Best Time To Visit Macau

Macau’s location on China’s southern coast and sub-tropical climate makes it an easy place to plan a trip. With an average temperature of 23˚C, Macau is a warm-climate destination, experiencing a monsoon season from April to September with heavy rains and high humidity, and a pre winter season from October to December with pleasant temperatures. The best time to visit Macau depends on what you’d like to see and do. The monsoon season offers discounts on indoor attractions like casinos, while the pre winter season is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Do keep in mind that the weather in Macau can sometimes be rather unpredictable and a rainy day can quickly become sunny. So, here’s your guide to picking the best time to visit Macau. If you’re passing through Hong Kong and want to avoid getting caught up in the riots here’s an easy-to-follow guide on how take a Macau day trip. Also read 50 things to do in Macau for free.

Best Time To Visit Macau

Macau’s Warmer Months and Typhoon Season (April to October)

Macau has some of the most impressive resorts and hotels in the world and staying in a luxury resort with exciting shows, shops and attractions a few steps away from your room is a treat.

As it’s sunny and warm, summer is the best time to visit Macau to relax around a pool with a cocktail in hand, but be aware that the rainy season can impact your plans.

Wandering around impressive resort precincts gazing at the manmade landmarks in Macau, such as the Venetian’s canals or the Eiffel Tower in the Parisian Macao, is another activity you can enjoy in air-conditioned comfort.

If you’re on a tight budget, summer is a good season to hunt for budget hotels as prices can be quite reasonable.

You might also like to try this self-guided food tour around the Historic Centre to find out where to eat in Macau to find the best local snacks.

If you’re planning on visiting the Historic Centre of Macao, keep in mind it can become quite hot during the middle of the day. Also, the rainy season can affect visibility at some attractions.

So, if you’re affected by heat do your sightseeing early in the day and later on in the evening. And be ready to retreat back to your hotel at midday.

Best activities in Macau during the warmer months

Visiting with kids? Spend time splashing around at Galaxy’s water park.

• Even if you’re not staying in one of Macau’s luxury hotels, spend time exploring indoor entertainment hubs, such as Galaxy Macau, Studio City, Wynn Macau and Sands Cotai.

• If you’re visiting Macau with kids, you’re in luck as there are many indoor activities your kids will love while you keep cool such as Legend Heroes Park Virtual Reality, Waner Bros Fun Zone, Batman Dark Flight and a host of kids clubs.

• Buy a day pass to a Macau waterpark. Galaxy Grand Resort Deck, Aquaworld and Riverscape offer day passes (free if you’re staying at the resorts)

• Watch the House of Dancing Water and other live shows.

• Spend time inside the World Heritage attractions and museums once temperatures rise during the middle of the day.

• Watch the fireworks at the Macao International Fireworks Display (7 September to 5 October 2019), which is an impressive show of pyrotechnic mastery that lights up the night’s sky.

• See the Art Macao exhibitions (ends on 8 October 2019) at the Macao Museum of Art and other venues around the city.

• Attend a concert at St Paul’s Ruins or one of the other World Heritage Sites during the Macao International Music Festival (4 October to 3 November 2019).

What to wear in Macau during the warmer months

• T-shirts, shorts, light cotton shirts and summer dresses but wear long sleeves if you burn easily.  

• A hat with a brim, sunglasses and sunscreen.  

• Swimsuits will come in handy. 

• Carry an umbrella rather than a raincoat as it’s too humid to wander around wearing one.

• The average temperature in Macau: 28 C  

• Average rainfall: 80-100mm 

• This is also the time when there are frequent showers, thunderstorms and some times there might be typhoons. So, keep an eye on the weather here. 

What to eat and drink in Macau during the warmer months 

Make sure to try some durian ice cream when you visit Taipa.

• Try durian-flavoured ice cream in Taipa (see #6) to cool down.  

• Eat moon cakes and see the lanterns during the Mid-Autumn Festival (13 September 2019). 

• Book a spot in at one of the many fantastic buffets in Macau and enjoy a spread in cool comfort.

• Summer is also a time to eat lightly so here are some vegetarian restaurants to put on your list. 

Macau’s Cool Season (November to March)

The best time to visit Macau for World Heritage sites is during the cooler months and look out for festivals too, when the atmosphere is electric.

Macau’s cooler months, including the pre winter season and winter season, are the best times to be outdoors strolling around admiring historic squares, churches, temples and other UNESCO World Heritage Portuguese and Chinese architecture.

The weather in Macau is also more predictable and sudden changes are not as likely, making it a good season to spend time to go hiking or relaxing on Macau’s beaches.

Don’t expect snow as one of the good things about visiting Macau during the Nothern Hemisphere winter is the weather is mild (temperatures vary between 17°C and 21°C). The pre winter season, from October to December, also offers pleasant temperatures ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Even so, it’s the perfect time to drink red wine and fuel up on delicious sweet Portuguese egg tarts.

