Top 50 things to do in Macau by Asia-Pacific Guides Ltd

Asia Pacific Guides™ Top 50 things to do in…

Macau

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1-25

Places of interest around Central Macau and Porto Interior

Name and details

What is there to be seen

How to get there and what to see next

A-Ma Temple

This is where it all begun… One of Macau's oldest and most significant temples was originally built in 1488 to commemorate a miracle in which A-ma, the mythic goddess of fishermen, saved a boat from racking.

From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): Nos. 2, 5, 7, 10, 10A, 11 and 21A

 Daily, morning till evening Free entrance Did you know? When the Portuguese first set a foot in Macau, hundreds of years ago, they asked locals for the name of the place and where answered "A-ma gau" (The bay of A-ma)…. Eventually, the name was distorted and Ama gau became Macau…

Nestled on the slopes of a rocky hill, facing Macau's inner harbor, the temple boasts some prayer halls, pavilions and courtyards, connected by winding paths that run through moon gates and tiny gardens (some of the prayer halls are dedicated to other deities). Garden spots, built into the cliff behind the temple, provide some excellent views.

From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau (and Macau Grand Prix Museum) : 3, 10 and 10A From Macau Tower : Nos. 18 and 21 From "Taipa Village" / Rua do Cunha and Museum of Taipa and Coloane History : No. 11 From The Venetian and City of Dreams : Nos. 21, 21A and 26 From "Coloane Village" : 21, 21A and 26

Macau Maritime Museum  Daily (except Tuesday), 10am - 6pm (sales of tickets will close at 5:30 pm) Admission fees apply Website

Fabulous Portuguese Restaurants  Daily, for lunch and dinner Bookings are recommended (particularly for dinner)

Although it is not as impressive as other maritime museums around the world, Macau's Maritime Museum certainly justifies a visit. The exhibitions focus on the history of South China's fishermen communities, as well as on the naval history of both Portugal and China, and the exhibits include some really nice models and replicas of antique boats, as well as old and modern instruments and navigation tools Macau's Portuguese restaurants pride themselves for serving "the best Portuguese food outside Portugal"… What's more, the city's old restaurants also serve "real" Macanese cuisine, which blends the flavors of Portugal, China and the lusophone colonies…

A-Lorcha: 2831 3193/5 Restaurante Litoral : 2896 7878

Pousada de São Tiago and Barra Fort  Daily, till late Phone: 2837 8111

Right opposite A-ma Temple (see above)

A-Lorcha and Litoral are both near A-ma Temple (see above)

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A Lorcha and Restaurante Litoral, near A-ma Temple and the Maritime Museum, are both very recommended Pousada de São Tiago is an atmospheric Portuguese-style boutique hotel that was built within the ramparts of the 1620s Barra Fort, one of colonial Macau's most strategic strongholds.

Pousada de São Tiago is just a few minutes' walk from A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum (down along Rua Sao Tiago da Barra).

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Other than the remains of the ancient fort, the hotel boasts a lovely terracecafe where you can dine alfresco and enjoy the views over Macau's inner harbour (Porto Interior).

Penha Chapel and Santa Sancha Palace  The church is open daily, 9 am 5:30 pm

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The Mandarin's House, Moorish Barracks and Largo do Lilau  Mandarin's House is open daily (except Wednesday), 10am – 6pm

Strategically perched at the top of Barra Hill, Penha Chapel was originally built in 1622 (although the current structure dates back to 1837) and enjoys a fantastic view over the city and the bay (which is the main reason for coming here) . The striking pink Santa Sancha Palace, just a few minutes' walk down the hill, is an elegant 1846 colonial manor house which used to be the residence of the Portuguese governor of Macau.

If coming from Pousada de Sao Tiago: Walk along Avenida da Republica, by the "lake", pass the tennis courts, turn left into Calcada da Praia and left again into Estrada de Santa Sancha. If coming from Largo do Lilau: Walk through Rua do Lilau and Rua da Penha and turn right to Calcada da Penha with which you climb the hill to the church.

Built in the 1870s by one of Macau’s most prominent families, the Chinese-style Mandarin's House, which used to be the biggest private house in town, is one of the most impressive sites along Macau's Heritage Trail, and one of the only historic Chinese-style mansions in Macau that are open to the public.

Website

The compound comprises several courtyard houses and integrates both western and Chinese architectural styles, including typical Chinese elements like a walled private garden, decorative tiles and intricately carved doors…

The Moorish Barracks building currently houses government offices, so you should ask for permission to enter (although it is much nicer from outside)

Standing atop of a granite platform above the street, just a heartbeat from the Mandarin's House, the Moorish Barracks was built in the 1870s and features beautiful neo-classical motifs that integrate both Moghul-Indian and English architectural styles (the building's name comes from its architecture, which somewhat resembles the Moorish style)… Largo do Lilau (Lilau Square) is a small shady piazza that was built around the natural spring which used to provide fresh water to Macau's people, back in the old colonial days... Getting there: From the piazza in front of A-ma Temple : Enter Calcada da Barra and at the end of the small lane turn right and walk up the street to the Moorish Barracks and onwards, to Largo do Lilau and the Mandarin's House.

Old churches and colonial buildings  Open daily, morning till evening

A cluster of beautiful ancient churches and old colonial buildings can be found around St. Augustine's Square, between A-ma Temple and Senado Sq.

