East Asia
Macau
Macau makes an easy add-on to a Hong Kong trip - close enough by ferry or the bridge that many people come just for the day. It's a genuinely odd, rewarding mix: Portuguese colonial streets and egg tarts on one side, a resort-and-casino strip on the other, with the historic centre and Cotai a short shuttle apart. The pataca is the local currency, but Hong Kong dollars are accepted nearly everywhere. Like Hong Kong, Macau runs its own entry requirements separate from mainland China, which is worth checking if you're combining them.
Last updated May 2026
Money & Payments
Currency
MOP$
Macanese Pataca
MOP
Cash Tip
Bills and coins are in circulation.
Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) are widely accepted by businesses at a 1:1 exchange ratio.
Local shops and street vendors frequently require cash.
Card Rating
How widely cards and contactless payments are accepted
7 / 10.0
Credit cards are standard at major hotels, casino resorts, and large restaurants. Local shops, street vendors, and smaller establishments in older districts typically require physical cash. Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) are widely accepted alongside Macanese Patacas (MOP) at a 1:1 ratio.
Daily Budget
Estimated daily costs per person
Budget
Meals & Transit
MOP$120–MOP$240
Local noodle shops and Portuguese egg tarts (MOP$25–$60 per meal). Public buses and free casino shuttles (MOP$10–$20/day).
≈ $15–$30
Meals & Transit
MOP$120–MOP$240
≈ $15–$30
Local noodle shops and Portuguese egg tarts (MOP$25–$60 per meal). Public buses and free casino shuttles (MOP$10–$20/day).
Accommodation
MOP$200–MOP$400
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
≈ $25–$50
Accommodation
MOP$200–MOP$400
≈ $25–$50
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
Mid-Range
Meals & Transit
MOP$320–MOP$560
Portuguese and Macanese restaurants (MOP$80–$150 per meal). Mix of buses and taxis (MOP$40–$80/day).
Entry & Documents
Visa Requirements
Check entry requirements for your passport
Select your passport to view visa requirements.
On the Ground
Power & Plugs
Voltage, frequency, and plug types
Type G220V50Hz
Bring a universal travel adapter to stay powered up regardless of plug type.
SIM Card Guide
Stay connected while traveling
Typical price range
MOP$80–MOP$150
≈ $10–$19 USD
Validity: 7-day tourist SIM
Practical Info
Apps & Getting Around
Essential apps and transport info
Navigation
- Google MapsForeigner-friendly
Functions in Macau (unlike mainland China). Good for walking directions around the compact city center and finding attractions.
Transport
- UberForeigner-friendly
Available but limited in Macau. Taxis and free casino shuttles are often more convenient alternatives.
- Macau Bus GuideForeigner-friendly
Helpful for navigating Macau's public bus routes. Buses are cheap and cover most of the territory.
- The territory features localized walkability, particularly within historical districts
- Casino shuttle bus services operate complimentary transit between ferry terminals, airports, and major resort zones
Before You Go
Rules & Restrictions
Important laws and customs to be aware of
Always verify current laws before travel. Laws can change and penalties vary.
Legal
- Casino minimum age is 21. You must be 21 or older to enter the gaming floors of any casino in Macau. ID may be checked at the entrance.
- No smoking indoors in most public places including restaurants, shopping malls, and public transport. Casinos have designated smoking areas.
- Drug laws are strict. Possession, trafficking, and use of illegal drugs carry severe penalties including long prison sentences.
Cultural
- Respect religious sites and temples. Remove shoes when required and dress modestly.
Other
- Google, WhatsApp, and other standard international services function normally in Macau without any network access restrictions or VPN requirements.
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