The Best Things to Do in Macau for a Memorable Trip

Klook Singapore

Last updated 12 Apr 2024

Best Things to Do in Macau: Fun Attractions, What to Eat, and More!

Seeking the best things to do in Macau? Uncover the essentials with our streamlined guide, spotlighting everything from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Prepare to be enthralled by Macau’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, all while keeping your itinerary focused on standout experiences.

How to travel around Macau

Travelling around Macau is quite straightforward and simple, making it an ideal destination to visit. Macau’s small size makes it highly walkable, with numerous historical sites and cultural areas accessible by foot.

There's also the Macau Light Rapid Transit (MLRT) system which provides a convenient way to travel between the Macau Peninsula, Taipa, and Cotai, with services running from early morning until late at night.

For those preferring to travel by bus, two operators, TCM and Transmac, offer extensive routes covering Macau Peninsula, Taipa, Cotai, and Coloane, providing an economical way to get around.

Taxis are also readily available throughout Macau, making it easy to reach your destination quickly and conveniently.

Don’t forget to get the MacauPass card for easy contactless payments on public transport and numerous establishments. If you prefer to use cash, HKD is also accepted but make sure to carry coins for your bus fare as change is not provided.

1. The Dazzling Cotai Strip

Enter the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’, the mesmerizing Cotai Strip. Renowned for its sprawling and dynamic casino landscape, the Cotai Strip is a visual spectacle that offers an unforgettable experience. Here, you can:

Marvel at the Macau Eiffel Tower
Explore opulent venues like The Venetian Macao, Studio City, and Venetian Macau
Take a romantic gondola ride mimicking the canals of Venice

The Cotai Strip is not just about casinos; it’s a hub of world-class entertainment. From concerts to theater productions and magic shows, it offers a variety of experiences to keep you entertained throughout your stay. And let’s not forget the thrill of gaming in the opulent casinos that encapsulate the essence of Macau’s vibrant nightlife.

2. Historical Wonders at Macau's UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Journey into the past as you delve into the historic core of Macau, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Historic Centre of Macao is a collection of over 20 culturally and historically significant landmarks that demonstrate the seamless integration of Portuguese and Chinese influences over four centuries. The Ruins of St. Paul’s and A-Ma Temple are testament to the city’s rich history and unique cultural heritage, each offering a fascinating glimpse into Macau’s past.

The A-Ma Temple, built in 1488, is revered as the oldest Taoist temple in Macau, embodying the region’s cultural heritage and religious diversity. It not only reflects Macau’s historical role as a haven for seafarers but also serves as a vibrant cultural hub, especially during the A-Ma Festival featuring traditional rituals and lanterns.

Throughout the city, concerted protection and management measures ensure the historical identity of Macau’s UNESCO Heritage sites remains intact, preserving the visual relationship between the urban landscape and the seascape.

3. Delight in Macanese Cuisine

Delight in the exquisite blend of Chinese and Portuguese flavors that define Macanese cuisine, a testament to the harmonious fusion of Chinese and Portuguese cultures. Macau’s culinary scene is a distinctive blend of multicultural influences, reflected in its traditional dishes and local street food. Some highlights of Macanese cuisine include:

Galinha à Portuguesa: a dish with flavors of turmeric, coconut milk, and cinnamon
Macanese minchi: a dish with a unique blend of spices and ingredients
Cha Gordo: a culinary tradition similar to afternoon tea, featuring a variety of savory and sweet treats

Macanese cuisine offers a gastronomic delight like no other, including the delicious portuguese egg tarts.

For food lovers, exploring the ‘food streets’ like Rua do Cunha and Broadway Macau Street is a must. Here, you can taste local delicacies such as:

egg tarts
lemon-flavored ice cream
serradurra
almond cookies
pork jerky
peanut candies

And for a taste of upscale dining, venues like La Famiglia and Albergue 1601 offer an unforgettable experience at fine dining restaurants.

4. Artistic Escapes: Macau's Vibrant Art Scene

Plunge into the lively world of Macau’s art scene. Contemporary art venues like Creative Macau, iAOHiN Gallery, and Blanc Art offer a space for artistic expression and cultural exchange. Cultural artistic hubs like Albergue SCM’s Art Gallery and 10 Fantasia in the St. Lazarus Parish not only provide artistic showcases but also creative courses, nurturing the community’s artistic talent.