Free entrance to all this sites Well noted for its impressive twin towers, St. Lawrence's Church is one of Macau's three oldest churches. It was originally built in the 1560s (although the current structure dates back to the mid-19th century) and as the shoreline passed nearby in those days, it was popular among Portuguese sailors and their families,

To get to Largo de Santo Agostinho: From A-ma Temple, Largo do Lilau and St. Lawrence's Church : Continue walking along Rua de São Lourenço till you see the jade-green façade of Dom Pedro V Theatre on your left. If coming from Largo do Senado: Tiny Rua do Dr. Soares, on the right side of Leal Senado Building, will take you to Calcada do Tronco Velho, with which you climb to St. Augustine's church. Continue…

who used to pray here before heading to the ships. St. Joseph's Seminary and Church, just a couple of minutes' walk from here (via Rua da Prata, at the back of St. Lawrence's Church), is one of Macau's most beautiful churches. It was first built by the Jesuits in 1728 and features a classic Baroque architecture. The church's interior is rich and lavish, with plenty of wellpreserved decorations, and its high domed ceiling gives exceptionally fine acoustics.

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St. Augustine's Square (Largo de Santo Agostinho) is a beautiful Portuguesestyle cobblestone-paved piazza, surrounded by some historical buildings that are worth knowing about, like St. Augustine's Church, after which the square is called, Sir Robert Ho Tung Library (a late 19th century building that was originally constructed as the mansion of Dona Carolina Cunha) and the 1860s jadegreen building of Dom Pedro V Theatre, China's first western style theatre, which its impressive façade is decorated with Roman style pillars and triangular pediment.

Rua da Felicidade and its offshoots Rua da Felicidade (literally "Happiness  Daily (24/7)

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A few minutes' walk from Senado Square: Street") was once the heart of Macau's Walk through tiny Rua do Dr. Soares, on red lights district, and that is how it the right side of Leal Senado Building, turn got its rather peculiar name... right to Rua Dos Cules and after a couple of minutes right again, to Felicidade Nowadays, it is an authentic shopping street where you can buy some If Coming from St. Augustine's Square: "exotic" products, enjoy some truly Walk down Calcada do Tronco Velho, turn authentic food and see some nice left to Rua Dos Cules and after a couple of shophouses with traditional red minutes right, to Rua Felicidade. louvers... (Movie lovers may recognize the street from "Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Doom"). The picturesque street is also home to some really good restaurants, like Tou Tou Koi, that serves some of the nicest Chinese hotpot/steamboat dishes in Macau..., Fat Siu Lau, which has been serving genuine Macanese cuisine for God knows how many years and is possibly the city's oldest restaurant, Café Kam Ma Lon (A modest eatery that serves good local food at

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moderate prices), Sai Nam (Cantonese seafood) and Restaurant Cheong Kei noodle, which is known for its lovely Cantonese specialties, prepared with a traditional "Macanese touch"... The Cultural Club and Pawnshop Museum Daily, 10:30am - 8pm Small entrance fee More info

Senado Square (Largo do Senado) ď&#x201A;ž 24/7 An article with more details about the square and its places-of-interest How to find the best deals in Asia ? Instantly compare the world's leading hotel-websites and get the BEST rates for accommodation in Macau, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Taipei and elsewhere throughout Asia...

Housed in Tak Seng On, an old building with mixed Chinese and western motifs that used to accommodate a prosperous pawnshop long time ago, the Cultural Club gives the visitor an opportunity to see lots of lovely art pieces, related to Macau's culture and heritage, and to understand the role that pawnshops used to play in Macau's daily life, more than a century ago. There is also a nice arts shop.

Avenida Almeida Ribeiro (A short walk from either Senado Square or Rua Felicidade)

Located right at the heart of the city, this large Portuguese-style piazza is surrounded by many heritage sites, as well as coffee shops, restaurants, market lanes and shops, and it's always busy with people...

From A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum : Nos. 2, 5, 7, 10, 10A, 11, 18 and 21A

Rua Sul do Mercado de SĂŁo Domingos, next to the square, and the small market lanes around it are packed with small shops and factory outlets where inexpensive surpluses are sold... The new city market complex, on the right side of the street (Complexo Municipal do Mercado de S. Domingos) is also a place you should visit, if you are after bargains. Facing the square from Avenida Almeida Ribeiro, the neo-classical Leal Senado Building (Portuguese for Loyal Senate) was erected in 1784 and served as the seat of Macau's Government during the old colonial days. Nowadays, there is an exhibition hall here that is worth visiting

From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): Just a short walk along Avenida Infante D. Henrique / Avenida Almeida Ribeiro. From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau (and Macau Grand Prix Museum) : Nos. 3, 3A 10 and 10A From Macau Tower : Nos. 9A, 23 and 32 to the Lisboa / Wynn Macau and from there proced by foot. From "Taipa Village" / Rua do Cunha and Museum of Taipa and Coloane History : Nos. 11 and 33 From The Venetian and City of Dreams : Nos. 21A and 26A From "Coloane Village" : Nos. 21A and 26A

Other places of interest around Senado Square include The Holy House of Mercy, The Cathedral, Santo Domingo Church, Lou Kau Mansion, and Sam Kai Vui Kun (Kuan Tai Temple) Do you know you can enjoy savings of up to 40% on more than 20 of the best attractions and activities in Hong Kong and Macau with the Hong Kong Flexi Pack ? Each of those smart cards comes with free entry to 3 or 5 top attractions and things-to-do and is Valid for one month from activation, which means you can really explore the city at your own pace...

