Macau Lifestyle
  • What's On

    Categories

    • Events Calendar
    • Macau Weekend
    • Monthly Hotlist
    • Giveaways
    • Entertainment

    Recent Stories

    Vida RIca Bar Hot Dog Pop Up with Drink from Above
    Weekender: Wine & Dine, Cultural Happenings & More
    Macau Weekend
    100 Years Afternoon Tea The St Regis Bar Champagne Afternoon Tea giveaway
    Win a Stylish Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two at The St. Regis Bar Macao
    Giveaways
    A Unique Taste of Baijiu at St Regis Macao
    Weekender: Dining, Cocktails, Exhibitions & More
    Macau Weekend
  • Dining

    Categories

    • Restaurants
    • Local Eats
    • Cafes
    • Bars
    • Chef Spotlight

    Recent Stories

    Champagne tea set The St Regis Bar
    100 Years Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Bar Macao: British Traditions & New York High Life
    Bars
    caffe b italian restaurant macau lunch dishes
    New Set Menu at Caffé B Macau: What’s for Lunch?
    Dining
    Mandarin Oriental, Macau_The Mandarin Cake Shop_Signature Cake_Pink Bloom
    That Takes the Cake! The Mandarin Cake Shop’s Cakes for Every Taste
    Cafes
  • Lifestyle

    Categories

    • Wellness
    • Weddings
    • Family
    • People

    Recent Stories

    Sheraton Fitness
    Best Hotel Gym Memberships in Macau
    Wellness
    Cartier LOVE necklace_18K pink gold
    Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for the Women in Your Life
    Lifestyle
    macau day trips ocean park hong kong
    Best Day Trips for the Whole Family
    Family
  • Culture

    Categories

    • Arts
    • Heritage & History
    • Architecture
    • Artist Spotlight
    • Local Knowledge

    Recent Stories

    Cheong Kin Man Nighttime Facing the Camera
    Cheong Kin Man: The Story Listener in Search of New Narratives
    Artist Spotlight
    Portuguese Consulate that was a Hospital Right Angle Macao Archives
    Portuguese Heritage: From Catholic Hospital to Diplomatic Institution
    Culture
    Macau Youth Street Dance Association single shot x Macau Lifestyle
    Macau Youth Street Dance Association: Jarvis Mo on the Local Dance Scene
    Arts
  • Style

    Categories

    • Fashion
    • Jewelry & Watches
    • Beauty
    • Home

    Recent Stories

    Macau Lifestyle Morpheus Spa_Couple Spa Suite_02
    Best Facial Treatments in Macau
    Beauty
    CHLOE Mini Daria bag in Muted Brown
    Christmas Gift Ideas for the Women in Your Life
    Lifestyle
    Amalfi Coast coffee table books
    Inspiring Coffee Table Books for Your Home
    Home
  • Travel

    Categories

    • Macau
    • China
    • Asia
    • Oceania
    • Europe

    Recent Stories

    hong kong junk Day Trips Macau
    Best Day Trips from Macau
    Asia
    macau day trips ocean park hong kong
    Best Day Trips for the Whole Family
    Family
    kun iam ecumenic centre macau
    Weekend Walking Tour of Macau Peninsula’s Alternative Cultural Sites
    Culture
  • Hong Kong

    Categories

    • What's On
    • Dining
    • Things to Do
    • Hotels

    Recent Stories

    St. Regis Hong Kong, Premier Harbour Room 08
    Best Staycation Packages in Hong Kong
    Hong Kong
    Kerry Hotel Hong Kong
    Wake Up Here: Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong
    Hong Kong
    Chen tianzhuo
    Chen Tianzhuo: Meshing Visual & Performance Art
    Artist Spotlight
  • Events
  • City Guide
  • 繁中
Macau
25 May, 2020
by Ksenia Kuzmina

Things to Know Before Visiting Macau

Senado Square Wide Photo Macau Lifestyle

Whether you have a few hours or several days, Macau is an eclectic destination that will not disappoint! Get set for your journey with some tips and life hacks that will make your visit to Macau 100% trouble-free.

Language

Cantonese is the official language of Macau and you will hear it around a lot. However, most of the signs, touristic information, announcements in public transport are also written and pronounced in Portuguese (it is the second official language), and in English. So don’t worry about being lost. Many people in Macau understand Standard Chinese (Putonghua) as well.

Currency

Macau has its own currency called pataca (MOP $), which is closely tied to the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD $). However, you can also pay with HKD everywhere, even on buses. So don’t panic if you didn’t visit the exchange office in advance. Bear in mind that you might still receive your change in patacas (MOP), even paying with Hong Kong Dollars. If you don’t want to keep them as a souvenir, remember to exchange your MOP in Macau. Being one of the world’s least convertible currencies, patacas could be hard to shed, back in your home country.

aerial view of the bridge

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge

Getting there

Taking a ferry

If you are traveling to Macau via Hong Kong International Airport, no need to go through immigration or collect your luggage–the ferry counters are not so far from your arrival gate. Hand your luggage claim tags to the ferry company representative and it will be safely taken care of and placed on the ferry. You can check the status of your bags by simply scanning the ferry ticket barcode on of the machines near the boarding gate. For more tips on Macau ferries, click here.

Traveling via Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HKZMB)

Another way to get to Macau from Hong Kong is via the HKZMB, a 55-kilometer engineering miracle. Hop on a public bus or taxi from Hong Kong International airport and you will arrive at the HKZMB terminal in Hong Kong in 10-15 minutes. On a regular day, buses between Hong Kong and Macau run every 15 minutes during the day and 30 minutes at night. The whole trip lasts around 40 minutes.

Arriving at Macau International Airport

Macau International Airport that connects Macau with various cities in Mainland China and Southeast Asia. Located in the eastern part of Taipa, it is close to Cotai hotels and not that far from the ones on the Macau side. If this is where you are landing, note that there are plenty of ways to reach the city–by bus, taxi, shuttles, or LRT.

Taipa Ferry Terminal Shuttle Buses

Shuttle buses

Getting around

Hotel shuttles

If you want to save some money, note that many premium resorts like The Venetian Macao and  City of Dreams have shuttles running from airport and ferry terminals. Whether you booked a room with the resorts or not, you can freely hop on their free transport. You can also use inter-hotel shuttles in Cotai or travel to popular places of interest like Senado Square or Taipa. When at the ferry terminals or airport look for the directions to the shuttle parking. Then, just look for the sign with the resort you are heading to.

Taxi

If you prefer traveling by taxi, retain the Chinese name of your location on your phone, or keep a business card handy. Not all local taxi drivers speak English and while you will probably be lucky with the big hotels, less popular destinations would be hard to reach without knowing how to pronounce them in Cantonese. Most of the time, local drivers are not that talkative. If you gave them the directions and didn’t hear any response, that means they got it.

 To catch a cab, just raise your hand or head to one of the designated taxi stands around the city. Normally, all of the integrated resorts and hotels have a taxi stand. Overall, Macau taxi is affordable, but the fares increase if you need to cross the bridge between Macau and Taipa. Try Macau Taxi Fare that calculates the price of your trip and has some general information on fares and charges too.

macau buses bridge -photo-agency

Photo credit: Unsplash, Macau Photo Agency

Bus

Macau has a convenient public bus network that covers most of the peninsula and the outlying islands of Taipa and Coloane. Even though the rate is relatively low, you can save more with the Macau Pass. It can be bought at the official office or any 7-11 or Circle K shops. It does not just save you money but also the hassle to handle coins. Macau Pass will cost you MOP $130, including $100 initial stored value and $30 card fee. Besides, you can connect it to MPay, a local mobile payment system and pay with the card in many shops and eateries in Macau, some will even offer special discounts for that. If you still prefer paying in cash, make sure to have the exact fare.

Light Rapid Transit

Light Rapid Transit. Photo credit: Unsplash, Macau Photo Agency

Light Rapid Transit

Since December 2019, Macau locals and visitors can take advantage of eco-friendly transport that is not affected by the traffic. As of May 2020, LRT covers the area between Ocean Gardens and Taipa Ferry Terminal. There is a station at Lotus Checkpoint (an entry point between Zhuhai and Macau), Macau International Airport, and Pak Koi right in front of the Taipa Village. You can purchase single-ride tickets or LRT card in a vending machine (cash only) or cashier (cash, credit card). The construction has still not finished and the plan is to connect Taipa to Macau Penninsula with light rail by 2024. For more details, read our LRT guide.

