🇲🇴 An Elegant 8-Day Itinerary for Macau

Arrive at Macau International Airport (MFM) or via ferry from Hong Kong. Take a complimentary hotel shuttle or a taxi to your accommodation on the Macau Peninsula. After checking in, begin your journey at the iconic Senado Square (Largo do Senado). This UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of historic Macau, paved with a beautiful wave-patterned mosaic of black and white cobblestones. Admire the surrounding pastel-colored, neo-classical buildings. From the square, explore the beautiful baroque-style St. Dominic’s Church, one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Macau. Next, visit the Holy House of Mercy (Santa Casa da Misericórdia), a historic institution founded in the 16th century, showcasing a blend of European architectural styles. As evening approaches, see the square light up and enjoy the lively atmosphere. For dinner, explore the side streets branching off the square to find authentic local eateries.

• Young Travelers: Explore the small alleys off Senado Square to discover trendy shops and local snack stalls. In the evening, check out the area around the Macau Fisherman’s Wharf for a variety of bars and entertainment.
• Seniors: The Senado Square area is flat and pedestrian-friendly, making for a pleasant and leisurely stroll. There are plenty of public benches to rest. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea at a café in the square.
• Family: The open space of Senado Square is great for children. They’ll enjoy the wavy mosaic patterns and the vibrant atmosphere. Treat the family to some traditional almond cookies and beef jerky from the famous souvenir shops.
• With Disability: Senado Square and the surrounding main streets are flat and paved, making them wheelchair accessible. St. Dominic’s Church is also accessible on the ground floor. Many of the larger hotels offer excellent accessibility.

• Luxury Travel: Stay at a luxury hotel like the Grand Lisboa with its iconic architecture. For dinner, book a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant in the hotel, such as Robuchon au Dôme, for an unparalleled gastronomic experience.
• Adventure & Nature: For a touch of green, take a walk up to the nearby Camões Garden, one of the oldest parks in Macau. It’s a tranquil spot dedicated to the famous Portuguese poet, offering a peaceful escape.

• Luxury: Grand Lisboa Hotel – An iconic landmark of the Macau skyline, offering opulent rooms, a casino, and several Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Sintra – Perfectly located just a short walk from Senado Square, offering comfortable rooms and great value for its central location.
• Budget-Friendly: San Va Hospedaria – A historic and very basic guesthouse offering a glimpse into old Macau, famous for its appearance in films. Best for adventurous, budget-conscious travelers.

Macau is compact, and the historic center is best explored on foot. Wear your most comfortable walking shoes. Upon arrival at the airport or ferry terminal, look for the free shuttle bus services operated by the major casino resorts. Even if you are not staying at a particular resort, you can use their shuttle to get close to your destination, saving on taxi fares. For example, the Grand Lisboa shuttle will drop you right in the heart of the Macau Peninsula. Also, pick up a free city map from the tourist information counter; they are very detailed and useful for navigating the historic lanes.

For your first day of exploring, opt for smart-casual and comfortable attire. Macau’s climate is subtropical, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal. Since you’ll be visiting churches, it’s a good idea to wear something that covers your shoulders as a sign of respect. Comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must, as the cobblestones of Senado Square are beautiful but can be uneven. In the evening, the city has a relaxed but stylish vibe, so the same smart-casual outfit will be perfectly appropriate for dinner.

The area around Senado Square is a fantastic place to begin your culinary journey. For an authentic taste of Macanese food, find a small local eatery in the side alleys. Look for places serving “minchi” (a savory minced meat dish) or African chicken. For a classic lunch, visit Wong Chi Kei, a famous and historic restaurant just off the square, known for its wonton noodles and congee. Throughout the area, you’ll find numerous stalls and bakeries. Don’t miss trying a pork chop bun, a simple but delicious Macau specialty, and sample the free almond cookies and beef jerky offered at shops like Koi Kei Bakery.

Macau is easily accessible. Most visitors arrive at Macau International Airport (MFM) or via high-speed ferry from Hong Kong or Shenzhen. From either entry point, the easiest and most cost-effective way to get to the Macau Peninsula is by using the complimentary shuttle buses provided by the major hotels and resorts. Taxis are also readily available. Once you are on the Macau Peninsula, the historic center, including Senado Square, is very compact and is best navigated on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the unique architecture and atmosphere of the winding streets and alleys.

