There’s no place on earth like mesmerizing Macau. With a scintillating skyline and gambling aplenty, the moniker of the “Las Vegas of Asia” suits it. Indeed, it’s the center of all that is decadent on this side of the world. But, that’s not all that this Special Administrative Region of China is known for. It’s the epicenter of thrill and has one of The 9 Scariest Bungee Jumps In The World! What’s more, the glitzy city is a heady mixture of Chinese and Portuguese heritage. For instance, ancient Chinese temples lie on Portuguese-paved roads. Similarly, colonial-era buildings and Macanese casinos lie side-by-side. Likewise, the best hotels in Macau, China are an exciting mix of modern glam and old-world vintage ones. They might range from affordable to insanely luxurious, but suit the budgets and wallets of all kinds of travelers.
If you’re headed to Hong Kong for a holiday, then we’d recommend you add Macau to your itinerary. We promise you that you’ll certainly not regret it. To that end, here are the 11 best hotels in Macau, China.
Where to Stay in Macau
Macau has one of The Most Interesting International Borders On Earth. It sits on the Pearl River Delta from across Hong Kong, on the South China Sea. The Macau Peninsula and the islands of Coloane and Taipa make up the city. To begin with, the UNESCO World Heritage Macau Peninsula connects to mainland China. Also, it’s home to Old Macau, which is full of historical landmarks and attractions. Furthermore, it has a mix of chic hotels and hostels. The residential Taipa has lovely Macanese homes, parks, and museums. On the other hand, the seaside Coloane is a lush, laidback village. Aside from gorgeous beaches, it also has beautiful resorts and guesthouses. Finally, we come to the glamour that is the reclaimed Cotai (Coloane + Taipa). It’s home to world-class shopping and flashy megacasinos.
Hotel Altira Macau
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Altira Macau sits smack dab in the heart of an Instagrammable neighborhood in Taipa. It’s a two-minute drive to Carvalho Bridge to cross over to the peninsula. With a host of international awards in its kitty, the hotel impresses you right from the outset.
Interestingly, the hotel’s Chinese name, Xin Hao Feng, translates to “cutting-edge.” And, it couldn’t be more true. The jewel in Altira’s crown is the indoor infinity pool, which is akin to a floating spacecraft. It’s one of the 11 Best Hotel Pools In The World with underwater music and stunning city views from floor-to-ceiling windows. Three superb restaurants serve Cantonese, Mediterannean, and Japanese cuisines. What’s more, you can sip on a picturesque drink and the rooftop lounge. Also, do indulge yourself at the amazing spa with an ice fountain and vitality pools.
All rooms at Altira, including villas and suites, are anything but modest. Even the entry-level ones have smart features, lounge areas, and lavish bathrooms. True indulgence comes in the form of Corner Suites with wraparound windows.
Rocks Hotel Macau
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The Rocks Hotel Macau is one of the most unusual budget hotels in Macau, China. The boutique hotel channels a genteel Victorian vibe and has excellent water views. Sitting right at the edge of Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s excellent for exploring everything that Macau has to offer.
Stepping into the hotel is like stepping back in time. The staff dons period costumes, and the place is sprinkled with old-world décor. The hotel’s designed as a hollow rectangle, lending it a spacious and expansive feel. Aside from a gym, there’s one restaurant and a bar, but they’re as exceptional as it gets. Begin your day with a hearty continental breakfast, and end it with a cocktail at the rooftop lounge.
All rooms and suites exude Victorian charm. Think faux antiques, floral wallpaper, ornate mirrors, and French windows. Additionally, modern touches bring the room up to date. Yet, the best feature is the baths next to huge windows with therapeutic views.
Pousada De Coloane
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The Pousada De Coloane is a far cry from Macau’s usual ritz. It lies on the farthest southern end of Macau overlooking Cheoc Van Beach and the South China Sea. If you’re looking for a colonial character with a healthy dose of tranquility, then this is where you should be.
Built as a 1930’s magnate’s private retreat, life at Pousada moves at an unhurried pace. The small L-shaped pool is the epicenter of all activity during warm weather. If you prefer something larger, then there’s a massive public pool and the beach nearby. For outdoor enthusiasts, we’d recommend the Coloane Hiking Trail around 10 minutes away. For those who want to stay indoors, you can find books left behind by previous guests in the lobby. The highlight is digging into Portuguese food beneath the vine-covered trellis. Notwithstanding the time of the day, we’d prescribe long-ish meal times.
