The Cotai Strip, Macau: a guide

Heading to the Cotai Strip, but not sure what’s there? Check out my guide to visiting the Cotai Strip in Macau, as well as my top tips and recommendations.

The Cotai Strip in Macau is a bustling destination renowned for its grand resorts, entertainment, and vibrant atmosphere. In fact, I found it very similar to Las Vegas, thanks to its plethora of casinos, hotels, and restaurants. It even boasts its own Venetian hotel and casino, and is home to the world’s largest casino. The Cotai Strip is a must-see while visiting Macau, and isn’t far at all from Hong Kong if you’re looking to visit for the day like I did. In this guide, I share everything you need to know about visiting the Cotai Strip, including how to get there and where to stay.

Quick tips for visiting the Cotai Strip

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This article may contain some affiliate links. Do note I’d never recommend anything I wouldn’t truly advise for any of my friends.

What is the Cotai Strip?

The Cotai Strip is a vibrant and extravagant area of Macau, China, known for its melange of luxurious resorts, casinos, shopping malls, and restaurants. It’s a stretch of reclaimed land that connects the islands of Coloane and Taipa, forming a true entertainment hub. The name ‘Cotai’ is a blend of ‘Coloane’ and ‘Taipa’, the two islands the Cotai Strip connects. The region has undergone significant development, transforming it into a bustling centre for entertainment and leisure activities that is akin to the Las Vegas Strip.

Where is the Cotai Strip?

The Cotai Strip is in Macau, a Special Administrative Region of China. Connecting the islands of Coloane and Taipa, the Cotai Strip was created through land reclamation. It has become a major entertainment and tourism hub in Macau. Macau is often known as the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’ due to its vibrant casino industry and entertainment offering. The Cotai Strip is a vibrant area often visited by tourists and visitors looking for a mix of entertainment, gaming, and leisure.

How to get to the Cotai Strip

Getting to Macau’s Cotai Strip in Macau is simple thanks to its well-connected transport network. Here are the most popular ways to reach the Cotai Strip:

• By air – Macau International Airport is the best option if flying. From the airport, you can easily reach the Cotai Strip via taxi, bus, or a shuttle provided by one of the strip’s resorts.
• By ferry – if you’re visiting Macau for the day from Hong Kong, it’s really simple to catch the ferry. Ferries run frequently between Hong Kong and Macau, with some docking directly at the Cotai Strip’s Taipa Ferry Terminal. From there, taxis, buses, or shuttles can take you to your destination on the Cotai Strip. I arrived by ferry and found it super convenient. We were even able to hop on one of the complimentary resort shuttles, even though we weren’t staying overnight.
• By land – if you’re already in Macau, you can reach the Cotai Strip by crossing the Sai Van Bridge or the Taipa Bridge from the Macau Peninsula. Taxis, buses, and hotel shuttles are available for getting you to the Cotai Strip resorts.

What to do at the Cotai Strip

There’s lots to see and do on Macau’s Cotai Strip, and quite literally something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular things to see and do on the Cotai Strip:

