Hong Kong money is widely used in Macau and its people, like Hongkongers, speak Cantonese.

There are frequent boat rides to Macau departing from Sheung Wan and Tsim Sha Tsui. Many local tourist agents offer packages, including a two-way ticket and one-day hotel accommodation, for as low as $400.

A key trading port for the Portuguese from the 16th to 20th century, Macau - which reverted to Chinese rule in 1999 - boasts a fascinating mix of Portuguese and Chinese traditions. Portuguese street signs and colonial architecture stand out in the city.

Information and photos: Macau Government Tourist Office and Lilian Goh

1. Senado Square

Senado Square has been Macau's urban centre for centuries, and is still the most popular venue for public events and celebrations. The square is surrounded by colourful buildings, creating a harmonious Mediterranean atmosphere. Opening hours: round the clock

2. 'Leal Senado' Building

Originally built in 1784, it was Macau's first municipal chamber, and still serves a similar function today. The original walls and floor plan, including the courtyard garden in the back, have been retained. Opening hours: (library) 1pm to 7pm; (garden) 9am to 9pm

3. A-Ma Temple

This is one of the oldest temples in Macau. It is believed that the Portuguese first landed on the shores at A-Ma Temple in the 16th century. They named the place 'Macau', supposedly derived from the local Chinese phrase 'A-Ma-Gau', which literally means A-Ma Temple. Opening hours: 7am to 6pm

4. Ruins of St Paul's

The Ruins of St Paul's used to be part of a church which was built in 1602, adjoining the Jesuit College of St Paul's. It was the largest church in the Far East at the time. But a blaze in 1835 destroyed the college and the body of the church, leaving only the stone facade and grand staircase, which have become a landmark of Macau. Opening hours: round the clock

5. Dom Pedro V Theatre

Built in 1860, it was the first western-style theatre in China. With a seating capacity of 300, it was a major social venue for the Portuguese at the time. The theatre still hosts important celebrations today. Opening hours: the theatre is temporarily closed but the garden is open from 10am to 7pm

6. Holy House of Mercy

It was established by the first Bishop of Macau in 1569 to help the poor, the elderly and orphans. It was also the first western-style medical clinic in Macau. Opening hours: 10am to 5.30pm (closed on Sundays and public holidays)

7. St Joseph's Seminary and Church

Built in 1728, the old seminary, together with St Paul's College, was the principal headquarters for the missionary work launched in China, Japan and around the region. Opening hours: (church) 10am to 5pm; (seminary) not open to the public

8. Lou Kau Mansion

Built in 1889, this was the home of Lou Kau, a prominent Chinese merchant who owned several imposing properties in the city. Lou Kau Mansion is a two-storey, grey-brick courtyard house, with the characteristics of a typical Chinese residential building. Opening hours: 3pm to 6pm

9. Guia Fortress

The fortress was built between 1622 and 1638. It contains the Guia Chapel, originally established by Clarist nuns who resided at the site before setting up the Convent of St Clare. The Guia Lighthouse, built in 1865, is the first modern lighthouse on the Chinese coast. Opening hours: 9am to 5.30pm

10. Mount Fortress

Built with the help of Jesuits from 1617 to 1626, this was the city's main military defence structure. The fortress was equipped with cannons, military barracks, wells and sufficient ammunition and supplies to endure a siege lasting up to two years. Opening hours: 7am to 7pm

11. Protestant Cemetery

Well-known British artist George Chinnery (1774-1852) was buried here. He drew a lot of paintings which recorded the scenes and people of China at the time. The History Museum in Hong Kong held a large-scale exhibition of his drawings from June to August. Opening hours: 9am to 5.30pm