Continue your exploration of the Historic Centre of Macao. Start by walking up the charming, pedestrian-only street leading from Senado Square to Macau’s most famous landmark, the Ruins of St. Paul’s. This iconic stone façade is all that remains of a 17th-century church, and its intricate carvings are a blend of Christian and Asian themes. Visit the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt located behind the ruins. Next, make your way up the adjacent hill to the Monte Fort (Fortaleza do Monte). This fortress, built by the Jesuits, offers fantastic panoramic views of the city. Explore the old cannons and ramparts. Located within the fort is the Macau Museum, which provides an excellent overview of the city’s history and culture. In the afternoon, wander through the charming and romantic Travessa da Paixão (Love Lane), a narrow, cobblestoned alley with beautiful pastel-colored buildings, located right next to the Ruins of St. Paul’s.

• Young Travelers: Explore the vintage shops and independent design stores in the St. Lazarus Quarter, a beautifully restored historic district not far from Monte Fort.
• Seniors: The walk up to the Ruins is a gentle incline. There is an escalator that goes part of the way up to Monte Fort and the Macau Museum, making the climb easier. Take your time and enjoy the views.
• Family: The Macau Museum is engaging for older children with its detailed exhibits and dioramas. The large open space of the Monte Fort is great for kids to explore safely.
• With Disability: The main path to the Ruins of St. Paul’s is accessible. The Macau Museum within Monte Fort is wheelchair accessible, and there is an accessible entrance to the fortress, though navigating the entire rampart area may be difficult.

• Luxury Travel: Hire a private guide for an in-depth historical tour of the heritage sites. In the afternoon, indulge in a bespoke Macanese high tea experience at a luxury hotel.
• Adventure & Nature: For a different kind of climb, visit Guia Fortress, Lighthouse, and Chapel, the highest point on the Macau Peninsula. It’s a bit of a walk but offers stunning views and a piece of maritime history.

• Luxury: Wynn Macau – A luxurious resort offering elegant rooms, a high-end spa, designer shopping, and spectacular free entertainment like the Performance Lake.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Metropole – Located conveniently between Senado Square and the Grand Lisboa, this hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms and a great base for exploring.
• Budget-Friendly: Ole London Hotel – Situated near the Inner Harbour, this hotel provides clean, compact rooms at an affordable price, within walking distance of the historic center.

To get the best photos of the Ruins of St. Paul’s and avoid the biggest crowds, visit early in the morning, right after it opens. By mid-morning, the area becomes extremely crowded with tour groups. The street leading up to the ruins is lined with shops offering free samples of almond cookies, jerky, and other snacks. It’s a great way to taste local specialties, but be prepared for the enthusiastic sales staff. Don’t feel pressured to buy; simply smile and walk on if you’re not interested. Exploring the Macau Museum before or after the fort provides great context to the history of the city you’re exploring.

Today involves a fair amount of walking and some climbing up hills and stairs, so comfortable footwear is absolutely essential. Dress in lightweight and breathable clothing. As you are on a historical trail, smart-casual attire is appropriate. Macau is generally quite relaxed, but a tidy appearance is always appreciated. Sun protection is important, especially when you are exploring the exposed top of Monte Fort. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are highly recommended. A small backpack is useful for carrying water, a camera, and any souvenirs you might pick up along the way.

The area around the Ruins of St. Paul’s is brimming with snack stalls and small eateries. It’s the perfect place for a casual lunch. Grab a famous pork chop bun or some curry fish balls from a street-side vendor. For a sweet treat, try the “serradura” (sawdust pudding) or a Portuguese egg tart. For a sit-down meal, explore the small streets around Travessa da Paixão. You can find many small restaurants serving authentic Macanese and Portuguese food. A Lorcha is a renowned restaurant (a short taxi ride away) famous for its authentic Portuguese seafood dishes, but reservations are essential as it’s very popular for dinner.

