As a Filipino traveler, stepping into Macau feels like entering a dazzling blend of Manila’s vibrant energy and a European fairy tale. The moment I arrived, I was struck by the mix of Portuguese-style cobblestone streets and towering casinos—like a fusion of Intramuros and Las Vegas. Macau weather can be humid like home, but the cooler breezes in autumn make exploring much more pleasant. Filipinos will love the food scene (think egg tarts as addictive as hopia), luxury shopping with surprisingly good deals, and the thrill of nightlife that rivals Manila’s best. Whether you’re into history, food, or just Instagram-worthy backdrops, Macau delivers. Wondering where to stay in Macau? From budget-friendly guesthouses to opulent resorts, there’s something for every balikbayan wallet. Ready to dive in? Here’s what to do in Macau for an unforgettable trip.
🌆 Take in the Skyline at Macau Tower
Standing on the observation deck of Macau Tower, I felt my heart race as the city sprawled beneath me like a glittering mosaic. The wind whistled past, carrying snippets of conversations in Cantonese and Portuguese. Below, the Pearl River shimmered under the afternoon sun, while tiny cars zipped across bridges connecting Macau’s islands. For thrill-seekers, the tower’s bungee jump—the world’s highest—drew gasps from onlookers. Even if you’re not jumping, the 360° views of Macau’s skyline, with its mix of colonial churches and neon-lit casinos, are worth every pataca.
📖 About Macau Tower
This 338-meter icon isn’t just for views—it’s an adrenaline hub with skywalks, mast climbs, and even a glass-floored observation deck for the brave.
✅ Opening Hours | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Weekdays), 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Weekends) |
📍 Location | Largo da Torre de Macau |
💰 Cost | ~PHP 1,200 (Observation Deck), Bungee Jump: ~PHP 15,000 |
💡 Pro Tips
- Visit at sunset for golden-hour photos without the midday glare.
- Book tickets online to skip queues—Klook often has discounts!
- The café sells Portuguese egg tarts; pair them with a coffee while soaking in the view.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Kids will love the views, though the bungee jump is for adults only. Elderly visitors can enjoy the elevator ride and spacious deck.
🚶 Stroll Through Senado Square’s Portuguese Charm
Walking into Senado Square felt like stepping into Europe—if Europe had lechon stalls and bubble tea shops. The wave-patterned cobblestones underfoot, the pastel-colored buildings with wrought-iron balconies, and the sound of church bells from nearby St. Dominic’s created a surreal blend of East and West. The square buzzed with locals and tourists snapping photos, while the smell of pork chop buns and almond cookies lured me into tiny bakeries. At night, the lanterns glowed, turning the square into a romantic postcard scene.
📖 What Makes This Activity Special?
Senado Square is the heart of Macau’s UNESCO-listed Historic Centre, where Portuguese colonial history meets Chinese traditions.
✅ Opening Hours | Always open (Shops: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM) |
📍 Location | Largo do Senado, Macau Peninsula |
💰 Cost | Free (Food/shopping extra) |
💡 Pro Tips
- Try serradura (sawdust pudding) at a nearby café—it’s a Macau must-eat!
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
- Pop into the Holy House of Mercy for a quiet slice of history.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! Flat, pedestrian-only paths make it easy for strollers and elderly visitors.
Top Things To Do Macau
22 booked
🍜 Savor Macau’s Famous Pork Chop Bun
My first bite into a Macau pork chop bun was a revelation—crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and sandwiched in a slightly sweet, pillowy roll. At Tai Lei Loi Kei, the aroma of fried garlic and soy-marinated pork filled the air as locals lined up for their fix. The chop was tender, with a caramelized crust that reminded me of tonkatsu but bolder. Paired with a milk tea, it was the perfect street food snack after exploring Coloane’s sleepy lanes.
📖 What Makes This Dish Special?
A Macau staple since the 1960s, this bun is a Portuguese-Chinese fusion, best enjoyed fresh from decades-old family-run shops.
✅ Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Varies by stall) |
📍 Where to Find It | Tai Lei Loi Kei (multiple locations) |
💰 Cost | ~PHP 150–200 per bun |
💡 Pro Tips
- Go to the original Coloane location for the most authentic taste.
