia” has to offer.

Coming to Macau on a day trip from Hong Kong? Check out my 4-day Hong Kong itinerary , including this Macau day trip, to make the most of your trip.

About Hallie Kielb

Hi, I'm Hallie! I'm an expat lifestyle and solo female travel blogger based in Seoul, South Korea, where I teach English. At 24 years old, I've lived on 3 continents and traveled to 25 countries. I hope to encourage other solo female travelers to travel adventurously, safely, and respectfully.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

halyourtravelpal

Featured Post

What to know before going to South Korea: 33 tips from a local

Sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Want to be the first to hear about upcoming blogs and get a monthly dose of travel inspiration in your inbox?

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel New
• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

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

April 7, 2024

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

Travel to Macao Promotions - Save Up to 100 SGD🔥

Take advantage of this incredible deal and save big on your next trip with our See You in Macao hotel offer. Hurry, this time-limited offer won't last forever!

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

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

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

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

Useful Tips for Singaporean Travelers Visiting Macau

Currency exchange and payment methods:.

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

Time Zone and Weather:

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

Language and Communication:

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

Customs and Cultural Norms:

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

Visa Requirements and Entry Information:

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

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

Flights to Macau

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

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

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

• Sort: Price (Lowest)
• Sort: Departure (Earliest)

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

1-day trip to Macau: Morning Itinerary

1st option: historic macau.

Ruins of St. Paul's

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

Mount Fortress

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

Transportation Tips:

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

2nd Option: Modern Macau

The Venetian Macao

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

Macau Tower

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

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

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

1-day trip to Macau: Afternoon Itinerary

1st option: cultural exploration.

A-Ma Temple

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

Taipa Village

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

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

2nd Option: Coloane Island Retreat

Hac Sa Beach

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

Coloane Village

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

Source: Trip.com User (噼里啪啦)

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

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

Recommended Lunch Restaurants

Fernando's

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

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

Lord Stow's Bakery

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

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

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

1-day trip to Macau: Evening Itinerary

1st option: macau by night.

Senado Square

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

Source: Trip.com User (爷微不足道)

Macau Fisherman's Wharf

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

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

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

2nd Option: Cotai Strip Extravaganza

City of Dreams

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

The House of Dancing Water Show

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

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

Recommended Dinner Restaurants

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

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

Source: Trip.com User (锴kai10)

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

Robuchon au Dôme

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

Source: Trip.com User (kellywongsiweng)

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

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

Do Singaporeans need a visa to visit Macau?

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

What to do in Macau for 1 day trip

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

<h3>Trending Searches</h3>

Popular Content

• public holiday 2024
• maxwell food centre
• newton food centre
• Cheap Flight
• tiong bahru market
• hawker centres
• singapore arrival card
• old airport road food centre
• mdac malaysia
• travel to desaru from singapore
• what travel documents do i need
• ferry to bintan
• travel to Bintan from Singapore
• thailand esim
• esim indonesia
• What are the best ways to reduce jetlag
• Japan Car Rental
• Is there wifi onboard flights
• Narita Express

Popular Attractions

• chinese heritage centre
• madame tussauds singapore
• singapore cable car
• jurong bird park
• flower dome
• singapore river cruise

Popular Hotels

• Hotels near Museum Hill Historic District
• Hotels in Neokhorio With Wi-Fi
• Hotels in Montville
• 3-Star Hotels in Emba
• Hotels in Bharwalia Chak
• Hotels near East Croydon Railway Station
• Hotels near Old Market
• Hotels near Temple
• Hotels near Altitude Trampoline Park
• Hotels near Houston City Hall
• HANASTAY MINAMI
• Hotel Samar
• Visionapartments Basel Nauenstrasse - Contactless Check-IN
• 7 Premium (Luoyang Railway Station North Square)
• Zhangjiajie Hotel
• Tai'an Shanhai Hotel (Tianwaicun)
• The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore

Connectivity

• Switzerland eSIM
• south korea esim
• eSIM Saudi Arabia

Travel Deals & Discounts

• Trip.com Promotion Codes
• Trip.com Exclusive Flight Deals
• Trip.com Credit Card Promotions
• How to book Cheap Hotels
• How to book Cheap Flights
• Trip.com Member Rewards
• Refer a Friend & Earn!
• Weekly Travel Deals
• eSIM Promotions
• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• List My Hotel
• Become a Supplier

Macau One Day Trip Tour of the Must-See Sights

Macau’s proximity to Hong Kong means many people spend just a day in the former Portuguese colony, before heading back to their Hong Kong hotel in the evening . This day trip tour of Macau will introduce you to the best bits of its Portuguese heritage and the trademark casinos in just a few hours. Although, if you're more interested in walking the cobblestones than spinning the roulette wheel, you might prefer this dedicated Portuguese Macau Tour .

Cobbled together by the Portuguese centuries ago, a map is a must, thanks to the warren-like structure of Macau’s streets. Luckily streets are well signposted, in the Roman alphabet, and most sights are within walking distance. You will need to hop on a bus or take a taxi out to the Cotai Strip , where most major casinos are found. 

Also, be sure to check the Macau weather as one of the stopping off points is a beach—obviously less fun in the rain.

Portuguese Charm

DuKai photographer / Getty Images

Macau’s main square, Largo do Senado, is a slice of the Mediterranean. Cobblestone streets and beautiful colonial buildings line the square and give it a lazy, laid back charm.

The buildings that were once the source of Portuguese power have been wonderfully preserved. Most, including the former senate and the oldest western library in Asia, are in near pristine condition. Today, the square is a prime people-watching spot as hundreds of people soak up the sun in these picturesque surroundings. Bafflingly, there are almost no cafes on the square, although Starbucks has managed to find a good spot.

Just up the road are the ruins of the Sao Paulo Church. All that remains of the church is an ornate façade - the rest of the cathedral burnt down during a kitchen mishap in the 1800s. Despite this, the building remains a powerful statement of the power the Portuguese once wielded in Asia and is as impressive as the cathedrals in Europe’s old capitals.

For a bite to eat, make your way back down to the main square, or the streets that surround it, and try one of the many Dai Pai Dongs, small stalls with plastic seating that offer Chinese snacks that are low in price, but high in quality. Or try Macanese  food, the local cuisine. 

Best Beach and Fernando's

Hans Georg Roth / Getty Images

Made up of three islands, Macau is blessed with a collection of beaches. One of the best, on the furthest Island of Coloane, is Hac Sa Beach—meaning black sand beach. The beach is around four kilometers long, meaning you won’t find your nose in someone else’s swimsuit, and comes with beach bars, picnic spots and hire facilities for water-skis and other water-bound activities. 

Another reason for the popularity of Hac Sa is the chance to pop into seafront legend Fernando’s . Serving some of the best Portuguese food outside of the home-country, Fernando’s has garnered an excellent reputation for its laidback nature, friendliness, and outstanding food. Remember, Fernando’s has a policy of no reservations, so be prepared to wait, albeit with a jug of Sangria, before eating.

To reach Fernando's and Hac Sa you’ll need to take a bone-rattling bus journey from Rua do Campo.

Bright Lights of the City

Studio City

After both seeing and tasting colonial Macau, it’s time to get a feel for modern Macau, and nothing says Macau these days more than Casinos. The city is experiencing an unprecedented boom in both casinos and tourists and has already overtaken Las Vegas in gambling revenue.

The Casino that started the boom is the Sands, although it's been eclipsed by bigger and brasher casinos, such as the City of Dreams , Studio City, and The Venetian (the biggest casino in the world). The Sands is still well placed if you don't fancy the trek out of town to Cotai. There are live bands, free drinks, and a Las Vegas atmosphere. 

Just across the road from the Sands is Macau’s largest tourist development, Fishermans Wharf. This 'theme park' is short on both rides and ideas, but it is worth a walk around if only to see the tacky recreations of Old England, Rome, and other period architecture. It also has a handful of decent places for a bite to eat or a pint.

Once you’ve made your fortune at the Sands, the Hong Kong Ferry Pier is just a ten-minute walk away (although the Sands provides shuttle buses). Read this  Macau travel guide for more on how to travel between Hong Kong and Macau.

14 Best Things to Do in Macao

Macau International Airport Guide

48 Hours in Macao: The Ultimate Itinerary

12 Things to Do in Hong Kong, China on a Budget

A Traveler's Guide to Macau On a Dime

The Best Time to Visit Macao

Nightlife in Macao: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

Tour the Sights of Portuguese Macau

Your Trip to Macao: The Complete Guide

The World's Most Gay-Friendly Beach Cities and Resorts

Kowloon Hong Kong - Must See Sights

10 Top Things to Do in Wan Chai, Hong Kong

15 Top Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

Best Sights to Visit in Guangzhou

Las Vegas Must-See Sights and Attractions

Getting Around Macao: Guide to Public Transportation

How to Plan The Perfect 1-Day Trip to Macau from Hong Kong By Boat

Posted on Last updated: March 27, 2024

Categories China

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Macau, the ‘Vegas of the East’, is pretty much Disneyland for adults as we found out on a recent Macau day trip from Hong Kong.

Portuguese colonial architecture mingles seamlessly with ancient Chinese temples and laneways, which themselves give way to garish neons and megalithic casino complexes…

Throw in the Macau Grand Prix and some delicious egg tarts, and you have the ingredients for an exhilarating, if somewhat spatially challenging, Macau day trip that’s only a 55-minute boat ride away from Hong Kong!!

Before exploring Macau, arrange an eSIM to avoid hefty international roaming fees. Staying connected while traveling is essential, and eSIMs have transformed mobile network access for globetrotters.

No need to search for local SIMs at the airport; eSIMs offer a hassle-free experience upon arrival. They save time and money while preventing loss or damage to physical SIMs. To stay connected, consider Airalo or Holafly, the biggest names in global eSIMs.

Airalo offers a wide variety of destinations and smaller data bundles, while Holafly has unlimited data packages and excellent EU data deals. Don’t delay; enhance your travel experience with eSIMs for seamless connectivity.

How to Plan The Perfect 1-Day Trip to Macau from Hong Kong By Boat 🇲🇴

Page Contents

What To Do In Macau In One Day Without Staying Overnight??

How to get to macau from hong kong by ferry, what to do after you arrive in macau.

Macau has a lot to offer. I would have liked to send more than 24 hours, but unless you have more than a week in Hong Kong , it would be hard to justify more than just a day trip. For a one day itinerary, I would recommend an early start, as early as you can manage and focus on the colonial UNESCO  sites during the day and then in the evening taking in all that casino glitz and glam…

I have outlined the main sites by day and night below, but the Grand Prix was on when we were there, which slowed things significantly, so you will likely have time for more! You might also want to read my more recent Macau Itinerary for fresh ideas.

However, if you do fancy making it more than one night – Macau books up fast! Especially with all the events and conventions it hosts, not to mention the weekend!

Book early to get the best rates. You can find the best deals for Macau accommodation here – and many have free cancellation if your plans change closer to the time!

This is the easiest way from Hong Kong, though the new Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge has recently opened and now offers bus services.

Ferry prices are higher for return sailings in the evening and highest late at night. You can always return earlier but not later than the ticketed time, but you will be on standby, which we found out was a long and arduous process. Best to try stick with the time that suits you (remembering that some parts of Macau are best seen after dark!) and book you Macau Ferry ticket in advance.

How to Get to Macau From Hong Kong:  Hong Kong Terminals

China Ferry Terminal is in Tsim Sha Tsui, or Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal is near the IFC Towers in the Shun Tak Center on Hong Kong Island. Price: 132 to 172 HKD (single trip, economy class).

The ferry also departs from the Sky Pier at the Hong Kong International Airport but is for transiting tourists only.

How to Get to Macau From Hong Kong:   Macau Terminals

Macau Maritime Ferry Terminal is the main northern terminal closest to the old town while Cotai Terminal is to the south, closest to the Cotai Strip area with the biggest casinos. Ferries rarely sell out, but I would recommend trying to enter the Macau Maritime Ferry Terminal and leaving out of Cotai.

Still, it doesn’t really matter as Macau is a rather small place and is plied by free casino buses!

Yes, best not to plan your Macau day trip from Hong Kong  when the Grand Prix is on – Unless you actually want to be part of the chaos!

On arrival, we stumbled across the Macau Grand Prix, a global motor racing series event that is held in Macau in November. It takes place in Montreal , Melbourne , Mexico City – and soon, nearby Hanoi, among other places annually. 

 If you are interested and in the area, in November, I would highly recommend getting tickets and going across for the night, so you still have a full day to see Macau. If you are not concerned, I would avoid or re-plan to avoid the weekend as Macau will be so packed to the brim and clogged up with traffic jams – it’s not worth it! 

Start your  Macau day trip from Hong Kong at the Grand Lisboa – The tallest building in Macau! One of the best t hings to do in Macau in one day is also just to wander the streets!

We took advantage of the Grand Lisboa Casino shuttle on arrival to take us to their casino. It is also near the Wynn, the MGM, and StarWorld if you want to check those out.

This group is located close to the historic Macau. In contrast, the other casinos are located on the Cotai Strip, across the bridge, and somewhat inaccessible due to being on a different island!. As we had limited time, we could only see one group at night, but I would highly suggest trying to come back here to view these casinos at night too!

Plus, if you have more time, there are so many more things to do in Macau!

Amazing colors and look at the pavement!! – We were, however, very easy to spot as one of like three westerners there.  What is Macau Famous For? This incredible tile plaza for sure! 

From here, it is a quick 15 min walk to a highlight of Old Macau – Senado Square (Largo do Senado). This is the public square of Macau and a great introduction to the area. It is located in the central area of the Macau Peninsula, and in 2005 it was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as it forms part of the Historic Centre of Macau site.

Around Senado Square, there are also plenty of other attractions. To the east of the square is Macau Cathedral, and at the end of the paved road is St. Domingo’s Church.  The Lou Kau Mansion is found in the northeast of the square.

The Macau Tourism Board actually has made some beneficial walking tours based on interests. They also have produced a comprehensive iPhone app to make your trip go more smoothly, which you might want to grab before you go!

What is Macau Famous For?…. In a Word …This!  Oh, to see this on a sunny day would be a thing of beauty – But oh well, grey and overcast, it is still lovely!

Walk to the north of the church, and you will arrive at the Ruínas de S. Paulo (Ruins of St. Paul’s). This is the most famous landmark in Macau. Right at the east of the Ruínas de S. Paulo is the Museu de Macau (Macau Museum), in which historical relics of Macau are exhibited.

On the day we visited, it was insanely crowded – Like ridiculously crowded, fight your way through oblivious masses of selfie stick-wielding tourists, makes you want to go home crowded. Hopefully, this is just to do with the Grand Prix…

Either way, I still have to say it was worth it !!… The Ruins of St. Paul’s are simply amazing, making for great photos and have a stunning view to take in of the old town from its steps. It would be a great place to enjoy lunch on the weekdays too!

What is Macau Famous For? The Margaret Egg Tart Macau, of course.  Such deliciousness must be proof of sorcery and that witches live among us … Top of the list for t hings to do in Macau in one day

Speaking of lunch, you have have HAVE to try the Portuguese Macau egg tart – They are so delicious that you will buy 3 to share … and then just eat them all yourself. Not that I would do that — but they do make an excellent reward for surviving the masses. I think this is the definition of stress eating.