Today’s itinerary is a natural walking route that flows from the previous day. Starting from Senado Square, the path to the Ruins of St. Paul’s is clearly marked and is a pedestrian-friendly experience. The entire area is designed to be explored on foot. No transportation is needed once you are in the historic center. If you are staying further away, numerous public buses have stops near Senado Square, or you can take a taxi to the edge of the pedestrianized zone. The combination of the Ruins, Monte Fort, and the Macau Museum makes for a geographically compact and historically rich day of exploration.

Start your morning at the serene A-Ma Temple, the oldest temple in Macau and the place from which the city derives its name. This beautiful temple complex, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, is built into a hillside and is a wonderful example of classical Chinese architecture with pavilions, prayer halls, and winding paths. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, head to the modern icon of the city, the Macau Tower. Take the high-speed elevator up to the observation deck for stunning 360-degree views of the entire Macau Peninsula, Taipa, Coloane, and mainland China. For thrill-seekers, the tower offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities, including the famous bungee jump and a Skywalk around the outer rim. In the afternoon, enjoy a more relaxed pace by exploring the charming Penha Peninsula, visiting the beautiful Our Lady of Penha Chapel, another spot with lovely views of the city and the sea.

• Young Travelers: Definitely try the Skywalk or, for the ultimate thrill, the bungee jump at the Macau Tower. It’s an unforgettable experience.
• Seniors: The A-Ma Temple has some stairs, but the main halls are accessible. Enjoy the spectacular views from the indoor observation deck of the Macau Tower. A taxi is the best way to get between the temple, tower, and Penha Chapel.
• Family: The views from the Macau Tower are a hit with all ages. While the bungee jump is for older teens and adults, the observation deck with its glass floor sections is exciting for everyone.
• With Disability: The A-Ma Temple can be challenging due to its hillside location and stairs. The Macau Tower, including the observation deck and its restaurants, is fully wheelchair accessible.

• Luxury Travel: Enjoy a fine dining experience at the Macau Tower’s 360° Café, a revolving restaurant that offers great food and constantly changing panoramic views.
• Adventure & Nature: Beyond the tower’s commercial thrills, explore the nearby Sai Van Lake. You can rent paddle boats or simply enjoy a walk along the waterfront, which offers a great ground-level view of the Macau Tower.

• Luxury: MGM Macau – An art-themed luxury resort with a stunning glass atrium (the Grande Praça), a high-end spa, and a wide array of fine dining options.
• Mid-Range: Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16 – Located in the historic Inner Harbour, this hotel blends French and Chinese design, offering a beautiful swimming pool and easy access to the old town.
• Budget-Friendly: Towns Well Hotel – A simple and clean hotel offering good value, located in a quieter residential area but still within walking distance of the main attractions.

Book your tickets for the Macau Tower online in advance to potentially save money and time. Check the weather forecast before you go; the views are best on a clear day. If you are considering any of the adventure activities like the bungee jump or Skywalk, it is essential to book these well in advance, especially during peak seasons. When visiting the A-Ma Temple, be a respectful observer. This is an active place of worship, so keep your voice low and avoid intrusive photography of people praying. The burning incense coils make for beautiful photos but be mindful of the smoke.

For a day of visiting a temple and the tower, comfortable and respectful clothing is appropriate. At the A-Ma Temple, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Lightweight trousers or a longer skirt and a t-shirt or blouse are perfect. For the Macau Tower, there is no specific dress code, but your temple attire will be perfectly suitable. Again, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you will be walking up the hill at the temple and around the Penha Peninsula. Even if you’re not doing the adventure activities, the wind can be strong on the outdoor observation deck of the tower, so a light jacket can be useful.

Near the A-Ma Temple, you can find many traditional Chinese eateries. For a taste of something different, head to the waterfront area near the tower. A great option for lunch or dinner is to explore the restaurants in the Nam Van Lake area. For a special treat, book a table at a Portuguese restaurant in this part of town. Restaurante Litoral is a celebrated establishment known for its authentic Macanese and Portuguese cuisine, offering a cozy, traditional atmosphere perfect for experiencing the local flavors after a day of sightseeing. It’s a great place to try dishes like African chicken and baked duck rice.

