Customised itinerary of new and historic Macao and the city’s art offerings
- Head to luxury hotels to view the works of world-famous artists and check out Macao’s history, dining scene and attractions along the way
Did you know that Wynn Palace is home to multimillion-dollar art by Jeff Koons? That MGM has sculptures by Salvador Dalí?
Not just glitzy establishments, many of Macao’s luxury hotels also invest heavily in art, featuring works that wouldn’t be out of place in some of the world’s top galleries and museums.
With Art Macao, the city’s biggest and longest art festival, comes the perfect opportunity to explore the often-overlooked wealth of art in the city. The six-month-long festival includes special exhibitions, featuring notable artists both locally and abroad, as well as outdoor art installations and performances.
In addition to having their own attractions, many of Macao’s leading hotels are close to historical sites and other landmarks. To make sure you don’t miss out, we have drawn up a handy itinerary – from morning to midnight – to guide you through various hotels’ art collections and exhibitions, highlighting the things you can do, see and eat along the way.
Early morning arrival
Let’s start the journey with an Instagram post! Right by the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal is Jai Alai Oceanus entertainment complex, modelled after the Water Cube of the 2008 Beijing Olympics (now the Beijing National Aquatics Center). The many European-themed buildings in nearby Macau Fisherman’s Wharf will also give you a lot of picture ideas.
You may want to explore the Unesco-inscribed Historic Centre of Macao, only a short walk away, which offers more than 20 sites recognised for their cultural and historical significance. Meanwhile, swing by Margaret’s Café e Nata or one of the many Portuguese-style cafes in the area for an egg tart and some coffee. And after viewing the exhibition at Ponte 16, take a stroll at the surrounding culturally rich Inner Harbour area, home to several small museums such as Museu de Gramofónes.
Meanwhile, the Riviera is conveniently located at one of the city’s most scenic spots – Penha Hill – where you can take in stunning views overlooking the Praia Grande Bay. While in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit nearby historical sites such as Penha Church and A-Ma Temple (Macao’s oldest temple).
Gourmet lunch and a feast for the eyes
Take a taxi or one of the many shuttle buses and head over to Cotai, Macao’s answer to Las Vegas. Here, the many hotels along “the Cotai Strip” also form part of the Art Macao experience.
Why not opt for lunch first, at Aji at MGM Cotai, the first Macao restaurant to showcase Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) cuisine from Peru’s celebrity chef Mitsuharu Tsumura of the restaurant Maido in Lima, ranked No. 10 in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2019 guide.
Afternoon exploration
Wynn Palace is an Instagram hotspot in itself, being home to the SkyCab cable car that takes you around the resort’s impressive performance lake and descends into the property itself. It is also the best way to view Dragon’s Footprint, one of the art pieces for Art Macao.
To take a break and refuel, afternoon tea at Fontana Buffet is a great choice; here you’re not only spoiled by the scrumptious food made up with the finest seasonal ingredients expected of a five-star hotel, but the views are equally impressive. Enjoy high tea while looking out on the spectacular performance lake.
As the sun sets
While at the City of Dreams, it’s worth navigating through the extensive retail area, home to dozens of designer boutiques and eye-catching installations such as The Bubble Fountain, a large sphere with water bubbling from its top that gently cascades down the sides into a pool below.
If you feel peckish, there are numerous dining options at SOHO, on level 2 of City of Dreams. Among them, Din Tai Fung – a restaurant serving mouth-watering dim sum as well as some fine Taiwanese cuisine – is ideal for a quick bite.
Dress to the nines
For a little extra bling, Sands Shoppes Macao is the largest mall in the city, with more than 850 brands; it may be a chance to do some shopping and style up for the next exhibition about a legendary Hollywood star and royal.
Art and a night out
To wind down after a busy day, there are few better places to chill-out over a cocktail or two than The Ritz-Carlton Bar and Lounge. Located on the 51st floor of the eponymous that is part of the Galaxy Macau resort complex, it offers a great atmosphere, commanding views, live music and a wide selection of drinks.
Meanwhile, right across the street from Galaxy is Taipa Village, one of the best-preserved areas in the city. This quaint village offers a chance to explore Macao’s cultural heritage through its historic buildings, museums, galleries, restaurants, shops and old-world character. For a spot of late dinner, don’t miss the chance to try authentic Macanese cuisine at La Famiglia restaurant, in the heart of the village. There is also a branch of Lord Stow’s Bakery here, famous for its pastéis de nata (egg tarts).
Indian tapas-style restaurant Goa Nights boasts a delicious menu consisting of traditional flavours of Indian and Goan cuisines, both of which have heavy influences on Macanese food because of Portuguese maritime history in the region. Craft cocktails designed by renowned bartender and mixologist Chetan Gangan are also not to be missed.
If you fancy some authentic Portuguese cuisine, Antonio restaurant serves standout dishes including clams cooked in Portuguese wine, African chicken, and Portuguese duck rice. The music, atmosphere, food and, not least, chef Antonio’s hospitality all combine to make it a favourite among locals.
Interested in further exploring Macao as an art and cultural destination? Visit our Uncover Art Macao page.