Welcome to Guangzhou – one of the most important cities and a huge region in the Greater Bay Area in southern China.

It is a unique blend of tradition and modernity that makes this city so attractive. On the one hand, Guangzhou is an important location for production and trade with an impressive modern skyline. On the other hand, the region fascinated me with a deeply rooted culture that is reflected in the cityscape and in the lives of its people.

Guangzhou is an exciting mix of huge skyscrapers – most notably the Canton Tower, the second tallest building in Asia – markets, fascinating temples and, of course, world-famous cuisine: The Cantonese cuisine is one of the four major cuisines of China.

In my Guangzhou Travel Guide, I would like to show you the most beautiful sights and highlights in Guangzhou and inspire you to take your own trip.

P.S. Something I only learned after checking with locals: Guangzhou is pronounced differently than I thought. The ‘zhou’ at the end is pronounced ‘jow’, which reminds me of the name ‘Joe‘, so the correct way to say it is ‘Guangjoe’

How many days should you plan for your stay in Guangzhou?

To explore the most important highlights and sights of Guangzhou, I recommend 2 full days.

For a relaxed exploration with excursions, you should plan for 3 days.

Are you a food lover or interested in Guangzhou’s impressive culture? Then 3-4 days make sense, because there is a lot of cuisine waiting for you here and there are numerous museums.

When is the best time to visit Guangzhou?

Guangzhou has a subtropical climate. Spring and autumn are therefore particularly good times to explore all of Guangzhou’s sights in a relaxed way, as they are mild and dry. Summers (June–August), on the other hand, are very hot and extremely humid. The frequent rain makes sightseeing less pleasant. Winters tend to be cool, but this provides good conditions for a city break as well.

Travel & entry requirements for Guangzhou

German citizens and citizens of many European countries are permitted to stay in Guangzhou for 15 or 30 days without a visa (depending on current regulations, as of 2024). Entry is straightforward, directly at the respective border building, with only short waiting times.

If you wish to enter by land, you can use the bridge between Macau and China. A bus or taxi transfer is available for this purpose. Of course, it is also possible to fly to Guangzhou. Guangzhou Baiyun Airport offers international connections with fast metro and rail links.

My map of the most beautiful sights in Guangzhou

The most beautiful sights and experiences in Guangzhou

Light and Water Show at Canton Tower

At 604 metres (1,982 ft) high, Canton Tower is the second tallest building in Asia and the fifth tallest in the world. It is located directly above a shopping centre in Guangzhou’s business district and is one of the city’s top attractions. A special highlight and one of my best Guangzhou tips is the spectacular evening light and water show at Flower City Square. It offers a great view of Guangzhou’s illuminated skyline, with the Canton Tower in the background – a perfect spot for night photography.

The shows take place every evening, with times varying depending on the season (usually between 7:30 pm and 9:30 pm every 30 minutes).

Chen Clan Academy – a well-known attraction in Guangzhou

The historic Chen Clan Academy was founded in the late 19th century by the Chen Clan, one of the largest families in China during the Qing Dynasty. It was used to train the descendants of the Chen Clan for the imperial examinations. After the imperial examinations were abolished, it was used as a school, among other things. Today, the Chen Clan Academy houses a museum of folk art and is a popular cultural landmark in Guangzhou.

Its outstanding features include the ornate wood and brick carvings and ceramic sculptures on the roofs, which characterise this impressive traditional architecture. The Chen Clan Academy is a quiet retreat in the middle of the bustling city, perfect for taking impressive photos, and for me it is definitely one of the most beautiful sights in Guangzhou.

Shamian Island

Shamian Island is an artificial island dating back to the 19th century, which was built as a foreign concession area. The British and French were granted concession rights to this area after the Second Opium War in 1858. Today, it is a peaceful and picturesque place with buildings from the colonial era, characterised by European-style architecture.

On the wide, green boulevards, you will find many cute cafés and quiet squares – perfect for leisurely strolls and photo spots. Shamian Island is very popular for wedding shoots and definitely belongs on my list of Guangzhou tips.