The egg tart is found all over Canton and China, but there at subtle differences in taste between Cantonese and Macau Portuguese style egg tarts. The visible traits are quite apparent due to the slightly burnt top, which creates a hint of caramelization (think crème Brulee), that you only get with the local Macau egg tarts. Its also quite different then those you might be familiar with in Lisbon or Porto.

You can read more about the baker behind Macau’s famous egg tarts here.

While they have egg tarts on every street corner in Macau, there are two clear standouts: Lord Stow’s Bakery , founded by Andrew Stow, or Margaret’s Cafe / Margaret Egg Tart Macau, found near the Historic City Centre in Macau.

Interestingly enough, founder Margaret was formerly married to Andrew Stow.  At some point, they parted ways, and now there are two separate egg tart giants in Macau. So which is best, Lord Stows or Margaret’s?

This is a long-running debate among locals and fans of the Macau egg tarts. Most have a preference for one over the other, but in the end, they are both excellent choices and far out-shine the competition, so go with whichever is closest – better yet, try both!

When the sun goes down, the lights come out … And boy oh boy, do they come out!   What is Macau Famous For? PARTY TIME!!!!

After you have enjoyed an egg tart (or 3), be sure to work it off with a brisk walk through nearby Casa and Camoes Garden. This is a hilly, heavily wooded garden formed part of the grounds of the house, which was occupied by the Chairman of the British East India Company and finish up in Temple Tou Tei. From here (on nearby Rua da Ribeira do Patane) catch the 26A towards Hac Sa Beach to the Venetian and City of Dreams!

This is the end of the historic tour part and now time to see the new Macau – The one whose gambling takes in 6 weeks is what Las Vegas makes in an entire year!! Though before you switch islands, you could be tempted by the Macau Tower Bungy Jump .

Any takers?

This is crazy – Look at that sky! Its never get that blue outside (at-least in Macau or Hong Kong!!), and you get to enjoy air-con! WIN! Helps make your  Macau Day Trip From Hong Kong a little more relaxing!

The Venetian Macao is a 39-story, $2.4 billion anchors for the seven hotels on the Cotai Strip in Macau. It is modeled on its sister casino resort, The Venetian Las Vegas , and is the seventh-largest building in the world by floor area. The Venetian Macao is also the largest casino in the world and the largest single structure hotel building in Asia — because, the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is technically multiple buildings. 

Officially opened on August 28, 2007, the casino welcomed its eight millionth customer in just 133 days after launch – That is just insane number! Over 2x the population of New Zealand in 8 months!!

And that is why it is so hard to decide w hat to see in Macau in one day!

The Venetian offers over 30 restaurants with cuisines from around the world, and the Grand Canal has 51 gondolas with serenading gondoliers that ply the waters of the Venetian’s three indoor canals and outdoor lagoon. It’s nowhere near as stunning as the real thing but is still nice…

There are also over 350 brand name retail stores at the Grand Canal Shoppe – nowhere in Asia is there more luxury shops crammed into a single space.

You’ll want to extend your credit limit to go shopping with a red carpet line up that includes COACH, Calvin Klein, and Tiffany…I skipped on this to save funds and time, but if you’re interested, this would be the spot for you!

Well actually almost every store we saw was empty except for staff, but my friend reckons they must only need to sell one or two handbags, etc. a day at that price to be profitable. Still, it’s all amazing to check out and be in awe! You can even place a bet though from my experience I’d advise not, and I can testify that the house does always win!

What to See in Macau in One Day? STUDIO CITY –  Brand new, as it only opened up two weeks before our  Macau Day Trip From Hong Kong !

From here, you just wandered around all the other mega-casinos, including Studio City ,  Galaxy Macau ,  Sands Cotai, and City of Dreams. They are all amazing, but Studio City here is the one to watch. When we visited had only been open for a month, so was not all 100% yet but has already become world-famous for its Batman ride and a Ferris Wheel in the shape of a figure-8 …

These non-gambling features are a result of Macau’s casino industry’s worst downturn on record as China’s slowing economy and its crackdown on corruption.

China’s President Xi Jinping in December ordered the city to diversify its economy from gambling, on which it relies for about 80 percent of revenue and the results of this should be seen more in the future – The Parisian Macao which has recently opened and many existing casinos are busy creating shows and other entertainment events…

Expect to see Macau look more like Vegas in the future – which isn’t a bad thing. While gambling can be fun, I for one, would love to see a proliferation of entertainment options when I come back in the future to draw me in few days (as Vegas does) rather than the current day trip option may take. And I would absolutely love to check out the Macau SkyWalk! 

One giant construction zone … Bigger things to come, watch this space as I’m sure there will be a new addition or two to the  What to See in Macau in One Day list very soon!

An exciting future development that would add to the appeal accessibility (user-friendliness) is the Macau light rail transit (planned to be complete in 2019).

 It will serve the Macau Peninsula, Taipa and Cotai, serving major border checkpoints such as the Border Gate, the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal , the Lotus Bridge Border and the Macau International Airport connecting major entry-exit points at the Macau Peninsula and the Taipa Island with residential and tourist areas.

Exciting times for Macau and with the growth it has had in the past and a supposed resurgence (which may or may not be occurring as we speak), you can be sure to add Macau into your future travel plans! I will be going back to explore further in the future when I get the chance!

Hometime – I was exhausted from our Macau day trip from Hong Kong and slept the whole way back. I barely made it onto the boat as was not functional at all by the time I got back to Hong Kong… But well worth it!

A fantastic day trip with history, food, vice, and modern extravagance. I can highly recommend anyone to check Macau out —  though maybe just look a going on a quieter day!

Hopefully, this helps you answer the question of what Macau is famous for and helps you plan all the things to do in Macau in one day. Just don’t miss the Margaret Egg Tart Macau!    

• Visa Application Helpline

Subscribe to our newsletter

Learn how to live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle.

By signing up, you agree to the our terms and our Privacy Policy agreement.

Top 27 Places to visit in Darjeeling, Explore the Beautiful Hills of Darjeeling

Top 10 things to do when traveling to shimla: shimla travel guide, the ultimate paris travel guidelines for first timers | top attractions & things to do.

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.

Night: 

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

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

The Best Things to Do with One Day in Macau:

Explore the macau historic center.

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

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

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

Who would have thought that one of the best (and, as it turns out, the biggest) adrenaline activities in the world would be located right in the heart of Macau? 61 stories up and 233 meters above the ground, the legendary adventure tour operators, AJ Hackett Macau Tower , have turned this gambling Mecca into the latest and greatest destination for thrill seekers! If you are looking to tick off that number one item from your bucket list, you need to check out the world’s highest bungy jump—one of the most exhilarating experiences imaginable.

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

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

Macau Fisherman’s Wharf

If you are looking for a bit of fun in Macau, you can always head to the Macau Fisherman’s Wharf . A large entertainment complex right near the Hong Kong-Macau ferry pier, the place is full of restaurants, cafes, and retail stores. It opened at the end of 2006 and was designed after a bunch of similar seaports in Cape Town and Amsterdam. And if you want to spend a bit of money, you can’t miss the theme park in your Macau trip.

Eat All the Street Food

With its eclectic mix of Portuguese and Chinese cultures, the culinary delights that have evolved in Macau are extraordinary! From egg tarts to beef jerky to dried fish, it is way too easy to just snack your way through the city! There are some world-class international restaurants that have opened up around the peninsula, but if you are traveling on a budget, it is easy to find a cheap bite to eat as well. You may leave town a bit heavier than when you arrived.

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

Get Lost in The Casinos

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

There is no requirement to actually gamble or spend any money inside them, meaning you can wander through and check out mainland Chinese tourists throwing down thousands (and thousands) of dollars in single bets, or admire the extravagant decorations. Even if this isn’t really your idea of some great things to do in Macau, it’s still worth checking out the $2.4 billion Venetian (the largest casino in the world), which has had the famous canals of Venice reconstructed throughout the entire building. Even the roof is painted like a perfect blue sky, giving the illusion of daylight at all hours. A surreal scene.

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

Head To Macau’s Beach

Yep, that’s right – the beach. The most popular option, Hac Sa (Black Sands) Beach on Coloane Island, isn’t exactly world class, but if you have been craving some beach time after a long stint in China or just love the feeling of sand beneath your toes, consider heading out to the coast for your one day in Macau. Despite the name, the government has filled the beach with yellow sand to prevent erosion, and as a result, it is much more picturesque than it once was.

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

Sun Yat Sen Park, Macau

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

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.

Related Posts

New zealand itinerary & tour packages to design the perfect vacation, the best 10-day south korea itinerary: budget and how to plan, the best 4-day hong kong itinerary: explore the city’s highlights, the best 10-day japan itinerary: exploring tokyo, kyoto, and osaka.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

When the Portuguese landed on the shore near A-ma Temple over 400 years ago, they asked the locals what the name of the land was. The locals misunderstood and thought that they were asking about the name of the bay. “A-ma-gao,” they said. It means Bay of A-ma, named after the goddess revered at the nearby temple. The Portuguese translated it to “Macau.”

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Understanding Macau

Over the next centuries, more Portuguese set foot on the beaches of Macau. Many of them were allowed to settle and establish an enclave after protecting the inhabitants from endemic pirates. Eventually, the land fell under their rule. As one of Portugal’s link to Asia, Macau absorbed much of the great flood of European influences that passed through it. Their architecture wrapped the land’s structures. Their language snuck into the locals’ mouths. Their laws and culture dominated their way of life. It witnessed several wars and revolutions, pacts and treaties. And then, the Portuguese power declined. The Chinese regained control of the region. Macau was given certain autonomies. Industrialization took over. Its skylines grew taller. Its cityscapes evolved faster. Macau became a city-wide playground, a melting pot of two hemispheres, a bastion of relentless development.

Today, Macau (澳門) is formally known as Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. It is an autonomous territory, so even though it is officially part of China, it has its own currency and immigration policy, separate from that of mainland China or Hong Kong. In fact, even visitors from the mainland and HK will have to pass through immigration and customs check upon entering Macau.

Geographically, Macau is composed of four districts: the Macau peninsula, two islands (Taipa and Coloane), and the reclaimed land between the two (called Cotai).

• Macau Peninsula . This is where the historical core of Macau is located. Most of the tourist spots are here. It’s also the most populated district.
• Taipa Island . Although the airport is here, it is mostly a residential island.
• Coloane Island . The least developed of the four areas. For tourists, places of interest here include hiking trails, old temples, and a couple of beaches.
• Cotai Strip . The reclaimed land between Taipa and Coloane, occupied mostly by hotels and gaming buildings.

More info you need to know :

• Language : Cantonese and Portuguese are the official languages. Around 90% of the population speaks Cantonese. Although an official language, Portuguese isn’t widely spoken by locals. However, most signs and tourism brochures have Portuguese translations. Mandarin and English are not common, but some locals, especially in the tourism industry, understand them a little.
• Currency : Macanese pataca (MOP). MOP 100 is around USD 1.3, EUR 10, PHP 645, SGD 16.2 (as of April 2018). Hong Kong dollar (HKD) is often accepted at 1:1 rate.
• Money Exchange . There are a lot of money changers throughout Macau. The most reputable companies are Soi Cheong Money Changer and P&W Casa de Cambio (aka Parkway Exchange), both of which have a branch in Senado Square.
• Modes of payment : Most establishments prefer cash payment, but many of them also accept credit card transactions.
• Electricity Info : 220V, 50Hz. Types D, M, G, and F are used.

Best Time to Visit Macau

October to December ! The Macanese autumn sees fine weather, comfortable temperatures, and no threats of typhoons.

January and February are generally dry, too! But it can get chillier.

April is when the level of rainfall starts to rise, peaking in June and slowly subsiding in September. The rain can put a damper on your plans because most of Macau’s attractions are outdoor, unless you’ll be there for shopping or hotel-hopping, which aren’t a bad idea.

If you’re traveling on a budget, you might also want to avoid November, because that’s when the Macau Grand Prix happens, which pushes hotel rates to skyrocket. If you insist or you’re visiting for the race, book as early as possible because hotel rooms sell out even faster than the racers. Don’t search for accommodations at the last minute. I made that mistake once. I had a tough time looking for cheap rooms because most are sold out and the ones that had vacancies were super expensive. I ended up staying in Hong Kong instead and just visited Macau on a day tour.

Macau Visa and Immigration Requirements

Macau allows citizens of numerous countries to enter and temporarily stay in Macau without a visa. These include the following:

• Philippines (30 days)
• Hong Kong (1 year)
• Indonesia (30 days)
• Malaysia (30 days)
• Thailand (30 days)
• Singapore (30 days)
• United Kingdom (6 months)
• United States (30 days)
• European Union states (90 days)

For more info, visit this page .

How to Get to Macau

Macau has its own airport, Macau International Airport (MFM) on Taipa Island.

Okay, here’s the thing. Hong Kong is so close to Macau, if you have the time and money, it would be a shame to visit one without the other. Hence, what I recommend is to book and entry flight to Macau and exit from Hong Kong. Or you can do it the other way around, enter Hong Kong and exit Macau. This way, you get to discover and experience both of these amazing cities.

If there really is no way that you can do a Hong Kong entrance-Macau exit (or vice versa), you can also book a roundtrip ticket to either. That means you’re gonna have to take the 1-hour ferry ride to the other.

Manila to Macau

From Manila, the cheapest flights are operated by AirAsia and Cebu Pacific Air, with the fares within the P2000-P3500 range, if you book in advance. Note, however, that these are just the basic fares and do not yet include check-in baggage allowance and other add-ons. Philippine Airlines’ all-in ticket starts at P6500. It already includes baggage allowance, meals/snacks, and seat fee.

Macau Airport to City Center

You have four options:

• By Free Hotel Shuttles . You can board any of the free shuttles provided by hotels to get to the city center. You don’t need to have a reservation at that hotel to be let in. Even if you have no plan on staying there, you can get on. Just pick the hotel closest to your destination. For example, here are the bus schedules for the Venetian , Wynn Hotel , and City of Dreams .
• By Free Airport Shuttle . The airport has its own free shuttle service. At the Arrival Hall, find the north exit and travel on foot to the parking lot, where you’ll find the buses. There’s a bus every 15-20 minutes. Available from 11am-9pm.
• By Public Bus . Fare is between MOP 4.2 and MOP 5. Here’s the public bus schedule .
• By Taxi . There are parts of the city that are not easily accessible by bus. In these cases, taking the taxi makes the most sense. The flagdown rate is MOP 19 + MOP 2 for every 240 meters or every minute it’s not in motion. Additional MOP 3 charge for each piece of baggage in the compartment. The usual fare from the airport to the city center is MOP 70-90 , depending on which part of the city you’re going.

Hong Kong to Macau by Ferry

If you’re coming from Hong Kong, you can take the ferry to Macau. The journey takes only around an hour. Rates vary depending on the operator. Fares are also higher during the night.

Two of the main ferry companies plying the Hong Kong-Macau route are CotaiJet and TurboJet . You can board the ferry at any of these 3 terminals in Hong Kong:

• China Ferry Terminal . Situated next to Harbour City Mall in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. One-way fare: HKD 132 to 172 (in daytime) and up to HKD 211 (at night).
• Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal (aka Sheung Wan Terminal) . Located on the third floor of Shun Tak Centre (next to the IFC Towers) on Hong Kong Island. One-way fare: HKD 132 to 172 (in daytime) and up to HKD 211 (at night).
• Sky Pier . Located at Hong Kong International Airport. Exclusive to tourists only. One-way fare: HKD 270.

In Macau, there are two terminals where ferries from Hong Kong can dock.

• Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal , located on the Peninsula. This is closer to the city center.
• Taipa Terminal , sometimes called Cotai Terminal, just a short walk from the airport and closer to the big hotels.

You can buy tickets at the terminal itself. However, if you want to score some discounts, you can book in advance online via Klook! For example, the regular one-way TurboJet fare is somewhere between HKD 170 and 200. But with Klook, it’s only at HKD 165. And you can save even more if you purchase roundtrip tickets at once.

For Discounted tickets, book below:

Please take note of the date and time of your trip because rates of sailing on weekends and at night are higher. Just click on any of the following links:

Taipa Ferry Terminal to City Center

• By Free Hotel Shuttle . At the terminal, you can board any of the free shuttles provided by hotels to get to the city center. You don’t need to have a reservation at that hotel to be let in. Even if you have no plan on staying there, you can get on. Just pick the hotel closest to your destination.
• By Taxi . The flagdown rate is MOP 19 + MOP 2 for every 240 meters or every minute it’s not in motion. Additional MOP 3 charge for each piece of baggage in the compartment. The usual fare from the airport to the city center is MOP 70-90 , depending on which part of the city you’re going.
• By Public Bus . I haven’t tried this personally. I always used the free shuttle bus. LOL. And taxi once. I have no information about this yet.

Hong Kong to Macau by Bus (Sea Bridge)

You can also take the bus to get to Macau from Hong Kong via the newly opened Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (HZMB).

If your hotel is in Central Hong Kong or Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) areas, I still recommend the tried and tested ferries because the ports are much closer. Taking the shuttle bus via sea bridge means you have to go to Lantau Island first, which means you need to take the MTR and another bus. That can be problematic if you have heavy luggage in tow.

But if you really want to experience the sea bridge, here’s how.

• Take the MTR to Sunny Bay Station.
• Board B5 Bus to HZMB in Lantau Island. Fare: HK$ 5.8.
• Go through Immigration and Customs inspection.
• Ride shuttle bus to Macau. The ticket office is within the restricted area, after the Immigration. Fare: HK$ 65 (regular times), HK$70 (midnight to 5-59am).

HZMB to Macau City Center

You can take either 101X Bus or 102X Bus, depending on the location of your hotel. Fare is MOP6.

Here are the stops. Click to enlarge.

Where to Stay in Macau

While Macau is best known for its 5-star hotels, it also harbor cheaper forms of accommodations. These options are concentrated in the Macau peninsula, around the city center. Budget hotels, guesthouses, and hostels can be found within and in the outskirts of the historic core.

However, their rates usually increase on weekends and surge during peak seasons. Take my two trips for example. In February, I booked a room with Fu Hua Hotel for only HKD668. In November, in the middle of Macau Grand Prix, the rates more than doubled to almost HKD1500 per night. That’s a big jump!

Top Budget Hotels in Macau

If you ask Agoda users, here are the top budget hotels and hostels in Macau.

• Home of Macau . Check Rates and Availability .
• Holiday Hotel . Check Rates and Availability .
• Kameng Villa . Check Rates and Availability .
• Macau Masters Hotel . Check Rates and Availability .
• Hou Kong Hotel . Check Rates and Availability .

Search for More: Macau Hotels

How to get around macau.

The Historic Center of Macau harbors the most popular attractions. This includes the Ruins of St. Paul’s, the Senado Square, and A-ma Temple. Macau is a very walkable city, and most interesting sites are within walking distance of each other. So yep, WALK WHEN YOU CAN.

If you feel like your knees are not up for some great stroll, a good option is to take advantage of the free shuttle bus services provided by luxury hotels.

When I’m in Macau, I hardly pay for transportation, haha. I always either just walk or take the free shuttles.

Here are the modes of transportation you can take to get around Macau.

By Public Bus

Although they can get crowded during rush hours, public buses in Macau are generally comfortable. There are screens displaying the name of the next bus stop and announcements done in English, Portuguese, Cantonese, and Mandarin.

Here are the fares:

• Within the Macau peninsula : MOP3.20
• Macau to Taipa : MOP4.20
• Macau to Coloane : MOP5.00

Using the bus system can be confusing and intimidating at first. I still am confused and intimidated by it, to be honest. Haha. The timetables posted at the bus stop are not easy to understand and the Portuguese names of the streets hard to keep in mind. But there are ways to make our lives easier. Take note of the following:

• Download the MacauMap app . It is equipped with a map and a directory of all the bus lines.
• When using Google Maps, hover at the nearest bus station you’ll see and it will display the bus lines that will stop at that station. I usually use it in conjunction with MacauMap app to double check.
• Fares are cheaper if you have a MacauPass , an electronic pre-paid travel card that you can hover above the reader upon boarding.
• You can also pay in cash, but make sure you have the exact amount. Buses have a strict NO CHANGE policy. To pay in cash, just drop your coins into a box right after the entrance, beside the driver.
• Board using the front doors of the bus and exit through the rear.

By FREE Hotel Shuttle

Most of the time, you won’t have to take the public buses because you can use the hotel shuttle for free. Again, here are the bus schedules for the Venetian , Wynn Hotel , and City of Dreams .

There are a few more hotel shuttles available.

By Open Top Bus Tour

You can also try Macau’s hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus, which stops at 16 of the city’s key tourist attractions. After visiting a tourist spot, you can hop back into the bus to your next stop.

This bus operates from 9:30am-4:15pm. Personal guided commentary in English or Mandarin and headphones are provided. Insurance is also included.

To use this bus, you need an unlimited 1-day pass which costs HKD 125. You can book one via Klook below:

The flagdown rate is MOP 19 + MOP 2 for every 240 meters or every minute it’s not in motion. Additional MOP 3 charge for each piece of baggage in the compartment.

Places to Visit

You can classify Macau attractions into two categories: the historic and the crazy-psychedelic. At the heart of the city is its historic core, littered with UNESCO-listed landmarks. Under the sun, Macau bares its soul in its mosaic-art cobblestone streets flanked with historical Portuguese colonial buildings, calming parks, and long-standing temples. Many of these can be enjoyed for FREE. We also indicated below the entrance fee rates for those who require it and info on how to reach these places.

But as soon as the sun starts hiding under the horizon, Macau transforms into a totally different creature — more alive and definitely kicking! At nightfall, the city is ruled by neon lights that hypnotize and draw the crowd towards the vibrant and energetic resort hotels.

Macau‘s luxury hotels provide not only accommodations but also a wide variety of entertainment forms. From its exhibits and shows, these world-class hotels have become attractions on their own. After all, Macau is home to the biggest hotels in the world, even dwarfing their counterparts in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. They also house boutiques of several high-end brands where you can shop for clothes, jewelry, and accessories.

Senado Square

Senado Square is a giant outdoor museum. It is the centerpiece of the extensive Historic Center of Macau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . “Macau represents an outstanding example of an architectural ensemble that illustrates the development of the encounter between the Western and Chinese civilizations over some four and half centuries,” UNESCO explains the site’s inscription on the list. “Leal Senado Square is the main public square of the town with the Leal Senado Building, a two-storeyed neoclassical structure.”

Brisk walking on the wave-patterned mosaic floor around the site is virtually impossible, for you would be compelled to stop to gawk at the fine architecture of the surrounding buildings.

More about it here:   Senado Square Walk How to get there: Take Bus No. 3, 3A, 4, 8A, 10, 10A, 11, 18, 19, 21A, 26A or 33. You may also board a free shuttle bus to Metropole Hotel then walk from there.

Ruins of St. Paul’s

Probably the most famost landmark in Macau, the Ruins of St. Paul’s (Ruinas de Sao Paulo) attracts droves of tourists all year round. It is also part of the city’s Historic Center. “Company of Jesus Square has the Ruins of St Paul’s, which represent the remaining front elevation of the Church of Mater Dei and Na Tcha Temple,” UNESCO describes the site.

Built in the 16th century, the site was actually a complex of a church and an academic institution. The church itself was constructed later in the 17th century. Today, only the facade remains the only structure standing after being battered by a typhoon and three fires.

Also worth your time is the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt at the bottom of the ruins. It presents religious artifacts including Sino-Portuguese crucifixes.

More about the site here : Ruins of St. Paul’s How to get there : Board Bus No. 10, 10A, 11, 21A, 2, 3, 3A, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8A, 26A, 33, 17, 18, 8A or 26

Macau Tower

Macau’s famous skyscraper! You can take the lift to the tower’s 360-degree observation deck for a spectacular view of the Pearl River Delta, which is more fantabulous at night.

You’ll find links to where you can book tickets in advance not just for the observation deck but also for other activities.

A-Ma Temple

Built in 1488 under the Ming Dynasty, the A-Ma Temple is the oldest in Macau. It was erected in honor of A-Ma, the goddess of the sea. Legend has it that the goddess helps seafarers and guides them during their journey, especially during a storm. Located at Largo do Pagode da Barra in the southeastern tip of the peninsula, it is a bit isolated, making it a tiny isle of silence in the bustling, ravaging ocean that is the city center.

More about it here: A-Ma Temple

How to get there : Take Bus No. 6, 8, 9 or 28B Opening Hours : 7am-6pm

City of Dreams: The House of Dancing Water

This is the world’s largest water show. See this spectacular world-class act performed only at the City of Dreams. It’s incredibly popular and sells out fast, so best to book online.

The Venetian: Gondola Ride

See the impressive interior of the Venetian Hotel in style: on a boat while being serenaded by a gondolier!

The Parisian Macao: Eiffel Tower

If you feel like you won’t be seeing the real Eiffel Tower in Paris anytime soon, visit this replica at the Parisian Macao. Don’t miss the fantastic lights show that mesmerizes viewers every 15 minutes starting 6:15pm to midnight.

You can also climb to the top and see the city lights from its observation deck. You can purchase your tickets from Klook.

Studio City: Batman Dark Flight 4D Ride

Join Batman fight the villains of Gothan in this 4D multi-sensory ride that the whole family will enjoy!

Studio City: Golden Reel Ferris Wheel

Located at Studio City, this is the world’s first figure 8 ferris wheel. At 425ft above the ground, it allows breathtaking views of the Macau cityscape and the surrounding South China Sea.

Wynn Macau: Dancing Fountain

The Dancing Fountain starts mesmerizing guests at 7pm and ends at 12midnight in 15-minute intervals. This means it plays every 15 minutes and the cool thing about it is that it does not do the same number twice, at least not within the day! Inside Wynn Tower is the Tree of Prosperity.

Camoes Square

Macau’s oldest park, the Camoes Square was named after legendary Portuguese poet Luis de Camoes. It is also the largest, covering an area of 20,000 square meters. Three separate areas comprise the square: the Camoes Garden, where the poet composed many of his sonnets; the Casa Garden, a parkette built in 1770 in front of the residence of Portuguese merchant Manuel Pereira and is now an art gallery; and the Protestant Cemetery, the final resting place of some prominent figures including Robert Morrison (the first Protestant missionary in China) and Anders Ljungstedt (Sweden’s first consul general in China).

More about Macau’s relaxing parks here:  5 Must-Visit Gardens in Macau

How to get there : Take Bus 8A, 17, or 26 Opening Hours : Daily, 6am-10pm

Macau Museum

The Museum of Macau isn’t as eye-catching as its neighbor, the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s, but it lodges significant artifacts narrating the history of Macau as a small settlement, as a Portuguese colony, and now as one of two Administrative Regions of China.

Its content isn’t the only thing worth admiring here. The location itself is of historical significance. The museum is set inside Mount Fortress (Fortaleza do Monte), Macau’s most important defense. Seated regally atop Mount Hill, the fortress affords gorgeous panoramic vistas of the city in all directions.

Entrance fee is waived every 15th of the month (MOP15 the rest of the month).

Opening Hours : Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5:30pm Official Website :  www.macaumuseum.gov.mo

Other Macau Attractions

• GUIA FORTRESS Standing proud at the tallest peak of the Macau Peninsula, Guia fortress provides beautiful panoramic views of the metropolis, nearby islands, and even mainland China. The 15-meter-tall lighthouse takes most of the attention as the most arresting structure that tourists can see even from a great distance. The Guia Cable Car is a popular means of reaching the site (Fare: MOP 3), but walking is a great alternative for the physically fit and extremely budget-conscious. How to get there : Take Bus 2, 17, or 25  and alight at Flora Garden stop Opening hours : 9am-5.30pm
• MACAU FISHERMAN’S WHARF A first of its kind, Macau Fisherman’s Wharf is the only cultural-oriented theme park in the city. It is a theme park, yes, but it is also a shopping and dining destination, perfect for families and  barkadas. How to get there : Take bus no. 1A, 3 ,3A, 8, 10, 10A, 10B, 17, 28A, 28B, 28BX, 28C, or 32 Open 24 hours
• MACAU WINE MUSEUM Learn the history of wine and be familiar with the tools used in the production of this highly prized alcoholic beverage. The 1400-square-meter site is composed of a Historical section, a Museum and Exhibitions area, and a Wine Cellar. Address : Rua Luis Gonzaga Gomes Opening Hours : Wednesday-Monday, 10am-8pm.
• JARDIM DE LOU LIM IOC It is a public park that has become a sanctuary to tourists and locals looking for some peace and quiet. Victorian and traditional Chinese structures stand in between ponds that are carpeted by lotuses all over. More about it here: Lou Lim Ioc Garden Address : 10 Estrada de Adolfo Loureiro, Macau. Board Bus 12 or 16 Opening Hours : Daily 6am-9pm

Sample Macau Itineraries

Below are two sample itineraries. The first covers Macau only, while the other spans both Macau and Hong Kong. Both itineraries assume the following:

• You’re a group of 2 , splitting much of the expenses.
• You have a budget of MOP 70-100 per meal (lunch/dinner). You’ll find meals much lower than this, but better to overestimate than under.
• You’re skipping breakfast . It’s overrated, according to intermittent fasters. And healthy too. Haha.
• You’re staying in a hotel in Macau Peninsula . Hotels here are much cheaper than in Taipa or Cotai strip. And because it’s where the city center is, you also save on transportation. I’m using 5footway.inn Project Ponte 16 as sample here. If you’re staying in another, like Fu Hua Hotel, just find the nearest bus station.

Itinerary #1: Macau Only

Duration : 3 days, 2 nights

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 the airport 08:00 pm – Airport Check in, dinner at airport, MOP 100 10:15 pm – Flight out

If you spend MOP 310 per hotel-night per person, this itinerary will set you back MOP1200 (USD150, EUR120, SGD195, HKD1165, PHP7760) .

This does NOT include airfare and gaming expenses or hotel attractions (4D rides, shows). Just add the cost to the figure above.

Itinerary #2: Macau + Hong Kong

Duration : 5 Days, 4 nights

If you enter Hong Kong and exit in Macau, everything should go smoothly. Experience Hong Kong first and then spend the last two days in Macau. This was my itinerary for one of my trips.

For the Hong Kong leg of this itinerary, read this first: HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE .

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 Macau Ferry Terminal 08:00 pm – Board Ferry to Hong Kong, HKD 160 09:15 pm – Take MTR to Guesthouse 09:50 pm – Check-in 10:30 pm – Late dinner (fast food), HKD 50 11:30 pm – Lights out

Day 4: NGONG PING & VICTORIA PEAK 09:00 am – Take MTR to Tung Chung Station, HKD19.5 10:00 am – Take bus to Ngong Ping, HKD17.5 10:30 am – See Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery 012:30 pm – Bus back to Tung Chung Station, HKD17.5 01:00 pm – Lunch, HKD70 03:00 pm – Take MTR to Hong Kong Station, HKD 25.5 03:30 pm – Walk to Peak Tram, Roundtrip fare: HKD95 04:00 pm – Explore Victoria Peak, wait for sunset 06:00 pm – Go down via tram, walk to Central Station 06:50 pm – MRT to Tsim Sha Tsui Station, HKD10.5 07:00 pm – Walk to Avenue of Stars 07:15 pm – Explore Avenue of Stars, FREE 08:00 pm – Watch the Symphony of Lights, FREE 08:30 pm – Dinner, HKD 70 09:00 pm – Walk back to hotel

If you spend only HKD300 per night on accommodations (divided by 2 pax), the Hong Kong leg of this itinerary will cost you an additional HKD1800 (USD230, EUR187, SGD300, MOP1854, PHP12,000) , excluding the airfare.

More than a third of the total cost is used on Disneyland expenses alone, so if you’re traveling on a shoestring or you’re not interested in Disneyland, the total cost is down to only HKD1280 (USD163, EUR133, SGD214, MOP1320, PHP8480).

This places the total Hong Kong and Macau expenses to:

• With Disneyland: MOP3000 (USD371, EUR302, SGD487, HKD2913, PHP19,300 )
• Without Disneyland: MOP2500 (USD310, EUR252, SGD406, HKD2430, PHP16,100 )

Of course, you can even reduce the costs even further by keeping the food expenses to a minimum. Like I mentioned, I added a big allowance to the food budget because it’s better to overestimate than under. You can also sleep at cheaper accommodations.

More Tips for the Poor Traveler

• Walk when you can . I enjoy walking around Macau. If just within the peninsula, I always opt to just travel on foot. And when I need to go to the islands, I gallop to the nearest station where I can board a FREE shuttle service. This way, I don’t get to spend anything on transportation and reallocate the savings to other attractions.
• Download the MacauMap app . It is equipped with a map and a directory of all the bus lines, which will help you understand the bus system better.
• Try Macanese egg tarts and pork buns , the city’s favorite street foods! You’ll see them at many restaurants and stalls, especially at touristy areas.
• If you can’t find a place to stay in Macau that is within your budget range and you’re also going to Hong Kong, you can just visit Macau on a day tour . Macau is small and if you’re planning on just sightseeing, you can cover almost every major point of interest within the day. Make sure you have the energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there show money to enter macau.

Yes. According to the Macao Immigration Department:

“Visitors are required to prove that they possess the vital resources of a minimum of MOP5000 for their expected period of stay in Macao.”

The amount doesn’t need to be in MOP. Other currencies are accepted as long as it has the same value. Credit cards are not accepted.

However, in my experience, I have been to Macau a few times but I was never asked to show money. I don’t know anyone else who has been asked. Regardless, it’s best to have this on hand just in case.

Is it possible to enter Macau and exit Hong Kong?

YES, if what you mean is your outgoing flight is to Macau and your return or onward flight is from Hong Kong, and you’re crossing the border legally.

Technically speaking, what you will be doing is not “enter Macau-exit Hong Kong”. You will actually enter Macau then exit Macau, cross the border, then enter Hong Kong then exit Hong Kong, because you’ll be clearing Immigration checks on both sides.

Is it possible to enter Hong Kong and exit Macau?

YES, if what you mean is your outgoing flight is to Hong Kong and your return/onward flight is from Macau, and you’re crossing the border legally.

Technically speaking, what you will be doing is not “enter Hong Kong-exit Macau”. You will actually be entering Macau then exiting Macau, crossing the border, then entering Hong Kong then exiting Hong Kong, because you’ll be clearing Immigration checks on both sides.

2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 1️⃣7️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

Related Posts:

• HONG KONG and MACAU: Budget Travel Guide
• SINGAPORE: Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2014)
• MALACCA, MALAYSIA: Budget Travel Guide
• Coron and Busuanga: Budget Travel Guide
• JAPAN MULTI-CITY TOUR: How to Plan a Budget Trip
• KOREA ON A BUDGET: Seoul Travel Guide & Itinerary
• DANJUGAN ISLAND ON A BUDGET: Travel Guide & Itinerary
• TAROKO GORGE TRAVEL GUIDE: Bus Passes, Tours, Things to Do

• Recent Posts

• 2024 Resorts World One HONG KONG CRUISE Guide for First Timers - 13 April 2024
• FLIGHT RESERVATION for VISA • How to Get Dummy Ticket for Schengen, Canada, China and Other Visa Applications - 22 March 2024
• 2024 Cebu Pacific Promos & PISO SALE with List of Covered Destinations - 4 March 2024

This is so informative. Thanks for sharing your experience.

Thanks, Ehdz! :)

Hong Kong to Macau via the new Hong Kong Macau Zhuhai Bridge: 1. Ride MTR to Sunny Bay 2. In Sunny Bay, look for B5 bus. Pay 5.8 HKD. It will bring you to HZMB port for custom and immigration check. Pay 65 HKD. It accepts credit card payment. Enjoy travelling via the longest sea crossing bridge of the world!

How about if you’re traveling from Macau to Hong Kong via HZMB? How is long will be the travel as well? Thanks guys this is such a big help!!

Thanks for sharing, Gabs! Yes, we’ll be updating this soon. :)

This is very informative. Will use this as a guide & will update you once we’re back from our travel – Macau-Hk-Macau. Thank you & more power

Enjoy Macau and HK! :)

Hello can i ask? I’m travelling with my 3 friend in macao via cebu but dadarating kami sa Macao by around 10pm probable ba na maghihintay nalng kmi sa airport? or didirect na kmi sa hotel namin? confused pa kmi sa hotel where we will stay kci we only have limited time schedule namin is march 11 monday uwi is march 15 12Mn hehe. i plan nalng na mag one day tour kmi sa Hk then uwi kmi balik agad sa macao and spend the 2 days in macao, or the which is which? or in the other way stay nalang kami sa Hk huhuhu so confused pa help po ako a big Help Thankyou and Godbless :) and were in a budget trip pala A.KA poor travel

Mas maraming makikita and mas mura ang accommodations sa HK so pwedeng sa HK na lang kayo mag-2 days tapos ung i-1 day nyo na lang is Macau.

We had something similar before. 10-ish pm din kami dumating. From the airport, pumunta na kami agad sa ferry terminal to go to HK. Tapos check in agad. We stayed there for 2 days. Then tsaka kami bumalik ng Macau. If i-day tour nyo lang ang Macau, you can leave your bags sa Venetian casino. Tapos ikot-ikot kayo, then fly na kayo sa gabi para no need na maghotel in Macau.

Hi po. This is so helpful. I have the same dilemma din kasi. Im not sure if I can bool hongkong accommodation as my flight details will be from clark to macau. Thanks for the tip. God bless

Hi so confused din about sa travel namin this Jan 31, 2019. We are about to arrive at Macau by Jan 31, then 1 day tour sa hongkong on feb 2 and the same day balik din kami sa macao wala ba kaming magiging problemba sa immigration? Thank you so much!!

Normal lang po yun. Nagawa na po namin yun a few times.

hi po ask ko lang ano po mga kelangan pg mg tour s macau tpos plan po nmin pmunta hongkong sana pwd po b yun?ilang araw po dpt mg stay s hongkong kng s macau k gling.slmat in advance

Hi RJ, pwede po yun. Kahit day tour lang, uwian sa Macau, pwede rin yung ganun.

Hi Sirs, Meron po ba kayong alam na pwede pagstayan in macau as early as 2am check in? Or is it safe to sleep in macau airport and wait until magumaga? Salmat

I think most full service hotels naman ay tumatanggap ng late night check in.

I haven’t tried magovernight sa Macau airport though, so di ko alam, huhu :(

Very helpful! What is your experience using Skypier Ferry? We are planning to go to Macau immediately after arrival in Hong Kong International Airport. I came across Skypier on your page. Do you have details for Skypier?Can we go directly to the Skypier Ferry without exiting the airport? Thank you so much!

Informative and detailed one. Agree to not offering the cheapest ways rather than to enjoy and treat yourselves, thank you for this! BTW, we will be using AirBNB to book our stay, quite cheaper but real good.

Hello Po. we will travel to macau this Sept 8.We booked airbnb sa macau jud 1 night.Okay lang po ba yun sa immigration sa philippines since illegal ang airbnb sa macau?

Hi. I would like to follow on this. I need answer also pleaseee…

Thanks! Enjoy Macau!

Hi Sir.. have u tried entering HK and exit sa Macau back to Phils (cebu)? yan kasi na booked ko under ceb pac..im just worried f macau immigration would niot allow us to exit…

Hi Alfie, I have tried, yes, but Manila. It’s perfectly fine to have different entry and exit points as long as you have a return ticket, hotel reservation, etc.

what if from hongkong to macau then the night of the same day is our flight going back to philippines is it ok for the macau immigration coz we don’t plan to sleep at macau

Yes po, okay lang po yun.

Good day. has anyone try klook macau sightseeing day tour? ask ko lang if on-time ba yung drop-off sa hotel? need to catch up evening workship at 8:30pm. Thanks in advance

Hi. Required po ba talaga ang na may maipakita na sufficient funds sa airport na MOP5000? Kelangan in cash siya per pax? Pano kung may credit card kami?

Hi Athena, ang alam ko, yep, nasa rules nila yun. Pero wala pa akong kilala na na-ask. Been to Macau many times but never ako in-ask to prove na meron aking 5000 MOP. But it’s best na meron na lang just in case.

Do you have details for Luggage Counter/Lockers where we can leave our bags? We will only be in a Day Tour and Macau.

I didn’t keep my eyes open for lockers during our visit so I didn’t spot any. (I wasn’t paying attention.) But last time I checked, you can leave your luggage at the Venetian for free. :)

Hi! Macau kasi yung flight namin back and forth, is it ok if pagdating nami sa airport, diritso kami sa HK para magstay? Di po ba mahihirapan kami sa immigration don? Plan po nami 3nights don then balik kami Macau for 2 nights, ok lang po ba yun?

Hi Izza, yep, okay lang po yan. Nagawa na namin po yan na dumating kami sa Macau tapos diretso Hong Kong kami.

Good day. Do you have any idea what Bus to ride from The Venetian Macao to Hongkong?Do have the exact detail?

Hi! May alam ka po saan pwede mag-iwan ng luggage while touring Macau for the day? Aside sa airport since pricey po.

Hi Faye, sa Venetian. :)

Thanks po. May idea ka po how much and time open para sa hindi guest ng hotel?

Hello :) Is Macau PWD friendly?

I always come across your travel blogs when researching for itineraries. And my most loved article is about travelling with your senior citizen Mom <3. Having said that, I'm fulfilling my dream of travelling with my parents (both senior citizens and my Mom is already using a cane due to partial hip replacement surgery).

Hi Joan, if DIY, there may be a lot of walking involved pero pwede naming ma-bypass.

Yung open top bus, mukhang OK, although I haven’t personally tried it in Macau. I’ve tried it in other cities though, and ok siya for seniors.

If konti lang naman ang pupuntahan nyo na sites per day, sulit na rin ang cab since 3 naman kayo. :)

Yung show money po ba need cash? Or kahit nasa savings card? Or need bank statement? Thank you :)

Hello, pwede ba Arrival sa HK is 8am tas tour lang saglit then to Macau hapon then balik ng Ph same day at 11pm? Magkakaproblema ba kami sa immigration?

My sample itinerary is: August 14, 8am arrival in HK then stay there for 6 hours then around 1-2pm punta na kami Macau, tas tour din saglit then flight back from Macau to PH at 11pm, same day August 14 Is that doable and not gonna have a problem sa immigration? Please let me know. Thankss

Quick question regarding transpo from Macau to Hong Kong, would you have any idea if there’s a bus that goes directly to HKIA from Macau or how to go to the HKIA from Macau via bus? I’ve read that there is a ferry that goes directly to Hong Kong Sky Pier but it’s too expensive, also, I would need to return the Pocket WIFI to the HKIA and I don’t think I would still be able to do so if I go this route, so I’m wondering if taking the bus would be more preferable and cost effective. Or should we take a ferry back to Sheung Wan or TST and ride a bus from there? Thanks!

Need help. We will be in hongkong for 4D/3 nights then we are planing to spend 2 days in macau .. Is it possible if we will explore hongkong late night then travel from hongkong to macau by bus at dawn so that we can explore macau early and save 1 night sah air bnb cost and plan to book 1 night on aug 25 to 26 coz flight namin is 10 pm on aug 26

Good day Sir. We will be travelling to Macau this Sept.8 -11 We will stay sa macau Sept 8 -9 through AirBNB but the questions is Okay lang ba ang airbnb sa Macau? kasi sabi nila illegal daw ang aribnb sa Macau baka e ask kami sa Phil Immigration officer if saan kami mag stay sa macau at baka ma offload kami :( So it is okay to book Airbnb in Macau?

Unfortunately, di ko pa natry mag-Airbnb sa Macau so di ko alam. :(

Hi! My friends and I will go in Macau this November. I found out that we will be staying in the same accommodation ( 5footway.inn Project Ponte 16) as you. May I know how to commute from airport to the hotel.

We took the ferry to a short trip in MACAU. We enjoyed the shows, the food and the amazing hotels and took spectacular pictures

Your site is my go-to guide now. I am grateful to you when I prepared for my trip to Canada last June, Ho Chi Minh this 1st week of August and this end of August, we are going to Macau. Thank you for all the suggestions. I surprised to see that there are more areas to visit in Macau since it is often a one day tour suggestion from HK.

Thank you for trusting our blog! Hope you have a great time in Macau!

Hi need you advice please. Nag book ako ng flight 3D3N from Manila to Macau and Macau to Manila. Gabi na ang arrival namin sa Macau around 9pm. So ang plan ko sana is to go straight to HK via ferry and dun mag stay then go back to Macau on my last day para diretcho flight na din sana pauwi. My question is hindi ba ako mag kakaproblema sa immigration kung hahanapan ako ng hotel booking at ang ipapakita ko is yung booking ko sa HK for the first two nights then macau hotel on my last night? Thank you.

Hi Aldrine, nagawa ko naman na po yan. Di naman po ako nagkaproblem. Sanay naman sila sa ganyan. Just make sure you have the addresses of your hotel and your return flight from Macau.

Pwede po b ung philippines to macau then macau to Hk from hk to ph?

Featured On

We heard you!

Your comment is now queued for moderation! We’ll try to get back to you soonest. While waiting, follow us on these channels.

Subscribe on Youtube! Follow us on Instagram!

Some articles on Fair Dinkum traveller may contain compensated links. Please read the  disclaimer for more information.

Explore with Ease: Your Ideal 5-Day Hong Kong Macau Itinerary

Feb 20, 2024 | Feature | 0 comments

Are you struggling to merge the dynamic vibes of Hong Kong with Macau’s historic charm in a tight schedule? This compact guide is your answer to experiencing the best of both worlds.

Embark on a five-day Hong Kong Macau itinerary that slices through the guesswork to deliver a tapestry of experiences—from Hong Kong’s towering cityscape and peaceful islands to Macau’s casinos, cobbled streets, and colonial past.

Here’s to an efficient, well-informed tour that makes every moment in these two distinct worlds count, ensuring you capture the essence of both destinations without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast eager to explore ancient temples and modern museums, a foodie looking to sample exquisite cuisines, or an adventurer ready to take on new experiences, this Hong Kong Macau itinerary promises to satisfy your wanderlust and leave you with lasting memories.

