If you’re planning a trip to Macau, then this Macau travel guide is for you. The island of Macau is one of the world’s most popular island destinations.

 

For a small chain of islands located in the South China Sea, Macau culture and history are rich as are things to do in Macau. It’s a special administrative zone of China and is also the world’s most densely populated region. 

 

Among top Macau destinations and activities, you’ll find that this island chain is also known as the ‘Vegas of the East’. And when it comes to larger-than-life casino resorts and all-out entertainment, it gives the City of Lights a run for its money.

 

Keep reading to learn more about our Macau travel tips and advice, Macau dining and cuisine, things to do in Macau, exploring Macau’s Heritage and Architecture, and more in our Macau travel guide.  

Macau Travel Guide

Macau Travel Guide

Before we get into Macau travel tips and advice let’s explore Macau culture and history (split between Macau Island, Taipa, and Cotai, along with what you should schedule into your itinerary for the ultimate trip.

 

A Confluence of Cultures & History

Because Macau is such a tiny chain of islands, it’s been positioned uniquely throughout history. Over thousands of years, a variety of cultures have called Macau home.

 

For the last few centuries, it’s remained under Chinese control. Portuguese colonists used the islands as colonies and trading posts after stopping over in 1557—but they were only able to do so with the approval and regulation of the Ming dynasty. 

 

To this day, the islands retain a mashup of Eastern and Western influences. You’ll notice that Portuguese remains an official language alongside Cantonese, though it’s officially classified as Macanese Portuguese.

 

The intersection of these cultures can also be felt in cuisine, architecture, and pastimes. Keep reading to learn more about things to do in Macau.

Macau Travel Guide
The Ruins of Saint Paul

Things to Do in Macau

And speaking of pastimes in Macau… you’ll find that the island chains aren’t quite like other Chinese destinations. As mentioned above, Macau remains a special economic area—which is a label that remains from its days as a Portuguese trading post.

 

Today, this unique economy largely revolves around gaming. You’ll quickly find after reading our Macau travel guide that there are many things to do in Macau.

 

Casinos are highly regulated on the mainland, which is the driving reason why Macau’s islands became a