• Explore the luxurious resorts. There are some seriously impressive hotels and resorts on the Cotai Strip, many inspired by Las Vegas. I’d recommend heading to the following:
  • The Venetian Macao – you can take a gondola ride on the incredible indoor canal, indulge in a little retail therapy, and try your luck at the world’s largest casino.
  • City of Dreams – head here to see the iconic House of Dancing Water show which takes place at a number of times each day, and check out the shopping arcades and restaurants.
  • Wynn Palace – visit the Wynn for incredible fountain displays, luxury shopping, and high-end casino facilities.
  • The Parisian Macao – if you fancy a taste of France, head to The Parisian. You can visit their very own Eiffel Tower, eat French cuisine, and even enjoy French-themed entertainment.
• Head to the casinos. Macau is world-renowned for its casinos and gambling opportunities, so you might fancy trying your luck at one of the many gambling tables or slot machines.
• Enjoy a performance. You won’t struggle to find spectacular entertainment and shows in Macau, with something for everyone, including families. Catch live shows and concerts organised by resorts like The Venetian.
• Indulge in some retail therapy. Macau isn’t short of a luxury shopping mall, so if you fancy some high-end shopping you’re in luck. There are all the designer boutiques and luxury brands you could possibly wish for along the Cotai Strip.
• Feast on culinary delights. Macau has a wealth of incredible dining experiences to enjoy, from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eateries serving international cuisine. Recommendations include the Robuchon au Dôme at Grand Lisboa, serving Michelin-starred French cuisine alongside panoramic views. The SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace is also excellent – feast on high-quality steaks and seafood in an upscale setting. Try and catch the water show and enjoy the beautiful lake view.
• Be a culture vulture. I loved visiting Taipa when I headed to Macau for the day. You can learn a lot about Macau’s cultural heritage and its Portuguese roots. I’d also explore Coloane Village for a glimpse of traditional Macanese life and its peaceful landscapes.
• Relax and unwind. With luxurious hotels and resorts come a great range of high end spas offering a range of treatments and relaxation therapies. If you fancy taking it easy during your time at the Cotai Strip, head for a spa day or two.
• Enjoy the nightlife. Experience the best of Macau’s vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, and lounges offering live music and entertainment.

Where to stay on the Cotai Strip

The Cotai Strip has a number of exceptional hotels, each offering distinct experiences and amenities. Here are a few of the best options:

Luxury hotels on the Cotai Strip

The Venetian Macao – 5*

Staying at The Venetian Macao is an extravagant experience, with the hotel offering luxurious accommodation inspired by Venice’s grandeur. You’ll find opulent suites, intricate Venetian-inspired architecture, and even gondola rides along indoor canals. Beyond its lavish rooms, the resort’s appeal lies in its diverse entertainment options, including a world-class casino, an extensive shopping arcade, captivating live performances, and a plethora of dining experiences showcasing global cuisines. The convenience of its Cotai Strip location, exceptional service, family-friendly amenities, and rejuvenating spa facilities all contribute to making The Venetian Macao a top choice for travellers seeking a lavish retreat on Macau’s Cotai Strip.

Galaxy Macao – 5*

Staying at Galaxy Macau means a blend of luxury, entertainment, and impeccable service, making it a premier destination for travellers seeking a lavish retreat in Macau. The resort features opulent accommodation, from luxurious suites to stylish rooms, designed with sophistication and comfort in mind. Its vast array of entertainment options includes a world-class casino, shows, and a sprawling rooftop oasis featuring lush gardens and multiple swimming pools. Galaxy Macau’s diverse dining scene caters to every palate, showcasing an array of international cuisines in elegant settings. With its prime location on the Cotai Strip, elite hospitality, family-friendly facilities, and a wealth of amenities, Galaxy Macau stands as a haven for those seeking a luxurious stay in Macau.

Four Seasons Hotel Macao, Cotai Strip – 5*

Staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Macao, Cotai Strip, offers an unparalleled luxury experience. that Blending opulence with personalised service, you’ll find elegant rooms and suites that deliver a haven of comfort and style. Here, you can indulge in refined accommodation with top-notch amenities. The hotel’s serene ambiance, away from the bustling Cotai Strip, provides a peaceful retreat, while still granting easy access to the Strip’s entertainment and attractions. Exemplary service is a hallmark at the Four Seasons Hotel Macao, where staff cater to guests’ every need for a memorable and seamless stay. There’s a diverse culinary offering, from fine dining to casual eateries. With its lavish spa facilities, a rooftop pool offering stunning views, and a reputation for exclusivity and luxury, the Four Seasons Hotel Macao, Cotai Strip is an exceptional choice for those looking for an indulgent stay in Macau.

