WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Macau

Choosing the right time for your trip to Macau can make all the difference. It's important to consider weather elements, seasonal events and busy tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.

Photo d'un paysage localisé en Macao

Location

Climate

January 13.6→18.3°C
1.08mm
7:05→18:04
February 14.8→19.4°C
1.63mm
6:55→18:23
March 18→22.3°C
2.54mm
6:32→18:36
April 21→25°C
4.1mm
6:04→18:47
May 24.6→27.9°C
7.06mm
5:45→18:59
June 26.6→29.4°C
9.11mm
5:41→19:11
July 26.9→29.9°C
7.57mm
5:49→19:12
August 26.7→29.9°C
10.09mm
6:02→18:57
September 25.8→29.4°C
6.84mm
6:11→18:30
October 22.9→27°C
3.77mm
6:21→18:02
November 19.7→24°C
1.57mm
6:37→17:44
December 14.3→19.1°C
1mm
6:56→17:46
13.6→18.3°C
14.8→19.4°C
18→22.3°C
21→25°C
24.6→27.9°C
26.6→29.4°C
26.9→29.9°C
26.7→29.9°C
25.8→29.4°C
22.9→27°C
19.7→24°C
14.3→19.1°C
Jan 7:05→18:04
Feb 6:55→18:23
Mar 6:32→18:36
Apr 6:04→18:47
May 5:45→18:59
Jun 5:41→19:11
Jul 5:49→19:12
Aug 6:02→18:57
Sep 6:11→18:30
Oct 6:21→18:02
Nov 6:37→17:44
Dec 6:56→17:46
1.08mm
1.63mm
2.54mm
4.1mm
7.06mm
9.11mm
7.57mm
10.09mm
6.84mm
3.77mm
1.57mm
1mm

High and low season in Macau

Understanding the different times of year in Macau is essential to choosing the best time to go. In general, there are two main tourist seasons in Macau: high season and low season.

High season

High season in Macau generally runs from september to novemberduring autumn. During this period, the climate is pleasant, with moderate temperatures and low humidity. Visitors flock to enjoy the city's many tourist attractions and major cultural events. Note, however, that during the high season, hotel rates and airfares can be higher due to increased demand. What's more, some tourist attractions can be crowded, which can make the experience less enjoyable for some.

Low season

Low season in Macau is between May and Augustduring the summer. During this period, the climate can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. What's more, the summer months coincide with the rainy season, which can bring frequent downpours and the occasional typhoon. That said, the low season also offers certain advantages. Hotel rates and airfares are generally cheaper, and tourist attractions are less crowded. If you're prepared to put up with the heat and humidity, low season can be an excellent option for discovering Macau without the crowds and at a lower cost.

Major cultural events in Macau

Macau is rich in cultural events throughout the year, offering visitors a unique and authentic experience of the city. Here are some of the most important events to consider when planning your trip to Macau:
  • Macau International Fireworks Festival: This spectacular event takes place every year between September and October, over a period of several weeks. Teams from all over the world come together to create breathtaking pyrotechnic displays over Macau Harbour.
  • Macau Grand Prix : In November, the streets of Macau are transformed into a racetrack for the annual Grand Prix. Drivers from all over the world come to take part in this iconic automotive event, which includes car and motorcycle races.
  • Macau International Film Festival: Held every December, this festival celebrates Asian cinema and showcases the region's emerging talent. Screenings and Q&A sessions with directors offer visitors a unique cinematic experience.

Public holidays in Macau

In addition to cultural events, it's also important to take public holidays into account when planning your trip to Macau. Public holidays can affect the opening of tourist attractions and restaurants, as well as the availability of public transport. Here are some of the main public holidays in Macau:
  • Chinese New Year (usually between late January and mid-February)
  • Dragon Boat Festival (usually in June)
  • Anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (October 1)
  • Portuguese national holiday (June 10)
  • Christmas (December 25)

The best time to go to Macau by season

To help you choose the best time to go to Macau, here is an overview of weather conditions and major events for each season:

Spring (March - April)

Spring in Macau is marked by mild temperatures and moderate humidity. It's also the time when flowers bloom, adding an extra touch of beauty to the city's sights. In April, you can attend the Macau Arts Festival, which showcases local and international talent in various artistic fields.

