Dubbed the Las Vegas of Asia, Macau has grown to become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. But there is more to Macau than just casinos—the dynamic SAR is a cultural melting pot that needs to be explored and discovered. A unique cuisine, top notch restaurants, an emerging art scene, and exciting events—you will be surprised to find that it has all the ingredients for a perfect family holiday. Here’s a three-day itinerary to experience the best of Macau.
Day 1
What’s the best way to explore the city? Walking of course. Stroll with the whole family to the Senado Square and explore the historical architecture. Eat egg tarts, durian ice cream and grab some almond cookies. Shops pass out free samples and line the road to the Ruins of St. Paul’s, an iconic landmark in Macau. Stop for a photograph with the whole family and make your way further up the hill to the Macau Museum tucked inside the Mount Fortress.
Photo credit: IACM
It’s easy to navigate your way with signages posted on the pathways. The permanent exhibitions include a first floor devoted to history; a second floor focusing on folk customs, and the third floor to contemporary Macau. The museum also houses a regularly rotating series of temporary exhibitions covering a variety of topics. The grounds around the museum are perfect for relaxing and provide great panoramic views of the city below. This is a fun place for kids to learn more about the history and culture of Macau.
If the kids are still energetic then you’ll have fun with these 5 museums in Macau the whole family can enjoy.
Day 2
What’s a holiday without a dip in the pool? Escape the summer heat at Parisian Macao‘s Aqua World. Let the little ones wade in the pool or board the pirate ship complete with water cannons and slides. Get their energy flowing with the endless water games while the parents kick back with refreshing drinks and small bites from the Pool Bar Kiosk.
There are also other innovative attractions for kids such as the Qube, Qube Kingdom, Warner Bros. Fun Zone and Kid’s City at City of Dreams all located right in the heart of Cotai. Go for a gondola ride at the Venetian Macao that’s guaranteed to be a remarkable experience.
Day 3
Head to Seac Pai Van Park in Coloane for a nature trip with the whole family. Two 3-year old rare red pandas are comfortably ensconced in Seac Pai Van Park courtesy of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Don’t miss visiting the original giant panda residents Kai Kai and Xin Xin and their twin cubs Jian Jian and Kang Kang in the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion.
Tucked inside the Seac Pai Van Park in Coloane is the Natural and Agrarian Museum. Take a tour of the small museum that focuses on Macau’s cultivation and agriculture from the past with tools and machines that are no longer being used today. After a tour of the museum, enjoy the surrounding greenery and get the kids to play in the nearby park.
If you still have time, you can go all the way to Coloane Village. Explore the charming alleyways and fantastic restaurants in the southernmost part of the island of Macau. It is also home to local shops, historic churches, and temples that deserve a visit. Visit these kid-friendly dining spots in Coloane that offer an authentic and exceptional experience for visitors and locals alike.
While three days is not enough to discover the secrets of Macau, getting a glimpse of history, culture, and arts combined with fun, food, and entertainment—it’s a holiday winner for the whole family!
