Here's a day trip guide to Macau, a Special Administrative Region of China that you can easily visit from Hong Kong.
Macau is a Special Administrative Region of China that makes for an easy day trip from Hong Kong. It has its own government and currency – the Macanese pataca (MOP) – though HKD is also widely accepted. Often dubbed the Las Vegas of Asia, Macau is home to over 40 casinos where gambling is legal. As Asia’s last European colony, it also offers a distinctive blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences.
Got an extra day to spare? This Macau day trip guide will help you make the most of your time in the city.
Table of Contents
Macau Overview
Country: China
Country Code: +853
Continent: Asia (East)
Currency: Macanese Pataca (MOP)
Airport: Macau International Airport (MFM)
Language: Cantonese, Portuguese, English
How to Get to Macau from Hong Kong
First things first – how do you get to Macau from Hong Kong? There are three easy options to choose from.
Option 1: Take a bus from HKIA
At the HZMB Passenger Clearance Building on the Hong Kong side. Photo: Lord Acuña
Direct bus services run from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to Macau via the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (HZMB). This is the least convenient option out of the three, as you’ll need to travel all the way to the airport first. From there, take the free shuttle bus to the HZMB Passenger Clearance Building. Then when you arrive, just follow the “To Zhuhai & Macao” signs, and you’ll be able to buy your ticket right there.
Travel time: Around 75 minutes
Cost: Fom HKD 125
Option 2: Take a bus from convenient pick-up points
Another option is to board a cross-border bus from locations closer to where you’re staying. Pick-up points include APM in Kwun Tong, Plaza Hollywood in Diamond Hill, and Metroplaza in Kwai Fong. These shopping centres are easy to locate, making it a more convenient choice. It’s best to book your tickets online in advance before heading to any of the pick-up points.
Travel time: Around 90 minutes
Cost: Fom HKD 160
Option 3: Take a high-speed ferry
You can take a ferry from either the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan (Hong Kong Island) or the China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon). The Sheung Wan terminal is generally the more convenient of the two. Booking your tickets online is recommended, especially during peak travel periods.
In Macau, there are two ferry terminals to choose from: Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal and Taipa Ferry Terminal. Outer Harbour is more convenient for visiting historic sites, downtown areas, and older casinos such as Grand Lisboa. Meanwhile, the Taipa Ferry Terminal is better suited for luxury resorts, the Cotai Strip, and Macau International Airport. Regardless of which terminal you arrive at, you’ll find free shuttle buses connecting you to major tourist areas.
Travel time: Around 60 minutes
Cost: Fom HKD 175
5 Fun Things To Do in Macau
Now that you’ve arrived in Macau, here are five fun activities you can easily fit into your itinerary. Keep in mind that the last bus back to Hong Kong departs at 21:45, while the final ferry leaves between 23:00 and 23:30.
1. Get lost on the Cotai Strip
The Cotai Strip is home to large-scale hotels, casinos, and luxury shopping malls. Developed by Las Vegas Sands – similar to Marina Bay Sands in Singapore – it features three themed complexes that feel like destinations in their own right:
The Venetian Macao
The Venetian Macao features three indoor canals. Photo: Lord Acuña
The largest of the three, the Venetian Macao is known for its indoor canals and gondolas drawing inspiration from Venice. It also acts as a central hub connecting to the other properties. Overall vibe: Classic Vegas-style luxury.
The Parisian Macao
Replicas of Fontaine des Mers and Eiffel Tower at The Parisian Macao. Photo: Lord Acuña
The Parisian Macao features ornate interiors inspired by Versailles, along with its own take on the Fontaine des Mers. Most notably, it has a replica of the Eiffel Tower standing at roughly half the height of the original. Overall vibe: Quieter and more romantic.
The Londoner Macao
The Diamond Jubilee State Coach to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s 80th birthday at The Londoner Macao. Photo: Lord Acuña
Rounding out the trio is the Londoner Macao, with British-themed façades and interiors, plus a replica of the Big Ben. It’s a playful alternative if a London trip isn’t on the cards just yet. Overall vibe: More posh and upscale.
2. Go Bungee Jumping
Photo: Skypark Macau Tower by AJ Hackett Facebook / Denz Calangi
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, the world’s highest commercial bungy jump awaits at Skypark Macau Tower. Standing at 764 feet, this fully guided, all-weather jump experience comes with an exclusive T-shirt and certificate. The freefall lasts just 4–5 seconds – but it’s more than enough to get your heart racing. Travelling with family? The good news is that this activity is suitable for ages 10 and above.
Location: Skypark Macau by AJ Hackett, Level T2 – Adventure Zone, Macau Tower, Macau 999078
Opening hours: 11:00 – 19:00
Cost: From MOP 2,941
3. Explore Senado Square
Igreja de São Domingos is easily recognised by its yellow and white façade. Photo: Lord Acuña
Senado Square, or Largo do Senado, was once the centre of Portuguese administration. Today, this public square and UNESCO World Heritage site beautifully showcases Macau’s East-meets-West culture. Key landmarks to explore include the Leal Senado Building, Holy House of Mercy, St. Dominic’s Church, and Macau Cathedral.
4. Admire the Ruins of St. Paul’s
A closer look at the ruins of St Paul’s. Photo: Lord Acuña
The Ruins of St. Paul’s are the façade of the Church of Mater Dei, built in 1602 by Jesuit priests. A fire in 1835 destroyed the church along with the adjacent St. Paul’s College. Behind it, there’s an underground crypt that holds the remains of martyrs. You can also visit the Museum of Sacred Art that displays 17th-century paintings and religious objects. The best part? All are free to explore.
Location: Santo António District, Macau
Cost: Free
5. Try the Macau Egg Tarts
A trip to Macau isn’t complete without sampling the famous Macau egg tarts. A fusion of Portuguese pastel de nata and Cantonese flair, this buttery, flaky treat is definitely a must-try. Grab one (or a whole box) from famous bakeries such as Lord Stow’s Bakery and Margaret’s Café e Nata.
It may be a short and sweet guide, but it’s a guaranteed packed day in Macau!
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