The A-Ma Temple is located in the southwestern part of the Macau Peninsula. You can reach it via public bus or a short taxi ride from the city center. From the temple, the Macau Tower is another short taxi or bus ride away. The Penha Peninsula is best reached by taxi. Public buses are an excellent and affordable way to navigate the peninsula. You can buy a Macau Pass card for easy tap-on-and-off travel, or simply pay with cash (exact change is often required). Taxis are also plentiful and relatively inexpensive for getting between these slightly more spread-out attractions.

Take a bus or taxi across the bridge to Taipa Island. Your first stop is the Taipa Houses-Museum, a picturesque complex of five pastel-green colonial villas from the 1920s. These restored houses showcase the lifestyle of Portuguese families during the colonial era and are set in a beautiful garden overlooking the Cotai Strip. After this dose of history, dive into the charming labyrinth of Taipa Village. This beautifully preserved area is filled with narrow, winding streets, colonial churches, and traditional Chinese temples. The village’s main artery for food lovers is Rua do Cunha, a bustling pedestrian lane packed with famous bakeries and eateries. Spend the afternoon strolling, snacking, and soaking up the unique, relaxed atmosphere of this historic part of Macau.

• Young Travelers: Explore the growing number of trendy, independent cafés and boutiques that are popping up in the quieter backstreets of Taipa Village.
• Seniors: Taipa Village is relatively flat and very pleasant for a leisurely walk. The Taipa Houses-Museum is easy to explore, with plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view.
• Family: Rua do Cunha is a paradise for families, with countless snacks and treats to keep children happy. The garden area of the Taipa Houses-Museum is a nice, safe space for kids to run around.
• With Disability: The Taipa Houses-Museum grounds and the main streets of Taipa Village are mostly flat and accessible. Some of the older, narrower lanes may be more challenging.

• Luxury Travel: After exploring the village, head to one of the high-end hotels in Taipa for a sophisticated afternoon tea or a relaxing spa treatment.
• Adventure & Nature: Explore the Taipa Grande Natural Park, which offers hiking trails leading to the highest point on the island. The trails provide great exercise and rewarding views over the airport and the Cotai Strip.

• Luxury: Grand Hyatt Macau – Located in the City of Dreams complex, it offers luxurious modern rooms, two wave pools, and direct access to world-class entertainment and dining.
• Mid-Range: Regency Art Hotel – One of the few resort-style hotels in Taipa away from the Cotai Strip, offering spacious rooms and a large outdoor swimming pool.
• Budget-Friendly: Asia Boutique Inn – A simple, clean, and modern inn located near the entrance to Taipa Village, providing a great budget base for exploration.

Taipa Village is a food lover’s dream. Arrive with an empty stomach and be prepared to graze. Instead of having one large lunch, try a variety of snacks from different vendors on Rua do Cunha and the surrounding streets. This is the best way to experience the local culinary scene. Many shops offer free samples, so you can try before you buy. Also, don’t just stick to the main street; the quieter alleys that branch off from it have some of the most charming and authentic shops and eateries, away from the biggest crowds.

Dress for a relaxed day of walking and exploring. Comfortable shoes are a must for the cobblestone lanes of Taipa Village. Lightweight and casual clothing is perfectly appropriate. Given the mix of outdoor walking and indoor museum visits, layers can be useful. A sun hat and sunglasses are recommended, as the area around the Taipa Houses-Museum is quite open and sunny. The vibe in Taipa is very laid-back, so there’s no need for formal attire, even for a nice dinner in the village.

Rua do Cunha is the epicenter of snacking in Macau. Be sure to try the famous pork chop bun from Tai Lei Loi Kei, the durian ice cream from Mok Yi Kei, and the almond cookies from Koi Kei Bakery. For a proper sit-down meal, Taipa Village is home to some of the best Portuguese and Macanese restaurants. O Santos Comida Portuguesa is a small, rustic, and very popular spot for authentic Portuguese food. For a more upscale experience, António offers award-winning Portuguese haute cuisine in a charming, romantic setting. Reservations are highly recommended for the top restaurants, especially in the evening.

Getting to Taipa from the Macau Peninsula is easy. Public buses are frequent and cross the bridges connecting the islands. Taxis are also a convenient and relatively quick option. Once you arrive in Taipa, the area of the Taipa Houses-Museum and Taipa Village is compact and best explored on foot. You can easily spend several hours wandering through the charming lanes. From Taipa Village, the glittering Cotai Strip is just a short walk or a quick bus or taxi ride away, making it easy to combine exploration of both old and new Macau.

Dedicate today to exploring the mega-resorts of the Cotai Strip. Start at The Venetian Macao, where you can experience a romantic gondola ride along the indoor canals, complete with singing gondoliers, under a painted sky. Next, cross the road to The Parisian Macao and take the elevator up the half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower for fantastic views of the Strip. In the afternoon, explore Studio City and ride the Golden Reel, the world’s first figure-8 Ferris wheel, for another unique perspective. Continue to Wynn Palace and take a free ride on the spectacular SkyCab cable car that circles the Performance Lake, with its choreographed fountain show. In the evening, cap off your day by watching a world-class performance. “The House of Dancing Water” (at City of Dreams) has been a long-running spectacle and is highly recommended if it’s showing, or check for other resident shows.

• Young Travelers: Check out the virtual reality and gaming zones at some of the resorts. The nightlife on the Cotai Strip is vibrant, with many world-renowned clubs and bars.
• Seniors: The resorts are vast but interconnected with walkways and shuttles. Enjoy the lavish decorations, high-end shopping, and spectacular free shows like the Wynn Palace fountains or the Diamond of Fortune at Galaxy Macau.
• Family: The Cotai Strip is very family-friendly. Warner Bros. Fun Zone at Studio City is a huge indoor play center. The gondola rides at The Venetian and the Eiffel Tower at The Parisian are hits with all ages.
• With Disability: The modern resorts on the Cotai Strip are fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout. Free resort shuttle buses are also equipped to handle wheelchairs.

• Luxury Travel: Indulge in a personal shopping experience at one of the high-end designer boutiques. For dinner, choose from the vast array of Michelin-starred restaurants located within the resorts.
• Adventure & Nature: While not nature, for an adrenaline rush, check out the attractions at Studio City, which often include superhero-themed virtual reality rides that offer a different kind of thrill.

• Luxury: The Venetian Macao – An iconic resort offering all-suite rooms, extensive shopping, and the famous indoor canals and gondola rides.
• Mid-Range: Sheraton Grand Macao – One of the world’s largest Sheraton hotels, offering comfortable rooms, multiple pools, and a central location on the Cotai Strip.
• Budget-Friendly: While budget options are scarce directly on the Strip, the Asia Boutique Inn in nearby Taipa offers an affordable base, with easy bus access to the Cotai resorts.

Make use of the free shuttle bus network that operates between the major resorts, the ferry terminals, the airport, and the Macau Peninsula. This is a completely free and efficient way to get around the Cotai and Taipa areas. The resorts are designed to be explored on foot, and many are interconnected by air-conditioned walkways. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking vast distances inside these massive complexes. Also, check the schedules for the free entertainment attractions, like the Wynn Palace fountain show, which runs every 15-20 minutes, so you can time your visit perfectly.

Dress for a day of indoor exploration in a smart-casual style. The resorts are all air-conditioned, so it can be cool inside. A light jacket or cardigan is a good idea. People tend to dress up a little more on the Cotai Strip, especially in the evening. While there’s no strict dress code for general exploration, if you plan on dining at a fine-dining restaurant or attending a show, a smarter outfit will be appropriate. Avoid wearing beachwear or flip-flops inside the high-end shopping malls and restaurants. Comfortable yet stylish shoes are your best bet for the day.

The Cotai Strip offers an overwhelming variety of dining options to suit every budget. For a quick and affordable lunch, head to the food courts located within each major resort. The Venetian and Galaxy Macau have particularly large and diverse food courts offering cuisines from all over Asia and the world. For dinner, the sky is the limit. The Cotai Strip has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. For exquisite French cuisine, try The Tasting Room at Nüwa. For high-end Cantonese, Jade Dragon at City of Dreams is a spectacular choice. Reservations for these top-tier restaurants must be made weeks, or even months, in advance.

