Standing at 338 meters (1,109 feet), Macau Tower is the tallest structure in Macau and a defining landmark of this vibrant Special Administrative Region of China. Known as the Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre, it offers breathtaking panoramic views, thrilling adventure activities, diverse dining options, and shopping, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or simply looking to soak in Macau’s skyline, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit.
A Travel Guide to Macau Tower
Why Visit Macau Tower?
Macau Tower is more than just a sightseeing spot; it’s a multifaceted destination that caters to all types of travelers. As the 10th tallest tower globally and a member of the World Federation of Great Towers, it boasts a rich array of experiences. From the world’s highest commercial bungee jump to fine dining with 360-degree views, the tower combines adrenaline-pumping activities with cultural and culinary delights. Its strategic location in the South Bay New Reclamation Area offers unobstructed views of the Macau Peninsula, Taipa, Coloane, the Pearl River Delta, and even Hong Kong’s Lantau Island on clear days.
How to Get There
Macau Tower is conveniently located in the New Reclamation Area of Macau’s West Bay, accessible by various transportation options:
By Public Bus: Routes 9A, 18, 23, 26, and 32 stop at the base of the tower. A one-way fare costs approximately MOP 6. Travel time from central Macau (e.g., Senado Square) is about 10–15 minutes.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing: A taxi from the Macau Peninsula or Taipa takes 5–15 minutes and costs MOP 20–40, depending on traffic. Ride-hailing apps like Didi are also available. Taxis are a quick and convenient option for first-time visitors.
By Free Shuttle Bus: Many major casinos (e.g., The Venetian, Galaxy) offer free shuttle services to Macau Tower. Check schedules at casino concierge desks.
By Car: The tower has ample parking facilities. Expect to pay MOP 10–20 per hour. Drive via Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen for direct access.
From Hong Kong or Mainland China: Macau is easily reachable by ferry from Hong Kong (1-hour ride, MOP 170–300) via the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal or Taipa Ferry Terminal. From there, a taxi or bus to the tower takes 10–15 minutes. The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge connects Macau to Hong Kong and Zhuhai by road, with bus services (MOP 65–70) or taxis available.
Tip: Purchase a prepaid Macau SIM card at the airport or ferry terminals for navigation and communication, as mainland China SIMs may require roaming.
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round Appeal: The tower is open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (extended hours on weekends and holidays). The observation deck is best visited on clear days for optimal views. Golden Hours: Visit during sunrise or just before sunset (around 5:00–6:30 PM) for stunning light and vibrant cityscapes. Night visits showcase Macau’s glittering skyline.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant temperatures (20–28°C) and clearer skies. Summer (June–August) can be rainy, while winter (December–February) is cooler but still suitable. Avoid Crowds: Weekdays are less busy than weekends or major holidays like Chinese New Year or National Day (early October).
Tickets and Pricing
Observation Deck (Levels 58 and 61): Adults: MOP 165; Children (3–11) and seniors (65+): MOP 85; Includes access to the indoor Observation Lounge (Level 58) and Outdoor Observation Deck (Level 61).
Adventure Activities (operated by AJ Hackett): Bungee Jump (233 meters, world’s highest commercial jump): MOP 3,688 (includes certificate, T-shirt, and observation deck access). Skywalk (outer rim walk at 233 meters): MOP 888. SkyJump (controlled descent): MOP 2,888. Tower Climb (to the top at 338 meters): MOP 2,888–3,888, depending on group size. Combo Tickets: Packages combining observation deck access with dining or activities are available, starting at MOP 200.
Booking: Purchase tickets on-site, via the official website (www.macautower.com.mo), or through platforms like Viator or Klook. Book adventure activities in advance, especially during peak seasons.
What to See and Do
Macau Tower offers a mix of thrilling, relaxing, and cultural experiences:
Observation Decks (Levels 58 and 61): The Level 58 Observation Lounge provides indoor 360-degree views, perfect for families or those preferring a sheltered experience. The Level 61 Outdoor Observation Deck (223 meters) features glass floors for a thrilling perspective. On clear days, see the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and mainland China. The high-speed glass-fronted elevator reaches the deck in under 60 seconds.
