Taking a Ferry to Macau: Check-in at the Glittering Lesser-Known Tourist Spots in Macau (With Ferry Customs Clearance Guide)
Macau, a place you come to and want to come again. I have been to Macau many times, but each time I have different feelings. The two completely different styles of Macau—the north and the south—each have check-in spots that people yearn for. In the north, the Macau Peninsula has many historical relics and monuments, while in the south, Coloane Island is very suitable for artistic youth to take photos. Perhaps everyone's travel purpose is different. The attachment to a city or its food will make you come again after you've been. Macau is such a place that makes you want to come back. I like the prosperity of Macau and the alleys of old-style residents, the blend of Portuguese and Chinese architecture, and the unique fragrance of Macau's cuisine and Portuguese egg tarts that linger on and make people reluctant to leave.
Walking into the Fisherman's Wharf, it feels like arriving in ancient Rome. The refreshing light green of the Casa Garden attracts many tourists to check in every day. Strolling along both sides of the canal, it's like entering Venice. A crystal clear blue canal, with waterways and bridges connected, runs through the city. To the melodious singing of young men, one after another gondolas slowly shuttle on the blue waves, presenting a bustling scene of a 'water city,' making you feel like you are in a foreign land. Macau has a Rua da Cunha, a short and narrow street. This is a food street and a paradise for foodies. It is one of the must-visit places in Macau. When you go to Macau, you must go to Rua da Cunha, where it's crowded and lively. On both sides of the road, the old district of Taipa exudes a European town charm. The Ruins of St. Paul's is a landmark of Macau.
Transport: From Zhuhai Jiuzhou Port to Macau, only 25 minutes
The newly opened direct ferry route from Zhuhai Jiuzhou Port to Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal takes just 25 minutes. The one-way ticket is only 38 yuan. This time, I took a ferry from Shenzhen Shekou Port to Zhuhai Jiuzhou Port (1 hour), and then from Zhuhai Jiuzhou Port to Macau (25 minutes). Customs clearance was very fast, no queuing. This is the only high-speed water passenger route from Zhuhai to Macau. It was comfortable and convenient. Along the way, we passed the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, enjoying the beautiful city scenery of Zhuhai and Macau. I highly recommend this route.
How to buy tickets: Before departure, purchase tickets on the 'Jiuzhou Passenger Port' WeChat public account. You can select your schedule and time. For both outbound and return trips, buy tickets on the account. At the port, exchange for paper tickets at self-service machines.
I took a ferry from Shenzhen Shekou Port to Zhuhai Jiuzhou Port in 1 hour, then continued with the second leg. Since I had booked tickets in advance on the public account, I exchanged the tickets at the port, went through security, and needed to prepare my ID card, Hong Kong-Macau Travel Permit, Guangdong Health Code, and a 7-day nucleic acid test report to clear customs smoothly. If you are not from Guangdong Province, you need to convert to the Guangdong Health Code in advance. If you don't know how, ask the staff. It is recommended to arrive at the port half an hour early.
After customs clearance, I waited to board. There were very few people on the ferry from Zhuhai to Macau, making me feel like I had chartered the whole boat. Haha. In just 25 minutes, we arrived at Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal.
On the way, there were not many people on the boat, almost like I had it all to myself. The boat ride was very comfortable and arrived on time. No need to worry about traffic jams like by car.
Route schedule and fares: At the start of the route, the 'water bus' from Jiuzhou Port to Macau (Taipa) operates from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm, with 10 round trips daily (20 total). During the promotion from March 1 to April 30, adult/child tickets are only 38 yuan/person (48 MOP/person); a monthly pass is only 380 yuan/card (480 MOP/card). With a same-day ticket for the Jiuzhou Port to Macau (Taipa) route, you can park for free at the terminal parking lot for 12 hours.
Fisherman's Wharf: A Wharf Combining Chinese and Western Cultures, Classical and Modern
You may have been to Macau many times and not visited this attraction. I was like that; this was my first time check-in here. I had been to Macau before but never had time. This time I came specially. Most tourists choose to stay in Taipa, but Fisherman's Wharf is on the peninsula. This is a Fisherman's Wharf that combines Chinese and Western cultures, classical and modern. It is located on the coast of the new reclaimed area of Macau's outer harbor. If you can't go to Rome, this is the place. Walking in, it feels like being in Europe's 'Ancient Roman Arena'—just a second to look like you're in Europe. Besides Roman architecture, there are European-style buildings. Every turn offers a different visual feast. It's well worth checking in.
This attraction is Macau's first theme park and a shopping center modeled after European and American fisherman's wharves. Walking in, it feels like being in Europe. The Roman Arena appears before you, looking very ancient. I saw many girls here checking in and taking photos. It's a very popular spot, and best of all, it's free. You can take photos however you like.