All rooms open out to expansive sea-view balconies. Moreover, they have blue Portuguese tiles, carved wooden beds, and whirlpool tubs.
MGM Cotai
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The MGM Cotai has the most striking facade of all hotels in Macau, China. Nine sparkling blocks reminiscent of a Tetris puzzle make up the hotel. What’s more, its central location on the main Cotai strip is perfect for exploring the Top 10 Things To Do In Macau. In fact, the hotel has free shuttle buses running all over the city.
The nucleus of the hotel is the massive, four-story atrium called the Spectacle. Vertical gardens, a host of LED screens, and flashy restaurants make it a sight for sore eyes. The breakfast spread caters to all palettes. Aside from the spa and gym, it has a psychedelic outdoor pool. Above all, the highlight of the hotel is its beautiful Asian aesthetic. Think Qing dynasty carpets and an Instagrammable ceramic collection of Chinese folklore characters. In fact, the daily free tours offer an insightful glimpse into Macau’s culture and history.
Furthermore, MGM Cotai has an invitation-only hotel within it called The Mansion! Rooms in the main building, though, are equally superb. They boast wood/marble floors and angled bathtubs with spectacular views. The cherry on top are smartphones offered to make your stay easy.
The Macau Roosevelt Hotel
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Tucked away in a corner of Taipa is the exclusive and amazing Macau Roosevelt Hotel. The hotel has million-dollar views of the Hengqin River, Macau racecourse, and mainland China. Both the ferry terminal and airport are a 10-minute drive. Furthermore, the hotel’s all set to get a Light Rail Transit station nearby.
The racecourse inspires the hotel’s stunning facade. On the other hand, its interiors are all about pared-down modernism. A vertical faux garden is a showstopper in the lobby. However, the hotel’s absolute winner is the outdoor deck and infinity pool that overlooks the racecourse and Taipa. The gleaming fitness center will appeal immensely to gym rats, while three restaurants serve a range of cuisines. In the end, it’s the rooftop restaurant/bar that steals the show. If that wasn’t enough, an adults-only casino sits right next to the lobby.
A majority of the hotel’s rooms and suites boast racecourse views. All are elegant to boot with burnt-wood floors, grey curtains, and darkened walls. Suites have window seating, also.
Grand Coloane Resort
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The Grand Coloane Resort overlooking the South China Sea is a getaway in the true sense. The resort lies at the southern end of Coloane, which is as far as you can get from the city center. It takes about half-an-hour to get into town via the free shuttles, taxis, and public buses. Additionally, the stunning Hac Sa (Black Sand) beach is a five-minute walk.
The resort’s basically a golf course with every other comfort attached to it. The superb design translates to every room getting its own large patio, which is a huge plus-point. Apart from the 18-hole golf course, the place has a laundry list of amenities. The outdoor and outdoor pools are fringed by shrubs, trees, and relaxing daybeds. There’s even a whirlpool tub sitting pretty under a portico. Apart from a nice spa, there are also mountain bikes for hire. Two restaurants and a Western-Asian breakfast take care of all your food cravings.
The huge terraces are the most valuable asset in all rooms and suites here. Bathrooms enjoy excellent views too, while the floor-to-ceiling windows ensure natural light. Moreover, the simple yet elegant decor keeps the rooms homey.
Hotel Sintra
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Hotel Sintra is one of the best budget hotels in Macau, China. Located in the heart of Macau’s historic center, Hotel Sintra blends a value-for-money proposition with an exceptional location. Aside from cultural sights, many of Old Macau’s best casinos are also within walking distance.
The attractive and classic lobby belies the hotel’s affordable rates. It boasts checkerboard marble floors, iron railings, and a sparkling chandelier. Even though it’s a budget hotel, the place doesn’t skimp on amenities. For instance, there’s a 24-hour cafe, two restaurants, as well as in-room dining. What’s more, the staff is more than helpful in booking shows and tours. There are also complimentary shuttles to and from the ferry terminal.
Despite being a budget hotel, Sintra boasts spacious and modern rooms with a floral aesthetic. All feature standard mod-cons, generous amenity kits, and spotless bathrooms. If you’re in the mood to splurge, go for the Deluxe rooms.