Budget hotels on the Cotai Strip

DoubleTree by Hilton Zhuhai Hengqin – 4*

Situated near to Macau in Zhuhai, te DoubleTree by Hilton Zhuhai Hengqin offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and modern amenities. The hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere, starting with the warm signature DoubleTree cookie upon arrival. Its prime location in Hengqin Island offers proximity to attractions like Chimelong Ocean Kingdom and Hengqin International Tennis Center, making it an ideal base for exploration. The hotel’s well-appointed rooms and suites are relaxing, featuring modern decor and essential amenities. Guests can indulge in diverse dining options, including local and international cuisine, while the rooftop bar provides a scenic spot to unwind. The hotel’s facilities including a fitness centre and a scenic outdoor pool.

Greenery Inn – 4*

Located in Macau, and a short drive from the Cotai Strip, Greenery Inn is also a stroll from the Ruins of St Paul’s. Offering great views over the city, the hotel has some great facilities. You’ll find a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space, as well as free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel’s rooms are air-conditioned, offering a desk, a kettle, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bidet. All rooms are fitted with crisp bed linen and towels. Near to the hotel, you’ll find Senado Sqaure, Dom Pedro V Theatre, and Macau International Airport all within easy reach.

Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre, an IHG Hotel – 3*

Staying at Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre offers convenience, comfort, and value. The hotel is strategically located in the heart of Macau, near to the Cotai Strip and offering easy access to key attractions, dining spots, and transport hubs. Its modern and functional rooms provide a comfortable retreat, equipped with essential amenities for a relaxed stay. The hotel’s complimentary Express Start Breakfast ensures a tasty and filling start to the day, while its proximity to plenty of restaurants and cafes allows you to explore a range of cuisines. With its affordability, central location, and a commitment to providing a hassle-free experience, Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre is an ideal choice for travellers seeking a convenient base to explore the vibrant city of Macau.

What to pack for the Cotai Strip

What to pack for the Cotai Strip will vary slightly depending on the season you’re visiting, as well as the activities you want to partake in. I visited in June and the weather was very warm, although it can be cooler at other times. Here are some of the top items I’d recommend packing that you can adjust depending on when in the year you’ll be visiting Macau’s Cotai Strip:

• Plug adaptor – if you’re UK based, you’ll need a plug converter. In Macau, the associated plug type is G. This plug adaptor is amazing as you can use it in most countries, no matter what the plug type. I don’t travel without one any more, it’s so convenient.
• Multi device charger – I can’t travel without one of these any more, either. It’s so handy for charging a couple of iPhones at once (ideal when you’re travelling with someone and are limited on time or plugs for charging), as well as a couple of other devices.
• Clear toiletries bags – these are an absolute lifesaver at airport security – no more flimsy sandwich bags for a starter! When I visited Macau and Hong Kong, I travelled on a budget flight with minimal luggage, so it was super handy just to shove all my toiletries into one of these while flying.
• Travel bottles for toiletries – again, these travel sized containers are so helpful for travelling. I use the colour coded bottles for my different products – shampoo, conditioner, etc as I hate using cheap hotel toiletries on my hair.
• Macau travel guide – I always like to have a travel guide to the destination I’m heading to, and this Macau travel guide is great. It’s perfect for flicking through while you’re on the plane, and can give you a little extra context and history of the region so it all makes sense when you’re there. It also looks great among other travel guides on a bookshelf when you’re home!
• Reusable travel water bottle – I don’t go anywhere without one of these any more. It’s super cheap and is easy to just refill and shove into a backpack when you’re out exploring. I always like to have water on me, and don’t like buying single use plastics, so this is perfect.
• A backpack – I’ve used this Trespass backpack for as long as I can remember. It’s lightweight, holds up to 30 litres, is really comfy, and comes in a range of colours. It served me so well for my travels around Hong Kong and Macau, and so I highly recommend it.
• A good camera – you can’t visit such incredible places without taking a good quality camera to get some amazing shots. I love the Canon EOS 90D and always take it on my travels.
• A good factor 50 sunscreen – Macau has a subtropical climate and it can get very warm I’d always recommend wearing a SPF 50+ while in Australia where the sun can be so strong. This is a good, affordable suncream which you can slather on before the Bondi to Coogee walk.

