Tips for a festive getaway
Macao has you covered!
Enjoy historic streets, hands-on museums, scenic parks, and the festive glow of Light Up Macao 2025.
This itinerary keeps things fun, relaxed, and full of local charm.
READ MORE: WIN! A Dream Macao Weekend with Flights & More!
Images courtesy of Macao Government Tourism Office
Day 1: Heritage & Evening Lights
Images by Rachel Wu/That's 
Arrive and head right to The Historic Center of Macao. The ruins of St. Paul's and Na Tcha Temple are a dramatic pairing of church façade and traditional Chinese temple.
Lover's Lane, or Travessa da Paixão, is perfect for colorful photos and unique angles of the ruins.
Then head to Monte Fort for sweeping city views.
Images by Rachel Wu/That's
Images by Rachel Wu/That's
St. Dominic's Church and Senado Square are iconic, and glowing with a giant, wavy Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and a lively holiday crowd.
Image courtesy of Macao Government Tourism Office
Images by Rachel Wu/That's
Meal
Traditional Macanese flavors nearby. Try African chicken and bacalhau dumplings on Rua da Felicidade.
Late Afternoon & Evening
Ease into the evening with a gentle stroll around Nam Van Lake—locals love this peaceful nighttime ritual.
This is also where Light Up Macao 2025 opened, so the waterfront glitters after dark with reflections, interactive installations, and dreamy festive displays.
READ MORE: Light Up Your Holiday – Macao's Christmas Magic Glows
When you're ready for dinner, the surrounding streets offer boutique restaurants serving everything from Vietnamese pho to modern Italian—pick your craving and enjoy lakeside views.
Images courtesy of Macao Government Tourism Office
Day 2: Discovery & Festive Joy
Morning
Macao families swear by the Macao Science Center—a hands-on indoor playground for curious minds.
Image courtesy of Macao Government Tourism Office
Image by Rachel Wu/That's
Expect interactive exhibits, robot workshops, and a planetarium dome that never fails to impress.
Image by Rachel Wu/That's
Lunch
Artistic Macanese-Portuguese fusion in the lovely Calçada da Igreja de S. Lázaro area
Images courtesy of Macao Government Tourism Office
Afternoon
Christmas Market at Tap Seac Square—carousel rides, inflatable slides, food stalls, and cheerful performances.
Images by Rachel Wu/That's
Follow it up with open-space playtime at Jardim da Flora, then take the cable car down the hill—a fun little ride for the kids.
The Macao Grand Prix Museum is just a short walk away.
Note: If the cable car is closed due to severe windy weather, simply walk through the Guia Hill Pedestrian Tunnel down the hill before reaching the museum.
Image courtesy of Macao Government Tourism Office
Explore VR racing at the Macau Grand Prix Museum, then catch 3D projection-mapping from 6pm on the museum façade.
After that, hop on a free festival shuttle to the Northern District for more kid-friendly interactive light installations.
For full schedules, free festive shuttle routes, and program updates, check the official Light Up Macao 2025 website:
Images courtesy of Macao Government Tourism Office
Day 3: A Relaxed Village
Morning in Taipa
Images on two sides by Rachel Wu/That's & an image in the middle courtesy of Macao Government Tourism Office
Take a break from the city bustle and start your morning at the Taipa Houses, a colorful collection of Portuguese-style buildings that offer a glimpse into Macao's past.
Wander through the gardens and take in the charming architecture before enjoying a peaceful stroll through the nearby wetland area—a tranquil spot right in front of the houses, perfect for a relaxing walk among nature.
Image on the left via KKDay, image on the right by Rachel Wu/That's
Next, head over to Rua do Cunha, Taipa's lively pedestrian street, lined with vibrant shops and eateries.
Snack on some local treats, like egg tarts or pork chop buns, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.
It's the perfect way to wind down after the two days of festive fun in Macao.
Departure Tip: Head out relaxed—you've experienced the real, everyday Macao locals cherish.
Don't forget to join the travel survey by scanning the QR code below for a chance to win a free trip to Macao!
[Cover image by Rachel Wu/That's]
No comments:
Post a Comment