Adventure Activities (AJ Hackett): Bungee Jump: At 233 meters, it’s the world’s highest commercial bungee jump, certified by Guinness World Records. Jumpers experience a 20-second freefall at 75 km/h. Skywalk: Walk along the outer rim (no handrails) at 233 meters for an exhilarating guided tour. SkyJump: A controlled descent from 233 meters, ideal for those wanting a milder thrill. Tower Climb: Scale 105 meters of vertical stairs from Level 61 to the tower’s peak (338 meters) for unmatched views.
Dining: 360°Café (Level 60): A revolving restaurant offering international buffets (seafood, Portuguese, Indian, and Italian dishes). Prices: MOP 298–498 (dinner buffet). 180°Lounge & Grill (Level 59): Serves grilled meats, seafood, and Portuguese wines with panoramic views. Expect MOP 200–400 per person. Lua Azul (Level 3): Specializes in Huaiyang, Cantonese, and Chaozhou cuisines with open-kitchen views. Open 10:00 AM–11:00 PM. Itach Sushi (Level 3): Offers fresh Japanese dishes (MOP 100–300). Café on 4 (Level 4): Casual spot for desserts and harbor views, perfect for a quick break.
Shopping and Entertainment: Toys ‘R’ Us (Level 2): A fun stop for families with branded toys and clothing. Macau Creations (Level 1): Sells local souvenirs like stamps, postcards, and watches. ISA (Lower Ground): Features luxury brands like Gucci, Armani, and Prada. Mocha (Ground Level): An arcade for electronic and gambling games, plus a café. The tower also has a theater showing films and a convention center hosting events.
Photography: The observation deck’s glass floors and open-air sections offer unique angles for photos. Visit during golden hours for the best light.
Where to Eat
In addition to the tower’s dining options, nearby areas offer diverse choices: Senado Square (10-minute drive): Home to Cantonese, Macanese, and Portuguese restaurants. Try Wong Chi Kei for wonton noodles (MOP 50–100). Taipa Village (15-minute drive): Known for local eateries like António (Portuguese cuisine, MOP 200–400) or Tai Lei Loi Kei for pork chop buns (MOP 30–50).
Tip: Bring snacks if visiting during peak hours, as tower restaurants can be busy.
Where to Stay
Macau Tower is a day attraction, but staying nearby enhances your trip, especially if exploring the city’s casinos or historic sites:
Macau Peninsula: Grand Lisboa Hotel (5-star, 10-minute drive): Iconic luxury with casino access, from MOP 1,200/night. Hotel Royal Macau (4-star, 8-minute drive): Comfortable and affordable, MOP 600–900/night.
Cotai Strip: The Venetian Macao (5-star, 15-minute drive): Massive resort with canals and shopping, from MOP 1,500/night. MGM Macau (5-star, 10-minute drive): Features an 8-meter aquarium and luxury dining, MOP 1,000–1,800/night. Budget Options: Hostels like Macau Masters Hotel offer rooms for MOP 300–500/night.
Booking: Use Booking.com, Ctrip, or KAYAK for deals. Book early during peak seasons like Chinese New Year.
Tips for a Great Visit
Book Adventure Activities Early: Bungee jumps and Skywalks sell out quickly, especially on weekends. Reserve via www.skyparkmacau.com. Dress Comfortably: Wear sturdy shoes for adventure activities and bring a light jacket for air-conditioned areas or evening visits.
Photography Restrictions: Cameras are allowed, but drones and professional tripods may require permits. Accessibility: The tower is wheelchair-friendly with ramps and elevators to the observation deck.
Combine Your Trip: Pair your visit with nearby attractions like the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Macau (Senado Square, Ruins of St. Paul’s, 10-minute drive) or the Cotai Strip’s casinos (15-minute drive). Currency: Macau uses Macanese Pataca (MOP), but Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are common at the tower.
Sustainability: The tower promotes eco-friendly practices like recycling and energy-saving lighting. Avoid littering to support these efforts.
Final Thoughts
Macau Tower is a dynamic destination that captures the essence of Macau’s blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural charm. Whether you’re leaping from 233 meters, savoring a buffet at the revolving 360°Café, or simply gazing at the Pearl River Delta, the tower offers experiences that linger long after your visit. Plan ahead, embrace the thrills, and let Macau Tower elevate your journey in the “Vegas of the East.”
Happy travels!