Behind the circular Roman Arena is the best place for photos. The floor has beautiful flower-shaped patterns. Using a wide-angle lens here, you can capture the entire Roman Arena. I saw several girls checking in here; it seemed more women come to take photos. Looks like it's an internet-famous spot. After all, it was my first time too.
To the right, there are arched doors, another good spot for photos. After checking in here, enter from another entrance to find a hidden paradise. There are many food restaurants and shops. Shops along the seaside, with colorful houses, are great for photos. Outside is the sea. Walking along the beach and shopping while enjoying the sea breeze is very pleasant, especially in summer. In the evening, find a seaside restaurant, dine outside, enjoy the sea breeze, and have delicious food. It's wonderful.
Rua da Cunha: A Must-Visit for Foodies, a Literati and Artistic Check-in Spot
Rua da Cunha is in the center of southern Taipa, from between Rua do Campo and Rua da Felicidade to the front of the Fire Station. It intersects with Rua do Regedor and the Fire Station front in a T-shape. It is one of Macau's emerging famous attractions and also the first pedestrian street in Macau. Don't underestimate this short street (only about 121 meters long, 5 meters wide). It is also one of Macau's famous food streets. If you want to buy some souvenirs, you can buy them here. Several souvenir shops here are flagship stores in Macau. As you walk down the street, you'll see many people coming for food or souvenirs. Of course, the area around Rua da Cunha is also good for checking in. There are colorful houses, and one special spot has a tree shaped like a star growing between two differently colored houses.
Many young people come here during the day or evening. You can now take the light rail directly to Rua da Cunha, get off at Pai Kok Station, and walk a bit. After leaving Rua da Cunha, go uphill to find several places worth checking in. There are graffiti in various colors on the walls; you can easily take artistic photos here. Colorful houses make for great shots, especially popular with girls.
Rua da Cunha is not just a food heaven. In just over 100 meters, the street and surroundings gather many food shops. The place is bustling with tourists all day long, whether for a cup of milk tea or taking artistic photos.
Casa Garden (Museum of Taipa and Coloane): A Fresh Light Mint Green
The Casa Garden Museum is located on the seaside road in Taipa, Macau. It consists of 5 emerald green Portuguese-style villas, commonly known as the 'Macau Residence Museum,' and is one of the eight scenic spots of Macau. If you go to Rua da Cunha, don't miss it. It's not far from Rua da Cunha. When I entered, the first thing I saw was the mint green Portuguese architecture. At the first villa, there is a staff member watching; you can visit for free. The Portuguese-style villa has two floors.
The Portuguese-style architecture allows you to fully experience exotic vibes. Looking around, the mint green is refreshing and bright, perfect for girls to check in! The furniture and decorations inside are unique, showcasing Macau's Portuguese style and the culture of the Macanese people. Entering the first floor, there are the living room, kitchen, office, etc., on left and right. But it feels quite narrow, especially the living room with a large table and four chairs—hard to pass through.
In front of the museum, there is a small mangrove wetland. Here you can see white egrets, black-faced spoonbills, etc. A green wetland park appears before you. After visiting, you can go down to the wetland park. In summer, there are many green plants. This is a quiet place worth checking in.
Taipa and Coloane History Museum: Showcasing the Historical Changes and Residents' Lives of Taipa and Coloane
If you are staying in Taipa, you can take the light rail to Pai Kok, then walk a short distance to reach here. Taking the light rail is convenient, with few people. Get off at Pai Kok Station and find an entrance. Walk along the entrance to reach the Taipa and Coloane History Museum. This is also one of the main entrances to Rua da Cunha, so going to Rua da Cunha from here is convenient.
After getting off the light rail, you can see a landmark building at Pai Kok, a circular building with seats inside. If it rains, you can take shelter here. Follow the road in front of the building to the end. Along the way, you'll see many big trees and a blue house, which is very photogenic.
Next to the intersection, the mint green building is the Taipa and Coloane History Museum. The museum has a 20th-century architectural style, neoclassical, with a Roman triangular pediment. There are offices on both sides of the main staircase. The lower floor of the annex has elegant continuous arches, a characteristic of Roman architecture. Free admission.
The museum's exhibitions are rich. The first floor mainly displays unearthed artifacts from Coloane, the stone structure ruins of the former Island Municipal Council basement in Taipa, changes in the islands' villages, and religious culture, allowing visitors to understand early Taipa and Coloane history and culture. The second floor has different themes, introducing the history of the former Island Municipal Council, agriculture and handicrafts, architectural features of Taipa and Coloane, and recent development directions, giving visitors a deep understanding of modern political development and economic life in Taipa and Coloane.
