Centuries of history, culture and cuisine come together on the Macau Peninsula. The city is a feast for the senses and combines a unique Chinese and Portuguese heritage. While the peninsula has a small footprint of just over eight square kilometres, it’s home to most of the city’s most iconic attractions.
Things to do in Macau Peninsula
From architecture to cuisine, the Macau Peninsula hasn’t lost sight of its Portuguese roots. The city was ruled by the Portuguese for 300 years and boasts many beautiful, European-inspired buildings. Alongside Chinese dishes like dim sum, pork chop buns and shrimp roe noodles, you can feast on Portuguese favourites like “caldo verde” cabbage soup, “bacalhau com natas” baked codfish and “pasteis de nata” Portuguese egg custard tarts.
The magnificent Ruins of the Church of St Paul tower over the Macau Peninsula. The Jesuit church was built in the 17th century and features a magnificent, multi-tiered stone façade fronted by an impressive staircase. Up close, you’ll be amazed by the detail in the stone carvings and statues. Look for dragons, lions, astrological symbols and biblical scenes.
Learn about the colourful history of the peninsula at the Macau Museum. Exhibits explore how the city has been influenced by China and Portugal over the centuries. Highlights include a recreated historic street lined with traditional buildings.
Ride the elevator up Macau Tower and unlock panoramic views over the city skyline. It towers 338 metres high and is one of the city’s top attractions. Enjoy the views from the observation deck or get your pulse racing with add-on experiences like bungee jumping and perimeter climbs.
Macau is nicknamed the “Vegas of China” and lives up to its reputation. You’ll find dozens of casinos on the Macau Peninsula, including establishments by global brands like MGM and Wynn. Try your luck with table games, hit the slot machines or simply enjoy luxe shopping, dining and entertainment options.
Getting around Macau Peninsula
The Macau Peninsula is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. High-speed ferries connect the Macau Peninsula with Hong Kong in one hour. Buses operate across the Macau Peninsula and are a fast and affordable way to get around, or you can use taxis. LRT trains connect the Macau Peninsula with Taipa and Cotai. Macau International Airport is a 15-minute drive away.