Remember to check the weather forecast closer to your travel date to make any necessary adjustments to your Macau packing list.

Visiting Macau from Hong Kong

I thought I’d share my experience of visiting Macau and the Cotai Strip from Hong Kong, so that you can take away any tips and recommendations for your own visit.

Breakfast in Kowloon, Hong Kong

Our first full day in Hong Kong began with a torrential rainstorm. Hoping for some good weather to kick off our plans to sightsee in Macau, it was a little disappointing. But we’re not ones to be put off by a little rain – we ducked into a cafe for brunch, and discovered Black Sugar Coffee & Lifestyle. Being so used to relying on websites, marketing, and Google reviews for restaurant recommendations, it was definitely new for me having to wing it with cafes in Hong Kong, where Google Maps isn’t so popular. We stopped in this cafe before going to visit the Cotai Strip. Looking pretty hipster and a little Vancouver, we dodged the rain in this cafe. It’s very cute, pretty small, and has a Shiba theme. The decor was adorable, with tiny dogs hidden in the plant pots.

We each ordered a latte; Lucy went for avocado and scrambled eggs on toast while I went for salmon eggs benedict. The latte was delicious but service for the food was incredibly slow, and took around forty minutes for our food to arrive. A little frustrating when we’d planned to spend the whole day in Macau. When it did finally arrive, I can’t fault the presentation – I’ve never had pink glitter on an eggs benedict before! All in all, it was a fairly reasonable meal and experience at the cafe.

The Hong Kong to Macau Ferry

Next stop, Macau! Thankfully, the rain had eased somewhat by now. We caught the MTR (our new best friend) down to the ferry terminal on Hong Kong Island. From here, you can catch the ferry across to Macau, which takes around an hour. You can either get to the Cotai Strip via the Cotai Water Jet, or to the old town of Macau instead. We picked the Cotai Strip. Stopping off at a 7/11, we grabbed some beers and snacks for the day ahead. Wonton flavour chips are certainly a novelty for us both, although just beware of the pungent smell when you open them!

The Hong Kong to Macau ferry ride itself is a great experience. You get a designated comfy chair, and a beautiful view across the South China Sea and the Macau skyline. You can watch out of the window and admire the journey’s scenery.

Don’t forget your passport when you go to Macau. As its a Special Administrative Region within China, you have to get a visa issued at the border.

Once you get off the ferry in Macau and make your way through customs, you’ll find dozens of shuttle buses travelling to the various resorts on the Cotai Strip. All of these are free. Capitalise on this and jump into a shuttle that takes you to a hotel or resort of your choice. We started off at The Venetian.

The Venetian Macau, Cotai Strip

Macau’s Cotai Strip has plenty of huge casinos, hotels, and nightclubs. It’s actually an attempt to copy the original Las Vegas Strip, just on a bigger scale. Proving extremely popular, today it’s home to the biggest casino in the world at The Venetian, and more gambling takes place on the Cotai Strip than anywhere else in the world. Also going by the name of the Estrada do Istmo (in Portuguese), the casinos are all along the strip, with dazzling skyscrapers everywhere you look.

Our shuttle bus dropped us off outside the gondolas of The Venetian. I was intrigued to see how it would compare to the original The Venetian hotel in Las Vegas. It’s Macau’s flagship casino resort on the Cotai Strip, which isn’t a surprise with 550,000 square metres of casino that makes it the world’s biggest gambling space. It’s truly gigantic, and is considered to be the world’s sixth largest building. There’s even a Manchester United Experience in the casino resort selling memorabilia. Fun fact – Manchester United players were the first ever visitors to stay in the hotel itself.

Just like the Las Vegas original, you’ll find the Venetian’s iconic canal network. You can take a gondola ride on the canals, or simply take in the transformative skies. Although I didn’t think the hotel was quite as impressive as the American original, it’s still pretty fascinating to explore.

