MACAO is often referred to as a city of contrasts, and for good reason. Its streets weave together centuries-old temples, ornate Portuguese facades and gleaming towers that pierce the skyline.
For travellers, this compact destination offers an unfolding journey through history, culture, cuisine and, increasingly, its place within the wider Greater Bay Area.
Echoes of history
No image is more synonymous with Macao than the Ruins of St Paul’s, the dramatic Baroque facade that has stood since the 17th century.
Though the church itself was lost to fire, its stonework remains one of the most recognisable testaments to the city’s East-West legacy.
A short walk away, the Senado Square continues that story. Listed as part of the Unesco Historic Centre of Macao, the 3,700sq m plaza remains the heartbeat of civic life, framed by pastel-hued buildings such as the Leal Senado.
On the southern tip of the peninsula lies the A-Ma Temple, built in 1488 and dedicated to the goddess of seafarers.
Legend has it that the Portuguese misheard its name when they first landed nearby, calling the place ‘Ma-Ge’, which evolved into Macao.
Today, its blend of Chinese and Western architectural elements reflects the cultural dialogue that has shaped the city.
Across the water in Taipa, the Taipa Houses present a different narrative. Initially built in 1921 as residences for high-ranking officials, these five mint-green houses were later restored and opened to the public as museums.
Together with the Our Lady of Carmel Church and surrounding gardens, they offer a glimpse into a genteel past.
Towers and temptations
For a more modern perspective, the Macao Tower offers sweeping views from 338m above ground.
The glass elevator ride to the top takes less than a minute, revealing not just the city but the Pearl River Delta beyond.
Thrill-seekers may be drawn to its skywalks and bungee jump, while others prefer the indulgence of its revolving restaurant.
The skyline itself is now a tapestry of themed resorts along the Cotai Strip. The Venetian, Parisian and Londoner hotels bring European landmarks into an Asian setting, from canals and cobblestones to a half-scale Eiffel Tower that glitters with nightly light shows.
Street life and flavours
Macao’s character is just as vivid at street level. Rua do Cunha, once the city’s first pedestrian-only zone, remains a gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
Here, stalls and shops brim with souvenirs and delicacies, from almond cookies to beef jerky. The food scene is famously eclectic, but no trip is complete without a warm Portuguese egg tart, or 10, with its crisp layers and a gooey, caramelised centre.
For those who prefer quieter corners, Coloane offers forest trails, beaches and temples.
The district is also home to the Iec Long Firecracker Factory, preserved as a cultural site and filming location, where visitors can trace the legacy of a once-thriving industry.
Beyond the city
Macao’s story now extends across the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge, the world’s longest sea-crossing bridge at 55km.
A ferry ride provides a complete view of this engineering marvel, as well as the busy waters of the delta.
Across the strait, Zhuhai welcomes visitors with landmarks such as the granite Statue of the Fisher Girl, the seashell-shaped Opera House, and the New Yuan Ming Palace, a full-scale replica of imperial gardens.
Further inland, Jiangmen’s 33rd Street Market and Chenpi Village showcase Lingnan culture and traditional produce, while Kaiping’s Chikan Town charms with its cinematic mix of architectural influences.
Together, these excursions highlight the diversity of the Greater Bay Area, from historic markets to cutting-edge modernity.
Choose your Macao adventure
Apple Vacations offers two curated itineraries.
The 5D4N Towards Macao package is a deep dive into the city, combining icons like the Ruins of St Paul’s and A-Ma Temple with Coloane’s quiet landscapes, the Cotai Strip’s dazzling resorts and the preserved Iec Long Firecracker Factory.
Highlights include an international buffet at Macao Tower and classic Portuguese cuisine. Departures are scheduled for Nov 20 and Dec 6, from RM5,999.
The 5D4N Encounter The Greater Bay Area expands the journey beyond Macao. After exploring Senado Square and Taipa House, travellers can take a ferry to view the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge, stroll Zhuhai’s boulevards and discover Jiangmen and Kaiping’s heritage towns.
This is for those who want to experience both city icons and regional highlights. Departures are scheduled for Nov 9 and Dec 2, prices starting from RM5,999.
For groups of eight or more seeking flexibility, the 3D2N Macao customised tour offers a free-and-easy option with no shopping stops. It is available year-round with departures from Sunday to Wednesday.
Travellers may arrange their own flights and hotels, while Apple Vacations provides the ground itinerary. Prices start from RM4,099. For enquiries, call the central flexi line (03-2705 8258) or its One Utama branch (03-2705 8209).