The Portuguese also brought Christmas traditions to Macau and it’s one of the best cities in Asia to soak up the European atmosphere at Christmas time, see Christmas lights and enjoy Portuguese Christmas fare.

This is a fantastic season to catch the excitement and colour of a Macau festival and there are plenty to choose during these months.

Best activities in Macau during the cooler months

The best time to go to Macau for outdoor activities, such as hiking, is also during the cooler months.

• Explore the Historic Centre of Macao, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on a self-guided walking tour. These Macau itineraries may help you plan.

• As Macau has a European flair it’s easy to pretend you’re in Europe as you wander around the squares and churches.

• Winter is a good time to warm up with a hot stone massage or a steam room in one of Macau’s spas.

• Book a seat at the Macao Grand Prix (14 to 17 November 2019), which is an exciting time to visit.

• Oogle at the stunning costumes during the Macao International Parade, which is a vibrant themed parade through Macao in December.

What to wear 

Well-dressed visitors exploring the Historic Centre of Macao. in October

• T-shirts, shorts, light cotton shirts and dresses during the day

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially when exploring the Historic Centre of Macao.

• A light sweater or jacket for evenings is advisable. 

Macau Weather

If you tend to feel the cold, a light jacket or sweater should keep you very wam.

• The average temperature in Macau during the cooler months: 17-24 C

• Average rainfall: 20-30mm (light with a few rainy days)

What To Eat In Macau

Warm up with a plate of minchi, which is a Macanese delight to taste in Macau.

• The Macao Food Festival (8 to 24 November 2019) is the perfect opportunity to sample the impressive range of food in Macau in once place. Food stalls are run by Macau’s chefs and even some Michelin Star restaurants in Macau.

• Winter Solstice (22 December 2019) is a huge feasting day in Macau and most of the hotels and restaurants offer special Winter Solstice menus. 

• Look for traditional Portuguese Christmas cakes in bakeries and cafes. 

• Macau has many Portuguese restaurants and winter is the perfect time to dine on suckling roast pig, freshly baked Portuguese bread and Bacalhau a Bras. 

Events and Festivals

Highlight: Macau Grand Prix

Macau is renowned for its vibrant events and festivals, which showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic entertainment scene. One of the most iconic events is the Macau Grand Prix, held every November.

This prestigious motorsport event is a must-visit for racing enthusiasts, featuring a challenging circuit that winds through the city’s streets and attracts top drivers from around the world. The adrenaline-pumping atmosphere and thrilling races make it an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the Macau Grand Prix, the city hosts a variety of other exciting events throughout the year.

The Macau Food Festival, for instance, is a culinary extravaganza that celebrates the city’s unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese flavors. Held in November, this festival is a paradise for food lovers, offering a chance to sample an impressive range of local and international dishes.

Music aficionados will enjoy the Macau International Music Festival, which features performances by both local and international musicians. This festival, held in October, showcases a diverse array of musical genres and provides a platform for cultural exchange.

From traditional Chinese festivals like the Lunar New Year to modern events like the Macau International Film Festival, there’s always something happening in Macau. These events not only provide entertainment but also offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

Planning Your Trip

How to Plan Your Macau Tour

Planning a trip to Macau can be a breeze with a bit of research and preparation. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

1. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Macau is during the autumn season, from October to December, when the weather is mild and comfortable. This period is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It’s best to avoid the typhoon season, which typically runs from May to October, as it can bring heavy rains and strong winds.

2. Getting There: Macau is easily accessible by air, land, or sea. The Macau International Airport receives flights from major cities around the world. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Hong Kong or mainland China, with regular services available from the Macau Ferry Terminal.

3. Accommodation: Macau offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Staying in the city center is convenient as it puts you close to major attractions like the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Macau Tower.

4. Transportation: Getting around Macau is easy with its well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Ride-hailing services are also available, providing a convenient way to explore the city.

5. Attractions: Macau is home to numerous attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the A-Ma Temple. Don’t miss the Macau Tower, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city and beyond.

6. Food: Macau is famous for its unique culinary heritage, which combines Portuguese and Chinese flavors. Be sure to try local specialties such as minchi, African chicken, and the iconic Portuguese egg tarts.

7. Currency: The official currency of Macau is the Macau pataca (MOP), but Hong Kong dollars (HKD) are also widely accepted, making it convenient for visitors from Hong Kong.

8. Language: The official languages of Macau are Portuguese and Chinese, but many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

9. Safety: Macau is generally a safe city, but it’s always wise to take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

10. Responsible Tourism: As a popular tourist destination, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and environment. Avoid littering, respect local customs, and support local businesses to ensure a positive impact on the community.

By following these tips, you can plan a memorable and enjoyable trip to Macau. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or entertainment, Macau has something for everyone.

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