Explore with Ease: Your Ideal 5-Day Hong Kong Macau Itinerary.

Key Takeaways

• Hong Kong & Macau offer a unique mix of natural beauty and rich history; the East meets West culture and is well connected by convenient transportation like the MTR & ferries.
• Must-do activities include visiting Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak and Disneyland, exploring Macau’s historical sites like the Ruins of St. Paul, and indulging in the local cuisines of both regions.
• For a smooth trip, familiarize yourself with the Hong Kong Dollar, stay connected with a local SIM card, and consider learning some basic Cantonese phrases to enhance your overall experience.

Get excited by visiting Macau attractions.

Journey Through Two Cities: Unveiling the Hong Kong-Macau Itinerary

The neighbouring cities of Hong Kong and Macau radiate vibrancy and diversity, offering a unique fusion of East and West. Hong Kong, a city where skyscrapers and ancient temples coexist, is a bustling metropolis and a city of stunning natural beauty. Comprised of:

• Hong Kong Island
• the Kowloon Peninsula
• the New Territories
• over 200 offshore islands

Hong Kong has many attractions to explore, from the stunning skyline of Victoria Harbor to the charming fishing villages on its outlying islands.

A short ferry ride away from Hong Kong, Macau, also known as the ‘Vegas of the East,’ is a city where the grandeur of Vegas-style casinos meets the rich heritage of a former Portuguese colony. The Macau Special Administrative Region is a city of contrasts – glitzy casinos, quaint cobblestone streets, towering skyscrapers and centuries-old temples, lavish luxury, and simple tradition. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a thrill-seeker, Macau offers something for everyone.

On an overcast day, the Victoria Harbour views from the Peak are still pretty good.

Navigating Your Arrival in Hong Kong

As soon as you land at Hong Kong International Airport, numerous convenient transportation options will take you to the city centre. The Mass Transport Rail (MTR), a convenient city transport, offers express tickets for airport transit. This extensive rail network connects the airport to the city’s central districts, making exploring the city at your own pace easy. If you prefer a more private mode of transport, taxis are readily available, offering door-to-door service to your accommodation.

Regarding accommodations, Hong Kong offers an extensive range of options catering to all budgets and preferences. From on-site airport hotels to budget hostels and luxury resorts, the city caters to all types of travellers. For ease of city travel, consider staying in hotels near the Airport Express MTR line, which provides easy access to the city centre. And don’t worry about staying connected; most public areas in the airport offer free wireless internet access, so you can keep your loved ones updated about your journey.

Click here to find your ideal accommodation in Hong Kong. 

Crossing Over to Macau

After exploring Hong Kong’s myriad attractions, you can shift your focus to Macau. Travelling from Hong Kong to Macau is a breeze, thanks to regular ferry services from the Star Ferry Pier and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.

The ferry departs frequently, around every 30 minutes, and the crossing typically takes about an hour. Economy class tickets start from HKD 175 during weekdays, while Premier Grand Class tickets for day sailings are priced at HKD 495. The Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal is conveniently located at the Shun Tak Centre in Sheung Wan and has a seamless connection to the MTR Sheung Wan Station.

The journey to Macau is more than just reaching a new city; it symbolizes a transition from Hong Kong’s hustle and bustle to Macau’s distinct cultural fusion. As you journey across the waters, take a moment to marvel at the change of scenery and anticipate the exciting experiences that await you in Macau.

Click here to discover the best fares and times between the Asian Destinations. 

Travelling from Hong Kong to Macau by Ferry.

The Heartbeat of Hong Kong: Must-Visit Attractions

Hong Kong, a city of contrasts, houses diverse attractions, each providing a unique experience. Consider following a well-planned Hong Kong itinerary to make the most of your visit. Some of the must-visit attractions in Hong Kong include:

• Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck: Offering panoramic vistas of the city skyline
• Man Mo Temple: A spiritual sanctuary with beautiful architecture
• Mong Kok: A bustling market area with a vibrant atmosphere
• Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden: A tranquil escape with beautiful landscapes
• Disneyland Hong Kong: A truly memorable family getaway.

Hong Kong truly offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit Hong Kong destination, including the fascinating Hong Kong Museum.

For the thrill-seekers, there’s Ocean Park Hong Kong, a marine-life theme park featuring roller coasters, animal exhibits, and shows. For Disney enthusiasts, Hong Kong Disneyland is a magical kingdom where you can meet your favourite Disney characters, enjoy thrilling rides, and watch spectacular shows. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a foodie, or a nature lover, Hong Kong has got you covered.

Discovering Tsim Sha Tsui

Tsim Sha Tsui, commonly known as TST, is among Hong Kong’s most vibrant areas. Located at the tip of the Kowloon Peninsula, Tsim Sha Tsui is a hub for shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, with stunning views of Victoria Harbor and the Hong Kong skyline, is perfect for an evening stroll. Add to this the Symphony of Lights, a spectacular light and sound show, and you have a mesmerizing experience that is quintessentially Hong Kong.

In addition to the promenade, Tsim Sha Tsui is home to several cultural institutions. Some of the highlights include:

• The Hong Kong Cultural Centre, which hosts world-class performances
• The Hong Kong Space Museum, which offers engaging cultural and educational experiences
• The Hong Kong Art Museum showcases a wide range of art. And if you’re into shopping, Tsim Sha Tsui won’t disappoint. From the luxury boutiques at 1881 Heritage to the wide variety of local and international brands at K11 Musea Mall, Tsim Sha Tsui offers a shopping experience like no other.

Come and explore Tsim Sha Tsui and admire harbour views.

Ascending Victoria Peak

A trip to Victoria Peak, the city’s highest point, is a must for any visit to Hong Kong. The Peak, as locals call it, offers breathtaking views of:

• Victoria Harbor
• On clear days, even the outlying islands

One of the best ways to enjoy these panoramic vistas is from Sky Terrace 428, the highest observation deck in Hong Kong, atop the Peak Tower.

To reach the Peak, you can:

• Take the Peak Tram, a historic funicular railway that offers scenic travel to Sky Terrace 428
• Visit Madame Tussauds, Trick Eye Museum, and the Peak Tram Historical Gallery, all housed within the Peak Tower
• Explore various shops and entertainment opportunities in the Peak Tower

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Victoria Peak has something for you.

Click here to discover the best Hong Kong Day trips for your Holiday!

Admire the night lights on Hong Kong Island.

Macau’s Melting Pot: A Day Trip to Remember

Once you’ve explored Hong Kong’s vibrant cityscape, you can embark on a day trip to Macau, which showcases a unique blend of rich history and contemporary developments. Macau, a former Portuguese colony, is a melting pot of cultures, where the East meets the West, and the Old meets the New.

From the iconic Macau Tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city, to the Museum of Macau, which provides a glimpse into the city’s rich history, Macau is a city that never fails to fascinate. And let’s not forget Macau’s first Vegas-style casino, which offers a taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife. So whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or a foodie, a day trip to Macau promises to be a memorable part of your Hong Kong-Macau itinerary.

Time Travel in Macau Peninsula

The Macau Peninsula, the oldest and most populous part of Macau, has historical and cultural landmarks. Here, you can find tributes to the city’s colonial past in Portuguese-style buildings and churches, such as the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s and St. Dominic’s Church.

But it’s not just about the past. The Macau Peninsula is also home to modern attractions like the Macau Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the Nezha Temple, a significant historical and religious site dedicated to a Taoist deity. As you explore the peninsula, you’ll experience the unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures that make Macau unique.

The crowds make their way to the Ruins of St Paul.

Thrills and Spills on Taipa Island

For a contemporary experience, venture to Taipa Island, home to the City of Dreams. This entertainment complex blends luxury and entertainment reminiscent of Las Vegas. Here, you can:

• Try your luck at the casinos
• Immerse yourself in virtual reality experiences
• Watch the breathtaking spectacle of the House of Dancing Water, a water-based show featuring acrobatics, stunts, and special effects.

Getting around Taipa Island is easy, thanks to a range of bus services that ensure easy travel to these attractions. So whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline rush at the casinos or a culture enthusiast interested in the island’s unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese influences, Taipa Island promises an unforgettable experience.

Click here to experience the best Macau offers with these brilliant tours!

The gondola ride at Venetian Macau.

Embrace the Adventure: Lantau Island and Beyond

Following the glitz and glamour of Macau, seize the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of Lantau Island. The largest of Hong Kong’s islands, Lantau, is home to the culturally significant Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, which offer a serene experience away from the urban pace.

Besides its cultural attractions, Lantau Island is known for its stunning natural beauty. From the tranquil landscapes of the Ngong Ping Village to the breathtaking views atop Lantau Peak, the island offers a refreshing break from the bustling cityscapes of Hong Kong and Macau.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, Lantau Island promises a genuinely enriching experience.

Pilgrimage to Po Lin Monastery and Tian Tan Buddha

A visit to Lantau Island is highlighted by a pilgrimage to the Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha. Standing at 34 meters high, the Big Buddha is a modern tribute to ancient Buddhist statues, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith.

You can reach the Big Buddha and the Po Lin Monastery by taking the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, which provides panoramic views of the surroundings during the ride. Once there, you can immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the monastery, enjoy a tranquil walk along the Wisdom Path, and marvel at the magnificent statue of the Big Buddha.

Tian Tan Buddha.

The Charm of Ngong Ping Village

Once you’ve visited the Po Lin Monastery and the Big Buddha, discover the charm of Ngong Ping Village. This culturally themed village features the distinctive New Pai Lau ornamental archway, authentic Chinese tea ceremonies at the Tea House, and a glimpse into traditional village life.

Whether you’re strolling through the village, shopping for souvenirs, or savouring a cup of traditional Chinese tea, you’ll find that Ngong Ping Village offers a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and reflect on your journey.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Lantau Island day trip experience, click here to find out more.

The Tian Tan Buddha, as seen from Ngong Ping Village.

Cultural Immersion: Hong Kong’s Local Life and Cuisine

Having explored the natural beauty and cultural attractions of Lantau Island, next immerse yourself in the local life and cuisine of Hong Kong. From market hopping in Kowloon Peninsula to food tours in vibrant neighbourhoods like Sham Shui Po and Tai Po Market, you’ll have ample opportunities to experience the city’s culinary culture and authentic local lifestyle.

Whether you’re savouring a bowl of wonton noodles at a local eatery, sampling regional favourites in the business areas of Central and Sheung Wan, or shopping for souvenirs at a bustling market, you’ll find that the city’s energy and vibrancy are infectious. The hustle and bustle, the sights and sounds, the flavours and aromas – all these experiences come together to give you a profound appreciation for the Hong Kong lifestyle.

Savoury Bites at Temple Street Night Market

Food lovers should not miss a visit to the Temple Street Night Market. This bustling market is renowned for its wide array of local street snacks and diverse shopping options. Some must-try foods include:

• Delicious pork dumplings
• Roast goose
• Sweet pineapple buns
• Hot bowls of noodles

The market offers a taste of Hong Kong’s beloved street food culture.

But it’s not just about the food. The Night Market is also a shopper’s paradise. From affordable fashion and jewellery to DVDs and souvenirs, you’ll find various items to take home as souvenirs of your Hong Kong-Macau adventure.

There are many souvenirs on display at Temple St Market.

A Taste of Tradition in Mong Kok

Venture to Mong Kok for a taste of traditional Hong Kong snacks, and if you have time, explore Tung Chung as well. This vibrant neighbourhood is celebrated for its street-side food stalls serving traditional Hong Kong snacks. Here, you can indulge in classic dim sum items, fish balls, and fried tofu, reflecting the area’s rich culinary heritage.

But Mong Kok is not just about food. It’s also about the lively streets, the bustling markets, and the vibrant local life. So, after you’ve had your fill of delicious snacks, take some time to explore the neighbourhood. You might stumble upon a street performance, a charming boutique, or a hidden gem that adds a special touch to your Hong Kong-Macau adventure.

Delicious seafood is a treat when touring Macau and Hong Kong.

Macau Special Administrative Region: A Blend of East and West

Having explored Hong Kong’s vibrant cityscape and Lantau Island’s serene landscapes, next delve into Macau’s unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. This particular administrative region of China, located just across from mainland China, showcases a distinct blend of cultural influences, notably Portuguese, which is deeply embedded in its architecture.

The fusion of East and West in Macau is also visible through its bilingual street names, presented in both Portuguese and Chinese. This unique blend of cultures is a testament to Macau’s rich history as a former Portuguese colony and its status as a modern international city. From its architectural wonders to its delicious cuisine, Macau promises a unique and enriching experience.

Architectural Wonders: From A-Ma Temple to Macau Tower

Macau is brimming with architectural wonders, each with unique charm and history. The A-Ma Temple, one of Macau’s oldest spiritual sites, is a testament to the city’s religious heritage. The Ruins of St. Paul’s iconic facade stands as a reminder of Macau’s colonial past.

But Macau is not just about the past. The city is also home to modern architectural marvels like the Macau Tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city. Whether you’re marvelling at the intricate details of a centuries-old temple or standing atop a modern tower, Macau’s architectural wonders promise to leave you in awe.

A-Ma Temple in Macau.

Savouring Macanese Flavors

A visit to Macau isn’t complete without experiencing its unique cuisine. Macanese cuisine is a testament to the city’s cultural fusion, blending Portuguese flavours with Southeast Asian spices. Signature dishes such as African chicken, Bacalhau, and Minchi highlight this unique culinary synthesis, incorporating diverse ingredients from various cultures.

You can savour these Macanese flavours in locales such as Taipa Village, where the culinary landscape is rich with Chinese and Portuguese-inspired fare. From the sweet egg tarts to the savoury almond cookies, Macau’s cuisine promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Free entertainment is alive on the streets of Taipa Island, Macau.

Leisure and Luxury: Hong Kong’s Entertainment and Shopping Scene

Following a day of cultural immersion and exploration, indulge in the leisure and luxury that Hong Kong offers. The city’s entertainment and shopping scene is a blend of the traditional and the modern, the affordable and the luxurious. Whether you prefer high-end shopping malls or bustling markets, high-profile brands or local boutiques, Hong Kong’s shopping scene has something for everyone.

From the luxury shopping at Landmark in Central to the diverse retail outlets at Festival Walk, from the electronics haven of Sham Shui Po to the jade offerings at Jade Market, shopping in Hong Kong is an experience.

After a day of shopping, unwind at one of the city’s many entertainment venues, whether it’s a world-class performance at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre or a vibrant night at Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong’s premier nightlife district.

Retail Therapy in Kowloon’s Markets

For a local shopping experience, consider heading to the markets in Kowloon. Here, you can find various goods, from fashion and accessories to electronics and souvenirs. The bustling markets offer a vibrant atmosphere where you can haggle for the best prices and discover unique items you won’t find in the malls.

One of the must-visit markets in Kowloon is the Fa Yuen Market, widely known as Sneaker Street. Here, you can find a wide selection of shoes and trainers popular with locals and tourists. Another famous market is the Jade Market, where you can find various jade products, from jewellery to decorative items.

Kowloon Skyline

Experiencing the City Skyline from Sky Terrace 428

Cap off your Hong Kong-Macau adventure at Sky Terrace 428, the highest observation deck in Hong Kong. Atop the Peak Tower, Sky Terrace 428 offers panoramic views of the city skyline, Victoria Harbor, and the surrounding islands.