The Cotai Strip is a self-contained universe. If you are staying in a hotel on the Strip, you can walk between most of the major resorts. They are connected by internal walkways, footbridges, and the free shuttle bus system. If you are coming from the Macau Peninsula or Taipa Village, public buses run frequently to the Cotai Strip, and taxis are readily available. The Macau Light Rail Transit (LRT) also has a line that runs along the Cotai Strip, connecting the major resorts and the airport, providing another convenient way to get around.

Take a bus or taxi to the peaceful island of Coloane. Start your visit in Coloane Village. Wander along the waterfront, see the charming Chapel of St. Francis Xavier, and soak in the sleepy, old-world atmosphere. Your most important stop here is the original Lord Stow’s Bakery, to sample the iconic Macanese egg tart right from its source. In the afternoon, head to Hac Sa Beach, famous for its unique black sand. Relax on the beach, take a dip in the water, or enjoy a barbecue at the public pits. For those seeking more activity, explore the Coloane Hiking Trail which loops around the island, or visit the Seac Pai Van Park, which is home to the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion, a delightful experience for animal lovers.

• Young Travelers: Rent a bike and explore the quiet roads and coastline of Coloane at your own pace.
• Seniors: Coloane Village is flat and perfect for a gentle stroll. Enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch at a waterfront restaurant. The Panda Pavilion is an easy and enjoyable attraction.
• Family: Seeing the giant pandas is a huge highlight for families. Hac Sa Beach is a great place for kids to play in the sand. The combination of nature, animals, and famous pastries makes for a perfect family day out.
• With Disability: Coloane Village is largely accessible. The Macau Giant Panda Pavilion is wheelchair-friendly. While the beach itself can be challenging, the promenade at Hac Sa is paved and accessible.

• Luxury Travel: Enjoy a round of golf at the exclusive Macau Golf and Country Club, which boasts stunning coastal views. For lunch, dine at the club’s restaurant or the fine-dining Portuguese restaurant at the Grand Coloane Resort.
• Adventure and Nature: Embark on the full 8-kilometer Coloane Trail, a rewarding hike that takes you through the island’s lush forests and up to the Alto de Coloane, the highest point in Macau, offering fantastic views.

• Luxury/Resort: Grand Coloane Resort – The main resort on the island, offering a true escape with a large outdoor pool, private beach access, and beautiful views of Hac Sa Beach.
• Mid-Range: Pousada de Coloane Boutique Hotel – A charming, colonial-style boutique hotel with a swimming pool and a lovely terrace restaurant, located right by Cheoc Van Beach.
• Budget-Friendly: There are very few budget options on Coloane itself. It’s best to stay in Taipa or on the Peninsula and visit Coloane as a day trip.

Public buses are the best way to get to and around Coloane. They are frequent, cover all the main attractions (Coloane Village, Hac Sa Beach, Panda Pavilion), and are very affordable. Plan your route in advance using a bus app or map. When visiting Lord Stow’s Bakery in the village, be prepared for a queue, but it moves quickly and is well worth the wait. While the original shop is small, they have a larger café just around the corner where you can sit and enjoy your tarts with a coffee. Don’t forget to grab a box to take away.

Dress for a casual and active day outdoors. Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking sandals, especially if you plan to explore the trails. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal. If you plan on spending time at the beach, bring your swimwear, a towel, and a cover-up. Sun protection is crucial, so pack a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. If you are hiking, consider wearing long trousers to protect against insects and scratches. The atmosphere in Coloane is very relaxed, so casual wear is appropriate everywhere, including the local restaurants.

Coloane is famous for its namesake egg tarts, so a stop at Lord Stow’s Bakery is non-negotiable. For a wonderful seafood lunch, head to one of the waterfront restaurants in Coloane Village, such as Restaurante Espaço Lisboa, which serves excellent traditional Portuguese food in a charming colonial house. At Hac Sa Beach, you’ll find several casual restaurants and stalls. Fernando’s Restaurant is a famous local institution near the beach, known for its rustic, delicious Portuguese dishes, especially its roasted chicken and suckling pig. It has a very casual, beach-shack vibe and does not take reservations, so be prepared to wait.

