Macau is one of the best places to visit, whether you’re a first time visitor or a seasoned traveler to this gambling capital of the world. With world-class hotels like The Venetian Macau and The Parisian Macau, as well as more affordable and good value accommodation options, there are hotels to stay for every budget when visiting Macau.
The Venetian Macau is a landmark of Macau and a top choice for luxury accommodations, while The Parisian Macau brings a taste of France to this densely populated area of the city. For those wanting to experience the rural side of Macau, boutique hotels as well as cheap hotels can be found for the best travel experience.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Mandarin Oriental
- ✨ 5-Star: Andaz Macau
- 🏨 4-Star: Harbourview Hotel Macau
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Rocks Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Best Western Sun Sun Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: YOHO Treasure Island Hotel
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: The Venetian Macao
- 🏩 For Couples: Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau
Macau is made up of the Macau Peninsula and two islands – Taipa and Coloane. The Macau Peninsula is one of the most populated areas of the city and where you’ll find a small handful of boutique hotels in addition to larger casino resort complexes like The Grand Lisboa with its iconic tower hotel. This area is filled with history and culture around every curve, from the Ruins of St. Paul’s to Senado Square. Many top hotels are located right on the peninsula, putting the best bits of old Macau within walking distance. Taipa is home to the world’s first Las Vegas-style casino on-site at the Galaxy Macau resort complex.
The Best Places to Stay in Macau: Quick Guide
- 🏛️ For history buffs: Macau Peninsula
- 🌟 For hipsters and creatives: Taipa
- 💎 For luxury: Cotai Strip
- 👪 For families: Coloane
- 🏰 For first-time visitors: Senado Square
1. Macau Peninsula (Old Macau): Historic Center of Macau 🏰
🌃 Historic Charm: The Macau Peninsula is the historic heart of Macau, boasting a unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese influences. Its charming streets are lined with pastel-hued buildings, blending colonial architecture with Chinese temples and shrines. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a glimpse into Macau’s rich cultural heritage.
👣 Wander Aimlessly: As soon as you step foot here, you’re immediately transported back in time. The narrow, winding lanes are lined with pastel-hued Portuguese buildings adorned with iconic blue-and-white azulejo tiles. I love wandering aimlessly, getting delightfully lost amidst the old-world charm.
🔥 Iconic Landmark: The undisputed star attraction is the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s, a 17th-century Catholic church facade that’s all that remains after a fire. The intricately carved stone is a jaw-dropping sight, especially when illuminated at night. Insider Tip: Visit early morning for dreamy photos without the crowds.
🌇 Lively Square: Nearby, the lively Senado Square is a must-see. This paved pedestrian area is surrounded by neo-classical buildings and is always buzzing with street performers, outdoor cafes, and vendors selling local delicacies like pork chop buns and egg tarts.
🌍 UNESCO Gem: The entire historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you could easily spend days exploring its nooks and crannies. I recommend joining a walking tour to truly appreciate the unique East-meets-West culture that blends Chinese and Portuguese influences.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: The peninsula is a foodie’s paradise, offering a unique blend of Macanese cuisine, which combines Portuguese and Chinese flavors. Don’t miss the famous pork chop buns from Tai Lei Loi Kei or the egg tarts from Lord Stow’s Bakery. Rua da Felicidade (Happiness Street) is a must-visit for its array of street food stalls.
🚶♂️ Walkable Wonder: One of the best things about staying on the Macau Peninsula is that the historic district is compact and walkable. However, the area’s narrow lanes can be a maze, so I suggest using a map app. Public buses are available to connect you to the other regions like Taipa and Cotai.
Where to Stay in Macau Peninsula
Expensive Hotels
- Mandarin Oriental, Macau: Offering luxurious accommodation with a 25-meter outdoor pool and stunning views of the South China Sea.
- MGM Macau: A lavish resort with a vast casino, numerous dining options, and a spa.
- Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16: This contemporary hotel offers a prime location in the heart of Macau, with easy access to attractions like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul’s. It features elegant rooms, a spa, an outdoor pool, and multiple dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau: Blending Portuguese and Chinese influences, this luxurious resort boasts charming architecture, lush gardens, and a prime location near Macau’s historic sites. It offers spacious rooms, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and several dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants.
Mid-Range Hotels
- YOHO Treasure Island Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the Taipa area, offering easy access to attractions like the Taipa Houses Museum and Cunha Street. It provides simple but clean rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
- Harbourview Hotel Macau: Situated in the Macau Peninsula, this hotel offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the Macau Tower. It features comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and several dining options.
