Travel Essentials

Macau: What To Know Before You Go

Plugs: Types D, F, G and M (mixed), 220 V. Emergency: One number for everything 999. Tipping: Not expected; restaurants may add a 10% service charge. Tap water: Tap water is treated, but many people drink bottled water.

Open The Macau Trip Kit

Plugs And Power

Types D, F, G and M (mixed), 220 V

Emergency Numbers

One number for everything

999

Tipping

Not expected; restaurants may add a 10% service charge.

Water And Health

Tap water: Tap water is treated, but many people drink bottled water
Vaccines: Routine vaccines, hepatitis A
Malaria: None

Apps To Download Before You Go

MPay: The local mobile wallet used for transport, shops and restaurants in Macau.
Alipay / WeChat Pay: Widely accepted, including in small shops and restaurants; visitors can use their own wallet.
Macau Bus (Transmac / TCM): Routes and live times for city buses; most visitors also use the free casino shuttle buses.
Macau Light Rapid Transit: Light rail between Taipa, Cotai and the Barra area.
Taxi and ride apps: Taxis are common; check with your hotel for app options.
WhatsApp: Used by many businesses; WeChat is also very common.
Foodpanda / Meituan: Food delivery from restaurants and cafés.
Macao Government Tourism Office app: Official maps, events and heritage walk tips.

Customs And Etiquette

Greetings. A light handshake and a nod or slight bow are the usual greeting. Hugs and cheek kisses are uncommon with people you don't know well.

Temples. Dress modestly and avoid pointing at statues or touching altars.

Casinos. You must be 21 or older to gamble, and photography is often banned on casino floors.

Respect for elders. Greet older people first and pass things with two hands.

Safety And Scams

Macau has low violent crime and is generally safe; most problems are minor.

Loan sharks near casinos. Avoid offers of fast loans from strangers near casinos.

Taxi overcharging. Ask for the meter, and use official taxi stands.

Women travelers. Generally safe for women traveling alone, with normal city care.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Legal · Mostly Safe

Same-sex activity is legal, but marriage is not recognized and the scene is small.

What Things Cost

Coffee (café)	MOP 35	$4.40
Local bus or metro ride	MOP 6	$0.75
Mid-range restaurant meal	MOP 150	$19
Hostel bed / budget room (night)	MOP 350	$44
Mid-range hotel (night)	MOP 1,000	$125
Daily budget, mid-range traveler	MOP 900	$113

2026-09

Best Time To Visit

October to December is the best time, with sunny, dry weather; summer is hot and rainy with typhoon risk.

Do You Need A Visa?

Macau visa requirements by nationality

Phrases

Basic Chinese (Cantonese) phrases · Basic Portuguese phrases · Basic English phrases · Basic Chinese phrases