Coloane is well-connected to Taipa and the Macau Peninsula by public bus. Bus routes 25, 26, and 26A are particularly useful as they travel between the main city areas and down through Coloane, stopping at the village and Hac Sa Beach. Taxis are also available but will be more expensive. Once on the island, buses can take you between the different points of interest. If you are feeling active, you can also hike between some of the locations. The island is small enough that navigating between the main sights is relatively straightforward.

Dedicate your morning to a hands-on cultural experience with a Macanese cooking class. Several institutions and private chefs offer classes where you can learn the secrets of this unique fusion cuisine. You’ll visit a local market to select fresh ingredients and then learn to prepare classic dishes. It’s a fun and delicious way to immerse yourself in the local culture. In the afternoon, indulge your artistic side with a visit to the Macau Museum of Art (MAM). Located on the waterfront near the ferry terminal, this large museum has an excellent collection of Chinese art and ceramics, as well as works by local Macanese artists. In the evening, prepare for your farewell dinner. Macau has a huge range of options, from cozy, traditional Portuguese restaurants to globally acclaimed Michelin-starred establishments. Choose a place that suits your taste and budget for a memorable final meal.

• Young Travelers: After the art museum, explore the nearby Macau Fisherman’s Wharf, a theme park with shops, restaurants, and unique photo opportunities, including a replica Roman amphitheater.
• Seniors: The cooking class is a wonderful, relaxed, and seated activity. The Macau Museum of Art is spacious, modern, and easy to navigate. Enjoy a relaxed, high-quality farewell dinner.
• Family: A family cooking class can be a really fun bonding experience. If the art museum is too quiet for young children, consider a visit to the Macau Science Center, designed by I.M. Pei, which has many interactive exhibits.
• With Disability: Many cooking schools can accommodate participants with disabilities with advance notice. The Macau Museum of Art is fully accessible. Choose a restaurant for your farewell dinner that has good accessibility.

• Luxury Travel: Book a private cooking class with a renowned chef. For your farewell dinner, splurge on a meal at Robuchon au Dôme or The Eight, both of which hold three Michelin stars and offer an unforgettable dining experience.
• Adventure & Nature: Before dinner, take a final sunset stroll along the waterfront promenade near the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, a serene statue of the goddess of mercy that offers beautiful views of the city.

• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Macau – Located within the Galaxy Macau complex, offering legendary service, an exclusive club lounge, and some of the most luxurious suites in the city.
• Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Macao Cotai Central – A reliable and family-friendly option offering great value and a central location on the Cotai Strip with easy access to everything.
• Budget-Friendly: IFU Hotel – A modern, clean, and no-frills hotel located near the Macau Ferry Terminal, offering a convenient and affordable base.

Cooking classes in Macau are popular, so it’s essential to book your spot well in advance. The Institute for Tourism Studies (IFT) offers excellent and highly sought-after classes. For your farewell dinner, reservations are a must, especially if you are dining at a well-known or Michelin-starred restaurant. Book at least a week in advance, or even more for the top-tier establishments. This ensures you won’t be disappointed on your last night. When choosing a restaurant, consider the atmosphere you want—whether it’s lively and traditional or elegant and modern—to cap off your trip perfectly.

For your cooking class, wear something comfortable that you don’t mind getting a little messy, although aprons will be provided. Casual attire is perfectly fine. For the art museum, a smart-casual outfit is appropriate. For your farewell dinner, you may want to dress up a little, especially if you are going to a fine-dining restaurant. Many high-end establishments have a dress code (e.g., no shorts, sandals, or sleeveless shirts for men). A smart dress or trousers and a blouse for women, and trousers and a collared shirt for men, would be suitable for most upscale venues.

