- \r\n \t
- When to visit Hong Kong<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- Documents and vaccinations to enter Hong Kong<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- What to do and see in Hong Kong<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- Possible itineraries in Hong Kong<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- How to get around Hong Kong<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- Backpacking Hong Kong: costs<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- Backpacking Hong Kong: safety<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07297-Enhanced-NR-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSymphony Of Lights.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
<\/div>\r\nWhen to Visit Hong Kong<\/h2>\r\n
Hong Kong is a year-round destination. Spring (March to May) is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 17\u00b0C to 26\u00b0C. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with frequent rain, temperatures often exceeding 30\u00b0C, and the occasional typhoon\u2014this is generally the least ideal time to visit.<\/p>\r\n
Autumn (September to November) is considered the best time to visit, offering clear skies, low humidity, little rainfall, and comfortable temperatures between 19\u00b0C and 28\u00b0C. Winter (December to February) is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 14\u00b0C to 20\u00b0C, making it perfect for hiking and festive events such as Chinese New Year.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07079-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nHong Kong Central.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
<\/div>\r\nDocuments and Vaccinations for Entering Hong Kong<\/h2>\r\n
Most passport holders with at least six months\u2019 validity are granted a free 90-day tourist visa upon arrival. No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Hong Kong.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07328-Edit.jpg\")
\r\n<\/div>\r\nWhat to Do and See in Hong Kong<\/h2>\r\n
Prices throughout this guide are listed in the local currency. Hong Kong\u2019s official currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD).<\/p>\r\n
At the time of publishing, the exchange rate was \u20ac1 = HK$8. For the most up-to-date rate, I recommend checking a reliable currency conversion site<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n
Note: You\u2019ll see several links in this guide to AllTrails<\/a>. If you want to use offline navigation within the AllTrails app, you\u2019ll need to upgrade to the Pro version. However, there\u2019s a workaround: from the desktop version of the site, you can download trail coordinates in Google Earth KML format and upload them to Organic Maps<\/a>\u2014easily one of my favorite travel apps<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07383-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nLion Rock view.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Hong Kong Central<\/h3>\r\n
Hong Kong Central is the “oldest” part of the city. When the British arrived in 1841, they established their administrative and commercial center in what is now Central, making it the heart of early colonial development. This is why Central holds such historical significance, with some of the oldest colonial-era buildings in Hong Kong.<\/p>\r\n
I took part in a free walking tour booked through Guru Walk<\/a>, which was a great experience, during which we explored the area. If you prefer a DIY approach, you can start at the Central Market (Google Maps<\/a>). Don\u2019t expect a traditional market\u2014only the building itself is historic\u2014but you can grab a quick coffee before heading to the iconic Central-Mid-Levels Escalator nearby (Google Maps<\/a>). From there, walk to Tai Kwun (Google Maps<\/a>), a cultural center housed in the restored former police station complex. During my visit, there was a free art exhibition inside the JC Contemporary (Google Maps<\/a>). You can also visit the former Victoria Prison site (Google Maps<\/a>), which is completely free and quite fascinating.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07068-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nJC Contemporary.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Next, I recommend walking to the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum (Google Maps<\/a>). Sun Yat-sen (1866\u20131925) played a key role in overthrowing the Qing Dynasty and founding the Republic of China. The museum showcases his life, ideas, and legacy. Admission is free, and the building itself is worth a visit.<\/p>\r\n
From there, head to PMQ (Google Maps<\/a>). Originally housing police quarters, this facility has been a creative hub since 2014, with boutiques, design studios, art exhibitions, and cafes that highlight local creativity. There are also “mini museums,” including preserved living quarters that give a glimpse into how people lived in the past. Not far from here, I recommend stopping by the Man Mo Temple (Google Maps<\/a>). Built in 1847, this temple honors the deities of literature and war, offering a timeless look at the city\u2019s heritage.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06597-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nMan Mo Temple<\/em><\/p>\r\n
You could end your visit to Central at the IFC Mall (Google Maps<\/a>). On the top floor of the mall, there\u2019s a beautiful terrace open to the public, offering a fantastic view of the bay. If you like, you can grab some takeout and enjoy it there.<\/p>\r\n
Finally, although not technically in Central, Art Lane (Google Maps<\/a>) is nearby and worth a visit for street art lovers. The area is small but charming and offers a colorful glimpse into the local art scene.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07366-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nArt Lane.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Victoria peak<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