Dim Sum Lunch – A Must-Do in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the birthplace of dim sum. In case you’re not familiar with it, dim sum are small, delicious bites that are often eaten for brunch, lunch or as a snack. They are usually served in steamer baskets, but also as soups, fried dishes or dumplings, and are perfect for sharing. They reminded me of Spanish tapas. Locals love to meet up with friends and family for dim sum brunch at the weekend. It’s more about socialising than the food itself.

The selection of dim sum restaurants in Guangzhou is huge – from traditional to modern. I was also fascinated by the overwhelming variety, but especially by the sheer endless range of flavours. So don’t miss out on this Guangzhou tip! However, it is advisable to arrive early, as many restaurants fill up quickly.

Shopping in Yongqing Fang

Yongqing Fang is a historic, vibrant arts and creative district with renovated old houses – one of Guangzhou’s most popular attractions. It combines tradition and modernity in the form of beautiful boutique shops, arts and crafts stores, numerous cafés and restaurants. A special highlight for fans is the house of Bruce Lee’s where he used to live as a kid.

My favourite spot in Yongqing Fang is Blan Bunny’s Plant Kingdom – a chic tea house with an adjoining shop. Here you will find hundreds of different types of tea, all of which you can sample for free. As soon as you enter, you are greeted by a breathtaking aroma in a fairytale setting. And, of course, you’ll find every beautiful tea accessory you can imagine here. For me as a tea lover, it was an absolute highlight.

Museum of Modern Art (Guangdong Museum of Art)

The Guangdong Museum of Art is a large art museum with modern architecture, focusing on traditional Chinese painting. However, it also houses modern and international art. You will find a large selection of interesting exhibitions here. For art lovers, this is one of my special Guangzhou tips!

Admission is generally free, but this can vary between different exhibitions.

In the outside area of the museum, you have a fantastic view of the Canton Tower – one of my favourite photo spots in Guangzhou! You can also combine your visit to the Guangdong Museum of Art with a walk along the Pearl River.

Sunset Spot: Party Pier

The Party Pier is located directly on the Pearl River and is one of the most popular Guangzhou tips for night owls. This is where people meet in the evening to experience the liveliness of the city up close. There is a huge selection of restaurants, bars and clubs to choose from. Pure rooftop feeling!

Party Pier also offers the best view of the sunset, which you absolutely must see from here. And if you like things a little more romantic, I have an extra tip: book a Pearl River Cruise – an evening boat tour to admire the city’s illuminated skyline from the water.

Shawan Ancient Town –  a special attraction in Guangzhou

Shawan Ancient Town is located outside the city centre. It is an 800-year-old historic town south of Guangzhou. Known for its rich culture and traditional architecture, it is one of the most interesting sights in Guangzhou for many tourists. It is home to numerous traditional houses and small tea houses, which you can admire in the quiet alleys. A visit to Shawan Ancient Town is perfect for anyone who likes to explore historical places or is looking for special photo spots. Ideal for a half-day trip.

Other highlights in Guangzhou:

Canton Tower – If you decide to watch the evening light and water show, you can combine it with a trip up the Canton Tower to take in a magnificent view of the city. But even during the day, the view is simply breathtaking.

Opera House – This masterpiece of futuristic architecture, perfectly integrated into its location on the Pearl River, is a must-see. It definitely belongs on my list of the best Guangzhou tips.

Beijing Road – Beijing Road has a long history. Here you can marvel at the remains of streets from the Song Dynasty. You walk on glass panels and can view archaeological excavations below you.

Guangzhou, China Travel Guide – My Summary

Megacities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen have something magical about them. I was particularly fascinated by the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that flows together here. It’s actually almost impossible to find the right words to describe my impressions. That’s why there’s only one way for you to experience it for yourself: set off on a journey into a futuristic world that is nevertheless deeply rooted in its culture and will fill you with wonder. Try the diverse delicacies of Cantonese cuisine and see for yourself that I haven’t promised too much. I hope my post with the best places to visit in Guangzhou will be a helpful travel guide for your journey.

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The Forbidden City, Zijin Cheng, is located in the middle of modern Beijing. It looks like a large rectangular island made of huge red walls and shiny golden roofs, surrounded by a wide water moat. A visit in the Forbidden City will take you back to historic times, while its name exudes something mysterious.