Macau Art Garden and Tap Seac Gallery are integral to the local art ecosystem, supporting local creation with exhibition space and community engagement through events and workshops. Emerging and established artists alike have platforms to present their work in spaces like At Light and Ox Warehouse, which also encourage public participation.

And for art enthusiasts, a visit to the Macau Museum of Art is a must, offering visitors a diverse art experience without an admission fee. While in the area, consider stopping by the Macau Wine Museum for a unique cultural experience.

5. Adventure Activities at Macau Tower

Experience heart-racing activities at Macau Tower, sure to get your adrenaline flowing. Home to the world’s highest commercial bungee jump by AJ Hackett, which has held a Guinness World Record since 2007, Macau Tower is a paradise for thrill-seekers. But it’s not just about bungee jumping; experience the Skywalk and Tower Climb, activities accessible to visitors of all ages, including families with children and grandparents.

Bungee jump participants at Macau Tower are offered a comprehensive package featuring a free skywalk, T-shirt, e-certificates, and photo and video souvenirs, along with discounts on food, beverages, and tower admission. And for those looking for a unique experience, embrace the adventure of Macau Tower at night, with activities available starting from 6pm in winter and 7.30 pm in summer, providing a unique opportunity to enjoy the illuminated skyline. Additionally, the Macau Tower Convention offers a great venue for events and conferences.

Get tickets to Macao Tower!

6. Tranquil Retreats: Coloane and Taipa Villages

Experience tranquility in the enchanting Coloane and Taipa Villages. These villages offer a glimpse of old-world Macau with their narrow streets, quaint shops, and pastel-hued buildings influenced by Portuguese architecture.

Taipa Village is characterized by cultural attractions like the Taipa Houses Museum and Our Lady of Carmel Church, enriching the visitor experience with historical insights.

Food lovers can enjoy authentic Portuguese dishes at La Famiglia in Taipa Village, a remnant of the Portuguese colony era, or choose the unique setting of Albergue 1601 to have a meal under the courtyard’s camphor trees. For shopping and local artwork, Cunha Bazaar in Taipa Village is the ideal go-to place for traditional Macanese snacks, souvenirs, and products designed by local artists.

And if it’s serenity you seek, the beaches in Coloane Village, particularly Hac Sa Beach with its distinctive black sand, offer a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, relaxation, and refreshing dips in the sea.

7. Family Fun at Macau's Interactive Attractions

Macau, a haven for families, boasts a plethora of interactive attractions. The Macau Science Center features interactive exhibits and an impressive planetarium, providing an engaging learning environment for children. And for a close encounter with nature’s gentle giants, visit the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion to observe giant pandas Kai Kai and Xin Xin, gaining insights into conservation initiatives.

If indoor play is what your little ones enjoy, there are several options in Macau:

Super Fun Zone at Studio City, Macau’s largest indoor playroom, caters to children of all ages.
Aqua World at The Parisian Macao entertains with child-friendly water play areas, waterslides, and a pirate ship equipped with water guns.
Studio City Waterpark offers a temperature-regulated environment with 16 attractions for year-round family fun.
teamLab SuperNature Macao is a three-dimensional interactive space with varying interactive and Insta-worthy exhibits!

Book your teamLab SuperNature Macao Tickets NOW!

8. Shop 'til You Drop: Macau's Shopping Hotspots

Treat yourself to a shopping spree at Macau’s prime retail destinations. Some of the top shopping spots include:

The Grand Canal Shoppes, designed to resemble Venice, features over 330 stores
One Central Macau provides a luxury shopping experience with premium designer brands and a view of Nam Van Lake
The Four Seasons Shoppes hosting over 160 luxury brands
The Promenade at Galaxy Macau, with a cosmopolitan mix of over 200 international brands

There’s something for every shopper in Macau.

