Macau is a small territory that packs a big punch. It’s home to the largest casino in the world and is known to some as the Las Vegas of the East. It’s also known for its historic temples, ancient landmarks, unique restaurants and beautiful beaches.
But all of that fun and excitement comes at a price and finding budget accommodations in Macau can be a challenge. That’s why I put together this epic guide for where to stay in Macau so you can find the perfect neighborhood for your stay – and hopefully save a little money while you’re at it.
So whether you’re looking to dance the night away, place a few bets, or get lost in nature, I’ve got you covered!
Here are my top recommendations for where to stay in Macau.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Macau.
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Ideal spot for first timers | Best Airbnb in Macau
This cosy one-bedroom studio apartment is perfect for your first time in Macau. You’ll be right in the heart of the old town, an eclectic clash of old meets, new, east meets west fun. If you’re into photography, having a flat walking distance from the bay is ideal for those sunrise/sunset shots.
5footway.inn Project Ponte 16 | Best Boutique Hotel in Macau
This is one of the few boutique hotels in Macau, but it certainly lives up to its reputation. It has a modern design, clean rooms and a cosy atmosphere which means you’re guaranteed to have a good night’s sleep. This boutique hotel offers free wifi, modern amenities and on-site laundry facilities.
Conrad Macao Cotai Central | Best Hotel in Macau
This incredible five-star hotel is centrally located in Cotai. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a relaxing sauna and a Jacuzzi for guests to enjoy. Rooms are luxurious and modern with comfortable beds, bathrobes and slippers. There’s also an exquisite on-site restaurant.
Old Macau
Old Macau is a neighbourhood located on the Macau Peninsula. It is connected to the mainland part of China and is where you’ll find a whole host of heritage attractions and iconic landmarks
Macau Peninsula
The Macau Peninsula is the northernmost region of the city. It is connected to the Chinese mainland and is one of the most densely populated areas of the city
Cotai
Cotai is a small strip of reclaimed land that connects the Taipa and Coloane islands. It stretches 5.2 square kilometres on top of Seac Pai Bay and is home to approximately 300 people
Coloane
Coloane is the southernmost island in Macau. It is considerably less developed than other parts of the city thanks to its lush landscapes and mountainous terrain
Taipa
The Taipa District is located between the Macau Peninsula and Cotai. It is a mostly residential neighbourhood that has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years
Macau (also known as Macao) is a large and diverse city. It is a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China that is located across the Pearl River estuary from Hong Kong.
Until 1999, Macau was an overseas territory of Portugal and many European influences can still be felt throughout the region. Today, Macau is one of the most densely populated places in the world. It has a lively and vibrant atmosphere and is home to some of the largest casinos on the planet.
Macau is divided into three regions, the peninsula and two islands, which are further divided into four districts and various neighborhoods. To help you plan your time in Macau, this guide will explore the five best neighborhoods and districts to stay in Macau.
Starting with Old Macau. Set on the Macau Peninsula, this neighborhood is where you’ll find most of the tourist activity, and it is a hub for food, culture, and heritage.
Travel south and you’ll pass through the Macau Peninsula, which offers a good variety of popular tourist and historical attractions as well as restaurants, shops, and casinos.
Cross one of the three bridges to enter Taipa. A mostly residential area, Taipa is where you’ll find Macau’s International Airport as well as museums and parks.
Continue travelling south to Cotai, a strip of reclaimed land that connects Taipa with Coloane. It’s here that you’ll find a vast array of flashy casinos, sophisticated bars, and world-class shopping.
And finally, Coloane is the southernmost part of Macau. Less developed than the rest of the region, Coloane is known for its lush landscape, mountainous terrain, and beautiful beaches.
Staying in a Hong Kong hostel and wanting to make the trip but still not sure where to stay in Macau? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
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Macau’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
In this next section, I’ll take a look, in more detail, at Macau’s five best neighborhoods to stay in. The neighborhood you choose will depend on your travel needs and attractions you want to see, so I’ve also included some things to do in each neighborhood to help you plan.
1. Old Macau – Where to Stay in Macau First Time
Old Macau is a neighborhood located on the Macau Peninsula. It is connected to the mainland part of China and is where you’ll find a whole host of heritage attractions and iconic landmarks. The region is brimming with history and culture, which is why it’s my recommendation for where to stay in Macau if you’re visiting for the first time.
Old Macau is also a haven for foodies and travellers who love to eat. Dotted throughout this atmospheric district are a great selection of cosy cafes, charming restaurants, and upscale eateries offering everything from traditional Macanese and Portuguese cuisines to innovative Asian fusion and modern international fare. If you’re looking to eat well, Old Macau is for you.
Ideal spot for first-timers | Best Airbnb in Old Macau
This cosy one-bedroom studio apartment is perfect for your first time in Macau. You’ll be right in the heart of the old town, an eclectic clash of old meets, new, east meets west fun. If you’re into photography, having a flat walking distance from the bay is ideal for those sunrise/sunset shots.
Hou Kong Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Old Macau
With its incredible location in Old Macau, this hotel is the perfect budget accommodation choice. It’s within walking distance of Senate Square and is close to great restaurants, shops and landmarks. The rooms are newly renovated, clean and comfortable, perfect for all types of travellers.
Casa Real Hotel | Best Hotel in Old Macau
This hotel is set at the centre of Macau. It has a fitness centre, swimming pool, and a casino on-site. There’s also an array of entertainment, dining and sightseeing options nearby. Rooms are comfortable and each comes with air conditioning, coffee/tea facilities and a refrigerator.
Crown Plaza Macau | Best Hotel in Old Macau
The Crown Plaza Macau is my top choice for where to stay in Old Macau. It’s close to the top attractions in Macau as well as restaurants, shops and casinos. Its comprised of 208 rooms with modern and essential amenities. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal of Chinese dishes at the in-house restaurant.
Things to See and Do in Old Macau
- Enjoy a moment of serenity at the Camoes Garden and Grotto.
- Gaze out at the central part of the Peninsula from the Monte Fort.
- Learn about the history of the region at the Macao Museum.
- Marvel at St. Anthony’s Church, one of Macau’s oldest churches.
- See the remaining sections of the 16th-century Walls of Macau.
- Snack and sample your way through the bustling Red Market.
- Visit the Ruins of St. Paul’s, the remains of a 16th-century cathedral.
- Wander along the historic Rua da Tercena, a narrow street filled with shops, vendors and mahjong players.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Macau Peninsula – Where to Stay in Macau on a Budget
The Macau Peninsula is the northernmost region of the city. It is connected to the Chinese mainland and is one of the most densely populated areas of the city.
This neighborhood is without a doubt the most interesting district for travellers. It’s packed with historical attractions and heritage landmarks, as well as interesting streets, intriguing shops and plenty of delicious restaurants. You’ll also find many of Macau’s most famous casinos located at the southern end of the district.
The Peninsula is also my pick for where to stay if you’re ballin’ on a budget. It’s where you’ll find a small handful of boutique hotels as well as a good selection of affordable and good value accommodation options.
Simple, Modern Apartment for 4 | Best Airbnb in Macau Peninsula
If you’re looking to pinch the pennies, heading to the north end of the peninsula is your best bet. You’ll still be in striking distance of the old town and all its delights, with all the benefits that come with putting yourself in the thick of it with the locals. This contemporary designed apartment offers luxury and affordability on a whole new level.
5footway.inn Project Ponte 16 | Best Boutique Hotel in Macau Peninsula
This is one of the few boutique hotels in Macau, but it certainly lives up to its reputation. It has a modern design, clean rooms and a cosy atmosphere which means you’re guaranteed to have a good night’s sleep. This boutique hotel offers free wifi, modern amenities and on-site laundry facilities.
Royal Macau Hotel | Best Hotel in Macau Peninsula
The Royal Macau Hotel is my recommendation for where to stay on the Peninsula. It is surrounded by well-known attractions including the Grand Lisboa and the Ruins of St. Paul’s. The hotel offers modern rooms with excellent views. There’s also a gym, swimming pool, and free wifi on-site.
Rio Hotel Se | Best Hotel in Macau Peninsula
Located at the heart of Macau, this hotel is a great place to walk back to after exploring the casinos, landmarks and parks of Macau. It provides modern and comfortable accommodations and a variety of wellness facilities for guests. There’s also an in-house casino and luxury bar.
Things to See and Do in Macau Peninsula
- Climb to the top of Penha Hill and enjoy excellent views of Macau.
- Enjoy incredible views from Macau Tower.
- Go for a stroll through colourful Senate Square, a typical Iberian town square.
- Learn about Macau’s rich maritime history at the Maritime Museum.
- Marvel at the 32-meter tall bronze statue of Kun Iam Statue.
- Be surrounded by stunning historic sites and buildings at St. Augustin’s Square.
- Take a walk along Rua da Felicidade, the city’s former red-light district that’s now home to shops and boutiques.
- Visit the A-Ma Temple, one of the oldest and most famous temples in Macau.
- See the world’s most amazing interactive art installation at TeamLab Macau.
- Wander through Lilau Square, which is surrounded by old Mediterranean-style houses.
3. Cotai – Best Area to Stay in Macau for Nightlife
Cotai is a small strip of reclaimed land that connects the Taipa and Coloane islands. It stretches 5.2 square kilometres on top of Seac Pai Bay and is home to approximately 300 people. The area was created in the early-2000s to provide the city with a new area to develop casinos and tourist attractions. Thanks to this, it’s one of the liveliest areas of the city and one of the best places to visit in Macau.
Dubbed the Las Vegas of the East, Cotai is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Macau and is my pick for where to stay for nightlife. Its streets are packed with bright lights and massive casinos, and it’s home to some of the best shopping in the city.
Venetian Macao Cotai | Best Hotel in Cotai
The Venetian Macau is one of the most iconic casino resorts in Macau, let alone Cotai. There are many luxury hotels in Macau, but this one takes top prize. As well as offering luxury rooms and a world-class restaurant, it is also a short walk from many bars, shops, restaurants, and of course, many other unique casino resorts such as The Parisian Macau which has its own Eiffel Tower. It has more than 1,200 chic rooms with entertainment amenities and features. They also have an outdoor swimming pool, sauna and a free fitness centre. Macau International Airport is just a mile away.
Galaxy Hotel Cotai | Best Hotel in Cotai
Thanks to its fantastic location, lazy river and private beach, this is one of my favourite hotels in Macau. This five-star hotel boasts the world’s first whiskey lounge as well as a large skytop wave pool, a Jacuzzi and a sauna. It’s home to a delicious restaurant and breakfast is offered daily.
Conrad Macao Cotai Central | Best Hotel in Cotai
This incredible five-star hotel is my pick for where to stay in Cotai. It’s located at the heart of the district with shops, restaurants and casinos nearby. There is an outdoor pool, a sauna and a Jacuzzi for guests to enjoy. Rooms are luxurious and modern with comfortable beds, bathrobes and slippers.
Awesome loft in Asia’s Vegas | Best Airbnb in Cotai
Macaus famous as the home of two things: The Chinese casino industry, and magic. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in both from this sweet pad. All the major venues are within walking distance of this place, but go easy! The house always wins, and I accept no responsibility for what might happen. Unless it’s awesome, then it was all us!
Things to See and Do in Cotai
- Catch a breathtaking performance at The House of Dancing Water.
- Drink handcrafted cocktails at The Ritz-Carlton Bar.
- Eat innovative and exquisite cuisine at Xin Asian Hot Pot & Seafood.
- Indulge in an array of delicious dishes, including seafood, sushi, dessert and more at 888 Buffet
- See the Eiffel Tower in the heart of Macau by visiting The Parisian Macau Hotel.
- Shop until you drop at the City of Dreams shopping centre.
- Enjoy afternoon tea at The Venetian Hotel.
- Watch a fountain performance at the Wynn Palace Hotel.
- Sip a sophisticated cocktail at the St. Regis Bar/Lounge.
- Visit the incredible Venetian Macao Resort Hotel & Casino, the largest casino in the world.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Coloane – Coolest Place to Stay in Macau
Coloane is the southernmost island in Macau. It is considerably less developed than other parts of the city thanks to its lush landscapes and mountainous terrain. It’s where travellers can enjoy an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a breath of fresh air. With its beautiful beaches and serene atmosphere, Coloane gets my vote for the coolest neighborhood in Macau.
This neighborhood is also a haven for outdoor adventurers thanks to its many hiking trails and biking paths. For travellers who dream of stretching their legs and exploring the rural side of Macau, Coloane is the place to be!
Looking to relax after a few days in the city, head to one of Coloane’s two beaches. Whether you prefer gold or black sand, you’ll love basking in the sun and staring out at the stunning horizon.
City of Dreams Morpheus Hotel | Best Hotel in Coloane
This spectacular five-star Macau hotel has an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and casino. Rooms have air conditioning, awesome views and each comes with its own bath tub and working space. There’s also a delicious restaurant and stylish bar on site. Of all the luxury hotels in Macau, this one is sure to leave you impressed.
Pousada de Coloane Beach Hotel | Best Hotel in Coloane
This four-star resort is my top choice for where to stay in Coloane. It boasts a variety of relaxing wellness amenities and a unique in-house restaurant. It has traditional rooms with modern amenities and spa-like bathrooms.
Studio City Hotel | Best Hotel in Coloane
The Studio City Hotel is set in Cotai, a short drive from the Coloane neighborhood. It is located close to Macau’s top tourist attractions, casinos, restaurants and shops. This four-star hotel is home to the world’s only figure-8 Ferris wheel, a flight simulator and an indoor play zone for kids.
Boutique retreat away from the city madness! | Best Airbnb in Coloane
This charming three-bedroom home is the ideal choice if you’re wanting to escape the hectic inner-city vibes, and soak in a calmer, more tranquil side of the city. Temples, beaches, and hiking trails will keep you busy in the day until you’re ready to spend your evening diving into local delicacies.
Things to See and Do in Coloane
- Admire the 20m tall A-Ma Statue that sits on top of the 176m Alto de Coloane.
- Bask in the sunshine at Hac Sa, a black sand beach.
- Dine on incredible Macanese dishes Nga Tim Café.
- Explore the quaint streets of Coloane Village.
- Feast on delicious seafood at Fernando’s Restaurant.
- Go for a stroll in peaceful Seac Pai Van Park.
- Indulge your sweet tooth at Lord Stow’s Bakery.
- Marvel at the ornate Sam Seng Kung Temple.
- Rent bikes and explore Coloane on two wheels.
- Swim, splash and play at the beautiful golden sand Cheoc Van beach.
5. Taipa – Best Neighborhood in Macau for Families
The Taipa District is located between the Macau Peninsula and Cotai. It is a mostly residential neighborhood that has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years. One of the best-connected areas of the city, Taipa is an ideal place to stay for families visiting Macau because it allows for easy access to all parts of the city.
Charming and quaint, Taipa is a fantastic place to explore on foot. From wandering the waterfront to exploring the streets, this neighborhood is bursting with history and culture around every curve.
Also a haven for foodies, Taipa is where intrepid travellers can indulge their taste buds by trying unique and delicious Macanese food and seafood dishes.
Grandview Hotel Macau | Best Budget Hotel in Taipa
This is a great place to stay if you’re looking to explore Taipa. They provide comfortable and air-conditioned rooms, and this hotel is within walking distance of great landmarks and attractions. Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a sauna and steam baths. There’s also a delicious restaurant on-site.
Altira Macau | Best Hotel in Taipa
The Altira Macau is my top choice for where to stay in Taipa. This five-star hotel boasts a sauna, an infinity pool, a spa and a beauty centre. Rooms are well outfitted with luxury linens, cosy slippers and free in-room movies and TV. Guests can enjoy free wifi and a well-equipped gym.
Inn Hotel Macau | Best Hotel in Taipa
This three-star hotel is ideally located in Taipa. It is close to popular casinos, historic landmarks and great restaurants. It offers comfortable rooms with city views, air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. There’s also a BBQ area for guests. All of this combined makes it one of my favourite hotels in Macau.
Private Room in Luxe Chohuane Guesthouse | Best Airbnb in Taipa
With this private room in a guesthouse in Taipa, you can enjoy all of the casinos in Macau hotels nearby. It would be like staying in Las Vegas but at a fraction of the price! There’s A LOT of hotels around the Taipa area that can make it seem overdeveloped, but the flip side of that is the amazing transport links to the rest of the city and region. You’ll have no hassle mobilizing the brood to any part of town from this spot.
Things to See and Do in Taipa
- Bet on your favourite at Macau Jockey Club.
- Dine on a delicious, cheap and filling meal at Café Cheri.
- Enjoy Asian-Portuguese fusion at Dumbo Restaurant.
- Go for a stroll along the Taipa waterfront.
- Go hiking or biking in the beautiful Taipa Hills.
- Place a few bets at Crown Macau.
- See artefacts and learn about the history of the area at the Museum of Taipa and Coloane History.
- See the historic structures at Monument Garden.
- Visit the colourful Taipa Houses Museum.
- Wander around the relaxing Lake Garden.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Macau
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Macau and where to stay.
What To Pack For Macau
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Macau
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Macau
Macau is a small territory that packs in a rich history, diverse culture, unique nightlife and culinary delights. It juxtaposes massive casinos with ancient temples and dense city streets with lush mountain landscapes. From golden sand beaches to lively boulevards, there’s something for everyone in Macau.
In this guide, I’ve highlighted the five best places to stay in Macau. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here’s a quick recap of my favourites.
5footway.inn Project Ponte 16 is one of the few boutique hotels in Macau. It has a clean and modern design, comfortable rooms and free wifi throughout.
Another excellent option is the Conrad Macao Cotai Central in Cotai. This five-star hotel has an excellent location, a myriad of features, and cosy and relaxing rooms.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around China.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Macau to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Macau is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for China.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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