Macao

A destination of contrasts, modern-day Macao is both a glittering metropolis of casinos, skyscrapers and malls - earning itself a reputation as the Las Vegas of Asia - and a historic center that maintains its fascinating cross-cultural roots. Located about 40 miles across from Hong Kong on the western side of the Pearl River delta, Macao was granted to the Portuguese by Ming China in the mid-16th century as a colony and traders' enclave. A prominent trading post, the area quickly became a thriving cultural center, with three official languages: English, Portuguese and Chinese. In addition to the linguistic mix, Macao became known for its unique fusion cuisine, combining Portuguese and Chinese flavors and cooking techniques. The last European colony in Asia, Macao was returned to China in 1999, when it was designated a "Special Administrative Region" (SAR), under which it operates its own legal system, and customs and immigration policy - all independently of China, which handles military and foreign affairs. Since then, it has established itself as one of the world’s richest regions, and since 2006 it has become the world’s largest gambling center - with a number of high-end casinos, many of which are housed in world-class hotels. Despite rapid development, though, Macao still retains its colonial and cultural charms, with historic churches and temples to discover, mosaic-tiled boulevards to explore, and delicious, diverse food to sample.

Macao Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Macao Itineraries

Classic Hong Kong & Macao

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
From $7,100
See Itinerary

Classic Macao

Duration
3 days / 2 nights
Price Per Person
From $4,200
See Itinerary

A Jubilee Wanderlist Across Asia

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $20,900
See Itinerary

Macao with Kids

Duration
3 days / 2 nights
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary
See Itinerary
Banyan Tree Macao
Preferred Hotel

Banyan Tree Macao

The Cotai Strip, Macao

Part of the Galaxy Macao, this exclusive resort comprises 246 suites, including the ultra-exclusive Presidential Suite and 10 pool villas. Banyan Tree Macao is the first high-rise urban resort in Macao to feature private indoor Relaxation Pools in all its expansive suites, and the only luxury hotel with full-sized resort villas amidst their own gardens complete with a private swimming pool. Located in the vibrant Cotai city, 15 minutes from Macao International Airport and a mere 10 minutes from Taipa...
Mandarin Oriental Macao
Preferred Hotel

Mandarin Oriental Macao

Macao Peninsula, Macao

One of the most exclusive hotels in Macao, Mandarin Oriental Macao is a decidedly elegant and lavish retreat. With a chic, contemporary design, gourmet restaurants and personal service, our hotel exudes a sophisticated atmosphere and a sense of relaxed luxury. Located on the waterfront just 15 minutes from the airport, the hotel boasts 213 rooms and suites all with large floor-to-ceiling windows and spectacular bay views. The hotel’s Vida Rica restaurant offers gourmet Asian cuisine and snacks, and there is...
Ritz-Carlton Macao
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Macao

The Cotai Strip, Macao

Reminiscent of the Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong, sharing its classic lines and restrained opulence, the Ritz Carlton in Macau is complete with little touches that will surprise and delight those familiar with the seminal home of Asian luxury. The all-suite hotel has over 250 large and supremely appointed accommodations, replete with floor-to-ceiling windows, marble bathrooms and high-tech entertainment systems. Echoing the abundance of gastronomic innovation found on the Cotai Strip, the hotel has four different dining options, presenting a choice...
St. Regis Macao
Preferred Hotel

St. Regis Macao

The Cotai Strip, Macao

The largest property in the brand’s portfolio, The St. Regis Macao is one of the most impressive pieces of real estate in Macao. Standing 38 floors high, the hotel commands panoramic views of the striking luminescence of Cotai Strip, the entertainment hub of the city, presenting a cornucopia of shopping, leisure and dining choices, and compounding Macao’s reputation as one of the preeminent hot spots for the elite international traveler, and absolutely perfect for major events like the International Fireworks...
Pousada de Sao Tiago

Pousada de Sao Tiago

Macao Peninsula, Macao

Originally a fortress built by the Portuguese in the early 17th century to defend Macao against hostile European nations and local pirates, the Fortaleza de Barra was transformed into an enchanting Portuguese boutique hotel known today as Pousada de São Tiago. This all suite hotel is one of Macao’s most charming and exclusive historical landmarks, and has recently been invited to be a member of Relais & Châteaux, an association of the finest and most unique hotels and gourmet restaurants across the globe. All suites are decorated with plush and quality furnishings to provide exquisite comfort for guests. In-room amenities include a 40 inches B&O television with surround sound effect, a modern lush bathroom with 60cm rainforest shower, steam room and “in mirror” bathroom TV. Guests can also enjoy complimentary in-room movies, free mini bar and internet access. The hotel's La Paloma Spanish restaurant offers signature dishes such as Iberian Ham and Paella Valenciana.

Wynn Macao

Wynn Macao

Macao Peninsula, Macao

Theatrical spectacle awaits amid the iconic golden curves of Wynn, Macao's acclaimed five-star resort. Illuminated and animated works of art and entertainment include The Dragon of Fortune, The Tree of Prosperity, an aquarium of moon jellyfish and, of course, Performance Lake. Located in the center of the city, Wynn is easily accessible from the airport and ferry terminal, and upon arrival guests will be instantly whisked into luxurious surroundings. The verdant poolside gardens sprawl alongside the palatial lobby, while the opulent rooms and suites are spread between the resorts two towers: Wynn and Encore. Dedicated butler service and access to Wynn club is available in all suites, and while many accommodations feature private massage rooms, both towers also feature a fully-equipped spa. The dining options span the spectrum from casual eateries and laid-back lounges, to world-class, award-winning gourmet restaurants serving delights from around the world.

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Seasonality & Festivals

Browse a month-by-month breakdown of suggested itineraries, seasonal activities, climate considerations and festivals.

When to Go
When to Go
Festivals
Festivals

Weather in Macao

The best time to visit Macao is March/April and mid-October to November, when humidity is lower and the weather is pleasant.

  • Hong Kong and Macao lie off the southeast coast of Mainland China, where the climate is subtropical with relatively warm temperatures and higher humidity all year round. Weather patterns often shift rapidly, pushed by coastal currents, and it is possible to experience myriad weather conditions in the same day. All public interiors and many homes are air-conditioned year round, which is especially necessary during the extremely muggy months of July and August. There are, however, four distinct seasons:
  • Fall: from late September to mid-December it is warm and dry with low rainfall and average temperatures in the vicinity of 75°F (24°C).
  • Winter: from December to February is the coolest time of the year, with little rainfall, low humidity, and relatively cool temperatures of around 64°F (17° C). It is possible, though unlikely, for the temperature to occasionally fall below this and for frost to appear on the highest peaks in the New Territories.
  • Spring: from March to May, spring brings heavy rainfall, sporadic thunderstorms, and temperatures rising from 60° to 86°F (15° to 30°C) by June.
  • Summer: from June to August is not a recommended time to visit, as both the humidity and the temperatures soar, rainfall is heavy, and there is the possibility of typhoons —tropical cyclones that can be as severe as Atlantic hurricanes — that occasionally bring high winds, pelting rain, and the threat of power outages, floods, and landslides.
  • The local authorities have a comprehensive tracking and warning system, and in the event of a typhoon, broadcast symbols from T1 (a storm is several days off) to T10 (direct hit) appear on all TV stations. T10s are rare, however, and the area is very accustomed to this part of its annual weather; everything will be business as usual until a warning of T3 or higher. Typhoon Season, like Hurricane Season, lasts through September and occasionally tails into October or November.

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