Five Destinations to Put in Your First Macau Itinerary
Macau/ Nomads/ Explore

First Time in Macau? Here Are Five Activities to Put in Your Itinerary

20230215 Macau Itinerary HEADER

With China’s reopening, Macau is once again free to claim its crown as one of Asia’s finest tourist destinations. It has been hit hard by the pandemic, as most of it economy depend on its visitors. But, this 2023, with COVID-19 lockdowns nearly in the rearview, it is time for this gaming paradise to shine once again.

It can be overwhelming to plan for a Macau trip for the first time. There are so many things to do and places to go, despite being geographically small, that you could spend a lot but not do much. To help you build your first-time itinerary for Macau, here are five must-do activities for a successful trip: 

Completing the Historic Centre of Macau

      Historic Centre of Macau
      A once-Portuguese outpost in Asia | Photo by Serge Dos Santos/UNESCO

      May completing the tour of all the sites in the Historic Centre of Macau be the main activity of your visit. This collection of historically priceless destinations encapsulates the soul of this place. In this journey, you will find the extent of Portugal’s influence in this now humming capital Asian city. The 22 sites may be a bit much, but Macau being small really helps with the travel needs between places.

      Dine and Dare in Macau Tower

      Macau Tower
      A gem in the Macau skyline

          You would be wrong in assuming that Macau Tower is your usual skyscraping attraction. There are the usual penthouse dining establishments and sight-seeing tours—a 360-degree view of the city is hard not to market—but adrenaline junkies will find plenty of blood-pumping activities at the top and outside of the tower.

          • Bungie jumping – the ultimate rush within city limits, this is a true free-fall bungie jumping experience in Macau city centre
          • SkyJump – the more controlled version of bungie jumping, you will descend the same height as bungie jumpers but this one is slow and, dare we say, more scenic
          • SkyWalk – this is a walkable platform just outside Macau Tower, but the deal is that the platform is 233 metres high. This is the all-around view of Macau that, if your health permits it, you simply cannot miss
          • Tower climb – If you want to scale the Macau Tower up to the antenna high above the top floor, the tower climb is for you. This is something only a few people dare do so it is definitely a notch in your travelling belt

          Shopping at Galaxy Macau

          Galaxy Macau
          A haven for luxury | Photo via Website/Galaxy Macau

            Macau has an undeniable quality that makes it a shopper’s paradise, and a one-time James Bond location: its opulence. The Promenade Shops at Galaxy Macau is what we mean when we say opulence. There are more than 200 shops and a few pop-ups here of the biggest retail brands in the world. This is such a premier shopping destination that many of the most famous names in fashion prioritise this place for releases. Just by being in here, you are already stepping in luxury. It really is that decadent in this place.

            Macau’s Massive Casinos

            Macau casinos
            Grander than Las Vegas

              Its reputation for world-class gaming means Macau does not play when it comes to casinos. A vital part of the city’s economy and its main tourist attraction, these casinos will offer the most fun and absorbing gaming experience of your life. Even before getting in, places like the Grand Lisboa, The Venetian, The Parisian, and MGM Cotai will wow you as you walk in and around it.

              Visiting Ancient Chinese Temples

              Macau Temple
              Chinese heritage in display | Photo by Geoff Steven/UNESCO

                Chinese culture is central to the Macanese people and even though the Portuguese occupied the country for over 400 years, this is a Chinese city through and through. If you want to learn more about the influence of China to the history of Macau, try visiting a few Chinese temples around the city. The A-Ma Temple should be among your itinerary, as it predates the city of Macau itself. It has also been said that this is where Macau’s name came from, as the A-Ma came from the Chinese “A-Ma-Gau:” which means Bay of A-Ma.

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                This Week's Event In Macau View more

                This Week's Event In Macau

                Macau/ Nomads/ Explore
                Macau’s Legendary Grand Resort Deck Reopens on Apr. 18
                Macau Photo by Galaxy Macau

                Waves meet wonder as Galaxy Macau reopens the iconic family-friendly waterpark, the Grand Resort Deck, on Apr. 18, 2025 with jaw-dropping upgrades.

                Spanning 75,000 square meters, the deck is returning with a significant splash, featuring adrenaline-pumping attractions, after-dark DJ parties, and limited-time holiday carnivals.

                Thrill-seekers can succumb to the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids (575m), plummet down heart-stopping 9m waterslides, or ride 1.5m artificial waves in the colossal 8,000 sqm Skytop Wave Pool

                Grand Resort Deck
                Courtesy of Galaxy Macau

                For those craving sky-high excitement, transparent slides suspended mid-air deliver unmatched views and speed. Meanwhile, dedicated kids’ zones ensure family-friendly fun with safe, splash-filled adventures.

                For the first time, the Grand Resort Deck will be open until 8 PM, with resident DJs spinning poolside beats all day. 

