Nestling on China’s southeast coast, Macau is fast becoming a tempting long haul option with discerning travellers looking to explore the Far East beyond the popular hotspots of say, Thailand and Malaysia.
The name Macau is derived from the word magoa (A-Ma Temple), which is a shrine, dedicated to Mazu, a sacred sea goddess.
This former Portuguese colony will charm and delight its visitors with its exciting fusion of Oriental and European culture.
For almost 400 years, Macau was under Portuguese rule and was handed back to The People’s Republic of China in 1999 as a special administrative region (SAR).
More than a hint of its European heritage is visible throughout Macau and adds a beautiful Mediterranean flavour to this part of China.
Charming as it is, Macau also boasts a glamorous and ritzy nightlife. Known as the ‘Vegas of The Orient’ you will find a host of sophisticated hotels and casinos among the bright lights of Macau after dark.
By day, simply wandering around Macau is the best way to absorb the atmosphere, taking in a glitzy and exotic blend of historical sites and buildings, influenced by both Chinese and European styles.
Macau is also a food lover’s paradise; cuisines from around the world can be found in this melting pot of cultures and nationalities. There’s plenty to fill your days and nights and we’ve compiled a list of our favourite attractions and things to do in Macau.
Top five things to see in Macau :
Macau Fisherman’s Wharf
The first theme park built in Macau, which includes restaurants and a shopping centre, is built in the style of different world seaports such as Venice, Amsterdam and Cape Town.
The Ruins of the Church of St Paul
Also known as Sam Ba Sing Tzik, stands adjacent to the famous Mount Fortress and Macau Museum. The façade and the grand stairs are the only remains, and is one of Macau’s best known landmarks.
The Venetian Macao
The Venetian Macao is a luxury hotel on the Cotai Strip and is the world’s largest casino-hotel complex. It was modeled on its sister casino resort, The Venetian Las Vegas, featuring stunning replicas of Venice landmarks such as the Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Square.
The Macau Tower
The Macau Tower with its observation deck and amazing panoramic views of the Pearl River Delta by day or the city lights by night also has the Skywalk X, a thrilling walking tour around the outer rim.
Taipa Village
The island of Taipa has been transformed from a rural village into a bustling city, and was joined with Coloane by the Cotai Strip. It has many hotels, casinos and shopping malls, but also has some fine buildings and museums in the Old Taipa Village, including the Church of St Francis Xavier.
Discover Macau for under £1000
Choose from a wide selection of hotels for an amazing holiday to Macau that blends Chinese and European traditions.
To see other great destinations visit talkholiday.com, bringing you lots of late deals and ideas for planning your next holiday.