Lunch will be the delicious meal you prepare yourself during your Macanese cooking class! It’s the most rewarding meal you can have. For your farewell dinner, the choices are immense. For an exceptional Macanese/Portuguese experience, book a table at Clube Militar de Macau, a beautiful historic building serving classic dishes. For the ultimate luxury, Robuchon au Dôme at the Grand Lisboa offers breathtaking views and three-Michelin-star French cuisine. For equally impressive Chinese fine dining, The Eight, also at the Grand Lisboa, is a fantastic choice. For something more relaxed but still special, return to a favorite spot you discovered in Taipa Village or near the A-Ma Temple.

The location of your cooking class will determine your morning’s transport; most are located on the Macau Peninsula or in Taipa and are accessible by bus or taxi. The Macau Museum of Art is on the waterfront of the Macau Peninsula, easily reached by several bus lines. Taxis are a convenient way to get to your chosen restaurant for dinner, especially if you are traveling between islands. Use public buses for a more budget-friendly approach. As it’s your last day, you may want to indulge in the convenience of taxis to make your final evening as seamless as possible.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel or a local “cha chaan teng” (tea house) for an authentic experience. Depending on your departure time, you may have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping. The best edible souvenirs are the almond cookies, peanut candies, and beef jerky, which can be found at the famous bakery chains like Koi Kei or Pastelaria Fong Kei in Taipa Village. After checking out of your hotel, take a complimentary shuttle bus or a taxi to the Macau International Airport (MFM) or the Macau Ferry Terminal for your onward journey, filled with wonderful memories of your diverse and enchanting 8-day Macanese adventure.

While Macau is more famous for entertainment, high-end hotels on the Cotai Strip and in Coloane offer world-class spa and wellness facilities. Many luxury hotels like the Grand Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton, and Banyan Tree have exceptional spas offering everything from traditional massages to hydrotherapy suites. The Grand Coloane Resort offers a more tranquil, nature-focused setting for relaxation. You can create your own wellness retreat by combining these spa services with quiet time in Coloane’s parks and on its beaches.

Pack lightweight clothing for Macau’s subtropical climate. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for the hot and humid summers (May-September). A small umbrella and waterproof jacket are essential during the rainy season. Winters (December-February) are mild and dry, but a sweater and light jacket are needed. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the historic center. Include a smart-casual outfit for evenings, as some high-end restaurants and shows have dress codes. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.

Macau is a free port and a shopping paradise. For luxury brands, the massive shopping malls inside the Cotai Strip resorts (like The Venetian’s Shoppes or The Londoner’s Shoppes) are unbeatable. For unique souvenirs and local flavor, explore the streets around the Ruins of St. Paul’s and Rua do Cunha in Taipa Village. This is the best place to buy edible souvenirs like almond cookies and beef jerky. For antiques and traditional Chinese goods, wander the streets near the A-Ma Temple. Prices for branded goods are generally fixed, but you can haggle at smaller market stalls.

1. What is the currency in Macau? The official currency is the Macanese Pataca (MOP). However, the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) is accepted everywhere on a 1:1 basis. Change is usually given in MOP.
2. Do I need a visa for Macau? Visitors from many countries, including the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada, can enter Macau visa-free for a specific period. Always check the latest requirements for your nationality.
3. What languages are spoken? The official languages are Cantonese and Portuguese. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and resorts.
4. Is Macau safe? Macau is a very safe city with a low crime rate. The main concern is pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas, so take standard precautions.
5. What is the best way to get around? For tourists, the free hotel shuttle buses are the best way to travel between the main hubs. Public buses are efficient and cheap, while taxis are also readily available.
6. Is Macau just for gambling? No. While Macau is a major gaming center, it offers a huge range of attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, world-class shows, fine dining, family-friendly activities, and nature.
7. Can I use my Hong Kong Octopus card in Macau? No, the Hong Kong Octopus card does not work in Macau. You will need to use a Macau Pass or cash for public transport.
8. What plug type is used in Macau? Macau uses the Type G plug, the same three-pronged plug used in the UK and Hong Kong.
9. Is Macau expensive? Macau can cater to all budgets. Accommodation and fine dining can be very expensive, but local food and public transport are very affordable.
10. What is Macanese cuisine? It is considered the world’s first fusion food, a unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese cooking styles using ingredients from Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. Must-try dishes include African chicken, minchi, and the Portuguese egg tart.