- Order extra—they’re addictive!
- Pair with a yuenyeung (coffee-tea mix) for the full experience.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Kids will love the simple, flavorful sandwich.
Recommended eSIMs Options for Macau
🎰 Try Your Luck at The Venetian Macau
Entering The Venetian felt like walking into a dream—gondolas gliding on indoor canals, Renaissance frescoes on vaulted ceilings, and the constant ding of slot machines. Even if gambling isn’t your thing (like me), the sheer scale of this Vegas-style mega-resort is jaw-dropping. I window-shopped at luxury boutiques, watched street performers, and even took a cheesy gondola ride under painted "skies." At night, the exterior lit up like a golden palace, making it a must-see even for non-gamblers.
📖 What Makes This Spot Special?
The world’s largest casino and a kitschy-but-fun homage to Venice, complete with singing gondoliers.
✅ Opening Hours | 24/7 (Shops: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM) |
📍 Location | Cotai Strip |
💰 Cost | Free entry (Gondola ride: ~PHP 800) |
💡 Pro Tips
- Visit weekdays to avoid crowds.
- The food court has affordable local options—skip the overpriced Italian!
- Photograph the canals early morning when they’re empty.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, but kids can’t enter gaming areas. The canals and shows are fun for all ages.
Recommended Hotels in Macau
🎆 Witness the Magic of Macau’s Light Festival
During Macau’s annual Light Festival (December), the city transformed into a luminous wonderland. I wandered past St. Paul’s Ruins, now bathed in swirling projections of dragons and Portuguese ships, while live fado music echoed through the streets. The crowd—a mix of families and couples—ooh-ed at 3D-mapped shows on colonial façades. At Senado Square, I sipped warm ginger milk tea from a pop-up stall, soaking in the festive glow.
📖 What Makes This Festival Special?
A dazzling fusion of art, tech, and Macau’s multicultural heritage.
✅ When & Where | December, across historic landmarks |
💰 Cost | Free |
💡 Pro Tips
- Download the festival map to plan your route.
- Wear comfy shoes—you’ll walk a lot!
- Arrive early for front-row views of projection shows.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Perfect for kids! The lights and animations are mesmerizing.
Flights to Macau
🌊 Splash into Adventure at Studio City Water Park
I felt like a kid again the moment I stepped into Studio City Water Park—towering slides twisted like dragons, a lazy river with waves strong enough to flip tubes, and a massive wave pool where screams of joy echoed nonstop. The "Quantum Spin" slide sent me plunging down a near-vertical drop in complete darkness before splashing into a crystal-clear pool. Around me, families lounged in cabanas while daredevils raced on mat slides. The vibe was like a tropical fiesta, with DJ beats mixing with the sound of splashing water.
📖 About Studio City Water Park
Macau’s first indoor/outdoor water park, blending high-thrills rides with resort-style relaxation.
✅ Opening Hours | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Weekdays), 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Weekends) |
📍 Location | Studio City, Cotai Strip |
💰 Cost | ~PHP 1,500 (Adults), ~PHP 1,200 (Kids) |
💡 Pro Tips
- Rent a cabana for shade and VIP service—it’s worth it on crowded days.
- Night sessions are cooler and less packed.
- The “Storm Rider” slide is a must for adrenaline junkies!
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Kiddie pools and gentle slides for toddlers, plus thrill rides for teens.
🎨 Step into a Digital Dream at teamLab SuperNature Macau
Walking into teamLab SuperNature felt like falling into a kaleidoscope. My hands brushed a wall of virtual flowers that bloomed and scattered at my touch, while a mirrored floor reflected infinite constellations underfoot. In the "Crystal Universe," I stood surrounded by 3D-light galaxies that shifted colors with my movements—like being inside a living Instagram filter. The air hummed with ambient music, and kids (and adults!) giggled as digital fish "swam" across their shadows. It was art, science, and magic rolled into one.
📖 About teamLab SuperNature
A cutting-edge digital art museum by Tokyo’s famous teamLab collective, blending tech and interactivity.