Santo Domingo Church  Daily, morning till evening. Entry is free

Nestled at the inner end of Senado Square, this beautiful church was originally built in the late 16th century, although the present Baroque-Filipino building, with its cream-beige façade and green louvers, dates back to 1828

Same as Senado Square (above)

There is also a small museum here with religious exhibits from the history of the Roman-catholic church in Asia

The Holy House of Mercy  Daily (except Sundays and holidays) 10am - 1pm and 2:30 - 5:30 pm Entry is MOP$ 5 at the time of writing An interesting article about the museum

Occupying a beautiful neo-classical building with a notable Roman pediment, right on Senado Square, the Holy House of Mercy Institution was founded in 1569 by the first bishop of Macau, Dom Belchior Carneiro, in order to provide medical services and other charitable assistance to the community, and was actually the first western-style hospital in China.

Same as Senado Square (above)

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There is a small museum within the building where you can see some historical religious artifacts of the institution.

Lou Kau Mansion  Daily (except Monday), 9am to 5pm Free Entrance Short article about the history of the place

Built in 1889 as the residence of one of Macau's wealthiest traders, this magnificent court-yard house features an excellent example of typical Chinese mansion architecture, right in the middle of Portuguese Macau. The wood screens, the stained-glass windows and the porches are all very interesting.

Same as Senado Square (above) The mansion is on Travessa da Se, which is off Senado Square (Two minutes' walk from Santo Domingo Church)

Lemon Cello Gellato, which is just a stone's throw away, sells some of the best Italian ice cream in Macau.

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The Cathedral, one of Macau's most impressive historical landmark, was originally built of wood in 1576, and was housed in various different buildings (one of which was nearly destroyed by a typhoon in 1874) until its present building was inaugurated in 1937. The main draw here are the stainedglass windows. Otherwise, there is a small private museum in the adjacent Bishop's palace (ask the guard to see it and he will let you in).

Same as Senado Square (above) Located in Largo da Se' (The small piazza at the top end of an alley above Senado Square).

Ruins of St. Paul's  Daily, 24 hours (The Museum is open daily, 9 am - 6 pm) Free Entrance .

Standing atop of a massive flight of stone stairs, the impressive southern façade of the Ruins of St. Paul's, one of Macau's best known and most photographed landmark, is the only remain of St. Paul's Cathedral and College, which was built by the Jesuits between 1582 and 1602 and was the largest Catholic church in Asia at the time... The intricate carvings on the façade were done between 1620 and 1627 by Japanese Christians in exile from their homeland and local craftsmen, under the direction of Italian Jesuit Carlo Spinola.

From Senado Square (Largo do Senado): Walk inside the square all the way to Santo Domingo Church, where you turn right and left, to Rua da Palha, which will take you to Rua de S. Paulo and Ruins of St. Paul's.

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The Museum of sacred art and Crypt, at the back side of the façade, displays items of high historical and artistic value from the 16th to the 19th centuries (mostly related to the history of the catholic missions in the region).

The Museum of Macau  Daily (except Monday), 10am - 6pm Admission fees apply Website

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The Museum of Macau, right next to Ruins of St. Paul's, is our last destination for today. Built within the ramparts of Fortaleza do Monte (Mount fortress), Macau's historical military headquarters, this fantastic museum displays the territory's history, from prehistoric eras to our days, in quite a fascinating way and with special focus on the city's different communities and their cultures.

The entrance to the museum is a minute's walk from the Ruins of St. Paul's

Visiting Macau without gobbling a few egg-tarts is as unthinkable as visiting Egypt without seeing the Pyramids... These custard-filled pastries have long become one of the city's icons and can be addictive… Especially when they come fresh from the oven.

Margaret’s Cafe e Nata is located on a small patio off Rua Comandante Mata e Oliveira (a couple of minutes' walk from the Grand Lisboa)

Margaret’s Cafe e Nata is probably the best place in town to indulge on freshly baked egg tarts, but you may also try "Tea Plus" or "Pasteleria Koi Kei" if you happen to be in the vicinity of Senado Square and Ruins of St. Paul's and don't feel like walking all the way down to Margaret’s

Tea Plus is on Rua da Palha, right in between Senado Square and Ruins of St. Paul's. Pasteleria Koi Kei has few outlets in town: Rua de S. Paulo, Largo Senado and Rua Felcidade are the best known (and best located).

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Indulge on Cantonese noodles and Wonton

Wong Chi Kei, on Largo do Senado, and Fung Shing Chu Kei Noodle Expert, on Travessa dos Mercadores (off Rua Felicidade) are both famous for their authentic Cantonese noodle dishes, and Wanton noodles in particular…

Fung Shing Chu Kei Noodle Expert is on 127 Travessa dos Mercadores, off Rua Felicidade (just a short stroll from Senado Square and Avenida Ribeiro). Wong Chi Kei is right on Largo do Senado.

The first is more of a proper restaurant (with relatively moderate prices), while the latter is an authentic local eatery per se.