Budget Hotels
- Macau Hotel S: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a central location.
- Rocks Hotel: This boutique hotel in the Macau Peninsula features stylish rooms, a rooftop pool with city views, and a prime location near attractions like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul’s.
2. Taipa: Charming Island Area 🌊
😎 Laid-back Vibe: If you’re looking to experience a more laid-back, local vibe in Macau, then basing yourself in Taipa is a great option. This former island (now connected to the main peninsula) offers a refreshing contrast to the glitz and glam of the Cotai Strip.
🌇 Timeless Village: One of my favorite areas to explore in Taipa is the traditional Taipa Village. As you wander the narrow lanes lined with pastel-hued houses, churches, and temples, you’ll feel transported back in time. The best way to experience it is to simply get lost and soak in the atmosphere.
🏘️ Quaint Charm: Some of the highlights in the village include the beautiful Our Lady of Carmo Church with its classic Portuguese facade, and the quaint Our Lady of the Rosary Parish. The Taipa Houses Museum is also a must-visit to glimpse into the area’s colonial past.
🚴♀️ Outdoor Fun: Beyond the village, Taipa offers a nice mix of cultural attractions like the Taipa Island Cycling Track, a flat 2.5km path that’s perfect for a leisurely bike ride while taking in views of the South China Sea.
🍲 Local Flavors: For authentic Macanese cuisine, head to beloved eateries like Antonio, La Famiglia, and O Santos. Rua do Cunha is a foodie’s paradise with its array of street food stalls and casual eateries like Goa Nights and Pho Mak Mak. Don’t miss local specialties like pork chop buns and egg tarts.
🚍 Well-Connected: One of the biggest perks of staying in Taipa is its close proximity and easy access to the main Macau Peninsula and Cotai Strip areas. It’s connected by several bridges and causeways, with frequent public buses and hotel shuttle services running between the areas.
Where to Stay in Taipa
- Altira Macau: This lavish hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, and a casino. It’s part of the larger City of Dreams complex.
3. Cotai Strip: The Glitzy Entertainment Hub ⭐
🤩 Glitz and Glam: If glitz, glamour and non-stop entertainment are what you’re after in Macau, then you’ll want to base yourself right on the famous Cotai Strip. This is the Las Vegas of Asia, where gigantic integrated casino resorts dominate the landscape with their dazzling lights, lavish attractions and world-class amenities.
👀 Sensory Overload: Personally, I find the Cotai Strip to be an assault on the senses in the best way possible. There’s always a buzz of energy and excitement in the air as you wander the interconnected walkways between the different properties. Even if you’re not a gambler, there’s more than enough to keep you entertained.
🏰 Massive Resorts: The undisputed stars of the Cotai Strip are the massive casino resorts like The Venetian Macao, City of Dreams, Studio City and the relatively new Wynn Palace. Each one tries to outdo the next with its sheer scale, audacious theming and endless amenities.
🎡 Endless Entertainment: Beyond the casino hotels themselves, the Cotai Strip offers plenty in the way of entertainment and attractions. There are massive malls housing international boutiques, restaurants, and attractions like aquariums and virtual reality experiences.
🍽️ Culinary Paradise: One of my favorite aspects of the Cotai Strip is the incredible array of dining options available. You’ll find everything from high-end celebrity chef restaurants to affordable casual eateries offering diverse international cuisines.
🚶♀️ Seamless Mobility: Getting around the Cotai Strip is a total breeze. Most hotels offer free shuttle bus services to and from the ferry terminals on the peninsula and airport. You can also easily walk between properties via the interconnected indoor walkway systems that are fully air-conditioned and decorated with elaborate themes.
Where to Stay in Cotai Strip
Expensive Hotels
- The Venetian Macao: This iconic resort features replicas of Venetian landmarks and canals where you can take a gondola ride. It offers world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Morpheus at City of Dreams: With its striking exterior designed by Zaha Hadid, this hotel offers ultra-modern luxury accommodation and easy access to the City of Dreams complex.
- Andaz Macau: This stylish and modern hotel is part of the Hyatt group and located in the heart of the Cotai Strip. It offers luxurious accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing stunning views of the city skyline.
Mid-Range Hotels
- The Parisian Macao: Inspired by the French capital, this resort boasts a half-size Eiffel Tower replica and a lavish shopping mall with boutiques and attractions.