We hit up the Food Court afterwards for an impressive range of eateries. From noodles to dim sum to burgers, you can get stuck into whatever you fancy. I grabbed some delicious Singapore noodles and took in the bustling atmosphere. We then wandered along the plethora of luxury designer stores to the next resort, The Parisian Macau.

The Parisian Macau, Cotai Strip

The impressive Parisian hotel has, as the name suggests, a fully immersive French theme. It even has its own Eiffel Tower, much like Paris Las Vegas. The Eiffel Tower is half scale, but is surrounded by manicured gardens making it feel as though you really are in the City of Light.

As if its own Eiffel Tower wasn’t enough, the Parisian Macau also boasts its own waterpark, a huge casino, and an elegant French lobby. You feel a little like you’re in Versailles thanks to the inspired decor, and you’ll even find some French-Asian fusion cuisine here. It’s fascinating simply to walk around the impressive hotel and soak in the luxury shops.

You can even take a trip up the Eiffel Tower for views across the Cotai Strip. Bearing coupons for the eighth floor, we passed the love lock bridge and looked out across the scenery. Although it doesn’t have quite the same vibrancy or party atmosphere as Vegas, it’s very cool to see. Macau, and the Cotai Strip in particular, seems to simply drip wealth.

Of course, we had to get a cheesy picture next to Macau’s own Eiffel Tower. After our exploration in the extremely humid heat, it was time to find somewhere to cool off.

Pool Time in Macau

Despite some slight drizzle and grey skies, Macau was extremely hot during our visit. We went back to The Venetian to use the pool there. It was very peaceful and we were just two of a few people there. There are several swimming pools – one for kids, a delightful jacuzzi, and an adults’ pool.

The whole area retains its beautiful Renaissance decor with fountains, sculptures, and art everywhere you look. There aren’t many places in the world where you can take a dip next to a Venetian statue with a view of the Eiffel Tower, are there!?

Taking a dip to cool off and knocking back a couple of cold beers did just the trick. The Venetian Macau is a truly beautiful hotel, and one I’d certainly stay in if I returned to Macau.

For now, as much as we enjoyed some pool time, it was time to discover the colonial Portuguese roots of Macau’s Historic Center. Check out my blog post on this fascinating part of Macau for more on what we got up to while visiting from Hong Kong.

The Cotai Strip: FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the Cotai Strip:

What is the difference between Macau and Cotai?

Macau is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, known for its vibrant culture, historic sites, and for being a major gambling destination. Cotai is an area within Macau, often referred to as the Cotai Strip, that has undergone significant development over the past decades. Cotai was originally water separating Taipa and Coloane islands. The Cotai Strip is home to numerous world-renowned resorts, casinos, and entertainment complexes.

Is Cotai in China?

Yes, Cotai is part of the Special Administrative Region (SAR) of Macau, which is situated on the southern coast of China. Macau, including the Cotai area, is located on the western side of the Pearl River Delta, neighbouring Guangdong Province in mainland China. As a SAR, Macau operates under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, enjoying a high degree of autonomy in many areas, including its legal and economic systems, while being part of the People’s Republic of China.

Is Taipa and Cotai the same?

Taipa and Cotai are neighboring areas within Macau, but are not the same:

• Taipa is an island in Macau that, along with the Macau Peninsula and Coloane, forms the region of Macau. It has its own distinct character, featuring a mix of traditional Macanese culture, historic sites, residential areas, and a growing number of modern developments.
• Cotai, on the other hand, is an area that was originally a narrow strait between Taipa and Coloane islands. It was reclaimed to create new land, merging parts of Taipa and Coloane and forming the Cotai Strip. This reclaimed area is now known for its concentration of lavish resorts, casinos, entertainment complexes, and luxury hotels.

Is Macau worth visiting?