A sentimental journey to Macau's old teahouses and cafés

Rua de Cinco de Outubro is one of those old and characterful streets between the city centre and Porto Interior, and just like on some of the other streets in this part of town, you can see quite a few shops here that look as if they belong to another era... Tai Long Fong is a 70 years old teahouse where you can enjoy an authentic "yum cha" with delicious, old-style dim sums, while watching a Cantonese opera performance. Nam Peng Café, just a few doors away, is another culinary institution that has been serving old school food for God knows how many years… Their egg-ham-androasted pork sandwiches are legendary, and so are their small doughnuts and other breakfast stuff… Tai Long Fong is on 127 Rua de Cinco de Outubro, while Nam Peng Café is on 85 Getting there: Off Avenida Ribeiro, halfway between Senado Square and Porto Interior (A short walk from Ponte 16)

Luis de Camoes Garden, St. Anthony Church, the Old Protestant Cemetery and Casa Garden  Daily, morning till evening Free entry

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Named after Portugal's national poet, Luís de Camões, this lovely park offers its visitors a green lung with rocky landscapes and nice city views, and although it is one of the city's less known attractions, it is well worth visiting... The main draw here is the grotto where the legendary poet worked on his famous epic poem, Os Lusíadas ("The Lusiads"), during the time he lived in Macau. Right at the entrance to the grotto there is a 19th century bust, commemorating Camões and his famous poem. Casa Garden, right next to the entrance to Camoes Garden, is an imposing colonial villa, encircled by a lovely garden, that was built in 1770 by a well-heeled Portuguese merchant Next door, in the Old Protestant Cemetery, you can see some detailed tombstones that tell the stories of famous figures from Macau's early days, and although the cemetery is small, it is quite "atmospheric" and certainly justifies a short visit... St. Anthony Church (Santo Antonio), across the street from the park, is one of Macau's three oldest churches, and while the current building is less than 100 years old, its predecessors date back to the mid-16th century From A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum : Nos. 18 and 26 From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): Nos. 8A, 18, 18A and 19 (or simply walk via Santo Domingo Church and Ruins of St. Paul's) From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): Nos. 18A and 19

The Fire Services Museum of Macau (Museu dos Bombeiros)  Daily, 10 am - 6 pm Entrance is free

St. Michael Cemetery and Tap Seac Gallery

 The gallery is open daily, 10 am - 7 pm and the entrance is free Website

Lou Lim Leoc Garden and Macau Tea Culture House

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 Open daily (except Monday), 9 am 7 pm and entrance is free Website

Dr. Sun Yat Sen Memorial House  Daily (except Tuesday), 10am - 5pm Free entrance More info (Wikipedia)

Occupying the 1920s colonial building which once housed the city's fire brigade, this small museum focuses on the history of Macau's fire-fighting services and although it is not one of Macau best known attractions, it is still worth visiting, especially if you need a nice time-killer for the kids, who more often than not show interest in the old vehicles (although grownups are also likely to enjoy it).

The museum is on the corner of Estrada do Repouso and Estrada de Coelho do Amaral You can take a walk from Camoes Garden (see instructions above), or from the Museum of Macau and Ruins of St. Paul's (From the back of the ruins/museum, walk along Rua Belchior Carneiro to the roundabout, turn left to Estrada do Repouso and walk downhill for a short while, till you see the museum on your right hand side).

Macau's largest Catholic cemetery accommodates quite a few sumptuously decorated tombstones that combine both Chinese and European motifs - An interesting example of Macau's cultural diversity.

The easiest way to get here is by foot from the entrance to Guia Hill Park / Cable-car It is also not too far from Ruins of St. Paul's and Macau Museum

Tap Seac Gallery is nestled within a 1920s neo-classical building, just a short stroll from the cemetery, and while it mainly promotes local artists, it also showcases art from abroad. Lou Lim Leoc Garden is a lovely little park with Chinese landscaping, and although it is slightly rundown, it's still worth a visit...

The easiest way to get here is by foot from the entrance to Guia Hill Park / Cable-car

Built by a well-off 19th century Chinese merchant, it boasts some beautiful Chinese motifs like lotus ponds with gold fish, Chinese pavilions, bridges and winding paths... Occupying a nice colonial villa, next to the garden, the Macau Tea Culture House (Casa Cultural de Cha de Macau) tells the story of Macau's rich tea culture through a range of exhibitions... Occupying an oriental manor on Avenida Sidonio Pais, near Guia Hill, Dr. Sun Yat Sen Memorial House is dedicated to the ideology and philosophy of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, a legendary Chinese political leader and groundbreaker who played a major role in bringing the Qing regime to its end, in 1911, and transferring China from a monarchy to a republic. Sun, who is usually described as the "father of modern China", stayed in this house between 1892 and 1894.

Just a heartbeat from the entrance to Guia Hill Park / Cable-car (see below)

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Guia Hill and Guia Fortress  The cable car runs every day (except Monday), 8 am - 6 pm. The trip costs MOP$ 3 - one way or MOP$ 5 - return.

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Guia Hill, one of Macau's tallest, greenest and most picturesque hills, boasts a few attractions that are well worth seeing: At the foot of the hill, as you enter, there is a nice park with a small zoo (somewhat rundown), an aviary and some landscaped gardens with manmade cascades... From here, you can take a short cable car ride to the upper side of the hill, and enjoy nice views on the way... The Guia Hill Municipal Park, up on top of the hill, provides some fabulous cityscape and harbor views, as well as lovely walking trails. The best part of the visit to the hill, however, is the imposing Guia Fortress and its chapel that were erected in the early 1600s, following a failed raid attempt by the Dutch.

From A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum : Nos. 2, 2A, 5, 9 and 18 From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): Nos. 2, 2A, 5, 18 and 19 From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): 2A, 9, 12, 19, 32 From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau (Macau Grand Prix Museum) : 12 and 32 From Macau Tower : No. 32. From "Taipa Village" / Rua do Cunha: No. 22 From The Venetian and City of Dreams : Nos. 25 and 25X From "Coloane Village" : No. 25

The lighthouse was built in the 1860s and is the first western style lighthouse on the China coast. Another place of interest on Guia Hill are the underground tunnels (or the Air Raid Shelters, as they are commonly known).