Studio City Hotel Macau
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For its affordability, the star-studded origins of Studio City Hotel Macau are surprising. Its opening was attended by Hollywood heavyweights like Di Caprio and De Niro. And, the place has never been the same since.
The hotel has an Art-Deco facade more imposing than any other in Macau. It’s in the form of a figure-of-eight, which is considered a lucky number. Free shuttle buses transport you back and from the airport and ferry terminals to the back entrance. As you enter, keep your eyes peeled for the black-and-white designer label mall. The hotel’s famous for its hair-raising fun like stunt shows and simulations. Aside from the casino, you have access to a range of facilities. If you’re a fitness fanatic, you have two 24-hour fitness centers to choose from. Families with children will love the play area and artificial beaches. If you want to lounge, the heavenly outdoor pool and the spa do the trick. With a whopping 30 food outlets, your tastebuds will be in heaven.
Rooms and suites are split between the two towers and are lavish to the last tile. Since all the action is outside, the only incentive to linger within is to fall into a fitful sleep.
Ole London Hotel
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Ole London Hotel is the best value-for-money accommodation you can find in Old Macau. The budget hotel is a stone’s throw from Inner Harbor and a 10-minute drive to the Taipa and Coloane. Moreover, most of Old Macau’s cultural sights are within walking distance.
A thoroughly neat, colorful facade with charming white windows makes the exterior very pretty as a picture. Check-in is a quick process, and the staff helps you with brochures, leaflets, and general tips on what to do and see. What’s more, some rooms even have the option of late checkout, in case you want to opt for them. Last but not least, the hotel also offers a buffet breakfast. It has different rates for whether you want to include breakfast in your nightly rate or not, allowing for flexibility.
You have the choice of standard rooms with queen or twin beds. All have large windows, immaculate bathrooms, comfy beds, and even coffee/tea-making facilities.
Sofitel At Ponte 16
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If you’re looking for a budget hotel in Macau, China, you can’t find one better than Sofitel At Ponte 16. The French-style chic hotel lies in Old Macau on the peninsula. Step outside, and you’re in an innately Macanese neighborhood of an era gone by. The old docks are just down the road, while China proper is right across the water.
With a casino on the ground floor, the first-floor lobby is a constant flurry of activity. The hotel’s facade is a cross between colonial architecture and a high-rise chateau. There’s no better remedy to wash off stress than lounging by the pool. The on-site restaurants serve French, Western, and Asian cuisines. Work off all the calories with a session in the gym before heading to the spa. If you’re in Macau over the weekend, don’t miss visiting the hotel’s lovely bar.
Rooms, including 19 “Mansion” suites, radiate a European vibe with high-tech mod-cons and amenities. If you upgrade to the Club floor, the exclusive lounge offers enchanting bird’s-eye views of Macau.
The Countdown Hotel
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You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more entertaining experience in Macau than at The Countdown Hotel. Located in the City of Dreams complex in Cotai, the hotel was formerly the famous Hard Rock Hotel. What’s more, the ferry and airport terminals, Old Macau, and Coloane are all a 20-minutes drive away. So, its location, character, and history make it one of the best overall hotels to stay in Macau, China.
Since it’s part of the walkable City of Dreams, the hotel is a bustling and boisterous affair. In fact, the complex’s two biggest aquatic extravaganzas are steps from the hotel. The outdoor pool is less of a pool and more a charged-up oasis, given the profusion of guests here. But, the serene spa makes for a relaxing experience. Finally, many international eateries make dining here a sumptuous experience.
“Luxury” is the catchphrase at the rooms and suites with plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and a “lucky” red color scheme.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars / Food Tours in Macau:
- Macau Beer Tour: Taste a whole lot of amazing craft beers on this 2.5-hour tour of Downtown Macau.
- Albergue 1601: This hidden gem of a restaurant lies in a charming colonial building. Moreover, it serves both Macanese and Portuguese cuisine.
Recommended Activities In Macau:
- Macau Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane Full-Day Walking Tour: Step back in Macau’s history with this full-day walking tour. Explore historic landmarks and learn about Macau’s culture and history.
- Macau – Night Bus Tour: There’s a reason why Macau’s known as “Las Vegas of Asia.” Hop on to the night bus tour to see the glittering city in all its glory.