Victoria Peak offers some of the best views of the city, dominating Hong Kong Central from above. If you’re already in Central, I recommend taking the Bus 15, which will take you directly to The Peak Station (Google Maps<\/a>). You can easily use the “Public Transportation” feature on Google Maps to check schedules and route options.<\/p>\r\n
From the station, you can walk toward the actual peak (Google Maps<\/a>), although it’s not accessible to the public due to a radio station at the top. Along the way, you\u2019ll find the Victoria Peak Gardens (Google Maps<\/a>) and a lovely viewpoint (Google Maps<\/a>), as well as a number of short trails\u2014a great way to spend a few hours.<\/p>\r\n
That said, if you\u2019re short on time or don\u2019t feel like walking much, I recommend heading straight to the Lugard Road Lookout (Google Maps<\/a>), which offers by far the best views of the city. I highly recommend visiting at sunset and staying until the city lights up.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06772-HDR-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSunset from Victoria Peak.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
As mentioned, I suggest taking the bus, but if you prefer, there is a streetcar (Google Maps<\/a>) that takes you to The Peak Tower (Google Maps<\/a>). The view from here is nice, but it\u2019s not quite as impressive as the one from the Lugard Road Lookout. Many people recommend the streetcar, but it\u2019s significantly more expensive than the bus, and if you\u2019re heading up for sunset, be prepared to wait in long lines, especially on weekends. You can buy tickets on the official website<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06825-HDR-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nMonster Building<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
The now-iconic Monster Building (Google Maps<\/a>) \u2013 made famous by the Transformers movie and especially by social media \u2013 is a group of five connected buildings that create a scene straight out of a science fiction movie. Honestly, there isn\u2019t much to see, and there are even several signs asking visitors not to take pictures, though people don\u2019t follow this request. Whether you choose to visit or not, it\u2019s a quick stop and not particularly interesting.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06679-HDR-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nMonster Building.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Red Incense Burner Summit and Jardine’s Lookout<\/h3>\r\n
If you do decide to visit the Monster Building, there are a couple of nice viewpoints nearby. As we\u2019ll see later, I think there are better options, but given the proximity and ease of access, these could still be worth checking out. Red Incense Burner Summit (Google Maps<\/a>) is just about 2 miles from the Monster Building, so it\u2019s walkable. Alternatively, there\u2019s a bus stop at Braemar Hill (Google Maps<\/a>) close by.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07783-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nRed Incense Burner Summit.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Jardine’s Lookout (Google Maps<\/a>) is also quite accessible from the Monster Building or, if you prefer, after visiting the Red Incense Burner Summit. The Quarry Bay Metro stop (Google Maps<\/a>) is a good starting point, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a detour through the top of Mount Butler (Google Maps<\/a>). There are plenty of options for exploring. For an example, check out this route (All Trails<\/a>).<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07778-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nJardine\u2019s Lookout.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dragon’s Back<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
This is arguably the most popular trail in Hong Kong, following a ridge that resembles the spine of a dragon, offering panoramic views of the surrounding bays and islands (All Trails<\/a>). I recommend taking the subway to Chai Wan (Google Maps<\/a>) and walking up to the trailhead. Along the way, you\u2019ll pass an interesting Buddhist cemetery (Google Maps<\/a>). Once you finish the trail, you can catch the Number 9 bus (Google Maps<\/a>) to return to the city. I found the trail nice, though not a must-see, and it was pretty crowded during the week. I imagine it\u2019s even more crowded on weekends.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DJI_0420-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nDragon’s Back trail.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
An interesting alternative is to extend the trail slightly, as described on this page (All Trails<\/a>), using Big Wave Bay (Google Maps<\/a>) as your arrival or departure point. It was quite cold during my visit, but on a warm day, a dip in the water would be a perfect way to end the hike.<\/p>\r\n
If you\u2019re visiting Hong Kong during a hot period, consider checking out other beaches on this part of the island. A friend who lived in Hong Kong recommended Deep Water Bay (Google Maps<\/a>), Repulse Bay (Google Maps<\/a>) and Stanley (Google Maps<\/a>).<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06944-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nDragon’s Back trail.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Kowloon<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
Kowloon is located on the mainland, opposite Hong Kong Island, where Central is situated. It was once a separate city, but today it\u2019s essentially part of the same metropolitan area. This is where the Tsim Sha Tsui district is located (Google Maps<\/a>), one of Hong Kong’s main tourist areas. The Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront (Google Maps<\/a>) offers spectacular views of the bay and the Central skyline. I highly recommend visiting in the evening to enjoy the Symphony Of Lights<\/a>, which takes place every night at 8 PM. The show lasts about ten minutes and is completely free. The Avenue of Stars (Google Maps<\/a>), a great spot to view the show, is similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and honors Hong Kong\u2019s movie stars like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan.<\/p>\r\n