- Studio City Hotel:
Part of the Studio City complex, this hotel provides a great base to explore the area’s attractions and entertainment facilities. - LINE FRIENDS presents CASA DE AMIGO: Situated in the Zape area, this unique hotel is themed around the popular Line Friends characters, making it a delightful choice for families and fans alike. It offers playful and colorful rooms, an outdoor pool, and a variety of dining options, including a character-themed café.
Budget Hotels
- Broadway Macau: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, diverse dining options, and a shopping mall, all at a reasonable price point.
4. Coloane: The Tranquil Island 🏝️
☀️ Seaside Escape: If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Macau’s city center, then I highly recommend basing yourself in the laid-back village area of Coloane. This part of Macau feels worlds away and provides a refreshing contrast with its beaches, parks and relaxed vibe.
🏖️ Beach Bliss: One of my favorite things about Coloane is that you can spend your days soaking up some sun on the sandy shores, go for scenic hikes, and then unwind in the evening at one of the charming local restaurants. It’s the perfect place to recharge.
🌊 Coastal Paradise: The star attractions in Coloane are undoubtedly the beaches. Hac Sa Beach is the largest and most popular, with a wide stretch of golden sand that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing or just taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
🕍 Cultural Gems: While the beaches are the main draw, Coloane has some cultural gems worth exploring too. Don’t miss the 19th century Tam Kung Temple, a colorful and iconic Buddhist site.
🦀 Seafood Haven: For authentic Macanese cuisine, head to the renowned Lord Stow’s Bakery for their famous egg tarts or the Restaurante Fernando, a local favorite known for its delicious Portuguese and Macanese dishes, especially seafood specialties.
🚗 Accessible Location: Despite its off-the-beaten-path location, Coloane is quite accessible. It’s connected to the main Taipa area by the Cotai Strip, with public buses and taxis readily available to take you there.
Where to Stay in Coloane
Expensive Hotels
- Grand Coloane Beach Resort: This resort offers spacious rooms and suites, along with outdoor pools and a private beach area.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Pousada de Coloane Boutique Hotel: Nestled on the tranquil island of Coloane, this hotel offers a serene retreat from the bustling city. It features a blend of Portuguese and Chinese architectural styles, with a charming courtyard and lush gardens.
5. Senado Square: The Iconic Place ✨
🏛 Colonial charm: Senado Square is a vibrant hub that blends Portuguese colonial architecture with Chinese influences. The square is paved with traditional Portuguese mosaics, creating a wave-like pattern that symbolizes Macau’s maritime history. Colorful neo-classical buildings line the square, housing shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Street performers, outdoor cafés, and lively markets add to the area’s lively atmosphere.
🌍 UNESCO Wonder: The square itself is a major highlight, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The iconic Leal Senado Building, with its neoclassical facade and courtyard garden, was once the seat of the Portuguese government in Macau. The nearby St. Dominic’s Church is a beautiful 17th-century Baroque-style church with a distinctive yellow and green exterior.
🍴 Foodie paradise: The area around Senado Square is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. From authentic Portuguese flavors to local Macanese specialties, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the famous Portuguese egg tarts from Lord Stow’s Bakery or the delectable pork chop buns from local eateries.
🚶♂️ Pedestrian-friendly: Senado Square is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and taxis. Many visitors choose to explore the area on foot, as it is pedestrian-friendly and compact, with many attractions within walking distance.
Where to Stay in Senado Square
Expensive Hotels
- Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16: This contemporary hotel offers a prime location in the heart of Macau, with easy access to attractions like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul’s. It features elegant rooms, a spa, an outdoor pool, and multiple dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Caravel Hotel: This hotel is conveniently situated in the Macau Peninsula, close to attractions like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul’s. It offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
Budget Hotels
- City Inn Macau: This budget hotel is located in the Macau Peninsula, providing easy access to nearby attractions like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul’s. It offers basic but clean accommodations at an affordable price.
❓ FAQs
What is the best area to stay in Macau for first-time visitors?
The Macau Peninsula and Senado Square are ideal for first-time visitors, as they offer a blend of historic attractions, cultural experiences, and easy access to other parts of the city.
How do I get around Macau?
Macau has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Many hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services to major attractions. Walking is a great option for exploring compact areas like Senado Square and Taipa Village.
What is the best time to visit Macau?
The best time to visit Macau is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cool and foggy.
Is Macau expensive?
Macau offers a range of accommodation and dining options to suit different budgets. While luxury resorts an
