Macau SAR

Travel Guide
St Maarten and St Martin which includes shopping and interior views
An old Portuguese colony across the Pearl River Delta from Hong Kong, Macau has an intriguing fusion of cultures and one of the world’s biggest gambling scenes.

Macau became a home to Portuguese traders in the 16th century and remained under Portuguese influence until it was handed back to China in 1999. Over the years, Portuguese and Chinese cultures blended, giving rise to interesting cuisine, architecture and cultural practices. Today Macau has a definite Cantonese flair but it maintains its own identity distinct from both China and Hong Kong. Wander the streets of the World Heritage-listed Historic Centre to see some gorgeous colonial architecture. The bright colors and neoclassical designs on Senate Square, the heart of the old town, could leave you thinking that you’re in Portugal. One of the city’s best-known landmarks is the ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral. You’ll see statues and immaculate gardens as you approach its intricate façade which, along with the stone stairs, is the only remaining part of the building. Just near the cathedral ruins is Monte Fort, which the Jesuits started building in 1617 for protection against attacks from the sea. It was later adopted as Macau’s main defense structure. You can still see old cannons and fortified walls. Inside, at the Museum of Macau, you’ll find detailed exhibits and an excellent bookstore. More examples of colonial architecture are over at the Guia Fortress. This historical fort, chapel and lighthouse sits on the highest point of the Macau Peninsula and has excellent views. For classical Chinese architecture, visit the A-Ma Temple, the oldest temple in Macau. History buffs don’t need to stop there, though. Macau is home to dozens more historical buildings and institutions that range from old Chinese libraries to the Maritime Museum. See the more modern structures of the city as you take in the views from Macau Tower. In the evenings, check out the Cotai Strip, home to some of the biggest and most impressive casinos in the world. Be sure to see a show at one of many in-house theaters of the casinos, or shop in the upmarket boutiques. When you get hungry, sample some of the local cuisine. Macanese food is some of the most delicious and interesting in Asia. Macau is one of China’s most unique cities. Its colonial history has left a fascinating legacy around which modern casinos have flourished.

Popular cities in Macau SAR

Macau City Centre featuring street scenes
Macau
Known for Dining, Casinos and Historical
Trip time! Discover the casinos, history, and temples in Macau.

Reasons to visit

  • Macau Fisherman's Wharf
  • Lisboa Casino
  • Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral
Venetian Macao Casino showing a river or creek, interior views and boating
Cotai
Known for Dining, Shopping and Casinos
Come to romantic Cotai and enjoy its casinos, food, and entertainment.

Reasons to visit

  • Venetian Macao Casino
  • Cotai Strip
  • Cotai Arena
Taipa featuring flowers and a park
Taipa
Known for Casinos, Shopping and Family-friendly
Explore romantic Taipa: its casinos, island views, museums, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Rua do Cunha
  • Macau Jockey Club
  • Taipa Houses-Museum
A-Ma Cultural Village featuring heritage elements and a garden as well as a small group of people
Coloane
Known for Dining, Beaches and Relaxing
Escape to relaxing Coloane! Enjoy its beaches, food, and oceanfront.

Reasons to visit

  • Seac Pai Van Park
  • A-Ma Cultural Village
  • A-Ma Statue

Popular places to visit

Macau SAR