Nearby, you\u2019ll find the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (Google Maps<\/a>), which opened in 1989 and hosts a wide range of cultural events, including concerts, operas, ballets, and plays. You can check the full schedule on the official website<\/a>, and some events are free. The building itself is also worth a visit.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07310-Enhanced-NR-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSymphony Of Lights.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Afterward, take a stroll along Nathan Road (Google Maps<\/a>), a bustling street lined with neon signs, shops, and restaurants. If you\u2019re looking for some peace and quiet, step into Kowloon Park (Google Maps<\/a>), or visit the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre (Google Maps<\/a>), which offers a fascinating look at the city\u2019s history, with exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. Admission is free.<\/p>\r\n
If you\u2019d like to dive even deeper into Hong Kong\u2019s past, head over to the Hong Kong Museum of History (Google Maps<\/a>). The nearby Hong Kong Science Museum (Google Maps<\/a>) is also worth a visit.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07061-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nApliu Street Flea Market.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Further north, the Temple Street Night Market (Google Maps<\/a>) is a great place to explore in the evening. During the day, you can wander around the area near Flower Market Road (Google Maps<\/a>) and the Bird Market (Google Maps<\/a>), which offer a unique local experience. The nearby Apliu Street Flea Market (Google Maps<\/a>) is also interesting to check out. Not far from there, you\u2019ll find the Dragon Centre (Google Maps<\/a>), which has an indoor roller coaster called the Dragon Coaster\u2014you might have seen photos of it, though to be honest, it\u2019s nothing extraordinary.<\/p>\r\n
Also nearby is Garden Hill (Google Maps<\/a>), which won\u2019t offer the breathtaking views you might find at other spots in Hong Kong, but it\u2019s definitely more accessible and still a pleasant place if you’re already in the area.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07064-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nFlower Market.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Finally, if you’re looking for the colorful basketball courts made famous on social media, they are located here (Google Maps<\/a>). While it\u2019s a fun photo op, there isn\u2019t much else to do, so if you’re short on time, you might want to reconsider visiting.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07168-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nColorful basketball courts.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Lion rock<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
The trail to the top of Lion Rock (Google Maps<\/a>) is another classic for those seeking some of the best views of the city. I recommend starting your hike by getting off at the Wong Tai Sin subway station (Google Maps<\/a>) and visiting the adjacent Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple (Google Maps<\/a>) before beginning the ascent.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07181-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin temple.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
There are several trails that lead up the hill. I took the shortest one using Organic Maps<\/a>. It\u2019s a bit relentless and, especially at first, not always clearly marked. When I reached the top, I discovered that it was technically closed, but I passed several locals along the way, so it didn\u2019t seem to be much of a problem.<\/p>\r\n
On the way down, I followed the “official” trail, which is a bit longer but in good condition. I guess you could just follow this trail (All Trails<\/a>). Remember to bring a headlamp or at least ensure your phone has enough battery if you plan to stop for sunset\u2014it\u2019s totally worth it for the view.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DJI_0452-HDR-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nLion rock.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Suicide cliff<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
This is another stunning hike that offers breathtaking views of the city. As the name suggests, it\u2019s also home to a very photogenic rock outcrop, though it\u2019s unfortunately known for tragic suicide incidents (Google Maps<\/a>).<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07008-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSuicide cliff view.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
There are several routes to reach the top. Since I didn\u2019t have much time, I took the “front path.” I caught bus number 26 to this stop (Google Maps<\/a>) and then walked up following Organic Maps<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n
The “front path” is technically closed, as it\u2019s very steep. Personally, I enjoyed the descent, but some might find it challenging. I managed to climb it in about half an hour at a brisk pace. If you want to avoid the steep section, you can follow this trail (All Trails<\/a>). Alternatively, if you decide to take the front path, you can follow this trail (All Trails<\/a>), which leads to the Kowloon Peak Viewing Point (Google Maps<\/a>), or combine Lion Rock and Suicide Cliff by following this trail (All Trails<\/a>). There are plenty of options, all offering great views.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07003-HDR-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSuicide cliff.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery<\/h3>\r\n