However, it is difficult for tourists to get tickets and not so easy to find your way around, as all signs are mainly in Chinese. But in this post I will tell you exactly how to make your visit at the Forbidden City in Beijing an unforgettable experience.

Why is it called the ‘Forbidden City’?

The answer lies in its function. On the one hand, the Forbidden City served as the residence of the reigning emperor and his family in the royal palace and, on the other hand, of course, as the centre of power of the Chinese Empire – for over 500 years. Since its construction (between 1406 and 1420), the strictest secrecy of all proceedings taking place within it was a top priority. Only the emperor, his family, officials and servants were allowed to enter the Forbidden City. The city itself was divided hierarchically. The outer courtyard served political and representative purposes, while the inner courtyard was reserved for the emperor and his family.

After the abdication of the last of a total of 24 emperors in 1911, he continued to live in the Forbidden City until 1924, when it was finally opened to the public as the Palace Museum in 1925. The Forbidden City remains one of China’s most important tourist attractions and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

My map of Beijing:

How much does it cost to visit the Forbidden City in Beijing?

Ticket prices for the Forbidden City vary depending on the season:

• 60 yuan during peak season (1 April to 31 October)
• 40 yuan during low season (1 November to 31 March)

Visitors under the age of 18 can visit the Forbidden CIty free of charge.

Some special areas require an additional ticket, such as the Treasure Palace. However, we skipped this area.

How do you book tickets for the Forbidden City?

(Spoiler: It’s complicated)

The question how to obtain tickets for the Forbidden City is like a big mystery! Tthe online ticket portal is only available in Chinese and is not suitable for tourists. Therefore, there is only one way to get tickets: buy them directly on site at the palace! But you have to come to the right ticket booth!

Important: You must bring your passport with you! Photos or copies are not accepted, as your passport number must be entered on your ticket.

I have marked the exact location of the ticket centre on my map. It is a little hidden in front of the security checkpoint at the entrance –  the ‘Gate of Heavenly Purity’.

My tip: When booking a private tour, your guide will also assist you with purchasing tickets, which will guarantee that you avoid any misunderstandings.

Is a guided tour of the Forbidden City worth it?

We were also unsure how and where to get tickets, as we found different information online. So we decided to book a private tour for our visit to the Forbidden City in Beijing. And we definitely did not regret it! As already mentioned, it is not that easy to find your way around the area. We also learned many interesting facts thanks to our guide and saw the best spots.

We booked our local guide via Get Your Guide – including transport, ticket purchase and a tour of the Forbidden City. A visit to Tian’anmen Square was also included. The approximately 40-hectare public square is located directly in front of the entrance gate.

Conclusion: It is really worth booking a guided tour to enjoy the Forbidden City in a relaxed & informative way!

When is the best time to visit the Forbidden City?

Around 80,000 people visit the Forbidden City in Beijing EVERY DAY. As you can imagine, there are huge queues waiting at the entrance gate early in the morning. Which is why arriving early isn’t a solution. My tip: it’s better to plan your visit in the afternoon. Last admission is at 4 pm (closing time is 5 pm). We arrived at the palace at around 3 pm and passed through the entrance gate at around 3:30 pm.

How much time should you plan for your visit at the Forbidden City in Beijing?

We began our visit to the Forbidden City with a walk around the palace (no ticket is required for this). Even from the outside, it looks imposing and impressive – with lots of great photo opportunities. Standing in front of it, you can really feel its historic past.

The outdoor area is actually a popular photo spot among locals, especially for pictures in traditional costumes. Around the moat, you’ll see people dressed in colorful outfits everywhere. You can rent these costumes almost anywhere – and even book a photographer with them!

Inside the Forbidden City, you basically make your way from the entrance to the exit in a straight flow. Along the way, you pass through different sections with various small palaces and halls – though many of them are quite similar. So you don’t need to stop at every single one. We spent about two hours exploring the whole site.

My highlights inside the Forbidden City:

The central inner area with the main palace – the ‘Palace of Heavenly Purity’ – is particularly well known. It once served as the main residence of the reigning emperor and as the seat of government.