The journey to the terrace is also an experience in itself. Take the Peak Tram, a historic funicular railway, and enjoy the scenic ride to the Peak Tower. Once at the top, you can visit attractions like Madame Tussauds and the Peak Tram Historical Gallery.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or a romantic looking for a stunning sunset view, Sky Terrace 428 promises a memorable experience.

Hong Kong cityscape at noon.

Practicalities for the Perfect Trip

Having sampled what Hong Kong and Macau offer, let’s delve into some practicalities to ensure a perfect trip. From safety considerations to travel expenses, from weather conditions to language proficiency, several factors can enhance your travel experience in these cities.

Hong Kong and Macau are well-connected cities featuring extensive bus and train networks. And with English being one of the official languages, getting around these cities is a breeze. But it’s not just about the logistics. The best times for visiting these cities are during autumn, winter, and spring when the weather is pleasant and the cities are most vibrant.

Money Matters: Understanding the Hong Kong Dollar

Before setting off on your Hong Kong-Macau adventure, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the local currency. In Hong Kong, the official currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD), and it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases and tips, although credit cards are widely accepted.

For currency exchange, avoiding airport kiosks is advisable due to less favourable rates. Instead, consider local money changers like Kin Shing Money Exchange or Capital Exchange Limited, which offer competitive rates without commissions. If you use a credit or debit card, remember to notify your bank of travel plans to prevent potential issues with foreign transactions.

Communication and Connectivity

In the digital age, maintaining connectivity while travelling is vital. Whether navigating around the city, checking out restaurant reviews, or sharing your travel photos on social media, reliable internet connectivity is necessary. In Hong Kong and Macau, tourists can access free Wi-Fi at numerous visitor centres, shopping malls, and government buildings. For a more reliable connection, consider getting a Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM Card, which offers data usage, unlimited Wi-Fi, local calls, and credits for international communications.

While English is widely spoken in Hong Kong and Macau, learning a few basic Cantonese phrases can be helpful. This will enhance your ability to communicate and navigate in these cities and enrich your cultural experience, allowing you to connect more deeply with the local people and their culture.

Make the most of your time in Hong Kong and visit the best places, including Disneyland.

Summary of your Macau Hong Kong itinerary

From the vibrant cityscape of Hong Kong to the serene landscapes of Lantau Island, from the thrilling casinos of Macau to the tranquil temples of the Macau Peninsula, this 5-day Hong Kong-Macau itinerary offers a unique blend of experiences.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or a nature lover, these cities promise to captivate you with their rich history, diverse culture, delicious cuisine, stunning vistas, and vibrant street life. So pack your bags, embark on this adventure, and create unforgettable memories in Hong Kong and Macau.

The streets get a little crowded in Macau, so tread with caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in hong kong and macau.

You should spend at least three days in Hong Kong, and if you’re visiting Macau, add another day, making it 4-5 days in total.

Is Macau worth visiting from Hong Kong?

If you’re interested in experiencing a mix of culture and gambling, then Macau is worth visiting from Hong Kong. It’s easily doable as a day trip and offers a unique blend of historic charm and glitzy modern attractions.

How long is the ferry ride from Hong Kong to Macau?

The ferry ride from Hong Kong to Macau takes about 1 hour, covering approximately 33 nautical miles (61 km). It’s a quick and convenient way to travel between the two destinations.

What are some must-visit attractions in Hong Kong?

You must visit attractions in Hong Kong, such as the Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck, Man Mo Temple, Ocean Park Hong Kong, and Hong Kong Disneyland, among others. Don’t miss out!

What is the local currency in Hong Kong?

The local currency in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). You’ll need it for your trip!

Admiring the views on Hong Kong Island.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get Your Free E-Book Today!

Stay in the loop with our monthly newsletter! Get expert travel tips and destination advice, and snag a free E-Book!

You have Successfully Subscribed!

We noticed you're visiting from United States (US). We've updated our prices to United States (US) dollar for your shopping convenience. Use Australian dollar instead. Dismiss

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

by Aileen Adalid Itineraries , Hong Kong , Macau 203 comments

• How to Type Enye (Ññ) in Laptop Computer, iPhone, Android Keyboard, etc.: Small or Big Capital Letter
• Camping in Antarctica: Tips & Guide for the Overnight Experience
• 5 Things to Know First Before You Quit Your Job and Travel the World
• Best Hotels in Colombo, Sri Lanka: From Cheap to Luxury Accommodations and Places to Stay
• Best Hotels in Copenhagen, Denmark: From Cheap to Luxury Accommodations and Places to Stay
• South Korea Cherry Blossom Season Forecast (2024): When & Where to Visit in Seoul and Other Regions
• Top Online Grocery Delivery Manila Sites & Apps (Philippines)
• Where to Stay in Nice, France: Boutique Best Western Plus Hotel Massena
• Dark Dining at DID: Dine in the Dark Bangkok, Thailand
• 60 Best Travel Movies in The World That Inspire Wanderlust (2024 Must-Watch Films)

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!

Have you seen my latest vlog?

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!

Follow Along

CURRENTLY BASED IN: The Philippines

• 100k Followers
• 51k Followers
• 80k Followers
• 10k Followers
• 23.1k Followers

Join over 1 million readers worldwide and get my FREE packing checklist, gain exclusive access to travel giveaways and more!

Success! Next, please check your email to confirm your subscription.

GET FREE PRINTABLE NOW!

Trending Now

Korean visa application requirements for filipino tourists in manila, philippines (single / multiple entry).

Make your South Korea travel dreams come true and get a single or multiple South Korean visa in Manila, Philippines!

Top 10 Things to Do on a Trip to South America

South America is one of the most diverse continents — full of natural wonders and fascinating cultures. Join us as we explore the top 10 things to do.

Top 10 Things to Do for Your First Tibet Travel

Make the most of your Tibet travel with these top 10 must-do activities, from exploring ancient monasteries to trekking mountains!

Geisha of Japan: Understanding the Facts, History & Myths

Japan’s geisha are cloaked in mystery & secrecy resulting in a number of false ideas about them — so let’s get the facts straight!

Maximizing Your Miles: Unlock Budget-Friendly Travel Hacks & Tips

Start traveling smart! Take note of these travel hacks that will help you in maximizing your miles or do points hacking.

Latest Posts

Learn Today

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!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Be notified of follow-up comments by email

Be notified of new posts by email

Submit Comment

Pin It on Pinterest

A Perfect 1 Day Macau Itinerary

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on November 16, 2023

Categories Macau

Macau is a very small territory in China not far from  Hong Kong.  And it used to be under the Portuguese domain in the past. There are many Macau tourist spots that you can’t miss.

We will write a perfect 1 Day Macau itinerary. And even longer until 2-3 days for your itinerary in Macau if you are spending longer. Click here to get a discount booking activities in Macau !

The whole centre of Macau is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list which is brilliant so nearly all the sites here have historic importance. Portuguese influence is mostly seen in some of their architectural designs, you can see many churches as well. Most of the sights can be done in a day trip if you don’t have time to spend a few days in Macau.

Read here Macau travel tips , Macau tourist sim card , how to get from Macau airport to city center and  how to get to Macau from Hong Kong !

Table of Contents

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can read  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full  Heymondo Travel Insurance Review

You can get  Safetywing Travel Insurance  for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days  Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included

Macau Itinerary- How To Get To Macau

Getting to macau by ferry.

The cheapest and most convenient way to get to Macau is by ferry if you are coming from Hong Kong. You can take the ferry from Kowloon or from Hong Kong Island to Macau.

In Hong Kong Island ferries to Macau operate for 24 hours everyday and the  ride takes approximately 1 hour.   Ferries can go to Macau and also to Taipa Island if you are planning to stay at Taipa as we did in Macau.

Prices are around  $30 USD  for one way.  Click here to book your ticket with Klook !

DAILY TRAVEL BUDGET IN MACAU

Your daily travel budget in Macau will be higher than in countries around Southeast Asia like Philippines and Thailand. In transportation, you can get buses for half a dollar and even go walking distance of almost everywhere in Macau.

For food you will find local restaurants with dishes from  $3-10 USD . The most expensive part in Macau will be the accommodation. A dorm in a hotel can go to  $20-30 USD  and a room in a hotel can go to  $30-50 USD . You can also go for Airbnb and find deals starting from  $20-30 USD  in Macau.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN MACAU WITH BOOKING AND AGODA!

1 Day Macau Itinerary

If you have only one day in your itinerary in Macau. You have to do the most of it. Macau is small and you will have time to see most of the places around city center. I would recommend first going to Saint Paul Ruins and Travessa da Paixao. From here go to Senado Square. There are only 5-10 minutes walking distance these places. Apart from this the time you want to have to try local food or taking pictures. For food Rua Du Cunha is a great place to try local delicacies.

You can continue visiting around with A-Ma Temple the most popular one. You can hike to see the views of the city from Fortaleza Do Monte and also Guia Chaple and Lighthouse. Still during the day you will have time to visit the Fisherman’s Wharf.

At night one of the best plans is checking the lights of Macau Tower and visiting the casinos. To feel the vibe of Macau. You will find free tea and coffee. Plus there is free transportation from casinos to hotels and different places in Macau that will allow you to save a couple of USD.

You will find a lot of casinos and quiet and calm life around the area. You will find affordable restaurants for lunch and dinner.

VISIT SAINT PAUL RUINS

St. Paul’s ruins are from  17th century Portuguese church.  It is in our list of Macau tourist spots for many reasons! The area is surrounded with colonial Portuguese buildings, still preserved to show its original architecture.

 Definitely a good place to visit while in Macau. During the day it’s such a beautiful sight and at night with the  illumination is amazing!  

How to get to St. Paul’s ruins? It’s easy since is well indicated and everybody is going there visiting the shops and restaurants around.

TRAVESSA DA PAIXÃO

Also known as the  Love-lane , Travessa da Paixao is a street filled with colorful buildings and one of the most famous Macau tourist spots. Tourists don’t come here often as they mostly spend their time in the Ruins of St. Paul. From there, you could walk for a few minutes to get here in Travessa da Paixao. It is a great place to have colorful and  instagrammable  pictures in your gallery.

SENADO SQUARE

Senado Square is located near the former Senate building. The square is surrounded by people, shops and restaurants. We were walking around this square everyday and we loved getting lost around the area. It´s the most crowded apart from the casinos in Macau!

LOCAL FOOD AT RUA DU CUNHA

Travelling isn’t complete without introducing yourself to the local cuisine of a place. The first place that you should be eating yourself out in Macau is  Rua du Cunha . Located in  Taipa Village , Rua du Cunha is  a narrow pedestrian stree t filled with shops, stalls, and vendors offering a variety of local food. The street could be filled with tourists sometimes but there is always a way for you to enjoy the offered food.

A-MA TEMPLE

A-Ma temple is one of the most popular Macau tourist spots. A-Ma Temple also known as the Mazu Goddess Temple is one of the oldest temples in Macau. The  A-Ma Temple is a sacred place  for offering silence and stellar views. Not only is the place full of amazing cultural designs, the temple also contains rich and deep of traditional Chinese culture.

MACAU TOWER

In Macau Tower you can find everything from watching movies, shopping, theatre performances and of course, magnificent views. If you live adventure you should try Skywalking or  Skyjumping!

Click here to get a discount with Klook !

CASINO HOPPING AT MACAU

There are many casinos in Macau: The Venetian, City of Dreams Macau, The Sands Macau, or Casino Lisboa. Casino Lisboa is the largest casino in Europe and the top 10th largest casino in the world!

Enjoy casino hopping and live bands at night, shows during the afternoon. Free tea, coffee, water and drinks. Be ready to gambling and goodluck!

FORTALEZA DO MONTE

Fortaleza do Monte is a UNESCO world heritage site, a fort that is meant for defending ground from attackers. Fortaleza do Monte is part of the historic center of Macau and one of the main attractions in Macau. Tourists love the beautiful panorama of the city seen in Fortaleza do Monte. There is also a historic museum that you should visit to have a glimpse of Macau. The place opens up at  10:00 AM  and closes at  06:00 PM . There is  no entrance fee , just a short hike, ha!

GUIA FORTRESS, GUIA CHAPEL AND GUIA LIGHTHOUSE

The fortress with  Portuguese influence in their architectural designs  was built between 1622 and 1638. What’s inside the fortress stands Guia Chapel and Guia Lighthouse, which were established by Clarist nuns.

The architecture of the lighthouse is of a column structure, the interior of the lighthouse boasts three levels, connected by a spiral staircase that leads to a large light on top of the building. The lighthouse was damaged by a typhoon in September 1874. 

FISHERMAN’S WHARF

Being the  largest leisure and themed entertainment complex  in Macau, Fisherman’s Wharf features casinos, hotels, convention centers, and many more entertainment facilities. The food in the restaurants may be a little bit pricey for some, so you might want to take note of that.

Also, it’s a great place if you have kids with you because they can enjoy the rides. Getting inside the 24-hour Fisherman’s Wharf’s area is  free  but the attractions’ fees vary.  The Fisherman’s Wharf is located at  Macao Avenida da Amizade.

More Days in Macau Itinerary

If you decide to extend your Macau itinerary at least for 2 days as we did. We spent 3 days and we recommend you to stay in Taipa Village which is another island separate from Macau City center. It will take you 15-20 minutes to get there.

You can relax in Hac Sa Beach if the weather is good. It’s black sand and it’s usually quiet. There are also churches to visit when walking around Macau where you will feel the Portuguese vibe. It’s so cool to have this thing in Macau combining Chinese Style with Portuguese for food and for sightseeing.

If you have more days you can explore Flora Garden and Giant Panda Pavilion. You can also go for food trying Chines and Portuguese cuisine. Prices for restaurants is affordable compared with Western countries. But it’s more expensive than countries around Southeast Asia like Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia.

TAIPA VILLAGE

Having a walk around the  historic Taipa in Macau  to admire the colorful buildings in the area. We were staying at Taipa, not only casinos around the area but also nice places to walk around. 

There are many local places to eat  in Taipa Village. Everything was walking distance in Taipa and we really loved this part as a place to stay in Macau.

SMALL FONTANA DI TREVI

This is our secret Macau tourist spot. A small fountain colorful in the condo that we were staying. Just close to The Venetian Casino less than 10 minutes walking distance.

Hác Sá Beach is named after the  black sea sand  of its shoreline. Relaxing getaway from the crazy and chaotic city life. You can spend your day playing sports, swimming and walking along the beach.

ST DOMINIC CHURCH

A simple but beautiful  baroque style church . The church has decorated ceilings and art hints all over the place. Aside from the beautiful interior, the facade is one of its own as well. People go here to relax and appreciate the elegance of this site. St. Dominic Church is at  Macao Tv. de São Domingos.

ST LAWRENCE CHURCH

Being one of the oldest churches in Macau, St Lawrence Church has a neo-classical style structure and beautiful interior. Tourists love getting their peaceful and relaxing stop here at the church. Of course, the facade and the entire interior of the church are outstanding. St. Lawrence Church is also known as  Freguesia de São . It is located at  Rua de São Lourenço .

GIANT PANDA PAVILION

Who doesn’t want to see a Panda? No one, right? In Giant Panda Pavilion you can visit 2-4 Pandas doing all the Panda “ things”  you have seen or watched somewhere else on the internet. For its price, you’d get much more value than you expected. And also, Pandas will truly be an animal that you should be excited meeting! Regular admission price is  MOP 10.00 . Giant Panda Pavilion is located at  Estr. de Seac Pai Van.