The Tian Tan Buddha (Google Maps<\/a>), commonly known as the Big Buddha, and the nearby Po Lin Monastery (Google Maps<\/a>) are located on Lantau Island and make for a great day trip, especially for those looking for a more laid-back experience.<\/p>\r\n
Since I no longer run ads, if you found this article helpful, please consider purchasing your travel insurance<\/a> through one of the links on this site. Doing so supports my work at no additional cost to you. For EU and UK residents, I recommend True Traveller<\/a>. For everyone else, I recommend HeyMondo<\/a>, which offers a 5% discount. Thank you for your support!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06736-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nCable car.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
To reach the area, once you arrive at the Tung Chung subway station (Google Maps<\/a>), you have several options:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- The most scenic (and also the most expensive) option is to take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car (Google Maps<\/a>). I paid 235 HKD for a round-trip ticket, so it\u2019s not exactly cheap. You can purchase tickets in advance on Klook<\/a>.<\/li>\r\n \t
- The second option is to take bus number 23. While this takes longer and doesn\u2019t offer as spectacular views, it is significantly cheaper.<\/li>\r\n \t
- If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also walk up by completing this circuit (All Trails<\/a>).<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06696-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nBig Buddha.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
I haven\u2019t visited it myself, but a friend recommended checking out the small fishing village Tai O (Google Maps<\/a>). You can find more information on the official tourism website<\/a>. A fun option would be to take the cable car up with a one-way ticket, then take the bus down to Tai O and return to the city via the subway.<\/p>\r\n
If you have more time, consider doing the Lantau Trail Loop, a 70 km trail that can be completed in 2 to 5 days, depending on your pace. While I haven\u2019t done it personally, it looks like a fantastic adventure. It\u2019s detailed on All Trails<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06704-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nPo Lin Monastery.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Hong Kong Disneyland<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
Also located on Lantau Island, Hong Kong Disneyland (Google Maps<\/a>) is another popular spot. Although I haven\u2019t visited it, many people consider it a must-see on a trip to Hong Kong, so I thought it was worth mentioning. Admission isn\u2019t cheap, but it\u2019s reportedly well worth the visit. You can find all relevant details on the official website<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n
Where to Sleep in Hong Kong?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Both times I visited Hong Kong, I stayed at Hop Inn<\/a> \u2014a great spot with an ideal location within walking distance of the subway and the A21 bus stop to the airport. Most importantly, it offers great value for money by Hong Kong standards. Other interesting options include Hi Backpackers<\/a>, Wontonmeen<\/a> and The Mahjong<\/a><\/em><\/p>\r\n
How to Reach Hong Kong<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n
For most travelers, the most economical way to travel to and from the airport is by taking the A21 bus. It frequently shuttles to Tsim Sha Tsui and takes about an hour. A round-trip ticket costs 60 HKD, and you can pay directly on board with your card\u2014no need to buy tickets or use an Octopus card. Other buses connect the airport to different parts of the city, and you can find a full list on the official website.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\r\n
Alternatively, you can take the fast Airport Express train to Hong Kong Station (Google Maps<\/a>) in Hong Kong Central. It costs 115 HKD and takes just 24 minutes, with departures every 10 minutes during the day. All relevant information is available on the airport\u2019s official website.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC06497-HDR-Edit-Edit.jpg\")
\r\n<\/div>\r\nMacau<\/h3>\r\n
While Macau is not technically part of Hong Kong, its proximity makes it a popular day trip for many travelers\u2014including myself\u2014so I think it’s worth including in this guide. If you can, avoid visiting on weekends, as the city tends to get very crowded with tourists from both Hong Kong and mainland China.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07788-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nTaipa.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
What to Do and See in Macau<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
Macau is known as the gambling capital of the world, surpassing even Las Vegas in terms of revenue. But you definitely don\u2019t need to be into casinos to enjoy a visit\u2014Macau’s unique history as a Portuguese colony from 1557 to 1999 is reflected in its food, architecture, and overall atmosphere.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07798-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nMacau.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Taipa<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
The Taipa district blends Portuguese and Chinese heritage, with colonial architecture, local markets, and some of the best Macanese cuisine. While it\u2019s connected to the mega casinos of the Cotai Strip, Taipa still retains some authentic charm.<\/p>\r\n
If you’re arriving by ferry from Hong Kong, just follow the signs for the free casino and hotel shuttles right outside the terminal. These buses are completely free to use\u2014you don\u2019t need to be a hotel guest or casino customer. I hopped on a shuttle heading to The Londoner, The Venetian, and The Parisian, which runs every 10\u201315 minutes. Get off around this point (Google Maps<\/a>), and start exploring on foot.<\/p>\r\n
Your first stop should be the Taipa Houses (Google Maps<\/a>), a row of five charming colonial-era homes overlooking a pond. There’s not much inside, but admission is free and the setting is picturesque.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07784-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nTaipa Houses.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
From there, you have a few options:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- Walk up to the Miradouro da Colina da Taipa Grande (Google Maps<\/a>), a viewpoint offering panoramic views. There\u2019s a free elevator if you\u2019d prefer not to hike.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Or head into the center of Taipa (Google Maps<\/a>) to explore its quaint streets, local shops, and cafes.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
While you’re there, don\u2019t miss trying a Pastel de Nata\u2014the famous Portuguese egg tart. Lord Stow\u2019s Bakery (Google Maps<\/a>) is often recommended, but there are plenty of great spots to choose from.<\/p>\r\n
Once you’ve had your fill, head back to where you got off the shuttle and catch another free bus to Sands Macao (Google Maps<\/a>), which is conveniently located near Macau’s historic center\u2014perfect for continuing your visit.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07790-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nTaipa.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Macau \u2013 Mainland<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Once you get off the shuttle at Sands Macao, here\u2019s a suggested route to explore the main sights on the Macau Peninsula:<\/p>\r\n
If you’re into motorsports, consider starting with a visit to the Museu Do Grande Premio<\/a> (Google Maps<\/a>), dedicated to the Macau Grand Prix.<\/p>\r\n
Otherwise, head straight to Fortaleza do Monte (Google Maps<\/a>), a 17th-century Portuguese fort that played a key role in defending the city against the Dutch in 1622. The views from the top are great, and it also houses the Macau Museum (Google Maps<\/a>), which offers insights into the city’s rich cultural mix.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07795-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nRuins of St. Paul\u2019s.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
From there, continue downhill to the Ruins of St. Paul\u2019s (Google Maps<\/a>)\u2014probably the most iconic landmark in Macau. Then follow the main street through a series of beautiful colonial-era sites:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- St. Dominic\u2019s Church (Google Maps<\/a>)<\/li>\r\n \t
- Senado Square (Google Maps<\/a>)<\/li>\r\n \t
- St. Augustine\u2019s Church and Square (Google Maps<\/a>) (Google Maps<\/a>)<\/li>\r\n \t
- St. Lawrence\u2019s Church (Google Maps<\/a>)<\/li>\r\n \t
- Mandarin\u2019s House (Google Maps<\/a>) \u2013 a historic Qing dynasty residence blending Chinese and Western styles, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry is free, but the last admission is at 5:30 pm. If you miss it, there\u2019s a virtual tour on their website<\/a>.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Nearby, you can also check out the Moorish Barracks (Google Maps<\/a>), another interesting colonial-era structure.<\/p>\r\n
To wrap up your day, head to the Macau Tower (Google Maps<\/a>). At 338 meters high, it offers stunning 360\u00b0 views of the city. Admission to the viewing platform is around \u20ac15 and can be booked on the official site<\/a>.\r\nIf you’re traveling on a budget (like me), a great free alternative is this nearby viewpoint (Google Maps<\/a>), which also gives you excellent views of the skyline.<\/p>\r\n
From there, I walked back to the ferry terminal and ended my visit. If you\u2019re staying later, and you\u2019re up for more entertainment (or a little gambling), many of the casinos put on evening shows\u2014The House of Dancing Water<\/a> at City of Dreams (Google Maps<\/a>) is particularly well-known.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07796-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSt. Augustine\u2019s Square.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Coloane<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
I didn\u2019t personally visit Coloane (Google Maps<\/a>), but if you have a couple of days in Macau or are willing to take a taxi or two, it\u2019s worth checking out.<\/p>\r\n
Once a separate island, Coloane is now connected to Taipa and Cotai by land reclamation. It\u2019s far removed from the chaos of the casinos and has a more laid-back vibe. You\u2019ll find charming Portuguese-style houses, churches, and quiet narrow streets.<\/p>\r\n
There are also a couple of beaches\u2014Cheoc Van Beach (Google Maps<\/a>) and Hac Sa (Google Maps<\/a>)\u2014though reviews suggest they\u2019re nothing to write home about.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/DSC07837-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nThe view point.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
How to Get to Macau<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n
Coming from Hong Kong, the easiest and fastest way is by ferry from this terminal (Google Maps<\/a>), which is directly connected to the MTR system. Two companies operate this route nearly 24\/7:<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
- Senado Square (Google Maps<\/a>)<\/li>\r\n \t
- Or head into the center of Taipa (Google Maps<\/a>) to explore its quaint streets, local shops, and cafes.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
- Documents and vaccinations to enter Hong Kong<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t