The Imperial Garden was my favourite – with various pagodas and small temples as well as shady trees – some of which are already 400 years old! What a special feeling to be so close to them…

Extra tip: Visit the Jingshan Park for the ultimate view

Jingshan Park (translated as Viewing Hill) was formerly part of the Forbidden City and is located opposite the exit – the ‘Gate of Divine Prowess’. It is a beautiful place for a walk. However, the main reason most visitors come to Jingshan Park is for the fantastic panoramic view of the Forbidden City and Beijing from the pavilion at the top of the hill. During sunset it is an particular unforgettable experience. Although the park is often very crowded, it is not to be missed. The climb is relatively steep but not very long. It took us about 10 minutes to the top.

Important: There is a small entrance fee. Again, it is not easy for tourists to buy tickets on site and they must be booked in advance. Which is why we booked them via Get Your Guide and got a QR code. This got exchanged for a ticket at the entrance. A passport is also required for your visit!

A visit to the Forbidden City in Beijing – My summary

Anyone who decides to travel to Beijing will naturally want to see the Forbidden City. It is surely the most famous sight in Beijing and an overwhelming feeling to enter the centre of power of the former Chinese Empire and immerse yourself in its exciting history. We thoroughly enjoyed our unforgettable stay here, even though getting tickets was a little more complicated than at other places we have visited so far.

I hope my tips for visiting the Forbidden City in Beijing will help you to plan your trip without stress and enjoy a relaxing stay.

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The relatively young city of Shenzhen (founded in 1979) is part of China’s Greater Bay Area – an economic and cosmopolitan region in China that encompasses several cities and is known for its innovative strength and economic cooperation. Shenzhen is a key city in this area and is known as a centre for technology, innovation and finance. This is why the city is often referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley of China’. Many major tech giants have their headquarters here. At the same time, Shenzhen surprises visitors with its abundance of green spaces and historic old towns in the surrounding area. There are so many inviting parks, gardens and cafés where you can relax. Shenzhen thus represents an exciting mix of modernity and tradition.

In this Shenzhen Travel Guide, I will take you through this great city and give you lots of tips on the best sights to see. As usual, you will find a map below where I have marked all the spots for you.

How many days should you plan for a trip to Shenzhen?

I recommend 2 to 3 days to get a good impression of Shenzhen and visit the best sights. Planning three full days is advantageous if you are interested in detailed explorations and excursions to the surrounding area.

When is the best time to visit Shenzhen?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are ideal. During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild and there is little rain. In summer (June to August), on the other hand, it is often very hot and humid – less than ideal for sightseeing. In winter (December to February), the weather is cooler, with temperatures reaching up to 11 degrees Celsius, but it is still pleasant for a city break.

My tips for travelling to and entering Shenzhen

Since 2024, China has allowed a 30-day visa-free regime for the United Kingdom and other European countries. Entry into Shenzhen is quick and smooth.

Shenzhen is very close to the border with Hong Kong – you can easily cross it by bus or car. Border control even takes place directly in your vehicle if you are travelling by car. Shenzhen also has an international airport with excellent rail and metro connections, ensuring flexible travel.

Shenzhen can be ideally combined with a trip to → Hong Kong, → Macao or Guangzhou! Take a look at my travel guides with the best tips

My map of the most beautiful sights in Shenzhen:

The most beautiful sights in Shenzhen

1. OCT Harbour

OCT Harbour in Shenzhen’s business district is a huge shopping and entertainment centre and is definitely one of Shenzhen’s must-see attractions. Located directly on the coastline of Qianhai Bay, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of the skyline as you stroll along the walkway. The complex includes a large shopping centre – the semi-open OH Bay Mall – with many shops, restaurants and activities. We particularly recommend a visit to the Zhongshu Bookstore with its spiral-shaped shelves. The beautifully arranged design is perfect for taking special photos.

The complex also features an impressive artificial lake and canals. The main attractions include a daily water and light show, the Dream Aquarium and a large Ferris wheel from which you can enjoy a fabulous view of the city and the sea. OCT Harbour is a perfect place to take a break between sightseeing stops, especially in the evening hours. It is also a good introduction to the modern side of Shenzhen.

2. Futian – Futuristic Light Show

The light show in Shenzhen’s Futian District is a gigantic event in which all of the city’s skyscrapers, equipped with millions of LED lights, shine in a synchronised show, providing every visitor with a unique visual experience. All the tall buildings seem to be immersed in the same sea of lights – simply breathtaking. I felt like I was on a journey into the future – a Shenzhen tip you shouldn’t miss.