FLORA GARDEN

Located in  São Lázaro, Macau , Flora Garden is a flowerful garden park. It  opens at 6:00 AM  and  closes at 8:00 PM . Even if it is a park, it also has a small aviary and zoo. Yes, you guessed it, there are animals here and there. If you have kids, they can ride a bicycle and have fun touring around. The place is best for families wanting a place for their kids to have their own playtime.

Click here to get a discount booking activities in Macau !

Hope you liked our 1 day Macau itinerary. Let us know in the comments below if we are missing something. So we can improve our Macau itinerary.

Feel free to use our links for discounts. Using our links will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys.

Happy travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

Best Hong Kong eSim For Tourist And How To Buy A Prepaid eSim in Hong Kong (Discount Code) - Gamintraveler

Monday 22nd of August 2022

[…] places in Hong Kong, our favorite Hong Kong tourist spots, Macau itinerary. Also how to get to Macau from Hong Kong, 5 Days Hong Kong […]

How To Get From Hong Kong Airport to City Center - All Possible Ways - Gamintraveler

Friday 4th of June 2021

[…] stay in Hong Kong and instagrammable places in Hong Kong, our favorite Hong Kong tourist spots, Macau itinerary. Also how to get to Macau from Hong Kong and 5 Days Hong Kong […]

Best Hong Kong Tourist Sim Card And How To Buy A Hong Kong Sim Card - Gamintraveler

Sunday 6th of December 2020

Best Macau Tourist Sim Card And How To Buy A Sim Card in Macau - Gamintraveler

Thursday 3rd of December 2020

[…] here Macau tourist spots, how to get to Macau from Hong Kong, Macau itinerary, Hong Kong 5 Days itinerary, where to stay in Hong Kong and budget travel in […]

Budget Travel in Hong Kong And How Much Do You Need Per Day - Gamintraveler

Thursday 30th of January 2020

[…] Read here our favorite Hong Kong tourist spots and Macau itinerary! […]

• Countries visited: 115
• Currently in : Singapore 🇸🇬
• Partner with us
• SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS COMMUNITY

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here . Never leave without travel insurance .

Day trip to Macau from Hong Kong itinerary

Is it worth is to go on a day trip to Macau from Hong Kong? And what is the best Macau itinerary for a day? To begin answering these questions, let’s start with some interesting numbers. 

Macau receives over 30 million visitors a year albeit around 90% are Chinese and 70% come from mainland China . That means that about 20% are visitors from Hong Kong, China’s other Special Administrative Region , or Taiwan. 

The vast majority of visitors from Hong Kong come in the morning and leave in the evening, visiting on a day trip to Macau from Hong Kong. Macau is the most  popular day trip destination to escape the concrete jungle that Hong Kong can be. 

Here are some data points about Macau tourism and Macau day trips in 2018 from to put things into perspective.

• Annual number of visitors to Macau : 36 Million in 2018, that is 15% up since 2016
• Number of visitors coming from greater China: 28 million
• Percentage of same day visitors (day trippers from Hong Kong or mainland China) : 50% Average number of days overnight visitors stay for : 1.2 days, that is 2 days and 1 night – although I would suggest a longer visit to truly experience the city

Are you looking to go on a day trip to Macau but don’t want any of the hassle?

Click below to book your tour!

We have selected all the best day tours and Macau itineraries so you don’t have to do anything, just sit back, relax and enjoy the city!

4.  Hop on Hop off bus tour : Moving around Macau is time consuming since the Cotai and Old Macau areas are far from each other and some of the main sights are spread out, so a bus ticket is very convenient for day trips.

Where is Macau and how close is it to Hong Kong

Macau is a small country (and I use the term loosely as it is not officially a country ) that lies one hour by ferry from Hong Kong so it comes as no surprise that it is one of the most popular one-day trips from Hong Kong, one of Asia’s most densely populated cities, and  an interesting destination well worth a visit . 

Macau’s territory is spread between a portion in mainland China , located on a peninsula, and the island which is split into three zones: Taipa, Cotai and Coloane . A Macau day trip usually includes some sightseeing in at least two of the 3 parts.

One of the most surprising facts about Macau (and there are many)  is that this Special Administrative Region of China used to be made of two islands connected to the peninsula by bridges. In 2002 the two island were joint via landfill to create the middle bit, Cotai, where the casino resorts are located.

How to get from Hong Kong to Macau for a day trip

Macau is easily reached by plane via its international airport which opened in 1995 and has direct flights to many destination in Asia including Singapore, Bangkok, Phnom Penh, Danang, Phuket, Hanoi or Manila. 

You cannot fly from Hong Kong to Macau as they are both very close, but there are several ferries running every hour from two companies covering the route, TurboJet and CotaiWaterJet .

If you are visiting Macau just for the day you will most likely take the ferry from Hong Kong to Macau and back. Don’t forget to pre-order a Sim Card with Hong Kong pick up so that you are connected throughout. 

Both companies depart from Hong Kong’s international airport as well as the city’s downtown area. In Macau, they stop at either Taipa Ferry Terminal or at Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal on the peninsula.

Some ferries run throughout the night so you could successfully spend 24 hours in Macau or even sneak out from your hotel room after a day of business meetings and enjoying great Hong Kong food and go gamble, party or shop for the night and be back in Hong Kong for the next day’s appointments.

That is if you are young at heart and full of energy. It helps that the ferry  tickets prices are quite cheap running for as little as $25 each way.

You can see the ferry schedules of TurboJet from Hong Kong International airport below but bear in mind that because of the continuous construction both in Macau and in Hong Kong, these schedules may change so reconfirm when you buy your tickets.

Also note that the departures from Hong Kong airport to Macau are inside the airport and considered transit by the Hong Kong government so you would not need a visa to Hong Kong if you land in Hong Kong and immediately transfer to the ferry (in case you can’t fly directly into Macau) .

Unless you are landing in Hong Kong, you cannot take the ferry from the airport as the departures are inside the terminal.

TurboJet’s ferry schedule from Hong Kong international airport are as follows:

TurboJet’s ferry schedule from Hong Kong city center are as follows:

The ferry schedules of CotaiWaterJet from Hong Kong international airport below:

And the ferry schedules of CotaiWaterJet from Hong Kong city center below:

The convenience of the ferry frequency, its price and the 24h coverage means that it is quite easy to simply hop on a ferry and cross the Pearl River from Hong Kong to Macau and spend as little or as long as you want there. This is why day trips to Macau from Hong Kong are so popular among the residents and visitors to Hong Kong.

As the route is frequented by lots of visitors, businessmen and commuters, I would recommend that you buy your ferry tickets in advance to avoid queueing and overbooking as some of the popular times are often full, especially if you need to ensure a specific ferry on your way back to Hong Kong airport.

Is one day in Macau enough?

So now you know that it is logistically possible, easy and cheap to visit Macau for a day from Hong Kong, but how easy is it to visit Macau just in a day? How big is the city? What Macau itinerary makes sense?

Macau is only 28 square kilometres, or a sixth of Washington DC, so it is also quite manageable in a day, size wise , and it is the world’s most densely populated country so it packs a punch in those 28 square kilometres. But just because it is possible it doesn’t mean you should do it.

The real question therefore is, should you go on a Macau day trip from Hong Kong ?

The short answer is, if you have no alternative, a day exploring Macau is better than no day at all , but my recommendation would be to devote some quality time (3 days ideally) discovering this former Portuguese colony to give it a chance to surprise and captivate you. After all, there are more than 60 things to do in Macau that I recommend.

However, a lot of people will disagree with me and say that one day in Macau is enough and there is nothing to see.

As my Guide to Macau proves, there is plenty to discover that is worth it and, as the proof is in the pudding, I spent 11 days on one of my trips to Macau and five of them were to exclusively visit the city, and I was not bored.

I will admit that, after five days, I had pretty much seen everything there is so the ideal length in Macau is probably three days. In five days in Macau I did it all!

However, if you are pressed for time and live far away, you may just have one chance to visit on a day trip from Hong Kong to Macau so I have put together this one day itinerary to help you make the most of your one day trip to Macau.

Things to do on your Macau day trip – The perfect Macau 1 day itinerary

If you are only going to visit Macau for a day you have to be sure you will make the most of it so get up early and take a ferry around 7ish am so that you can cover everything there is in this  itinerary.

There are plenty of ferries going to Macau from Hong Kong city center, as mentioned above, so you could book a specific ticket to force yourself to not procrastinate, you definitively want to have as much time in Macau as possible if you’re only there for the day. This is my suggested one day itinerary in Macau.

8:30-9am Arrive in Macau

You have to be efficient to make the most of your one day in Macau so after stepping off the ferry, head straight out to Coloane’s  Lord Stow’s bakery .

This is a great place for a traditional Portuguese breakfast and also a rare insight into what Macau must have been before the casinos and the explosion in tourism and the economy. Lord Stow bakery is known for its egg tarts, one of the most well-known Portuguese sweets which you will find everywhere.

However, this is the original creator at their original store. The location is a bit out of the way, in a small store by the sea in a sleepy town so it is a good way to get into the Macau mood and a first step into its Portuguese colonial heritage.

10am UNESCO listed Macau

Feeling the sugar rush, the caffeine kick and the energy, you are ready to explore the heritage-laden area around Largo do Senado, a must-see in your Macau itinerary . Take a taxi to this central square in Macau’s old city and start your heritage tour there.

Leal Senado

Leal Senado is the most central building in Macau and a good place to start your day exploring the city. The building was originally built in 1974 as the first municipal chamber and received its name (“loyal senate”) by King John IV in 1654 for its loyalty to the crown during Spanish occupation.

The building is well preserved and you can go inside and upstairs to see the main rooms from where you can have a good view over the Senado Square below. There is also a small back garden. The building’s walls are covered in typical Portuguese blue and white tiles and it is permanently full of people.

In front of the building is the square which was redone in the 1990s and paved with a wave-patterned mosaic of grey and white stones. The square is surrounded by stores, old pharmacies, sweet stalls, shops, etc. housed in neo-classical Portuguese buildings in the typical pastel shades. Follow the square along until you reach your next stop.

Holy House of Mercy – Santa Casa da Misericordia

This hard-to-miss building is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the Macau heritage area . The Holy House of Mercy is a charitable institution was established in 1569 and was the first to build a Western style clinic in Macau along with many other welfare efforts that are still in place today.

There is a small museum in the building you can visit.

St. Dominic’s Church

If you carry on the waved pavement you will find the yellow facade belonging to St. Dominic’s Church, a 16th century Spanish Dominican church built by a Mexican priest from Acapulco. The church was also the site for the first Portuguese newspaper to be printed in China called the China Bee in 1822.

Do not miss the opportunity to go inside and climb the stairs up the bell tower to visit a small museum housing Sacred Art that is on display. You can climb up the four flights of stairs and visit the exhibits on every floor. At the very top, you can see the old church bells.

Lou Kau Mansion

Continue walking towards the Lou Kau Mansion very near the church. Lou Kau Mansion is a lovely Chinese building that has a lot of Western and Portuguese influences. Built on two storeys in the traditional grey brick courtyard style, Lou Kau Mansion dates back to the end of the 19th century and belonged to Lou Kau, a Chinese merchant .

Located in a back alley where lots of Chinese vegetable and protein soups are served, entering is like stepping back in time. Inside you can still see some of the original or replica furniture of the time. 

Ruins of St. Paul

The Ruins of St. Paul is made of the  facade and remaining of a church built at the beginning of the 17th century is the city’s most emblematic landmark and the main piece of Macau’s 21 UNESCO listed structures . If you only saw one thing in your Macau itinerary, it would have to be this one.

The Jesuit church was destroyed by fire in 1835 and what remains is the crypt and the main facade which has withstood the passing of time.

You can visit the museum right behind the facade. The College of St. Paul, right next to the church, was the first Western university in the Far East and considered a very advanced educational institution. To the right of the facade you can see the Mount Fortress hill which can be climbed.

Canons and some defensive structures remain. Behind the ruins, to the left, do not miss a chance to take a look at Na Tcha Temple from which you will have a different perspective on the ruins.

Alongside the temple lies a section on the city’s old walls made of orange looking mud that was made with clay, soil, sand, rice straw, crushed rocks and oyster shells.

The contrast between the catholic church, the Chinese temple and the old walls so near each other is a reminder of Macau’s rich past. Also, while the main stairs leading up to the Ruins of St. Paul are permanently crowded, the back side where the temple is tends to be quiet and empty.

12:30pm Lunch at Lung Wa Teahouse

Lung Wa Teahouse is a  traditional Chinese teahouse that sells their own tea leaves. The place is hard to find but you can locate it on my map . It is on a first floor of a pastel yellow round corner building and its name, in Portuguese, is written on the top of the building door frame so look up to identify it.

In front of it, the old Chinese tea market still functions. Inside, expect a charming if slightly old fashioned place where old furniture, Chinese art pieces and dim sum stack next to each other . There is a food menu, but it is only in Chinese.

You can use Google translate to attempt at ordering, but as soon as you sit down the owner will immediately come, armed with the largest most honest smiles, and offer you tea. Pick your choice and he will deliver the teapot and the cups together with a small bowl, chopsticks and a Chinese spoon.

If you don’t dare to order from the menu, your best bet is to walk to the dim sum cart and pick the desired bamboo steamers. If you can read Chinese, there are fried noodles, chicken, etc. The tea is excellent and the owner is super lovely .

2pm Afternoon sightseeing

You should be on your way to visiting the lower parts of the Macau Peninsula , towards the sea, to check out the country’s oldest Chinese temple and the one that gave Macau its Portuguese name and another beautiful Chinese mansions. You will end at Guia Fort.

Did you know that Macau has beaches? You might want to include a swim at the beach in Macau your itinerary if it’s terribly hot. Click here to see how to get there and what to expect at the best beaches in Macau.

A-Ma Temple

A Ma Temple is a  red temple  located on a hill in various levels and surrounded by boulders and greenery and it is a muse see if you are in town even if you are just in on a Macau day trip.

This is a temple devoted to many Chinese faiths , including Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism and folk believes, each with their own halls and deities and it is common to find pilgrims and devotees making offerings and praying.

Mandarin House

This house built at the end of the 19th century was a traditional Chinese compound and home of the Chinese literary figure Zheng Guanying . You can go inside and stroll through the many courtyards , rooms and gardens.

Like with Lou Kau Mansion, The Mandarin House is decorated with some of the original heritage furniture. Watch out for the moon windows, the intricate doors and windows and the pretty surroundings.

This is one of the most instagrammable places in Macau and a great way to have some rest if you are tired from all the exploration on your day trip to Macau as there are really peaceful benches. 

Guia Fortress and Guia Lighthouse

The Guia Fortress dates back to the beginning of the 17th century. It takes a bit of a trek to go all the way up through the snaking steep paths but it is well worth it, not only for the chapel but also for the views and the military tunnels.

The chapels’ frescoes are still visible and you can see a mixture of Western and Chinese motifs . The lighthouse is not open to the public so you can just see it from outside. As you walk up to the top, watch out for the defensive tunnels built inside the hill. This is the highest point in your Macau day trip.

5pm The House of Dancing Water

This is Macau’s most famous show and a truly amazing performance and you should try to fit it in your one day in Macau itinerary . The House of Dancing Water is a massive performance by Cirque du Soleil’s director and combines acrobats with dancers, performers and lots of water.

It is a fascinating show and well worth it, but quite expensive so you may prefer to skip it. They usually have 5pm and 8pm shows so i recommend going to the 5pm to get out on time for dinner.

