Macau city break

Few tourism destinations are transforming at the same speed as Macau and the city’s development is absolutely breathtaking. Opulent gambling palaces sit alongside a beautiful historic centre, whose sloping cobbled streets are reminiscent of a Mediterranean town. Visitors can also explore hill-top forts and cathedral ruins, Buddhist temples, a grand neo-classical post office and several atmospheric Portuguese cafes and Cantonese restaurants.
  

Gambling

For most visitors, gambling is Macau's great attraction. Around 28 casinos now operate under government franchise. Both familiar Western games and popular Eastern games are on offer, plus slot machines - known as ‘hungry tigers' by locals.

Island hop

The island of Taipa is a busy, colourful place with interesting shops and colonial Portuguese offices in narrow streets and alleys, where many traditional crafts are still followed. The larger of Macau's two islands, Colôane Island, is perfect for a day trip. Nature trails thread among the hills in Seac Pai Van Park, which also has a walk-in aviary. The best of the beaches is the black-sand Hác Sá. Enjoy spectacular views from the A-Ma Statue, which stands on the highest point on the island.

Festivals

Macau's colourful festivals include the Dragon Boat Festival in June; the International Fireworks Display Contest, which sees 90 countries competing for honours in September/October; and the Macau International Music Festival, which presents works in Chinese and Western styles throughout October.

Historic Old City

Ascribed UNESCO World Heritage status in 2005, the old city has eight squares and 22 historic buildings. The narrow lanes, markets and sloping cobbles combine the architectural drama of backstreet Porto and the bustling energy, cooking smells and Cantonese dialect of southern China.

Architectural jewels

The ruins of the Church of St Paul's are probably the most famous sight in Macau. The church was originally built in 1602 and rebuilt in 1835 after a disastrous typhoon. The 40m-high (130ft) Gate of Understanding, which looms over Praia Grande Bay, is a symbolic structure representing the goodwill between China and Portugal. The finest expression of colonial architecture is probably the Largo do Senado Square.

Kun Iam Tong

Explore the complex of temples known as Kun Iam Tong, the biggest and wealthiest of Macau's temples. It dates from the time of the Ming Dynasty, about 400 years ago, and contains a small statue of Marco Polo as well as other works of art.

Take a leap

Enjoy panoramic views - or bungee jump - from Macau Tower, an entertainment and convention centre situated on the waterfront on the Nam Van Lakes. The 338m (1,109ft) landmark is the 10th tallest freestanding tower in the world.