The show lasts about 15 minutes, so take enough time to enjoy it at your leisure. You won’t regret it. My tip: the best view is from the street in front of the bar ‘Riad by the Theatre’, which is located next to a large shopping centre.

When does the light show take place? Only on Fridays, weekends and public holidays, hourly from 7 p.m. (November to March) or 7.30 p.m. (April to October).

3. Museum of Contemporary Art & Planning University (MOCAUP)

The MOCAUP is located in the heart of the Futian Cultural District and is actually a combination of two museums. Opened in 2016, it is considered a landmark of the city’s modern identity and is, of course, one of Shenzhen’s top attractions. I was fascinated by the futuristic combination of urban and architectural planning and contemporary art. Highly recommended for people interested in architecture and design!

4. Talent Park – drone delivery

Talent Park in Shenzhen is both a technology-focused district and a popular recreational area for visitors and locals alike. It is a mixture of parkland with paths and a lake, as well as modern elements such as art installations and new technological achievements. Large play areas for children are also integrated. Known for its beautiful landscaping, Talent Park is definitely one of the best sights in Shenzhen in my opinion. It’s the perfect stopover if you want to explore Shenzhen’s high-tech side and relax in green surroundings at the same time.

Don’t miss: You can order food and drinks here via a drone delivery service – it’s easy to do via the app. Futuristic and exciting.

5. OCT Loft Creative Culture Park

The former industrial district has been transformed into a popular cultural and artistic centre and is now green and hip. Here you will find street art, small shops, vintage stores and unique cafés. Be enchanted by the flair of this district and relax amid green avenues and renovated buildings. The OCT Loft Creative Culture Park is ideal for spending half a day or a whole afternoon strolling and exploring, and is of course one of my Shenzhen tips for you.

6. My insider tip for Shenzhen: Gankeng Ancient Town

Gankeng Ancient Town is a historic site with restored buildings in the old Chinese style. It was developed from a 350-year-old village of Hakka culture. It offers a mixture of traditional architecture and modern entertainment. Here you will find, among other things, authentic houses, tea houses and bookshops.

A special highlight: you can even borrow and wear traditional Chinese clothing from different dynasties – with matching styling, of course. I really wanted to try this out and chose a costume from the Song Dynasty (960–1279). It was a great feeling to see myself like this and stroll around this fairytale place. Gankeng Ancient Town impressed me greatly and was one of my top sights in Shenzhen from the very first moment. Don’t miss out on this journey back in time.

Where is Gankeng Ancient Town? Just outside Shenzhen – accessible by metro line 10 (Gankeng station) or by taxi/Didi (Chinese Uber). The journey takes between 30 and 45 minutes.

7. Restaurant highlight: Chan’an Pavilion

Trying hot pot is an absolute must when visiting China. I thought it must be particularly good here at Chan’an Pavilion because when we arrived, we were greeted by a huge queue of people who had the same idea as us. But it was worth the wait! Chan’an Pavilion is actually one of the hottest hot pot restaurants in Shenzhen and, for me, one of the best sights. From the outside, it looks rather inconspicuous, but as soon as you enter, you are captivated by its enchanting ambience. Hundreds of lanterns glow in various shades from white to red, giving the beautiful building a cosy atmosphere. Its unique architectural design extends over several floors.

So, how was my first hot pot experience? Several people sit at a round table with numerous small bowls containing different fresh ingredients. You order a hot broth of your choice. Using small ladles or skewers, you can now cook the fresh ingredients in your broth – like a kind of fondue. Absolutely delicious! The locals love to meet up with their family or friends to enjoy this.

Another restaurant tip:

If you would like to eat vegan, then I recommend the signature restaurant Qing Chun Pumen (in MixC World). It is a completely vegan restaurant and you can enjoy the signature dish Black Truffle Fried Rice, among other things. Of course, there is also a large selection of other vegan dishes. A must-try! However, it is advisable to book in advance.

