Walk this way

Historic highlights

Top attractions include the Unesco World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Macao, featuring buildings of both Portuguese and Chinese origin. Highlights include the iconic Ruins of St Paul’s, Macao’s most famous monument, and elegant Senado Square, which has been Macao’s urban centre for centuries and is surrounded by pastel-coloured neo-classical buildings exposing its European heritage. For fans of mythology, A-Ma Temple is the oldest building in Macao, and tells the story of Mazu, the goddess of seafarers and fishermen. Meanwhile, the picturesque St Lazarus district attracts artistic types that showcase their artistic flair and sell inventive items.

Food glorious food

Macao’s food scene is legendary too, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to local cafes. As well as Chinese favourites such as dim sum, and some of the best Portuguese food outside Portugal, the local Macanese food is reputed to be the world’s first fusion cuisine.

Village life and countryside

Atmospheric Taipa Village is known for its narrow streets, including the famous Rua do Cunha (known as “food street”) and historic buildings, while Coloane Village is the place for tranquillity and local cuisine. For relaxation, visitors can head to Macao’s southern countryside of rolling hills and beaches.

Unique attractions

No visitor to Macao can miss the 338-metre-tall Macau Tower. With an observation lounge complete with glass floor and the world’s highest bungee jump, this is the place that adventurers should make a beeline for. The IM Pei-designed Macao Science Center is a must-visit and packed with interactive activities and a 3D planetarium.

Essential facts

• Macao has its own international airport with links to many destinations including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and a number of cities in China, but most UK visitors fly to Hong Kong and take the fast ferry ride from the airport or from central Hong Kong
• Its time zone is GMT +8hrs
• Macao is made up of the Macao peninsular, connected to mainland China, and the islands of Taipa and Coloane
• Chinese and Portuguese are the official languages, although English is widely spoken
• Currency is the Macao Pataca, but the Hong Kong dollar is also accepted
• No visa is required for British passport holders for visits up to six months
• The average annual temperature is around 20 degrees celcius – between October and December is the best time to visit

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