Summer (May - August)

As mentioned above, summer in Macau is hot, humid and rainy. Nevertheless, if you're prepared to put up with these conditions, you can take advantage of lower rates and less crowded attractions. During this period, the Macau Lotus Festival takes place, celebrating the region's emblematic flower with floral displays and cultural activities.

Autumn (September - November)

Autumn is considered the best season to visit Macau, thanks to its pleasant climate and the variety of major cultural events such as the Macau International Fireworks Festival and the Macau Grand Prix. Bear in mind that hotel rates and airfares may be higher during this period.

Winter (December - February)

Winter in Macau is cool and dry, with temperatures generally fluctuating between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius. Although there are no major cultural events during this period, the festive atmosphere of Chinese New Year offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Insurance

Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.

Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.

Flights

Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to €600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.

In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!

Macau, one of China's Special Administrative Regions, is a veritable economic and cultural crossroads. Every year, this Asian destination attracts millions of visitors and immigrants from all over the world.

Macau immigration statistics

Located on China's southern coast, the Macau Special Administrative Region has seen rapid population growth in recent decades. In 2020, Macau's total population was around 682,000 inhabitantswith a population density of around 21,340 people per square kilometer, making it one of the most densely populated areas in the world.

Breakdown by nationality

Macau's population is predominantly Chinese, representing approximately 88.7% of total population. Other nationalities present include Portuguese (2.3%), the Filipinos (4.6%) and residents from other Asian countries (3.2%).

Most popular visas in Macau

Due to its status as a Special Administrative Region, Macau has its own visa-issuing system, distinct from that of mainland China. Here are the most popular visas in Macau:
  • Tourist visa Valid for a 30-day stay, for those wishing to discover Macau as a tourist.
  • Work visa issued to people who have found a job in Macau and can prove that they have the qualifications required to practice their profession.
  • Student visa granted to foreign students enrolled in a higher education institution in Macau.
  • Temporary resident visa allows foreign nationals to reside temporarily in Macau for professional, family or other reasons.
It is important to note that nationals of certain countries enjoy visa-free entry to Macau. For example, French, Belgian and Swiss citizens can stay in Macau without a visa for up to three months.

Macau international tourism figures

Macau is a popular tourist destination, particularly for its historical heritage, casinos and local gastronomy. International tourism figures bear witness to this appeal:
  • In 2019, Macau welcomed more than 39 million visitorsincluding nearly 28 million from China continental.
  • The tourism sector represents around 6.7% of GDP of Macau and is one of the main drivers of the local economy.
  • The average length of stay for visitors to Macau is around 1.5 days.

Impact of the pandemic on tourism in Macau

As in many other global tourist destinations, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on Macau's tourism sector. In 2020, the number of international visitors dropped dramatically, by 85,9% compared with the previous year. However, the Macau authorities hope that the tourism sector will be able to recover gradually over the next few years.

Challenges and opportunities in Macau's tourism sector

Economic diversification

Despite its tourist appeal, it is crucial for Macau to diversify its economy so as not to depend solely on the tourism sector. Indeed, the region is facing growing competition from other Asian destinations, as well as changing consumer habits and visitor expectations. Against this backdrop, the Macau government is implementing initiatives to encourage the development of other economic sectors, such as the creative industries, finance and the digital economy.

Improving tourism infrastructure

To support the growth of tourism in Macau, efforts are being made to improve and modernize the local infrastructure. Current projects include the construction of new hotels, the renovation of historic sites and the introduction of more efficient and environmentally-friendly transport systems. These initiatives should help to boost Macau's attractiveness as an international tourist destination.

Protecting the environment and cultural heritage

Last but not least, sustainable development is a major issue for Macau, which has to preserve its natural environment and cultural heritage while encouraging the influx of tourists. To this end, local authorities are implementing policies to protect green spaces, promote the use of renewable energies, and raise visitors' awareness of the importance of preserving the local cultural heritage.