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Places-of-interest in the north of Macau

Name and details

What is there to be seen

How to get there and what to see next

Kun Iam Temple

Dedicated to Kun Iam, the Chinese goddess of mercy, this beautiful Buddhist temple was originally built on the 13th century and is possibly Macau's oldest and among the city's biggest and richest temples.

From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): Nos. 18, 18A and 19

 Daily, morning till evening Free entrance

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The present building dates back to 1627 and boasts plenty of lavish ornaments and Buddhist art, both inside and in the courtyard… The temple had its 15 minutes of fame in 1844, when the first Sino-American trade treaty was signed there.

From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): Nos. 18a, 19 and 22 From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau (and Macau Grand Prix Museum) : No. 12 From Guia Hill Park / Cable car : As you walk out of the park (a minute from the cable-car), turn right to Sidonio Pais and left to Ouvidor Arriaga. The third street on the right (Costa Cabral) will lead you straight to the temple.

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The "Three Lamps District"  Daily, all day Free entrance

Rotunda de Carlos da Maia, at the heart of the historic "Three Lamps District", is not really a sightseeing spot as such, but it is one of Macau's most popular shopping areas and one of the best places to see how the locals live, and experience the city's day-to-day life in its most unpretentious form.

From A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum : Nos. 1, 5, 6, 9, 18 and 26

The roundabout and its offshoots are packed with small shops, boutiques and street vendors that specialize in inexpensive clothes, mostly surpluses and seconds of genuine brand-names, and there is also a decent choice of authentic eateries and street food vendors around, to take care of the culinary side...

From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau: No. 3, 12, 17 and 32

From the City Centre (Largo Senado): Nos. 3, 3X, 4, 5, 18, 18A and 19 From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): Nos. 3, 3X, 4, 9A, 18a, 23, 25X, 32, 33 and 7A

From "Taipa Village" / Rua do Cunha : No. 33 From The Venetian and City of Dreams : Nos. 25X and 26 From "Coloane Village" : No. 26

The Red Market  Daily, early morning till afternoon Free entrance

Well known for its notorious smell, the Red Market (Hung Kai Si) is Macau's main "wet market" and the place where locals shop for their fresh seafood, meat and green groceries. The huddle of small stalls, in and around the market, is where you can try all sorts of Cantonese street specialties and other exotic snacks...

 Daily (except Tuesday), 12noon to 7pm Free entrance

OX Warehouse, on the corner of Almirante Lacerda and Coronel Mesquita, just a stone's throw from the "Red Market", belongs to a nonprofit organization of local Macanese artists and displays their works... If contemporary art is your thing, it is well worth a visit.

Just a short walking distance from the "Three Lamps" (see above)

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Canidrome - Greyhound racing  Races are held on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and weekends, starting from 7:45 pm. Admission is MOP$10 (usable for betting) for the public stand. For more info, call them: 2833 3399

Lin Zexu Memorial Museum and Lin Fung Temple  Daily (except Monday), 9am - 5pm Small admission fees apply

If you have had enough of the city's casinos and you truly believe that man's best friend can bring you more luck than manmade slot machines and Baccarat tables, opt to Asia's only greyhound racing stadium! As a matter of fact, spending an evening at the Canidrome is an experience worth trying, even if you have no plans to bet…

This relatively small museum is dedicated to Lin Zexu: The imperial commissioner who is best remembered for his uncompromising stand in the struggle against opium smuggling by the British into Guangzhou, a struggle that has triggered the outbreak of the First Opium War, between 1839 and 1842.

From A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum : No. 1 and 7 From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): Nos. 3, 4, 7, and 8A From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): Nos. 3, 4, 7A, 8 and 17 From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau (and Macau Grand Prix Museum) : Nos. 8 and 17 Same as the Canidrome (see above) You can also walk from the "Red Market", as it is not that far…

Although it is not among the most famous of Macau attractions, the museum certainly worth a visit, as it gives the visitor a glimpse to one of modern history's most captivating times… Lin Fung Temple, right next to the museum, is one of Macau's three most ancient and most visited temples. Originally built in 1592, it is devoted to the Chinese goddess of mercy, Kun Iam and boasts plenty of artistic ornaments and manicured gardens.

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Attractions between Fisherman's Wharf and Macau Tower

Name and details

What is there to be seen

How to get there and what to see next

Macau Fisherman's Wharf

Although it is far less successful than it was meant to be, Macau Fisherman's Wharf is still one of the city's nicest attractions and a place well worth visiting, especially if you are here with the whole family...

The Fisherman's Wharf operates its own shuttle bus service that picks passengers from the Macau Ferry Terminal, as well as from other one or two points around town. Click here for the schedule.

 24/7 Free entrance Website

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The main draw here is the Legend Boulevard: A pedestrian mall lined with a range of European and coastal town architectures that replicate streets and suburbs from port-cities around the globe... You can have a cup of coffee at a French Riviera café , eat seafood in Cape Town or New Orleans and have your dessert in Amsterdam or Lisbon... The Underground Amusement Centre boasts plenty of video-games, including the popular F-1 simulator.