For a unique shopping experience, visit the following places in Macau:

The Shoppes at Parisian, featuring 150 boutiques under the glow of a Eiffel Tower replica
The Galaxy Macau’s Fortune Diamond with over 200 stores and an impressive laser show
Macau’s Patio de Chon Sau for traditional Macanese snacks, souvenirs, and products designed by local artists
The Macau International Airport, which offers international brands and local products duty-free

Souvenir Shopping in Macau: What to Buy

When visiting Macau, no trip is complete without picking up some souvenirs to remember your journey or to share with friends and family back home. Macau offers an array of unique items that reflect its rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life. Here are some must-buy souvenirs when in Macau:

Portuguese Wine and Chinese Tea: Embrace the blend of East and West by purchasing some fine Portuguese wine or exquisite Chinese tea, both integral to Macau's dining culture.
Macanese Pastries: Macau is famous for its delicious pastries, such as the iconic Portuguese egg tarts, almond cookies, and peanut candies. These sweet treats are perfect for sharing a taste of Macau with your loved ones.
Porcelain and Ceramics: Beautifully crafted porcelain and ceramics that feature traditional Chinese designs or Portuguese artistic styles make for elegant gifts and home decorations.
Jewelry and Antiques: For something more luxurious, browse the local markets and shops for unique jewelry pieces and antiques that carry the history and charm of Macau.
Pork Chop Buns and Meat Jerky: Savory snacks like pork chop buns and various types of meat jerky are popular take-home snacks that capture the essence of Macanese street food.
Textiles and Embroidery: Macau’s markets are a good place to find high-quality textiles and embroidery, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of local artisans.
Macau Grand Prix Merchandise: For motorsport enthusiasts, merchandise from the famous Macau Grand Prix, such as caps, T-shirts, and model cars, are great souvenirs to commemorate the event.
Cultural Artifacts: Visit local galleries and shops to find cultural artifacts, such as Chinese calligraphy, paintings, and sculptures that make for meaningful and artistic souvenirs.

Before leaving, make sure to visit popular shopping areas like Senado Square and the Red Market, where you can find many of these items. Whether you're looking for something traditional or a bit more contemporary, Macau's souvenir shops have something for everyone.

9. Nightlife Adventures: Bars, Clubs, and Live Music

Feel the dynamic rhythm of Macau’s nightlife in its diverse bars, clubs, and live music venues. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a cocktail lover, Macau’s nightlife scene has something to suit every taste. From the extensive wine list and live entertainment at 38 Lounge to the classy atmosphere and collection of over 400 Portuguese wines at MacauSoul, your nightlife adventures in Macau are bound to be unforgettable.

For whisky lovers, Two Moons and The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge offer an extensive range of drams from independent whisky bottlers and almost 400 types of whisky respectively. And if live music is what you’re after, venues like the Live Music Association, The Roadhouse Macau, and the luxurious St. Regis Bar Macao are known for their live jazz music and New York-inspired cocktails.

10. Cultural Immersion at Macau's Temples and Museums

Dive into the cultural richness of Macau through its temples and museums. A visit to the A-Ma Temple, dedicated to the goddess A-Ma, provides a unique insight into Macau’s spiritual heritage. The Macau Maritime Museum, on the other hand, offers insights into Macau’s maritime heritage, with an affordable admission fee of US$3.

Visitors can also explore the following attractions in Macau:

Guia Fortress complex, which includes the oldest lighthouse in China and military tunnels
Macau Maritime Museum, which provides educational experiences that convey the city’s historical ties to the sea
Macau Grand Prix Museum, which celebrates Macau’s racing history and culture - The Macau Grand Prix Museum has an affordable admission price of US$2, which is approximately 16 Hong Kong dollars, and is open daily except for Tuesdays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to travel around Macau?

The best way to travel around Macau is by walking within the city, and using public transportation such as MLRT, buses, and taxis for longer distances. If you prefer a more leisurely option, consider renting a bike in less crowded areas like Coloane Village.

What can I do at the Cotai Strip?

Visit luxurious casinos, enjoy world-class entertainment and shopping, and explore landmarks like the Macau Eiffel Tower on the Cotai Strip. Embrace the opportunity to take a gondola ride and enjoy concerts, theater productions, and magic shows.

What are some traditional Macanese dishes?

You should try traditional Macanese dishes such as galinha à Portuguesa, bacalhau, and Macanese minchi. If you're looking for street food and snacks, don't miss out on egg tarts, lemon-flavored ice cream, serradurra, almond cookies, pork jerky, and peanut candies. Enjoy exploring the vibrant Macanese cuisine!

What family-friendly attractions are there in Macau?

Macau offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including the Macau Science Center, the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion, and water parks like Aqua World at The Parisian Macao and Studio City Waterpark. Enjoy a fun-filled experience with your family exploring these exciting destinations.