                When dry land calls, guests can indulge in Michelin-starred dining, from restaurants like Feng Wei Ju at StarWorld Hotel to 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau.

                Meanwhile, Galaxy Kidz’s edutainment programs blending play and learning, and Special Easter and Labour Day Golden Week carnivals (from 2 PM to 5 PM daily) will feature egg-painting workshops, bunny face-art stations, and beachside games with exclusive prizes.

                For more information, visit Galaxy Macau on their website, Instagram or Facebook

                Location: Grand Resort Deck, Galaxy Macau, Cotai, Macau

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                Macau/ Nomads/ Explore
                MGM Unveils Macau’s First AI-Designed Smart Bus Shelter
                Untitled design 2025 02 03 T111950 786 Photo by Courtesy of MGM

                Imagine a bus stop that feels more like a futuristic oasis than a mundane waiting spot. This bus stop has everything you need, eliminating any questions or stress. It provides a virtual experience — blending cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly design.

                Well, Macau residents are in luck, because MGM and JCDecaux (Macau) Limited have created Macau’s first AI-designed smart bus shelter, now in operation outside MGM COTAI on Avenida da Nave Desportiva. The development of new bus shelters began in 2022 and has continued through the end of 2024, with the goal in mind of transforming Macau into an even smarter, greener city.

                smart bus shelter
                Courtesy of MGM

                Serving routes 50, 701X, and N5, this forward-thinking bus shelter is a glimpse into the future of urban transportation. Designed with MGM’s signature creativity and commitment to sustainability, the shelter’s concept was generated using AI, guided by a series of carefully crafted prompts from the MGM Design Team.

                This bus shelter will revolutionize the average commuter's experience, as it is packed with smart features, such as digital screens that provide real-time bus arrival updates, weather forecasts, and civil protection messages, keeping passengers informed at all times. There are USB charging ports for added convenience, and thoughtful accessibility features, such as braille plates for the visually impaired and a spacious waiting area that accommodates those with a disability.

                For more information, visit MGM Resorts on their website, or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Formerly Twitter).

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                Macau/ Nomads/ Explore
                Macau International Airport Has a New Lounge for Luxurious Travellers
                Macau International Airport Has a New Lounge for Luxurious Travellers Photo by Plaza Premium Group

                Macau International Airport is making travel more luxurious with the opening of its newest facility, the Plaza Premium First Lounge!

                Located near the airport’s Departure Gate 10/10A, the new Plaza Premium First Lounge spans 5,000 square feet and features an elevated lounge concept. The lounge promises to give passengers a sophisticated experience with personalized services and exquisite dining options, Plaza Premium said on their website.

                Here, guests can look forward to a carefully designed interior, equipped with comfortable lounge chairs, shower facilities, and televisions. For business travelers, it also features working spaces, charging stations, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

                Macau International Airport Plaza Premium Lounge Lobby
                Photo by Plaza Premium Group

                The lounge likewise serves made-to-order signature Macanese delicacies, such as the Portuguese egg tart, the classic pork chop bun, and Macanese-style Portuguese chicken, among other dishes. There is also a bar that serves various beverages, including cocktails, beers, and spirits.

                “Plaza Premium First serves delicacies in Macao’s signature style, which is set to elevate travelers’ overall experience. Their remarkable services will support Macao’s tourism industry as it progresses towards greater diversity and sustainability,” said Cheng Wai Tong, Acting Director of Macao Government Tourism Office, in a press release.

                Macau International Airport Plaza Premium Lounge Dining Area
                Photo by Plaza Premium Group

                This marks Plaza Premium Group’s fourth lounge in the Plaza Premium First collection, following those in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta. It is also part of the group’s strategic expansion efforts and 10th anniversary in Macau.

                Travelling to Macau? Drop by Plaza Premium First Lounge! To learn more or book your visit, head over to their website.

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                Macau/ Nomads/ Explore
                Macau's Fireworks Display Contest to Light Up the Skies This September
                Macaus Fireworks Display Contest to Light Up the Skies This September Photo by Website/ Macao Government Tourism Office

                Macau’s fireworks displays are one of the grandest. And if you’re looking to witness it for yourself, great news, because the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest will be making its return this year for its 32nd edition!

                Following its postponement last weekend due to Super Typhoon Yagi, the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest has announced its continuation and will now be held on Sept. 14, 15, and 21, as well as on Oct. 1 and 6.

                Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Event Poster
                Photo by Macao Government Tourism Office

                The contest will kick off with a vibrant fireworks display from Thailand and Canada’s teams on Sept. 14. Teams from Russia and France will continue the spectacle with their own displays on the following day, giving both locals and tourists dazzling fireworks shows for two nights in a row.

                Meanwhile, the following dates will feature displays from Spain, the Philippines, China, Italy, Japan, and Portugal, which will last for about 18 minutes each. These displays will start from 9 PM to 9:40 PM on all nights.

                Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Schedule
                Photo by Macao Government Tourism Office

                Aside from the fireworks display and contest, visitors can also look forward to a fun and vibrant Fireworks Carnival, which will be set up next to the waterfront of Macao Science Center from 5 PM to 11 PM.

                According to the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), some of the best spots to see and experience these fireworks displays include the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre to Leisure Area of Kun Iam Statue Waterfront on Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, Anim’Arte NAM VAN, Avenida de Sagres, Avenida do Oceano da Taipa, and the Macao Science Center waterfront, where sound systems will be installed.

                MGTO is also advising the public to take note of temporary traffic measures and arrangements for metered parking and motorbike parking spaces during the contest. The agency also promises to monitor weather conditions and announce any adjustments necessary to the public as soon as possible.

                The 32nd Macao International Fireworks Display Contest is also in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macao SAR.

                For more details about the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest, visit its website.

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                Macau/ Nomads/ Explore
                Win Round-Trip Tickets, Stays, & More With MGTO's 'Experience Macao'
                Win Round Trip Tickets Accommodations More With Experience Macao Photo by Facebook/Visit Macao

                Haven’t had your taste of Macao yet? Great news, travel junkies! The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) is holding its “Experience Macao Limited Edition” campaign, giving travelers a chance to discover the city with exclusive travel perks.

                From today until Oct. 17, travelers are encouraged to participate in MGTO’s daily quiz via the campaign’s official website for a chance to win one of 100 prizes, which include round-trip tickets to Macau, accommodation in one of the city’s six major integrated resorts, adventure activities, Michelin-starred dining, and more.

                MGTO 'Experience Macao Limited Edition' Campaign Poster
                Photo by Macao Government Tourism Office

                The quiz contains Macau-related questions, from trivia to general knowledge. The quiz will take place in three stages, which will determine the 100 winners.

                One of the 100 winners will also get the “Ultimate Experience Macao Limited Edition Prize,” which consists of 30 days of free travel in Macau and exclusive privileges for major attractions, exciting performances, and unique hotel stays in Macau!

                To top it off, Miyeon of K-Pop girl group (G)I-DLE will also be releasing a special collaboration single and music video, “Lovin’ My Stay,” in conjunction with the campaign. The music video will feature the singer’s experiences in the city.

                Wait no more and take part in MGTO’s campaign now to win an exciting trip to Macau! For more information, follow Visit Macao’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

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                Macau/ Nomads/ Explore
                Melco Resorts & Entertainment Launches the First-Ever Dolby Cinema in Macau
                Studio City Dolby Cinema Photo by Provided by/Melco Resorts & Entertainment

                Immerse yourself in the ultimate cinema experience as the Studio City Cinema opens their doors to the first-ever Dolby Cinema in Macau and Hong Kong on June 26.

                The cinema house will feature over 770 seats across nine halls, five of which are VIP suites with exclusively paired seating. The houses feature RealLaser 4K projection, with three houses supporting Dolby Atmos® for the most intimate and indulgent viewing experience.

                Another highlight of the Cineplex is their Dolby Cinema with a 338-seat capacity – their biggest screening hall designed by Dolby. Here, guests can experience the best screen and sound quality as it combines the immersive sound of Dolby Atmos® and the remarkable picture of Dolby Vision®.

                According to Melco Resorts & Entertainment’s Senior Vice President Mr. Kevin Benning, the new movie theatre destination will complement Studio City's collection of incredibly diverse and cosmopolitan contemporary leisure and lifestyle experiences.”

                Some amenities to explore are the Studio City Water Park, the Golden Reel Ferris Wheel, and the Studio City Event Center. In a report by Macau Post Daily, they mentioned that the cinema is set to operate from 11 AM to 11 PM during weekdays, and 10 AM to 1 AM during weekends and public holidays.

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                Macau/ Nomads/ Explore
                Korean Air’s Daily Macau-Seoul Daily Flights Will Start Taking Off by July
                Korean Air MAC ICN Daily Flights Photo by Facebook/Korean Air

                Tick off a new destination on your bucket list and get ready to explore the beauty of Korean culture, whenever you want, as Korean Air launches a new daily service between Macau and Seoul starting July 1.

                With 12 business class seats and 126 economy seats, the new flight will be operated in two Boeing 737-800 aircrafts. Operating daily, the flights going to Incheon International Airport will take off at 9:15 PM, landing by 11:55 PM. Meanwhile, flights flying to Macau International Airport will depart by 1:10 AM and arrive by 6 AM – approximately three hours and 40 minutes for each flight.

                Whether you want to deep dive into their rich culture or just enjoy the nightlife in the city, you are sure to find new experiences in a beautiful country like South Korea. Likewise, more tourists can check out Macau’s interesting streets, historic buildings, and vibrant skyline and enjoy activities like night bus tours and fountain shows.

                Dust off your passports and book your flights here.

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