Senado Square: A Must-Visit for Tourists to Macau
Senado Square, commonly known as the Fountain, is located in the central area of the Macau Peninsula. It is one of Macau's four major squares. The surrounding colorful buildings have strong European architectural features, making you feel like you've entered Europe instantly. The building of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau is located on the southwest side of the square, white, simple, and solemn. On the other side of the fountain is the Holy House of Mercy, an ancient charitable institution in Asia that has now become a museum open to the public. Generally, the famous Ruins of St. Paul's in Macau is entered from here.
St. Dominic's Church has a history of over 400 years. The church was built in 1587 by the Spanish Order of Preachers. The interior of Macau's churches also has distinct styles. The large circular glass dome and spiraling pillars of St. Joseph's Seminary and Church reflect the fusion of various religions in Macau. St. Lawrence's Church has imposing stone staircases on both sides in front of the door, with double bell towers and a quiet garden planted with palm trees, making it one of the most beautiful churches in Macau.
Follow the signs toward the Ruins of St. Paul's. There are many shops selling souvenirs and food along the way. Many food shops are bustling with people.
Ruins of St. Paul's: A Landmark of Macau, a Must-Visit
Ruins of St. Paul's, officially the ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral, is perhaps a must-visit for every tourist to Macau. Starting from the fountain at Senado Square, walk north along the wavy cobblestone road. One artistic building after another on both sides is dazzling. When you almost reach the top of the slope, the Ruins of St. Paul's stands before you. This most famous historical site in Macau has long become a symbol witnessing Macau's history and culture.
It is actually not a paifang (arch) but the front facade of St. Paul's Church. The nearby St. Paul's College was damaged in a fire in 1835; the church was affected, but the front facade and the large stone steps built on the mountain were made of solid stone and were not destroyed by the fire, so they remain today. Entering the Ruins of St. Paul's, inside was the former hall, now only the foundations of large pillars remain, somewhat regrettable. Go up the steps on the right and stand on the choir loft; you can see most of the square below, with the hall behind you.
After visiting, go up to the right to the Macau Museum. You can take the elevator up, so you don't have to climb the stone steps. When coming down, go down towards the Fortress direction for an easier walk.
At the top, many cannons are placed around. You can overlook the entire Macau view. The old city of Macau is right in front, contrasting sharply with modern buildings. You can sit here and rest for a while, feeling the charm of Mount Fortress in Macau.
Macau's Internet-Famous Hotel: Wynn Palace, Enjoying Fountains from the Room
Macau has many five-star hotels. Choosing a cozy hotel is key when traveling. This time, I booked the Wynn Palace hotel in advance. This hotel was one I had been longing to stay in, and finally, I arranged it. Staying at the Wynn Palace Macau is simply beautiful. From the entrance to the reception, the dazzling artworks and lavish decoration reflect the hotel's grandeur.
The moment I stepped into the room, I fell deeply in love with it. The room is spacious, about 70 square meters. My favorite thing was the huge floor-to-ceiling windows that allow you to enjoy the music fountain in the performance pool downstairs. The room I stayed in was mainly red, appearing very festive. The decoration is luxurious. The room is not only spacious and comfortable, but guests can also choose their own pillow type. Very thoughtful.
What I liked most was the large floor-to-ceiling window, offering a panoramic view of the outside. I had been wanting to visit this hotel for a long time. In front of the hotel is a large fountain pool, and there is a free cable car ride. This is unique in Macau. You can take the cable car directly to the hotel lobby. Just thinking about how romantic that is! The room is large, with four themed colors to choose from. This time I chose sunny orange. The experience was great. The room was very big, and what surprised me most was that all switches in the room were replaced by a monitor. There are two monitors on the bedside table to control the room's lights, TV, curtains, etc. It's designed for lazy people, of course, but also very user-friendly. You can control everything from bed without getting up—really convenient.
The bathroom is also very large. I liked the toiletries set; they are all high-end brands with excellent quality. The razor alone gleams with gold, very classy. The toothbrush was especially good to use, and the toothpaste quantity was large enough to last a week. So I kept this toiletry set. The fridge was stocked with many drinks and snacks.
Breakfast Delivered to the Room: Enjoy a Ritual Breakfast Without Leaving Your Room
A good day in Macau starts with breakfast. Breakfast at Wynn Palace Macau should also have a sense of ritual. Breakfast is delivered to the room, served daily from 7:00 to 11:00 am. You can sleep in and then have breakfast. Just choose your preferred breakfast the night before—Chinese, European, Japanese, etc.—and the next day it will be delivered at your chosen time. The breakfast is brought on a cart, beautifully arranged, and very photogenic. You can push the breakfast table to your favorite spot for photos.
The best view is by the floor-to-ceiling windows. I chose a Western breakfast, which was rich: bread, fruit, milk, tea, various sauces. The portions were generous; it could serve as lunch. Enjoying the outside view while having breakfast—think how romantic and pleasant it is. No need to go to the restaurant, no queuing. Really convenient.
