Macao — a UNESCO World Heritage city where four centuries of East-meets-West culture blend with dazzling modern resorts. Beyond the conference, set aside time to wander the cobbled lanes of the Historic Centre, savour Portuguese egg tarts, and take in the skyline from the seafront. Below are the highlights you should not miss during your stay.
The heart of Macao's UNESCO World Heritage listing — over twenty monuments, squares and churches strung along a walkable trail. Stroll from Senado Square to the Cathedral, the ruins of St. Paul's and the old Christian cemetery to feel four centuries of Sino-Portuguese exchange in a single afternoon.
The stone facade of the Church of Mater Dei, built in 1602 and spared by the fire of 1835, is Macao's most photographed sight. Climb the adjoining steps for a panoramic view of the old city, and visit the crypt and museum of sacred art beneath the ruins.
A wave-patterned mosaic of Portuguese paving opens onto pastel colonial buildings, cafes and the 18th-century Holy House of Mercy. By day a meeting place, by night a lantern-lit stage for festivals — the perfect anchor for exploring the surrounding lanes.
At 338 m the tower offers 360° observation decks, a revolving restaurant and the world's highest commercial bungee jump at 233 m. The base also hosts theatre, shopping and dining — a complete half-day experience minutes from the ferry terminal.
Macau's oldest temple (1488), dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu and the namesake of the city itself ("Ma-cao"). Stone inscriptions, quiet courtyards and incense smoke make it a serene contrast to the colonial churches nearby.
The reclaimed strip between Taipa and Coloane gathers mega-resorts, the Venetian's indoor canals, spectacular shows and 24-hour dining. The strip's glittering skyline has earned it the nickname "Asia's Las Vegas".
Macao has an extensive and inexpensive bus network covering the peninsula, Taipa and Coloane. Routes to major attractions and the conference hotel run frequently.
Please click here for more information: bus information
Taxis are plentiful and metered. Most drivers understand basic English; having your destination written in Chinese helps. Free hotel shuttle buses to major resorts also run from the airport and ferry terminals.
Please click here for more information: taxi information