If you choose to skip the show, I would recommend you have a sunset drink at the rooftop bar of The Altira and an earlier dinner at one of the options below.

You have a few options for dinner depending on how much you want to spend , what you feel like or your energy level.

Robuchon au Dome and The Eight are located in Old Macau so they require a 20min cab ride from The House of Dancing Water in The City of Dreams casino complex. Antonio is in Taipa, so a bit closer.

Robuchon au Dome

For a truly over the top French culinary journey through the most Michelin awarded chef Robuchon , this is your best bet. Robuchon au Dome has 3 Michelin stars and is located at the top of the Grand Lisboa hotel. Expect the dinner to take 2-3 hours and end with a very full stomach. Go for the degustation menu for a complete experience. Read my review of Robuchon au Dome .

This is the only other 3 Michelin star restaurant in Macau but, unlike Robuchon, it offers Chinese cuisine and is a lighter option. The Eight is also located at the Grand Lisboa . Read my review of The Eight . 

Antonio is one of the most awarded and traditional Portuguese cuisine restaurants in Macau. It is housed in a traditional Taipa building with a lot of character. The menu is extensive and it has a lot of traditional Portuguese dishes as well as some Macanese recipes.

Make sure to order the sausage as a starter as it is grilled in the fire tableside , as are the crepes. All the dishes come in generous portions. More information and bookings here .  

Albergue 1601

Albergue 1601 is a  Portuguese and Macanese restaurant in a heritage pastel yellow building in a pretty courtyard. This is similar to Antonio’s. more information here .

Back in the heritage part of Old Macau you can find Cheong Kei , a Michelin listed tiny noodle store in the aptly named Rua da Felicidade, a colourful area that used to be Macau’s red light district. It is an interesting little area as well.

Macau has plenty of restaurants and food options so you can never run out of options. The Michelin guide is full of options if none of the above suit your taste.

Looking for other dining options, or just need to know what to eat in Macau? Then check out my complete list of  What to eat in Macau and where to find it

10pm/11pm Evening entertainment

Depending on your energy levels and eagerness to discover what Macau’s frantic and large casino scene has to offer, you may choose to return to Hong Kong after dinner to stay on for a bit longer to stretch out your day trip to Macau with some more entertainment options.

These are some of the places in the Cotai casino area that you should check out after dinner for a variety of entertainment options.

Wynn Macau or Wynn Palace

If you had dinner at the Grand Lisboa you will be closest to the Wynn Macau , possibly the country’s most lavish and luxurious hotel . If you ate at Antonio’s you are already near Cotai so best to head to the Wynn Palace , one of the newest hotels in Cotai and as over the top as the Wynn Macau.

In both places you should check out the main shopping areas which are open until midnight and the art on display. Stay tuned for the performance lakes that are in front of both hotels for the light, water and music shows that happen every 15 to 30 minutes.

At the Wynn Palace you should also jump on the cable car to get to the hotel, it is free. At the Wynn Macau look out for the Tree of Prosperity and the Dragon of Fortune art installations.

The Venetian

What can I say about The Venetian ? It is well known that this is the largest casino hotel in the world and a replica to the Italian city . If you arrive before 11pm, you are still on time for a last minute shopping extravaganza.

Stroll through the shopping area, look out for the San Marco square or take a a href=”https://affiliate.klook.com/jump/activity/740-gondola-rides-at-the-venetian-macau/?adid=61315&af_wid=4900″>gondola tour with a graciously singing gondolier. Be careful, the lack of windows inside The Venetian means that you lose track of time and you could miss your ferry back.

The Parisian

The main feature of The Parisian is the replica of the Eiffel Tower which you can go up to for great views over the entire Cotai Strip. The tower is open 24h.

If you are still up for more, you can stay up until as late (or as early) as you like by either partying at the two main spots Cubic or Show House Macau (formerly Pacha) , or gambling all night long at the main casinos which are open 24h .

Where to stay in Macau

What if you are too tired and want to stay in Macau for the night?

Here is a summary of my accommodation suggestions in the Cotai area , where you will be. You can also read my more in-depth guide to the best luxury hotels here . Otherwise browse my recommendations in the table below.

Stick this on your #Macau Pinterest board

• Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
• Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
• I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
• Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
• I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
• Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
• Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
• Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

You may also like

Your guide to tiong bahru market, why the six senses laamu in the maldives..., which everest base camp is best: tibet or..., where to stay in seoul and best hotels, where to stay in macau, best hotels and..., what to do if you only have 1..., what to do at six senses laamu in..., unique thailand – 10 undeniable reasons to set..., ulagalla resort review – luxury at the heart..., ubud hanging gardens virtual tour.

3-Day Macau Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• Macau in 3 days
• 1-Day Macau Itinerary
• 2-Day Macau Itinerary
• 4-Day Macau Itinerary
• 5-Day Macau Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: north side of town, day 3: keep it simple, the venetian macao.

Studio City Macau

The Parisian Macao

Parisian macao eiffel tower, city of dreams, venetian macao casino, galaxy hotel, where to eat, the golden peacock, the st. regis bar, the ritz-carlton cafe, urban kitchen.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Ruins of St. Paul's

Lou lim ioc garden, guia lighthouse, casino lisboa, new yaohan 新八佰伴, st. dominic's church, senado square, lou kau mansion, guincho a galera, the 8 restaurant, margaret's café e nata, dragon portuguese cuisine.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Wynn Palace

The house of dancing water, taipa houses, four seasons hotel macao cotai strip, macao giant panda pavilion, hac sa beach, chapel of st. francis xavier., lord stow's bakery (coloane), antónio macau.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Top searches in Macau

Popular road trips from macau, what's the weather like in macau.

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

• Weather in Macau in January
• Weather in Macau in February
• Weather in Macau in March
• Weather in Macau in April
• Weather in Macau in May
• Weather in Macau in June
• Weather in Macau in July
• Weather in Macau in August
• Weather in Macau in September
• Weather in Macau in October
• Weather in Macau in November
• Weather in Macau in December

All road trips from Macau

• Macau to Bangkok drive
• Macau to Hanoi drive
• Macau to Guangzhou drive
• Macau to Siem Reap drive
• Macau to Beijing drive
• Macau to Shanghai drive
• Macau to Ho Chi Minh City drive
• Macau to Hoi An drive
• Macau to Xi'an drive
• Macau to Pattaya drive
• Macau to Phnom Penh drive
• Macau to Chiang Mai drive
• Macau to Xiamen drive
• Macau to Halong Bay drive
• Macau to Luang Prabang drive
• Macau to Hue drive
• Macau to Yangshuo County drive
• Macau to Hangzhou drive
• Macau to Nha Trang drive
• Macau to Chengdu drive
• Macau to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
• Macau to Sanya drive
• Macau to Guilin drive
• Macau to Chiang Rai drive
• Macau to Hua Hin drive
• Macau to Ninh Binh drive
• Macau to Suzhou drive
• Macau to Vientiane drive
• Macau to Nanjing drive
• Macau to Ayutthaya drive

Explore nearby places

• Boluo County
• Xinxing County
• Huidong County
• Yangdong County
• Qingxin County
• Longmen County
• Yun'an Xian
• Fogang County

All related maps of Macau

• Map of Macau
• Map of Zhuhai
• Map of Zhongshan
• Map of Hong Kong
• Map of Jiangmen
• Map of Shenzhen
• Map of Taishan
• Map of Heshan
• Map of Kaiping
• Map of Dongguan
• Map of Foshan
• Map of Guangzhou
• Map of Zengcheng
• Map of Enping
• Map of Boluo County
• Map of Huizhou
• Map of Gaoyao
• Map of Zhaoqing
• Map of Xinxing County
• Map of Huidong County
• Map of Conghua
• Map of Sihui
• Map of Yangdong County
• Map of Yangjiang
• Map of Qingyuan
• Map of Yunfu
• Map of Qingxin County
• Map of Yangchun
• Map of Longmen County
• Map of Yun'an Xian
• Map of Fogang County

Macau throughout the year

• Macau in January
• Macau in February
• Macau in March
• Macau in April
• Macau in May
• Macau in June
• Macau in July
• Macau in August
• Macau in September
• Macau in October
• Macau in November
• Macau in December

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

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

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary
• 3-Day Shenzhen Itinerary
• 3-Day Dongguan Itinerary
• 3-Day Foshan Itinerary
• 3-Day Zhuhai Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Bundle & Save
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Cambridge & Greenwich: A 3-Day Journey Through History and Science

April 22, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 3-day adventure through the historic and intellectual landscapes of Cambridge and Greenwich. Begin your journey at the prestigious University of Cambridge, where a full day is dedicated to exploring the hallowed halls and rich academic heritage. Don't miss the iconic Bridge of Sighs, a brief yet memorable 15-minute stop. Day two is filled with architectural marvels and cultural treasures, starting with the historic Great St Mary's Church, followed by the intriguing Mathematical Bridge. Immerse yourself in art and history at The Fitzwilliam Museum, and find tranquility at the Cambridge University Botanic Garden. The final day takes you to Greenwich, London, where maritime history comes to life. Spend two hours at the legendary Cutty Sark, followed by the grandeur of the Old Royal Naval College. Dive into naval history at the National Maritime Museum and reach for the stars at the Royal Observatory Greenwich. This itinerary is designed to offer a blend of educational insights, historical wonders, and natural beauty, ensuring a trip that's as enriching as it is enjoyable.

• Day 1: Academic Ambiance and Historic Bridges

University of Cambridge

Begin your Cambridge adventure with a visit to the prestigious University of Cambridge, a cornerstone of academic excellence. As you wander through the historic colleges, each with its own unique charm, you'll be walking in the footsteps of some of the world's greatest minds. Immerse yourself in the intellectual atmosphere that permeates the air, and don't miss the chance to admire the stunning architecture that has stood the test of time. Allocate a full day to explore the sprawling campus and its many attractions, ensuring you soak up the rich academic heritage that makes this university one of the most renowned in the world.

Attraction Info

• The Old Schools, Trinity Ln, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Bridge of Sighs

Just a short stroll from the hallowed halls of academia, find yourself at the picturesque Bridge of Sighs. Named after the famous Venetian bridge, this Cambridge landmark is a must-see. Although your visit may only last 15 minutes, the memory of the bridge's elegant stone structure arching gracefully over the River Cam will linger much longer. Take a moment to appreciate the serene views and the gentle punts gliding below, a perfect snapshot of Cambridge's timeless beauty.

• St John's College, St John's St, Cambridge CB2 1TP, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 15-30 minutes
• Open from 10:00am-5:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

The varsity hotel & spa, west court - cambridge - campus accommodation.

• Day 2: Exploring Cambridge's Historical Marvels and Botanical Beauty

Great St Mary's

Begin your second day in Cambridge with a visit to the iconic Great St Mary's, the university church that stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Spend an hour marveling at the architectural splendor of this historic building, which has been an integral part of Cambridge's religious and academic life for centuries. Located at Senate House Hill, it's not just a place of worship but also a monument that offers breathtaking views of the city from its tower.

• The University Church, Senate House Hill, Cambridge CB2 3PQ, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open on Mon-Sat,10:00am-5:30pm;Open on Sun,12:00pm-5:00pm

Mathematical Bridge

Next, take a brief but picturesque stroll to the Mathematical Bridge, an engineering wonder that connects two parts of Queens' College over the River Cam. Although the visit may last just 15 minutes, the bridge's unique design and the folklore surrounding its construction without nails or bolts (a myth debunked by its actual intricate timber structure) make it a memorable spot for a quick photo opportunity.

• Queens' College, Silver St, Cambridge CB3 9ET, United Kingdom
• Open on Mon-Sat,10:00am-4:00pm

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Continue your cultural journey at The Fitzwilliam Museum, where you can immerse yourself in art and history for a couple of hours. This museum houses a vast collection of antiquities and masterpieces, offering a window into civilizations from around the globe. Located on Trumpington Street, it's a treasure trove for art lovers and history buffs alike, with exhibits that span from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern paintings.

• Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RB, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open on Tue-Sat,10:00am-5:00pm;Open on Sun,12:00pm-5:00pm

Cambridge University Botanic Garden

Conclude your day with a peaceful retreat to the Cambridge University Botanic Garden. Set aside two hours to wander through the lush landscapes and diverse plant collections. This green oasis in the heart of the city provides a serene escape from the bustling streets and is the perfect spot to reflect on the day's adventures. The garden's array of flora, glasshouses, and thematic displays make it an enlightening experience for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors.

• 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE, United Kingdom

Centennial Hotel

Your space apartments cambridge place.

• Day 3: Maritime Marvels and Historical Gems of Greenwich

Begin your final day with a journey back in time aboard the Cutty Sark, a testament to Britain's storied maritime history. Nestled at King William Walk, this historic site offers a two-hour voyage through the age of sail. As you step onto the decks of this iconic tea clipper, the fastest of her time, you'll be transported to the days when wind-powered vessels ruled the waves. The Cutty Sark's rich legacy and meticulously preserved structure make it a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the golden age of sea travel.

• King William Walk, London SE10 9HT, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 2-2.5 hour

Old Royal Naval College

Continue your day's exploration with a visit to the Old Royal Naval College, an architectural marvel standing proudly on the banks of the Thames. With a two-hour window, immerse yourself in the grandeur of historical buildings and monuments that tell the tales of Britain's naval prowess. The College's baroque splendor and its role in maritime education offer a glimpse into the country's naval heritage, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike.

• London SE10 9NN, United Kingdom

National Maritime Museum

Step into the world of seafaring heroes at the National Maritime Museum, a short stroll away from the Old Royal Naval College. With an hour to explore, this military museum showcases the UK's profound connection to the sea through interactive exhibits and priceless artifacts. Discover stories of exploration, conflict, and innovation that have shaped the maritime narrative of the nation. The National Maritime Museum is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the ocean's influence on culture and warfare.

• Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF, United Kingdom

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Cap off your Greenwich adventure at the Royal Observatory, where science and history converge under the celestial dome of the planetarium. Allocate two hours to wander through time and space, standing on the Prime Meridian line, where east meets west. The Observatory's historic timepieces and pioneering astronomical research offer a unique perspective on the universe. It's a place where you can contemplate the cosmos and Greenwich's pivotal role in the history of navigation and timekeeping.

• Blackheath Ave, London SE10 8XJ, United Kingdom

Luxury One Bedroom Greenwich Studio Apartment Near Canary Wharf by UnderTheDoormat

Ibis london greenwich.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

<h3>Trending Searches</h3>

Popular Content

• Taipei New Taipei City 6 Days Itinerary
• Zurich Grindelwald 4 Days Itinerary
• Guiyang 6 Days Itinerary
• Luzhou 3 Days Itinerary
• Vancouver 2 Days Itinerary
• Cesky Krumlov District 2 Days Itinerary
• Hangzhou Shaoxing 6 Days Itinerary
• Bodrum 1 Day Itinerary
• Florence Genoa 4 Days Itinerary
• Nantong Suzhou 4 Days Itinerary
• Saint Andrews 1 Day Itinerary
• Almaty 2 Days Itinerary
• Qamdo 2 Days Itinerary
• Sapporo 2 Days Itinerary
• Tobermory 1 Day Itinerary
• Yingde 2 Days Itinerary
• Anshun 1 Day Itinerary
• L'Horta de Valencia Granada 6 Days Itinerary
• Foz do Iguacu 1 Day Itinerary
• Luxury Hotels in Riyadh
• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier