Planning a visit to Macao? Here’s how I made the most of my 48 hours in this vibrant and diverse city.

While Macao is famous for its giant resorts and modern lifestyle, I went to Macao to explore a different side. Macao offers far more than just a getaway to disconnect and I was curious to learn more about it. This is a country that seamlessly blends Portuguese colonial history with Chinese traditions, all within a compact, walkable area. With just 48 hours to explore, I immersed myself in everything from world-class resorts to historic temples and local hotspots. Now, let me show you all you can do in 48 hours in Macao

Understanding Macao

Macao was the only Portuguese colony in the far east, and this blend of cultures, shaped by over 400 years of Portuguese influence, gives the city its distinct character. The uniqueness of Macao is evident in its architecture, food, and traditions. The city is divided into three main areas: the Macao Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane.

The Peninsula is home to most of the historic sites, while Taipa and Coloane boast the newer resorts and beautiful beaches. Given its compact size, Macao is perfect for a quick trip, allowing you to easily explore its rich cultural gems, stunning views, and modern entertainment.

Be connected at all times in Macao at all times.
I used e-SIM with Airalo. With them, I bought a plan for Asia of 10 GB for my whole stay in this part of the world.
This was the most convenient choice. Find out here which are my favorite e-SIMs and why.

Read more: What Happens if My Flight is Canceled or Delayed?

Getting Around Macao

Arriving in Macao is straightforward, especially if you’re traveling from nearby Hong Kong or mainland China.

• By Air: Macao International Airport welcomes flights from all over Asia. Upon arrival, taxis, shuttle buses, and public buses are readily available to whisk you to your hotel. I recommend using the MaaSPlus app to navigate around the city.
• By Ferry: Coming from Hong Kong? The ferry is one of the most popular ways to reach Macao. High-speed ferries depart frequently from Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, making the journey in about an hour (with ticket prices ranging from 40 to 100 EUR).
• By Land: If you’re arriving from mainland China, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge offers a convenient route. Taxis, shuttle buses, and private transfers are available at the immigration points. A private transfer is a comfortable option for those wanting to get quickly from A to B.

Once in the city, getting around is a breeze:

• Buses and Taxis: Public buses cover most tourist attractions, and taxis are affordable, though cash-based. The Bus Travelling System app is handy for navigating public transport.
• Walking: Macao is quite walkable, especially in central areas, allowing for leisurely exploration.
• Hotel Shuttle Services: Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to popular landmarks and ferry terminals. These shuttles are accessible to everyone, making it easy to move around the city.

Read more: Discovering Macao’s Cultural Fusion

Things You Can’t Miss in Macao

Even if you’re only in Macao for a couple of days, make sure to prioritize these experiences during your stay:

• Ruínas de São Paulo (Ruins of St. Paul’s): The most iconic symbol of Macao, this historic site is a must-visit.
• Senado Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colonial architecture and vibrant street life.
• The Venetian Macao: One of the largest hotels in the world, this massive complex features luxury shopping, entertainment, and gondola rides. A bit kitschy, but you can’t miss it.
• A-Ma Temple: A peaceful temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, symbolizing the city’s ancient roots.
• Macao Tower: For adventurous souls, try the famous bungee jump or enjoy panoramic views from the top.
• Coloane Village: A charming retreat with quaint streets and a slower pace, perfect for escaping the crowds.

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Day 1: Discovering Modern Macao – Glamour and Glitz

Morning

As I stepped into Macao, the city welcomed me with its unapologetic display of modern opulence and luxury. I chose to stay at Studio City in Cotai Strip, where I immediately felt the pulse of the city’s dazzling lifestyle. This hotel is a captivating blend of entertainment and sophistication, with its eye-catching design and exciting attractions that immerse you in the vibrant spirit of Macao.

The Cotai Strip, with its towering resorts and extravagant architecture felt almost surreal, a stark contrast to Macao’s older districts. Whether you’re staying at one of the iconic resorts like The Venetian or at a stylish boutique hotel like mine, the modern side of Macao is waiting to be explored.

An interesting way to start the day was to visit The Venetian Macao, even though strolling around luxury resorts isn’t my thing,  I couldn’t help but marvel at this sprawling resort’s shops and indoor canals. A gondola ride might seem a little kitschy, but it was undeniably fun to see people gliding under the bridges while listening to the boatmen sing Italian ballads – all while being so far away from Italy. If shopping is on your mind, the impressive range of designer brands here is perfect for indulging a bit. Personally, I enjoyed simply strolling through this Venice-inspired masterpiece, easing into the day.

Afternoon:

Each resort has its own unique charm, but I went to the Wynn Palace, which is a destination in itself. I explored the Illuminarium Immersive Art Exhibition, a visual treat that offered a digital exploration of light, color, and design. After soaking in the art, I switched gears at the 2024 Hypercar Exhibition, where some of the world’s most extravagant luxury cars are on display. This seamless transition from one form of beauty to another was a perfect reminder of how Macao pushes the boundaries of elegance.

If you feel like catching your breath, the SkyCab gondola at Wynn Palace is a gentle way to take in the sprawling view of Cotai, especially as the afternoon light softens the sharp edges of the resorts. A short ride gave me a panoramic look at the lush landscape below and the glimmering lights of the resorts that make Cotai so famous.

Evening:

Macao’s nightlife is legendary and this is the best opportunity to dress up and explore the glamorous side of the city. For a fun evening, you can take your pick from Galaxy Macao, City of Dreams, or Wynn Macao. Each venue offers something unique: amazing restaurants serving modern cuisine, live performances ranging from concerts to acrobatic shows, and luxurious lounges where you could sip cocktails while people-watching. With so much going on, a first day in Macao can only end on a high note.

Dinner Options (Suggestions):

• Lakeview Palace for outstanding cuisine at Wynn
• Tastes to never forget at MGM at Chún
• Dim sum delights at Din Tai Fung in City of Dreams

Read more: Discover the Flavors of Macao: A Guide for Foodies

Day 2: Exploring Macao’s Culture, History, and Nature

After a day of indulgence, I wanted day two to have a different pace. I was eager to step into Macao’s past and see a place where colonial history blends with Chinese heritage, and peaceful streets contrast with the glitz of the Cotai Strip.

Morning:

A good day in Macao starts with a walk through Senado Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The black-and-white tiled pavement, lined with pastel-colored buildings, feels like stepping back in time to Portugal’s colonial days. Locals bustle around, picking up pastries or heading to work. As I strolled, I made my way to the Ruínas de São Paulo. Once a grand cathedral, its facade remains after a devastating fire, standing tall as one of Macao’s most iconic landmarks. The stairs leading up to it offer views of the city’s mix of European and Chinese architecture—a peaceful spot to take a breather and imagine the layers of history beneath my feet.

From here, I headed to A-Ma Temple, one of the oldest temples in Macao. Dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, the temple’s quiet courtyards and incense-filled altars offer a spiritual escape. I wandered through the various pavilions, soaking in the serene atmosphere. If you plan to do this, don’t forget to look out across the waters from the temple’s edge—this is where the story of Macao began, with Chinese fishermen and Portuguese sailors crossing paths centuries ago.

Afternoon:

For something a little more off the beaten path, I made my way over to Coloane Island. It was a short drive away but felt like a different world altogether. Coloane is where you’ll find the quieter side of Macao, with charming old streets and a slower pace. Coloane Village offered a glimpse into traditional Macanese life, and I enjoyed strolling through its narrow lanes, popping into local shops, and simply soaking up the peaceful vibe.

If you’re up for it, take a walk to Hac Sa Beach, Macao’s only black sand beach. It’s a lovely spot to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures, with the ocean lapping at the shore and the city’s buzz far behind.

To finish my day with a classic, I visited the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion. Tucked away in Seac Pai Van Park, it’s home to a pair of adorable pandas. Watching them lounge around or munch on bamboo was a surprisingly serene experience and a delightful way to close out my time in Macao.

Evening:

By the time I was back in the city, I just wanted to unwind. Macao’s laid-back bars or casual lounges offered the perfect way to toast the night. For those still feeling adventurous, I considered one last stroll through the lit-up streets.

Dinner Options (Suggestions):

• Italian delicacies at Rossi Tratoria
• Portuguese classics at O Manel in Coloane
• Fusion cuisine at The Kitchen, Grand Lisboa

Read more: How to plan a visit to the Harbin Ice Festival in China

Where to Stay in Macao

The Venetian Macao: Offering opulent suites, world-class shopping, and exquisite dining.

Wynn Macao: Combining luxury and entertainment, with fine dining and the stunning Wynn Fountain show.

Studio City: A playful mix of entertainment and stylish accommodations with a unique design.

Want to get the most of Macao?

Explore the Experience Macao Limited Edition! This is a competition from the tourism department to enter for a chance to win one of 100 exclusive prize packages. Each experience highlights the city’s rich cultural treasures and hidden gems. Visit the Experience Macao Limited Edition website to discover more!