Sands Casino  24/7 Free entrance Website

Well noted for its humongous gold glass-clad façade, The Sands used to hold the "world's largest casino" title until the opening of the Venetian, in 2007, and although it is no longer the world's biggest, it is still worth visiting…

From A-Ma Temple: Nos. 10 and 10A From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): Nos. 3, 3A, 10 and 10A From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): Nos. 3, 3A, 10, 10A 10B, 12, 17 and 32 From Macau Tower : Nos. 23 and 32. From "Taipa Village" / Rua do Cunha : No. 28A From The Venetian and City of Dreams : The Venetian operates a free shuttle service to Sands Macau. It leaves every 5 15 minutes, from 10am to midnight. The Sands is located right next to Macau Fisherman's Wharf (see above).

Other than gambling the Sands offers very good entertainment to its visitors, as well as some very good restaurants, including one of Macau's best buffet restaurants.

Macau Grand Prix Museum  Daily (except Tuesday) 10am - 6pm

This small museum is one of Macau's "must sees" and you are likely to enjoy it even if museums are not your usual cup of tea...

Admission fees apply Website

Stroll through all those legendary cars and bikes that made history on one of the world's most demanding street tracks - Macau's Guia Circuit, and see those vehicles that were once driven by icons like Ayrton Senna, Michael and Ralf Schumacher, and David Coulthard, alongside some antique racing cars.

The museum is housed in the Tourism Activities Centre, on Rua de Luis Gonzaga Gomes, just behind the Lotus Flower Statue (opposite the entrance to Macau Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Casino).

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Macau Wine Museum  Daily (except Tuesday) 10am - 6pm Admission fees apply

Tucked in the Tourism Activities Centre, right next to the Grand Prix Museum, this small and nice museum focuses on Portugal's wine industry and takes the visitor through the history of wine production, techniques and technology, culture and even wine-related festivals and customs... Wine tasting is also included.

Next door to Macau Grand Prix Museum

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The Handover Gifts Museum of Macau  Daily (except Monday) 10am - 7pm Free entrance. Website

Housed in a modern glass and still building that stands exactly where the 1999 handover ceremony took place, this fabulous museum displays all those gifts that were bestowed upon Macau and its residents by the government of the People's Republic of China and its various counties, municipalities and autonomous regions (including Hong Kong).

The museum is just a short stroll from Macau Fisherman's Wharf and the Sands (Walk out of the gate next to Babylon Casino, cross the road and you are there). It is also within a short walk from Kun Iam Statue and Macao Science Center (see below).

Each of the gifts is a beautiful piece of art that reflects the artistic skills of the region from where it came... Really awesome !

Macau Museum of Art  Daily (except Monday), 10am - 7pm

This excellent museum doesn't have any permanent exhibitions, so new works of art and other exhibits keep on coming all the time..

Admission fees apply Website (see what is currently on)

Macao Science Center  Daily (except Thursday) 10am - 6pm Admission fees apply Website

The changing exhibitions do, however, focus on Macau, its history and its art... From prehistoric artifacts and ancient ceramic figurines, to beautiful examples of Chinese calligraphy, and from colonial-style paintings to modern Macanese art and what have you... Occupying a colossal sci-fi looking conical structure, the Macao Science Center boasts 12 galleries where you can familiarize yourself with almost every possible field of science, including Space science, food science, Robotics, Earth science and what not…

Contrarily to many "ordinary" museums, the galleries at the Macao Science Center are all interactive (three of them are specifically designed for small kids and toddlers) and the visitor can take part in plenty Continue… of interesting activities.

Right next to The Handover Gifts Museum. You can easily walk to the museum from Macau Fisherman's Wharf (Walk out through the gate next to Babylon Casino, cross the road and you are there), or from Kun Iam Statue / the "Docas" Macau LKF)

From A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum : No. 10A From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): Nos. 3A and 10A From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): It's a 10 minutes stroll From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau (and Macau Grand Prix Museum) : Walk (see Macau Museum of Art above). From Macau Tower : Nos. 9A, 23 and 32 to the Lisboa and from there proceed by foot.

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Kun Iam Statue and "Macau Lan Kwai Fong"

There is also a fantastic planetarium here, where you can watch interesting 3-D documentaries about space exploration and other topics.

Rising to a height of 20 meters, on a manmade island right next to Macau's waterfront, the beautiful bronze statue of China's goddess of mercy has long become one of Macau's most recognized attractions. The Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, at its foot, houses a small exhibition where you can fetch some educational literature about Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.

From Guia Hill Park / Cable car and Dr. Sun Yat-Sen House: Nos. 12 and 17.

See Macao Science Centre (Above) It is a short walk from The Wynn/Lisboa

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Across the street from Kun Iam Statue, on Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen and its neighboring streets, there is a lively dining and nightlife area called the Docas (Docks), although it is also known as Macau LKF (after Hong Kong's famous nightlife district), and while it is primarily a nightlife district, most venues open during the day…

The Wynn fountain-show (and other attractions)  Daily, the whole evening Free entrance

Developed by the same people who created the internationally known Bellagio Fountains in Vegas, the fountain-show at the Wynn features a beautiful combination of sound, lights, bursts of fire and water pyrotechnics, and while it is not as extravagant as its counterpart in Vegas, it is spectacular.

The Wynn sits in one of Macau's most central locations, right opposite the Lisboa (look here for bus routes and directions)

And while you are at the Wynn, do not miss the other free (and thrilling) attractions this glitzy hotel has to offer, such as the "Tree of Prosperity Show" and the "Dragon of Fortune", as well as the "Moon Jellyfish Aquarium". The See Hong Kong and Macau Attractions Pass is truly GREAT for those of you who wish to make the most of their precious holiday time… You can jump aboard the Big Bus for an open-top ride around Hong Kong’s famous landmarks, or ride the world’s famous Peak Tram, visit one (or more) of Hong Kong's many museums, enjoy a scenic balloon flight, take a dim-sum cooking class, travel by the Turbojet to Macau, visit Macau Tower and much more…

Casino Lisboa Macau  Daily, the whole evening Free entrance

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Macau Tower  Daily, 10am - 9pm (from as early as 9am on weekends) but the restaurants stay open until later (Don't worry, you will not have to use the stairs if you decide to stay for a late drink...) Entry fees apply (to go to the observation decks) Website – Macau Tower Website – AJ Hackett Bungy and extreme activities

Stanley Ho's world-known casino has long become a true "Macau institution" and although it was recently renovated, it still keeps some of its rowdy and chaotic ambience, with smoke-suffocated rooms, loud Chinese gamblers and great cabaret shows...

From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): From Senado Square, turn left to Avenida Almeida Ribeiro and walk along it for 10 minutes or so, until you reach the Lisboa and the Wynn. (look here for bus routes and directions)

The Lisboa offers an unbelievably wide range of games and has one of the world's highest "per table revenues", so If you plan to visit only a few casinos in Macau, make sure it is on your list… Macau Tower, one of the, if not the most popular of Macau attractions, is rising to an impressive height of 338m, which makes it one of the world's tallest free-standing structures. There are heaps of activities, attractions and happenings in and around Macau Tower... From the much expected shops and slot machines at the shopping mall downstairs, through cinema theatres, restaurants and cafés, to the observation decks, from where you can get breathtaking views of Macau and its environs...

From A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum : Nos. 21 From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): Walk to the Lisboa and take the bus from there (see below) From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): Nos. 9A, 18 and 23 From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau (and Macau Grand Prix Museum) : .No. 23 From The Venetian and City of Dreams : No. 21 From "Coloane Village" : No. 21

The Macau Tower is also no short of adventurous and blood-freezing activities, including the (currently) world's highest bungy jump and the freaking "mast climb"… A strong heart and a pocket full of money is all you'll need to take your nerves to the extreme…

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Attractions and places-of-interest in Taipa

Name and details

What is there to be seen

How to get there and what to see next

Taipa Village and Rua de Cunha

The historic "village" of Taipa is a small cluster of narrow lanes and alleys, with old colonial houses along them, painted in hues of yellow, blue, and green… Peep into small traditional shops that look as if they belong to another era, or enjoy some scrumptious food at one of the authentic Portuguese/Macanese restaurants, or at one of the numerous eateries…

From A-Ma Temple : Nos. 11 (to Rua do Cunha) 21 and 26 and 33 (to Avenida Olimpica)

 24/7 An article with more details about the "village" and its dining options

The museum of Taipa and Coloane History  Daily (except Monday) 10am – 6pm Admission fees apply Website

Taipa Houses Museum  Daily (except Monday) 10am – 6pm Admission fees apply Website

Pou Tai un Monastery  Daily, morning till evening Admission is free

Housed in a 1920s colonial building near Taipa Village, this museum focuses on the history of Macau's two islands, namely Taipa and Coloane, from the early civilizations that existed here more than 5,000 years ago, until our days. Exhibits include archaeological findings from the excavations on Coloane Island, precious religious items, both western and eastern, old maps and charts, and plenty of historical objects.

From the City Centre (Largo Senado): Nos. 11 (to Rua do Cunha) 26A and 33 (Avenida Olimpica) From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): Nos. 11, 22 (to Rua do Cunha) 26A, 28A and 33 (Avenida Olimpica) From The Venetian and City of Dreams : Nos. 15 (to Rua do Cunha) 21, 26 and 26A (Avenida Olimpica). From "Coloane Village" : Nos. 15 (to Rua do Cunha) 21, 26 and 26A (Avenida Olimpica).

Taipa Houses Museum (Casas Museu da Taipa) comprises a line of five beautiful colonial houses, which used to accommodate well-heeled Macanese families back in the 1920s. The Macanese House gives a glimpse into the day-to-day life of a well off Macanese family at the beginning of the 20th century, including all the antique furniture, the utensils and the other bits and pieces...

A short walk from Taipa Village and Rua do Cunha.

Nestled on the lower slope of Taipa Pequena hill, not far from the Regency, Pou Tai un Monastery is probably one of Macau's most beautiful temples, and although this 19th century complex is not as old and fabled as some of the temples in the old town, it makes up for it with plenty of beautiful ornaments, statues and pieces of art...

You can take a pleasant stroll from Taipa's hotels (New Century, Regency and Altira), or take route No. 35 (Taipa's circular bus), which stops at places like the Four-Faced Buddha and Avenida Olimpica (Northern entrance to "Taiipa Village").

Another good reason to visit the monastery is its vegetarian café, which is operated by the monks and serves a delicious meal in a nice environment and at a fairly good price.

Route No. 21A arrives to the same bus stop from "Coloane Village" and The Venetian / City of Dreams.

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Route No. 11 departs from the entrance to Rua do Cunha and has a stop 3 - 4 minutes from the temple.

Nature trails in Taipa  Daily, morning till evening Admission is free

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The Taipa Grande Trail climbs all the way to Taipa's highest point, from where you can enjoy lovely panoramic views (the view points along the path are also excellent).

From Taipa Village: Leave through Rua da Ponte Negra, turn right and walk to Rotunda Ouvidor Arriaga, where you turn left to Nicolau de Mesquita street and walk along it for a few minutes, till you see a small cemetery on your right, and right after it a small park, with a fountain, from where the trail climbs to the hill.