Driving and walking

Just like its neighboring SAR, Hong Kong, Macau is a drive-on-the-left region. If you are traveling from mainland China by car, admire how cleverly the switch between right-side China and left-side Macau is arranged on the Lotus bridge. As a pedestrian, stay vigilant while crossing the road, remember to look right first, then left and not the other way around.

macau things to know local sim card

Photo credit: Unsplash

Local sim card

While you will have Wi-Fi in most of the public spots, it’s always good to be connected just in case you need to book a table in a fine restaurant, for instance. Get your MOP $100 pre-paid sim card at ferry terminals or the airport. This way, you won’t need to worry about going offline throughout your trip. To recharge the card, go to 7-eleven, Circle K, one of CTM shops, or online. Note that to buy a prepaid SIM-card, you must be 18 years old or above and present an ID for registration.

Tipping policy

Tips are not expected in Macau. However, take into consideration that many restaurants and bars add a 10% service charge to the bill. You can round up by a few patacas in case of exceptional service, but again, it’s not expected.

Safety 

Generally, Macau is a safe destination with a low level of crime. But watch out for pickpockets in the crowded touristic areas.

Casino Lisboa Macau

Photo credit: Takahiro Hayashi

Go with an open mind

Macau is nicknamed as “Las Vegas of the East”. Keep that behind you because even though the city is known as a gambling mecca of the eastern hemisphere, it has so much more to offer. Did you know the historic center of Macau is inscribed on the World Heritage List and the city has been honored as a Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO? Keep your mind and eyes wide open and you will see the real Macau. Enjoy!

This article was originally written in March 2018 and updated by Ksenia Kuzmina in May 2020.

Tags

  • Experience Macau
  • Macau tips
  • Macau Trip
  • Things to know Macau
  • Travel Macau

Related Posts

a-ma temple barra macau memorial arch
Culture

Ultimate Guide to the Historic Centre of Macao

Cheoc Van Beach View from Gondola Restaurant Macau Lifestyle
Culture

Macau Staycation: How to Enjoy Time off Work When You Can’t Travel

Wynn Palace Cotai swimming pool area
Hotels

Wake Up Here: Wynn Palace

Ruins of St Paul From Afar Macau Lifestyle Family-Friendly Macau Guide
Macau

Family-Friendly Macau Guide

Trending Posts

Macau Weekend, What's On

Weekender: Wine & Dine, Cultural Happenings & More

100 Years Afternoon Tea The St Regis Bar Champagne Afternoon Tea giveaway
Giveaways

Win a Stylish Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two at The St. Regis Bar Macao

Portuguese pastries Macau pao lo ovar
Dining, Local Eats

Where to Find the Best Portuguese Pastries in Macau

Artist Spotlight, Culture

Cheong Kin Man: The Story Listener in Search of New Narratives

  • Editor's Picks

    100 Years Afternoon Tea The St Regis Bar Champagne Afternoon Tea giveaway Giveaways

    Win a Stylish Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two at The St. Regis Bar Macao

    Macau Lifestyle has partnered with The St. Regis Macao for a fabulous giveaway where the winners can have an extravagant afternoon tea!

    LondonerMainLR Hotels

    Unveiling The Londoner Macao: The Newest Jewel in Cotai’s Crown

    The Londoner Macao is a unique addition to the vibrant skyline of Macau meticulously designed, making it a true celebration of timeless British design.

    chef sebastien bernie holding pink bloom cake mandarin oriental macau Chef Spotlight

    Of Cakes & Fitness: Mandarin Oriental, Macau’s Pastry Chef Sebastien Bernis

    We asked Mandarin Oriental, Macau’s pastry chef Sebastien Bernis to share which cakes sell the best, how he leads his team and more!

    Cuppa Coffee Macau Dining

    Good Morning Macau: Best Cafes for Breakfast

    As breakfast is the most important meal of the day, here’re our favorite cafes in Macau to head to for a hearty breakfast!

    Mandarin Oriental, Macau_The Mandarin Cake Shop_Signature Cake_Pink Bloom Cafes

    That Takes the Cake! The Mandarin Cake Shop’s Cakes for Every Taste

    The Mandarin Cake Shop’s cakes will make your heart beat faster and complement any ocassion! Don’t believe us? Try it for yourself!

    taipa village stairs ksenia kuzmina Macau good news 2020 Culture

    Macau Recap: Good Things That Happened in 2020

    This 2020 has not been all grim and dark.Here’s some of the happy and optimistic news and events that happened in Macau this year!

    Chef Daniel brooker sofitel macau at ponte 16 portrait meat Chef Spotlight

    Around the World in 14 Years: Sofitel Macau’s Executive Chef Daniel Brooker

    We talked with executive chef Daniel Brooker of Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16 about his achievements and Sofitel’s role on the gastronomy map.

    hiro ramen venetian macau lifestyle Dining

    Get Warm: Best Ramen Spots in Taipa

    We have composed a list of the best ramen spots in Taipa to warm your heart and soul, the Japanese way, with a hot bowl of ramen!

    Sichuan Moon Chinese Restaurant Macau Dining

    The Most Outstanding Chinese Restaurants in Macau

    We’ve dedicated this page to the best restaurants serving Chinese food that entices even the most discerning palates from all over the world.

    Cotai Picture Wide Macau Lifestyle Macau

    10 Free Things to Do in Macau

    Glamorous and buzzing Macau has a lot to offer even for those on a shoe-string budget. Find out the coolest and free things to do in Macau.

    Coloane hiking trail Culture

    Guide to Coloane’s Hiking Trails

    Coloane is home to most of the hiking trails in town. We walked them all and came up with the most comprehensive Coloane hiking trails guide.

    AJ Hackett Macau Skywalk giveaway Macau Lifestyle Local Knowledge

    Everything You Need to Do in Macau at Least Once

    Take a dive into this article and find out what to do to spend your precious time in Macau and maximize it to enjoy the city at its fullest!

    African Chicken from Riquexo Macau Lifestyle Dining

    Macanese Craze: Where to Get African Chicken in Macau

    African chicken is a truly Macanese dish, even though it doesn’t sound so. We’ve toured Macau looking for the best and here they are!

    ramen pro macau lifestyle Dining

    Delicious Ramen Spots in Macau

    A hot bowl of Japanese ramen would surely satisfy any noodle craving. Slurp away at these ramen places in Macau!

    Collage of Calcada do Amparo Area Wall Paintings Macau Lifestyle Arts

    Colorful Macau: Best Street Art Hotspots

    Looking for something different to discover in the city? Explore the lesser travelled paths of Macau to find stunning local street art.

    The Moss Natural Life - handmade soaps sustainable shopping macau Wellness

    Sustainable Shopping in Macau

    If you are looking for places to shop for packaging-free, eco-friendly and sustainable items in Macau, here is a good list to embark on your journey.

    quarter square coffee on table exterior Dining

    The Ultimate Guide to Macau’s Best Coffee Shops

    Coffee makes the world go round and even if you don’t fancy it, it definitely brings people together so here are the best coffee shops in Macau!

    10-things-to-do-in-coloane-chapel-francis-xavier Culture

    10 Beautiful Catholic Churches in Macau

    Other than the glitz of the casinos and hotels, the beautiful Catholic churches show a different, historical side of Macau.

    Zics Macau Brand Source Facebook page Fashion

    Macau Fashion Brands: Celebrate Local Design

    Discover some Macau fashion brands that are making waves due to the fabulous designers behind each of their fresh and genius creations.

    The Cheesecake Factory Macao pancakes Cafes

    Great Places for Pancakes in Macau

    Looking for pancake places around Macau? Hunting for butter-browned, soft and fluffy pancakes? We think you’ll be satisfied with our list!

    The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge Gin Collection Bars

    Best Places for Happy Hour in Macau

    After a long day at work, you need a relaxing place to unwind. We have the best places in Macau for happy hour deals on drinks and snacks!

    Waffles with Coffee at Rooftop Macau Exterior Macau Lifestyle Cafes

    Best Waffle Spots in Macau

    Best shared with your friends or perhaps on a first date, here are the best waffle places in Macau for your next catch up session.

    Maria do Leste Bloody Mary from St Regis Macao Updated Photo 2020 Bars

    Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails

    The world of mixology often proves to be as diverse and surprising as the one of gastronomy. Exercising talent and immense creativity, Macau’s bartenders keep creating signature cocktails that impress us with both flavors and presentation. If you are tired and bored with mojitos and negronis and need tips on what else to try, check out our guide to Macau’s best cocktails. 

    Macau Youth Street Dance Association single shot x Macau Lifestyle Arts

    Macau Youth Street Dance Association: Jarvis Mo on the Local Dance Scene

    We speak to Jarvis Mo, the president of the Macau Youth Street Dance Association, about the street dance culture in Macau, and more!

  • About
  • The Team
  • Advertise
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us

COPYRIGHT © 2021 • MACAU LIFESTYLE

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive Macau Events Agenda, the Hottest Giveaway Offers and the Latest Article Updates!

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok