Experiences in Macau
Churches
When the Portuguese arrived in Macao more than four and a half centuries ago, they brought Catholicism with them and built many churches and convents. The old College of St. Paul served as the first Western university in Asia and became a significant entry point to China for foreign missionaries. Today, Macao is divided into Catholic dioceses on map, and magnificent Catholic churches can be found everywhere. Visit uniquely designed churches and learn more about their fascinating history.
Temples
Macao houses a treasure trove of ancient Chinese temples, which have served as the pivotal places of worship for hundreds of years. Macao temples primarily serve the Buddhist, Taoist and folk faiths. Buddha, Na Tcha, Tin Hau (Goddess of Seafarers) and Kun Iam (Goddess of Mercy), etc., are all revered in various temples. By visiting Macao’s diverse temples, sightseers can learn more about traditional Chinese beliefs and the city’s historical origin as a fishing village.
Gardens
Macao is a green community with tree-lined roads and flower gardens everywhere. You can find a Suzhou-inspired garden, while others are beautifully cobbled and imbued with Southern European characteristics. There are educational country parks, and some even house a zoo or cable cars from the hill! Visitors can stroll in parks throughout the length and breadth of Macao and the islands, happy in the knowledge that these green lungs are constantly nourished and cared for.
Fortresses
Macao is virtually surrounded by the sea, and centuries ago built hill-top fortresses to repel foreign and domestic invaders. Today, these sturdy stone guardians stand in silent witness to a turbulent history as well as affording sweeping views of the city below.
Sports & Recreation
Macao’s wide spectrum of sports and recreation facilities is sure to energize any trip to the territory! The sub-tropical climate accommodates year-round outdoor activities, whilst there are also plenty of high quality indoor venues to engage in your favourite sport, too. Karting, swimming, hiking, bowling, cycling, golfing, ice-skating, canoeing and windsurfing are just some of the sports on offer, with Macao’s various sporting complexes, infrastructure and state-of-the-art equipment delivering first-class facilities.
Nightlife
Macao’s nightlife is famous for its variety, its frenetic pace and constant change. This is a city that never sleeps, with plenty of bars, restaurants and discos open all night long. Lots for visitors to see and experience in Macao – even in the middle of the night!
Gaming
Macao’s booming gaming industry is characterised by horse racing, Pacapio and slot machines as well as the internationally renowned table games of its large casinos, providing a wealth of entertainment options for visitors. The legal age of entry to casinos in Macao is 21.
