A Week in Hong Kong and Macau: Exploring the Best of These Two Cities

If you're looking to explore the best of two vibrant and exciting cities, this seven-day itinerary is perfect for you. Start your adventure in Hong Kong and make your way over to Macau for some fun and games, and get a taste of both Chinese and Portuguese-colonial cultures. Here's your plan to get the most out of your trip:

Day 1: Disneyland and Island Exploring

  • Hong Kong Disneyland
    25 minutes (16.5 km) from Hong Kong International Airport

    Begin your trip by unleashing the kid inside in Hong Kong Disneyland. This iconic amusement park is located on Lantau Island and features classic Disney-themed rides and attractions.

  • The Big Buddha
    20 minutes (11.6 km) from Hong Kong Disneyland

    Take a cable car to Ngong Ping Village, where you can admire the world's largest outdoor seated bronze Buddha statue. The serene surroundings of the monastery are perfect for a peaceful break from the busy city.

  • Tai O Fishing Village
    20 minutes (8 km) from The Big Buddha

    End your day by visiting Tai O, a fishing village that's famous for its stilt houses, narrow alleys, and local seafood delicacies. Take in the sunset while relaxing on a boat ride along the shorelines.

Day 2: Victoria Peak and Central District

  • Victoria Peak
    25 minutes (8.4 km) from Tai O Fishing Village

    Wake up early and take the Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak. At 552m above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of the city below.

  • Central District
    10 minutes (2km) from Victoria Peak

    After coming down from the Peak, head to the Central District, the heart and soul of Hong Kong. Shop at trendy stores, visit art galleries, and enjoy a nice dinner among the skyscrapers.

Day 3: Kowloon and Tsim Sha Tsui

  • Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
    25 minutes (3.6 km) from Central District

    Start your day off by taking a leisurely walk along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, which offers stunning views of the Hong Kong skyline.

  • Temple Street Night Market
    15 minutes (3.1 km) from Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

    In the evening, head over to the Temple Street Night Market for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse through a variety of trinkets, clothes, and other knick-knacks, and enjoy some delicious street food.

Day 4: Macau Highlights

  • Macao Tower
    1 hour ferry from Central District

    Your first stop in Macau is Macao Tower, the highest point in the city. Enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape and take a thrilling Skywalk or bungee jump from the top.

  • Senado Square
    20 minutes (2.5 km) from Macau Tower

    Next, head over to Senado Square, which offers a glimpse of Macau's Portuguese colonial past. This UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with colorful historic buildings and lively street performances.

  • The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel
    20 minutes (5.5 km) from Senado Square

    End your day by strolling through the Venetian Macao Resort Hotel, one of the largest and most extravagant hotels in the world, and take a gondola ride through the indoor canals.

Day 5: Coloane Village and Hac Sa Beach

  • Coloane Village
    30 minutes (8 km) from Venetian Macao Resort Hotel

    Start your day by visiting Coloane Village, a serene fishing port with traditional Portuguese-style houses, temples, and markets. The colorful street art adds a modern twist to the quaint village.

  • Hac Sa Beach
    10 minutes (3 km) from Coloane Village

    In the afternoon, relax at Hac Sa Beach, the largest natural beach in Macau, famous for its black sand. Take a dip in the refreshing waters, enjoy a picnic on the beach, or indulge in some local seafood.

Day 6: More of Macau's Attractions

  • A-Ma Temple
    20 minutes (6 km) from Hac Sa Beach

    Spend the morning at the A-Ma Temple, one of the oldest and most picturesque temples in Macau, dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu. Marvel at the intricate architecture and the beautiful views of the sea.

  • Ruins of St. Paul's
    15 minutes (3 km) from A-Ma Temple

    Next, visit the Ruins of St. Paul's, Macau's most famous landmark, which consists of the remains of the 17th-century church and a museum. The intricate carvings and artwork are an excellent example of Macau's fusion of eastern and western cultures.

  • Macau Fisherman's Wharf
    10 minutes (2.5 km) from Ruins of St. Paul's

    End your day by taking a stroll through the Macau Fisherman's Wharf, a themed park dedicated to marine life, shopping, and entertainment. Another great place to indulge in some local cuisine.

Day 7: Last Day in Paradise

  • City of Dreams
    20 minutes (4 km) from Macau Fisherman's Wharf

    Spend your last day in the City of Dreams, an iconic luxury entertainment resort that features art exhibitions, high-end shopping, and a variety of restaurants.

  • Macao Museum
    15 minutes (6 km) from City of Dreams

    Afterward, head to Macao Museum, where you can learn more about the history and culture of Macau. The multimedia displays and interactive exhibits are a must-see for any history lover.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hong Kong Disneyland (1 day, £60)
  • The Big Buddha (half-day, £20)
  • Tai O Fishing Village (half-day, £15)
  • Victoria Peak (half-day, £20)
  • Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade (2 hours, free)
  • Temple Street Night Market (2 hours, £10)
  • Macao Tower (half-day, £25)
  • Senado Square (half-day, free)
  • The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel (half-day, free)
  • Coloane Village (half-day, free)
  • Hac Sa Beach (half-day, free)
  • A-Ma Temple (half-day, free)
  • Ruins of St. Paul's (half-day, free)
  • Macau Fisherman's Wharf (half-day, free)
  • City of Dreams (half-day, free)
  • Macao Museum (half-day, £10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: £175

Transportation

To explore Hong Kong, the best way to get around is with the Mass Transit Railway (MTR). The MTR is affordable, convenient, and efficient. You can purchase an Octopus Card - a prepaid rechargeable card - which can be used on all modes of public transport. The fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but the average cost of a single trip is around £2. To get to Macau, you can take a ferry from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal. Ferries run regularly throughout the day and take around 1 hour, and the cost is around £20 per person.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit other attractions such as Noah's Ark Hong Kong, Wong Tai Sin Temple, or go hiking in the countryside. For those with less time, you can cut out some activities, such as the Fisherman's Wharf or Coloane Village.

Airports

The main airport for this trip is the Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), located on Lantau Island, 34.2 km from the city center. The Macau International Airport (MFM) is closer to the city center, just 8.5 km away, but flight options are a bit more limited than HKG.

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