Palace Café: Enjoy Hot Pot While Watching Lake View Fountain Show
I wanted to eat hot pot in Macau, so I booked ahead at the Palace Café on the first floor. The staff said this used to be a buffet restaurant, but now it's a hot pot place. Entering the café, I was deeply attracted by the golden entrance. The festive color style and the entire restaurant's luxurious, warm, and romantic decoration. The large floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the famous fountain. Sitting by the window, you can enjoy hot pot while watching the fountain show.
The environment is superb, with luxurious decoration and warm lighting that makes the whole restaurant cozy. Dining here is truly an enjoyment. It's recommended to book in advance, especially a window seat, to enjoy the fountain show while eating hot pot.
Each person has a small hot pot; you can choose your own soup base. The most popular is the cute rooster shape made from coconut, which slowly melts into the soup base. I ordered a set meal, which included seafood, lamb, beef, vegetables, etc. Two people couldn't finish it. The portions were generous, ingredients fresh, hand-made fish noodles were tasty. Finally, they served fruits and desserts. If you want hot pot in Macau, this is a good choice.
The hot pot ingredients were all fresh: lamb, beef, chicken platter—you can eat several kinds of meat at once. When cooking crab, the waiter will cut it into small pieces for quicker cooking. The service was good, attentive, and we ate happily and were very full.
Palace Court: Must-Eat Authentic Thai Food in Macau
I hadn't had Thai food for a while and missed it. Only when I came to Wynn Palace did I learn that the Palace Court on the first floor is an authentic Thai restaurant. Entering the restaurant, the decoration is luxurious and the dining environment is excellent. The lights here are very distinctive. Don't miss the Tom Yum Goong and the curry crab.
The environment is beyond words; dining here is a pleasant process. Long sofa tables, sitting down to order. One of the most representative Thai dishes is Tom Yum Goong. The taste is similar to what I had in Thailand, sweet and sour, appetizing.
The curry stir-fried seafood can be ordered without spicy; it goes very well with rice. Seafood includes scallops, crab meat, squid, etc. With a bowl of rice, your appetite immediately picks up. It's really delicious.
Return Trip: How to Take a Ferry from Macau back to Zhuhai Jiuzhou Port
For fast customs clearance without queuing and time-saving, I also chose the ferry from Macau back to Zhuhai. The key is that the ferry takes only 25 minutes, no worries about traffic jams, convenient and fast. When there are few people, you can even have the whole boat to yourself! Arrive at Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal in advance for check-in, at least half an hour early. Purchase tickets on the 'Jiuzhou Passenger Port' WeChat public account in advance to choose flight time and schedule. The journey from Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal to Zhuhai takes 25 minutes. One-way ticket is 38 yuan.
Upon arriving at Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal, first go to counter 23 on the second floor to exchange for paper tickets using the redemption code from the public account.
After exchanging tickets, take the elevator to the first floor. Prepare a paper version of the 7-day valid nucleic acid test report and the Macau Health Code for inspection. Staff will guide you through the process, which is convenient.
Follow the signs all the way to waiting room No. 11. It's a bit of a walk.
After security, enter the customs hall, get your endorsement checked, then proceed to waiting room No. 11 to wait for boarding. The waiting room is spacious with many seats.
Note: Boarding stops 15 minutes before departure. Jiuzhou Port has a bus station with direct buses to Zhuhai Airport, etc. If going to Zhuhai Airport, the bus is convenient; from Jiuzhou Port to Zhuhai Airport takes about 1.5 hours.
Macau Practical Information Summary
1: Before going to Macau, you need to apply for a valid Hong Kong-Macau Travel Permit and endorsement in advance.
2: Macau endorsements are available for 3 months single entry or one year single entry, each stay not exceeding 7 days. During the pandemic, endorsements can only be processed at the counter. You also need to have the Macau Health Code and a valid nucleic acid test report.
Practical info: Macau Light Rail: Macau's first railway; the first section in Taipa is operational, passing through Lotus Checkpoint, Macau International Airport, and Taipa Ferry Terminal, making life convenient. Macau International Airport is the only airport in Macau, with duty-free shops and free shuttle buses to hotels. Macau Buses: There are three operators—TCM, Transmac, and New Era—with over 80 routes. Due to Macau's small size, some areas can be reached on foot. Macau Taxis: The first 1.6 km costs MOP 19, then MOP 2 for every 240 meters. Slightly expensive. Free Shuttle Buses: To facilitate tourists, major hotels in Macau provide free shuttle buses to various border checkpoints, covering the border, international airport, and Taipa Ferry Terminal, with a frequency of 10-20 minutes.