Address: 3F, Wanxiang Tiandi Lane, Nanshan District, Shenzhen

Shenzhen Travel Guide – Your journey to high-tech China with hidden charm – My summary

Shenzhen is much more than a high-tech metropolis – it offers an exciting interplay of technology, green surroundings, modernity and historical roots. Whether it’s futuristic cityscapes, creative neighbourhoods or quiet tea houses in old alleys, there’s something for every traveller here. I really enjoyed my time here and can definitely recommend a trip to Shenzhen.

The city can be ideally combined with a trip to → Hong Kong, → Macao or Guangzhou! Check out my travel guides with the best tips

I hope my Shenzhen Travel Guide has given you a little taste of what to expect if you decide to explore this unique city for yourself. I hope it will also help you to tailor your stay in Shenzhen to your wishes.

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The Macao Peninsula is located approximately 70 km from Hong Kong and is a special administrative region of China – with its own legal system, currency (pataca) and even its own passport. Until 1999, it was a Portuguese colony for almost 450 years, which can still be seen today in its architecture, cuisine and lifestyle. The mix of Chinese culture and Portuguese heritage makes Macao a unique destination in Asia – often described as ‘Europe meets China’.

Macao is also known as the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’. Did you know that there are around 30 casinos here, which generate more revenue than the 100+ casinos in Las Vegas? But we were more interested in the Macao’s impressive flair and its hidden gems. This also included an extra large dose of adrenaline – but more on that later.

In this post, I will share with you to the most beautiful sights and highlights of Macao to inspire you to take a trip to the city of contrasts. As always, you will find a map below where I have marked all the spots for you.

When is the best time to visit Macao?

To really enjoy Macao’s many impressive sights, I recommend visiting between October and December. During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild, dry and sunny. Spring (March to May) is also beautiful and therefore a good time to visit, but it can be a little more humid. Summer (June to September) is hot, humid and can be affected by typhoons, which is why travelling to Macao at this time is less recommended.

How many days should you plan for your trip to Macao?

In my opinion, two to three days are enough to explore Macao’s main sights, the historic centre, the modern casinos and quieter places like Coloane at your leisure.

If you enjoy photography or want to experience the city at a slower pace, it is better to plan for three full days.

What is the best way to get to Macao?

Macao has its own international airport, but there are no direct flights from the United Kingdom or other European Countries. Most flights land in Hong Kong, from where you can reach Macao by ferry (the journey takes about an hour). Since 2018, there has also been the 55-kilometre-long Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge which makes the connection by car or bus super easy. 

My Map with the best sights in Macao:

The most beautiful sights and highlights in Macao

Historic Centre of Macao

The Ruins of St. Paul’s

The Historic Centre of Macao forms the heart of the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ruins of St. Paul’s, the remains of a 17th-century church, is probably the most famous landmark in Macao and one of its top sights. The church was built between 1602 and 1640. In 1835, a major fire broke out, destroying everything except the front wall and facade. The ruins were finally restored at the end of the last century and still stand today

Monte do Forte Fortress

Another highlight of Macao is the historic Monte do Forte Fortress (Fortaleza do Monte), also built in the 17th century. From here, you can enjoy one of the best views of the city, the ruins of St. Paul’s and the iconic Lisboa Casino. Access is via stairs or, if you prefer a more comfortable option, via the escalator at the Macao Museum, which leads directly to the fortress. My tip: it is particularly beautiful up here at sunset. Admission is free, by the way. Please note: the escalator closes at 6 pm, after which you can only go up and down on foot.

Photogenic streets with European flair

The narrow streets surrounding Macao’s historic centre captivate visitors with their fascinating Portuguese-Chinese architecture and are perfect for strolling and taking photos. I found Calçada de São Francisco Xavier particularly photogenic, with its beautiful European-style houses and picturesque view of St. Paul’s Ruins. The street is a very popular photo spot in Macao.

The modern part of Macao – Cotai Strip

The Cotai Strip in Macao –  a sight that attracts millions of people every year – is actually inspired by Las Vegas. The long, wide boulevard is located in the new, glamorous part of the city, lined with gigantic casino resorts and themed hotels.

The most famous casinos include:

• Studio City
• The Parisian (with its own Eiffel Tower)
• The Londoner
• The Venetian Macao

Even if you don’t like to indulge in casino games, it’s worth spending an evening here. You can expect fantastic night scenes, shows, great restaurants and, of course, plenty of shopping opportunities.

