3 Days in Macau Itinerary: Uncover the Glamour and Heritage of the Las Vegas of Asia

Macau, often hailed as the Las Vegas of Asia, is a destination that seamlessly blends cultural heritage with modern glamour. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a night owl, or an adventure seeker, our carefully crafted 3 days in Macau itinerary provides a little bit of everything to make your trip unforgettable. This travel guide aims to help you plan the perfect Macau tour, maximizing your visit while covering the city’s must-see places and hidden gems.

Day 1: Exploring Historical Macau

Morning

Start your day at Senado Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic heart of Macau. Wander through the vibrant square with its beautiful Portuguese pavement, colonial buildings, and fountains. Don’t miss the IAM Building (formerly known as Leal Senado), an architectural gem with free admission.

• Address: No. 163 Av. Almeida Ribeiro (San Ma Lo)
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Next, take a short walk to the Ruins of St. Paul’s, one of Macau’s most iconic landmarks. The facade of this 17th-century church is all that remains after a fire in 1835. Climb the steps for a fantastic panoramic view of the city.

• Address: In the St. Paul’s Road (Rua de Sao Paulo, Macau
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Afternoon

For lunch, head to Restaurante Litoral to savor authentic Macanese cuisine. Try traditional dishes like African Chicken and Bacalhau (salted codfish).

• Address: Rua do Almiirante Sergio，261-A，r/c，Macau
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 2:45 PM (Lunch), 5:30 PM – 9:30 (Dinner)

After lunch, visit the Macau Museum situated within the Monte Fort. This museum provides a comprehensive insight into Macau’s history and culture.

• Address: 112 Praceta do Museu de Macau, Macau
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Admission: MOP 15

Evening

End your day by exploring the neon-lit Cotai Strip, home to some of the world’s most opulent casinos. Start at The Venetian Macao—you can try your luck at the casino, indulge in shopping, or take a gondola ride through the indoor canals.

• Address: Estrada da Baía de N. Senhora da Esperança, Macau
• Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Day 2: Embracing Modern Macau

Morning

Kick off your second day with a trip to the Macau Tower. This 338-meter-high structure offers stunning views over Macau, and for the daring, the world’s highest commercial bungee jump.

• Address: Largo da Torre de Macau, Macau
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Weekdays), 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Weekends)
• Admission: MOP 208 (observation deck)

Afternoon

For lunch, try A Lorcha, popular for its Portuguese and Macanese dishes. Their seafood rice and grilled sardines are highly recommended.

• Address: Av. Almirante Sergio, no. 289 AA, G/F – Macau
• Opening Hours: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM, 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Post-lunch, head to one of Macau’s luxurious resorts: Studio City Macau. With its Art Deco-inspired architecture, this entertainment resort boasts a plethora of non-gaming facilities, including a figure-8 Ferris wheel and Warner Bros Fun Zone.

• Address: Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau
• Opening Hours: Varies per attraction

Evening

As evening approaches, enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Robuchon au Dôme, a 3-Michelin-starred restaurant located within the Grand Lisboa Hotel. The tasting menus and unparalleled wine list promise an unforgettable dining experience.

• Address: 43/F, Grand Lisboa Hotel
• Opening Hours: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
• Reservations: Strongly recommended

Cap off your night with a visit to the House of Dancing Water at the City of Dreams. This breathtaking aquatic show combines acrobatics, dance, and storytelling.

• Address: Dancing Water Theater, Level 1, City of Dreams Hotel, Estr. do Istmo, Macao
• Showtimes: Varies; check the schedule
• Tickets: MOP 580 – 1,480

Day 3: Discovering Nature and Leisure in Macau

Morning

Start your final day with a visit to the serene Lou Lim Ieoc Garden, a classical Chinese garden offering peaceful pathways, ponds, and traditional Chinese pavilions.

• Address: 10 Estrada de Adolfo Loureiro, Macau
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Next, make your way to the A-Ma Temple, one of the oldest and most important temples in Macau. Dating back to 1488, it is dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu.

• Address: Largo da Barra, Macau
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Afternoon

Enjoy lunch at Nga Tim Café in Coloane Village, known for its traditional Portuguese food and relaxing atmosphere. Don’t miss their serradura, a classic Portuguese dessert.

• Address: 8 R. Caetano, Coloane, Macau
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Continue your exploration in Coloane by visiting the Hac Sa Beach, Macau’s largest natural beach. Spend a couple of hours relaxing by the shore or take a walk along the coastline.

• Address: Hac Sa Village, Coloane, Macau
• Activities: Swimming, walking, picnicking

Evening

Wrap up your Macau adventure with a gondola ride at the Venetian Macao, where you’ll float through indoor canals under a beautifully painted sky. Enjoy the evening ambiance, live performances, and shopping opportunities.

• Address: Outdoor Lagoon, The Venetian Macao & Grand Canal, Marco Polo Canal
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Finally, dine at The Eight, another Michelin-starred gem in the Grand Lisboa Hotel. This restaurant offers Cantonese cuisine with a modern twist, providing an exquisite end to your trip.

• Address: Avenida de Lisboa, Macau
• Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Reservations: Recommended

Macau is truly a destination that offers something for everyone. From historical landmarks and serene gardens to bustling casinos and world-class dining, it’s the perfect spot for a three-day getaway. This carefully crafted 3 days in Macau itinerary ensures that you experience the best of what this incredible city has to offer. Enjoy your trip!