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Macau city tours and excursions

Macau city tours

Walking tours

The MGTO produces a series of self-guided free walking tour pamphlets, and also details recommended routes online. Most of these involve around half an hour of walking, and range from a wander around the historic centre to an exploration of the "bygone days" of Taipa Village.

Tel: +853 2831 5566
Website: http://www.macautourism.gov.mo

Gondola tours

It might not compare to being transported along the canals of Venice itself, but the ersatz alternative at The Venetian remains a popular draw for visitors. The rides last around 20 minutes, during which time serenading gondoliers will float you past mock Italian facades. Private gondolas can be hired for a surcharge.

Tel: +853 2882 8877
Website: http://www.venetianmacao.com

Macau city excursions

Coloane Island

Leafy Coloane Island, now joined to Taipa by reclaimed land, is known as the 'lung of Macau'. Its hilly natural landscape features picturesque squares, black-sand beaches, shady parks, temples, churches and attractive village houses. It serves as welcome sanctuary from the incessant hustle of the roulette tables, and has hiking and golf options.

Taipa Island

More built-up than Coloane, Taipa Island nevertheless contrasts agreeably with the bustle of mainland Macau. Wandering the lanes and squares of Taipa Village is a pleasure, especially around Rua da Canha, aka Food Street. From here, head to Avenida de Praia (once the island's waterfront before land reclamation altered the coastline) and the beautifully restored strip of early 20th-century Portuguese villas.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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Featured Hotels

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Hotel Royal Macau

This newly renovated Macau hotel may be a little removed from the action, but it's all the more attractive for that reason. It's just up the hill from the wonderful Clube Militar de Macau restaurant and offers some good-value packages. It sits at the foot of Colina da Guia, Macau's landmark hill and the site of the historic Guia fort and lighthouse.

Ole London Hotel

This very pink, six-storey block with 60 rooms near the Inner Harbour boasts smart and spotless (if small) rooms. All rooms have private bathroom with hair dryer, TVs and a mini bar. Breakfast is included. Given its location and rates, the Ole London Hotel offers one of the best deals in town.

Parisian Macao

Open on the Cotai Strip since mid-2016 (and echoing its Gallic namesake in Las Vegas), the Parisian Macao features a half-size replica Eiffel Tower, complete with observation decks and nightly light shows. The hotel itself has a mind-boggling 3,000 rooms and suites, all furnished to a high standard, and there are numerous dining, shopping and entertainment options.

Grand Coloane Resort

Formerly the Westin Resort Macau, this five-star getaway overlooks gardens and a sandy beach on Coloane Island. It's long been favoured by visitors seeking a bit of peace and quiet in upscale surrounds. Each room has a sea or beach view, and there's an excellent spa and an adjoining golf course.

San Va Hotel

This cheap traditional-style guesthouse has a decent location in downtown Macau on the historic Rua da Felicidade (Happiness Street). The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, and some of the doubles and twins have en-suite shower and bathroom. It was established in 1873, and claims to be the oldest existing guesthouse in Macau.

Pousada de São Tiago

Built into what was once a 17th-century fort that defended Macau against hostile invaders, this traditional Portuguese pousada is a romantic place to stay. It commands a splendid view of the Inner Harbour, and the interior décor, with its flagstones, wooden rafters and blue tiles, is a delight.