✅ Opening Hours | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last entry 9:15 PM) |
📍 Location | The Venetian Macao, Cotai Strip |
💰 Cost | ~PHP 1,800 (Adults), ~PHP 1,300 (Kids) |
💡 Pro Tips
- Wear white or light-colored clothes—the projections glow brighter on you!
- Weekday mornings = fewer crowds.
- Download the teamLab app to interact with exhibits.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
100%! Kids adore the interactive displays (but watch toddlers near mirrors).
🔭 Geek Out at Macau Science Center
As a self-proclaimed science nerd, I geeked out hard here. The planetarium’s 3D show made me reach out to "touch" Saturn’s rings, while the hands-on exhibits—like generating tornadoes or piloting a space shuttle—had me grinning like a kid. The best part? The "Fun Science Gallery," where I rode a bicycle across a high-wire (safely harnessed!) and laughed at my distorted reflection in thermal cameras. Outside, the cone-shaped building itself, designed by I.M. Pei, is a futuristic landmark.
📖 About Macao Science Center
A sleek, interactive hub for science lovers, with 14 galleries and Macau’s only planetarium.
✅ Opening Hours | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Thursdays) |
📍 Location | Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen |
💰 Cost | ~PHP 400 (Combo ticket) |
💡 Pro Tips
- Check the planetarium schedule—English shows sell out fast!
- The rooftop has killer views of the Macau Tower.
- Skip if you’re short on time; it’s better for families.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Perfect for kids 5+ (younger ones might get bored).
🗼 Feel Parisian Vibes at Macau’s Eiffel Tower
I didn’t expect to find Paris in Macau, but the half-scale Eiffel Tower at The Parisian Macao stopped me in my tracks. At night, it sparkled with 26,000 LED lights while love songs played—cheesy but romantic! Riding the elevator to the 37th-floor observation deck, I gasped at panoramic views of Cotai’s neon skyline. Below, couples posed under the tower’s arches, and street performers mimicked Montmartre artists. The "Champagne Bar" at the base? Overpriced but worth one toast for the ‘gram.
📖 About Macau’s Eiffel Tower
A 162-meter replica with a 7th-floor skywalk and observation decks.
✅ Opening Hours | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Light show at 6:15 PM nightly) |
📍 Location | The Parisian Macao, Cotai Strip |
💰 Cost | ~PHP 900 (Observation deck) |
💡 Pro Tips
- Sunset visits = golden-hour photos + fewer crowds.
- Skip the skywalk—it’s just a glass floor.
- Free photo ops at the "Parisian Streets" below.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, but the observation deck may scare height-phobic kids.
🏎️ Rev Your Engines at Macau Grand Prix Museum
The roar of engines greeted me before I even entered—this museum is a petrolhead’s dream! I gawked at F3 cars that raced Macau’s deadly Guia Circuit, sat in a simulator (and promptly crashed), and even touched Michael Schumacher’s 1990 winning vehicle. The best part? The "MotoGP Gallery," where I posed with bikes leaned at impossible angles. Interactive screens played race highlights, and the smell of rubber and gasoline lingered—pure adrenaline nostalgia.
📖 About Macau Grand Prix Museum
A tribute to Macau’s iconic street race, with 40+ historic cars and bikes.
✅ Opening Hours | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays) |
📍 Location | Rua de Luis Gonzaga Gomes |
💰 Cost | Free! (Simulators cost extra) |
💡 Pro Tips
- Try the F3 simulator (~PHP 200)—it’s harder than it looks!
- Visit during Grand Prix week (November) for special exhibits.
- Skip if cars aren’t your thing.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Kids love the simulators and flashy cars.
Why Macau Stays With You
Macau left me enchanted—a place where every corner whispers stories of Portuguese sailors and Cantonese merchants. Sure, the casinos can feel overwhelming, but beyond them lies a city rich in flavors, history, and surprises. Whether you’re marveling at UNESCO sites or hunting for the perfect egg tart, Macau’s energy is contagious. Now’s a great time to plan your trip—I’ve seen amazing discounts on flights to Macau and hotels in Macau lately. If you’re craving a blend of Asia and Europe with a Filipino-friendly vibe, pack your bags. Macau’s waiting to wow you!