Absolutely! Macau won’t be for everyone, but I think it’s definitely worth a visit for few reasons:

• A blend of cultures – Macau is a really interesting mix of Chinese and Portuguese cultures due to its colonial history. You’ll find beautifully preserved colonial architecture alongside traditional Chinese temples. It’s also home to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Historic Centre of Macau.
• World-class entertainment: Macau is a renowned gambling destination with extravagant casinos and entertainment complexes. The Cotai Strip, in particular, offers luxurious resorts, top-notch shows, and entertainment options.
• Culinary delights: Macau has a diverse culinary scene, blending Chinese and Portuguese flavours. Don’t miss trying the famous Portuguese egg tarts, alongside other local delicacies.
• Beautiful landscapes: beyond the urban areas, Macau has scenic spots like Coloane Village, Hac Sa Beach, and Guia Hill, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city.

When was Cotai Strip built?

The development of the Cotai Strip began in the early 2000s. Many visitors are surprised to learn just how new it is. The transformation of the Cotai area from a stretch of water between the islands of Taipa and Coloane into a landmass suitable for large-scale development involved extensive land reclamation projects. The Cotai Strip’s evolution and growth continued over the following years, with the opening of multiple integrated resorts and casinos, have helped to establish it as a premier destination for tourism, entertainment, and gambling.

What is Macau best known for?

Macau is known as the ‘Monte Carlo of the Orient’ and the ‘Las Vegas of the East’, thanks to the large volume of casinos that are found within the city. It’s most famous for its world-class casinos, luxurious resorts, and a unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese culture as reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. While visiting Macau, make sure to visit the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s, the A-Ma Temple, the Monte Fort, and Senado Square, which all offer glimpses into Macau’s colonial past. Macau also hosts global renowned events, including the Macau Grand Prix and the Macau International Fireworks Display Contest, which attractors visitors from around the world.

Is Macau English friendly?

Yes, Macau is generally English-friendly, particularly in tourist areas, major hotels, and entertainment venues. I didn’t have any trouble communicating when I visited, and I found the level of English spoken very similar to that of Hong Kong. While the primary languages spoken in Macau are Cantonese and Portuguese, many signs, menus, and important information are often available in English. In tourist hotspots and businesses, you’ll likely find English-speaking staff who can assist visitors. However, outside these areas, especially in more local neighbourhoods, English proficiency might be limited. Overall, for travellers, navigating Macau and engaging in most tourist activities shouldn’t pose significant language barriers due to the prevalence of English in key areas.

How do I get from Hong Kong to Macau?

To travel from Hong Kong to Macau, you have several options. The most popular and convenient mode of transport is by ferry. You can catch a ferry from various terminals in Hong Kong, such as Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan or China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. Ferries run frequently throughout the day, usually every 15-30 minutes, and the journey takes around one hour, offering a scenic view of the sea and skyline. This is how I got to Macau, and I loved it – it was super convenient, and the views were amazing. Another option is the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, primarily used by buses, shuttles, or taxis. This bridge connects Hong Kong, Macau, and Zhuhai in mainland China, providing a direct road link. Travellers can take a bus or arrange for transportation services that cross the bridge to reach Macau, which typically takes around an hour or more, depending on traffic and immigration clearance.

Tips for visiting the Cotai Strip

Having visited the Cotai Strip, here are a few tips I’d recommend for your visit:

• Shuttle services – take advantage of complimentary shuttle services offered by resorts to move between different points on the Cotai Strip and other areas in Macau.
• Plan your itinerary – research the entertainment and shows available along the Cotai Strip, and book tickets in advance, especially during weekends and peak seasons.
• Hotel information – if you’re staying at one of the resorts on the Cotai Strip, see if they offer transport services from the airport or ferry terminal.
• Off peak – to avoid crowds, consider visiting casinos and attractions during non-peak hours.
• Explore beyond the Cotai Strip – don’t limit your Macau visit to the Cotai Strip; venture into other parts of Macau like Senado Square for an enriched experience.
• Local customs – respect local customs and traditions. Macau is a blend of cultures, so being mindful of cultural etiquettes is important.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to immerse yourself in the vibrant entertainment and attractions that the Cotai Strip has to offer.

That’s my guide visiting Macau’s Cotai Strip. I hope it was helpful – if you have any questions on visiting, let me know in the comments below and I’ll do my best to answer them.