Macao Tower

At a height of 338 metres (1,109 ft), the Macao Tower towers over the city skyline as another Macao landmark and attraction. From the platform, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. If you’re feeling brave, you can also venture out onto the outer ring and walk around the tower. There is no railing, but you will be secured with safety harnesses for the so-called Sky Walk.

If that’s still not enough adrenaline for you, then I recommend trying a bungee jump from the tower, as I did. It’s the highest bungee jumping facility in the world! A 200-metre free fall is no small feat. I would be lying if I said it was one of my easiest exercises. Just before the jump, my knees were really shaking and I wondered what I had gotten myself into. But there was no turning back for me… And what followed was simply amazing!

My conclusion: the Macao Tower is ideal for adventure seekers or for taking impressive panoramic photos at sunset.

Coloane Village

Coloane Village is located in the south of Macao and is a charming, quiet village with European architecture, small churches and narrow streets – ideal for a relaxing stroll away from the hustle and bustle. For me, it is definitely one of the most beautiful sights in Macao. The contrast between traditional Coloane and the view of the modern skyline of mainland China on the other side of the bay is particularly charming and very impressive.

Don’t miss: the famous egg tarts at Lord Stow’s Bakery – inspired by the Portuguese pastéis de nata but with a slightly different recipe. They are considered the best in Macao.

My insider tips in Macao

Hac Sa Long Chao Kok Trail

This is a coastal hiking trail that leads along a footbridge over red rocks. Walking on it was a very special experience, with the huge, bright red stones next to and below me, almost like in a fairy tale. The landscape reminded me a little of the Seychelles.

The Hac Sa Chao Kok Trail is ideal for nature lovers and relaxation, as it is very quiet here. We only encountered two local fishermen and were able to really enjoy our walk – making it a real insider tip in Macao.

A-Ma Temple

The Taoist A-Ma Temple – my top insider tip for Macao – is located in the south of the city and is one of Macao’s oldest temples, built in 1488 during the Ming Dynasty. It is dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu (A-Ma). The temple is built on several levels on a rock and reminded me of an enchanted place out of a fairy tale.

Fun fact: A-Ma Temple is said to be the namesake of the city. According to legend, the name ‘Macao’ has the following origin: Portuguese sailors asked locals what the place they had arrived at was called and received the answer ‘A-Ma-Gau’ (‘Bay of A-Ma’). This later became ‘Macao’.

If you like, you can take a glimpse into the future while visiting the temple with the Kau Chim ceremony – a traditional method of divination in temples that is very popular with the locals.

Taipa Houses Museum

The historic villas of the Taipa Houses Museum are located on a large water lily pond with a wooden walkway. There are five houses from the 20th century that reflect the life of the Portuguese elite at that time. You will also find exhibitions on local history and culture here.

My insider tip is to take a walk on the wooden footbridge that crosses the pond, offering a photogenic view of Macao’s modern skyline with the casinos in the background. The Taipa Houses Museum is also a quiet place to enjoy and relax.

My hotel tips in Macao:

The → W Macau Studio City is ideally located on the Cotai Strip, within walking distance of the most beautiful spots and offering fantastic views from the rooms and the rooftop bar. The hotel is super modern and stylishly furnished, and the breakfast was amazing! A top address for your trip to Macao.

→ BOOK IT HERE!

Do you prefer something more traditional and close to the old town? Then I recommend the → Sofitel Macau. It has a well-known large casino where you can watch the Chinese gambling or try your luck yourself. My highlight, however, is the great outdoor pool with a view of mainland China. Great for relaxing!

→ BOOK IT HERE!

The most beautiful sights and highlights in Macao – my summary

Macao is truly a city of contrasts that could hardly be more closely intertwined. On the one hand, it is the mixture of different cultural influences that impressed me, and on the other hand, the dense encounter, almost fusion, of history and modernity. In Macao, it is possible to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of a cosmopolitan city and then escape it in the next moment to find peace and quiet in a temple or in nature. Both had their own special, irresistible charm.

If you feel like following in my footsteps and experiencing the unique flair of Macao for yourself, I hope that my article on the most beautiful sights and insider tips in Macao will help you with your travel preparations.

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