Macau Tower rises 338 meters above the peninsula, antenna included. Inaugurated in late 2001, it combines a panoramic observation deck, revolving restaurants and thrill activities that hold a world record. Its silhouette is now part of the landscape of Macao, south of the Pearl River.

Why visit Macau Tower

The tower brings together in one location several experiences rarely found elsewhere in South China. On the 58th floor, the observation terrace offers a clear view of the Macau peninsula, the Pearl River and, on clear days, the islands of Coloane and Taipa. Above, at 233 meters altitude, the Skywalk allows you to walk on the building's outer cornice, harnessed. And for thrill-seekers, it's here that AJ Hackett set the Guinness World Record for the highest commercial bungee jump in the world in 2006.

The entire complex also functions as a leisure hub: panoramic restaurants, cinemas, conference spaces. You can spend an hour enjoying the views, or half a day if you combine dining with activities.

Tower history

The project was born from a visit by billionaire Stanley Ho Hung-Sun, a major figure in Macau tourism, to the Sky Tower in Auckland, New Zealand. Impressed by the New Zealand structure, he commissioned a comparable tower for Macau and entrusted its design to architect Gordon Moller of Craig Craig Moller, in collaboration with engineering firm Beca.

Construction took place from 1998 to 2001. The tower was inaugurated and opened to the public on December 19, 2001. A member of the World Federation of Great Towers, it has received several distinctions: the Medal of Merit for Tourism in 2006 awarded by the Macau SAR government, the title of "most exceptional monument in China" awarded by the Wen Wei Po newspaper in 2009, and an innovation excellence award from the World Federation of Great Towers in 2012.

What to see and do

The observation deck and panoramic terrace

The observation deck occupies the 61st floor, 223 meters above ground. The observation terrace, located on the 58th floor, features glass floor sections that provide a direct plunging view of the tower's base. The panorama encompasses the Macau peninsula, the bridge connecting Taipa, the Pearl River and the Coloane islands.

Skywalk and thrill activities

• Skywalk X: outdoor walk of 32 meters around the tower at 233 m altitude, harness and supervision required.
• Bungee jumping: the world's highest commercial bungee jump, verified by Guinness World Records in 2006.
• Tower Climb: ascent via external ladders to the top of the antenna, for experienced climbers only.

Restaurants and shops

Three establishments are located at height: the 360° Café, a revolving restaurant offering international buffets, the 180° Lounge & Azul, and Lua Azul, which showcases Portuguese and Macanese cuisine. A few shops complete the upper level.

Practical information

• Duration of visit: allow 1 hour for the observation deck alone, 2 to 3 hours if you dine there or combine it with an outdoor activity.
• Admission fees: moderate entry for the observation terrace, additional charge for Skywalk, high price for bungee jumping. Prices should be verified on the official website before your visit.
• Hours: open from morning until evening, extended hours on weekends. Outdoor activities depend on weather conditions.
• Currency: Macau uses the pataca (MOP), the Hong Kong dollar (HKD) is widely accepted.
• To know: late afternoon light is particularly favorable for the panorama.

How to get there

The tower is located on the southern tip of the Macau peninsula, overlooking Sai Van Lake.

• By bus: lines 9A, 23, 26 and 32 serve the Macau Tower stop.
• By taxi: the most direct option from ferry terminals or central hotels, short and affordable journey.
• Hotel shuttles: several casino-hotels, including City of Dreams, operate free shuttles passing nearby.

Nearby attractions

The tower makes a good starting point for exploring southern Macau. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, can be reached in about twenty minutes by taxi. To extend your trip through China, several sites are worth visiting:

• The Great Wall at Juyongguan, one of the best-preserved sections near Beijing.
• The Great Wild Goose Pagoda, a major Buddhist monument in Xi'an.
• Hexigten Geopark, volcanic and steppe landscapes of Inner Mongolia.

Frequently asked questions

Plan your trip

Macau Tower fits easily into an itinerary combining Hong Kong, Macau and mainland China. To build a customized trip mixing heritage, landscapes and major cities, check our China travel ideas.