Attractions and places-of-interest in Cotai

Name and details

What is there to be seen

How to get there and what to see next

Venetian Macau

Housed within the luxurious Venetian Macau Resort, in Cotai Strip, the übergrandiose Venetian is the world's current largest casino, with almost 600,000 square feet of gambling space, 3,400 slot machines and 800 gambling tables, spread over four themed gaming areas…

From A-Ma Temple: Nos. 21, 21A and 26

 24/7 Free entry (excluding some shows) For information about dining and nightlife options at the Venetian's "Grand Canal Shoppes", click here.

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Other than virtually endless gambling options, the Venetian is also home to one of Macau's most extravagant shopping precincts - The Grand Canal shoppes, where you can find a plethora of international boutiques, as well as excellent restaurants, cafes, bars and world-class entertainment.

From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): 21A and 26A From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): 21A and 26A From Fisherman's Wharf and Sands Macau (and Macau Grand Prix Museum) : The Venetian operates a free shuttle service from Sands Macau (right next to Fisherman's Wharf). It leaves every 5 - 15 minutes, from 10am to midnight. From Macau Tower : No. 21 From "Coloane Village" : Nos. 15, 21, 21A, 25, 26 and 26A

City of Dreams  24/7 Free entry (excluding the shows) For more information about "The House of Dancing Water" show, visit their website, or click here to book/purchase a ticket (You can see the shows-schedule for the first quarter of 2012 here)

Located just across the street from the Venetian Macau, in Macau's Cotai Strip, the City of Dreams (COD) is the latest thing in Macau's casino scene and one of the hippest of the city attractions. Other than three hotels and a luxury apartment tower, the complex boasts a mega-casino and a glittering shopping mall, as well as a range of up class dining and entertainment venues… "The House of Dancing Water", one of the world's most spectacular extravaganzas, is permanently staged at the City of Dreams and is well worth watching.

Same as the Venetian (see above)

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Attractions and places-of-interest in Coloane Village

Name and details

What is there to be seen

How to get there and what to see next

Coloane Village

Coloane Village is Macau's most rustic and authentic precinct, boasting drowsy and mellow lifestyle that has changed little with the passage of time, and beautiful architecture that is reflected in the old houses, the churches and the temples.

From A-Ma Temple: Nos. 21, 21A and 26

A sightseeing stroll through the village is easy and does not take much time (although it is very advisable to spend some time at one or two of the cafés and the eateries).

From Macau Tower : No. 21

 24/7 Free entry An article about Coloane Village (including a detailed itinerary and recommended cafés / eateries)

From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): 21A and 26A From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): 21A and 26A

From Avenida Olimpica/Macau Stadium (Northern entry to "Taipa Village" and Rua do Cunha): Nos. 25, 26 and 26A From The Venetian and City of Dreams : 15, 21, 21A 25, 26 and 26A

A-Ma Cultural Village and Alto de Coloane  Daily, 8am – 6pm An article about A-Ma Cultural Village and its vicinity.

Perched just below the peak of Macau's highest hill, A-Ma Cultural Village is, possibly, Macau's most impressive religious sites. Devoted to A-Ma, the legendary protector of sailors and seafarers and Macau's most beloved deity, this imposing complex is a beautiful replica of a Qing dynasty palace compound, and is packed with finely detailed statues, lavishly decorated shrines, reliefs and other "gems"… There is no doubt the developers did not spare any detail in creating an impressive monument for their beloved goddess..

Same as Coloane Village above: Drop off at the bus-stop next to the Esso Petrol Station and walk to the adjacent Chinese gate, from where you can catch the FREE half-hourly minibus to the hilltop Cultural Village.

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The relatively new Panda Pavilion seems to be one of Macau's hottest attractions nowadays, giving visitors a  Daily, except Monday (unless that Monday is a public holiday) from 10am chance to get a good glimpse into the daily lives of Kai Kai and Xin Xin: Two to 5pm (admission until 4:45pm) and the viewing sessions are 10-11, 11-12, cute pandas that came here from mainland China. 12-1, 2-3, 3-4, and 4-5.

Macau Giant Panda Pavilion

Admission fees apply Website

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The beaches: Hac Sa and Cheoc Van  24/7 Free entry

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Macau's two only sandy beaches: Hac Sa and Cheoc Van, occupy beautiful stretches of coastline on the southern side of Coloane Island and offer their visitors peace and tranquility that stand in total contrast to the hustle and bustle in town… Cheoc Van Beach, the smaller of the two, is snuggled in a lovely little bay, bounded by forest clad hills, just around the corner from Coloane Village, and although it is much smaller than Hac Sa Beach and offers fewer facilities, it is more picturesque than its "bigger counterpart" and certainly more serene…

From A-Ma Temple and Macau Maritime Museum : No. 21A From the City Centre (Almeida Ribeiro and Largo Senado): 21A and 26A From downtown hotels (Lisboa, Grand Lisboa and Wynn): 21A and 26A From Avenida Olimpica/Macau Stadium (Northern entry to "Taipa Village" and Rua do Cunha): Nos. 25 and 26A From The Venetian and City of Dreams : Nos. 15, 21A 25 and 26A From "Coloane Village" : Nos. 15, 21A 25 and 26A

There are also some really nice seaside restaurants at the beaches, including Pousada de Coloane (authentic Portuguese) and Ristorante La Gondola (Italian), at Cheoc Van Beach, and Internationally known Fernando's Restaurant at Hac Sa Beach.

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