How to spend 24 memorable hours in Macau: from luxurious stays and restorative, ‘worlds away’ spa treatments, to decadent dining and entertainment aplenty

Jan 26 , 2025

The pool cabanas at Banyan Tree Macau, an urban resort located at Galaxy Macau. Photos: Handout

The ‘Vegas of the East’ boasts more than just casinos – enjoy exquisite meals at Raffles at Galaxy Macau, spa rituals at the Banyan Tree Spa and a stay at Andaz Macau

Shenzhen has become, in recent years, the most popular weekend destination among residents of the Greater Bay Area, the southern Chinese region comprising such “superstar cities” as Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Zhuhai. But Macau, the gambling capital of Asia, is still the best spot in the region for world-class entertainment and hospitality.

An hour’s ferry trip or drive from Hong Kong, the city makes for a great overnight stay and offers something for everyone, from music aficionados to lovers of the finer things in life.

Here’s a round-up of a few spots to check out in one Macau day.

Where to eat

Enjoy grilled meats and vegetables at Teppanyaki Shou at Raffles at Galaxy Macau. Photo: Handout

If you’re into fine dining – and Japanese cuisine in particular – you should make a reservation at the recently opened Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa at Raffles at Galaxy Macau.

The restaurant is the first international establishment from sushi master Masaaki Miyakawa, one of only five Michelin-three-starred sushi chefs in Japan. Ingredients are sourced directly from Japan and with just 20 seats, the restaurant offers an intimate and exclusive experience.

Also at Raffles, Teppanyaki Shou serves Japanese omakase-style teppanyaki in a chic and elegant setting, where you can enjoy dishes such as prized Kitauchi Wagyu from Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, which comes from Tajima Wagyu free-range cows fed sea salt and fresh grass.

Where to “spa”

The treatment rooms at the Banyan Tree Spa, Macau, will make you feel like you’re in Thailand. Photo: Handout

Macau may not be the first destination that comes to mind when looking for some rest and relaxation, but those who want to pamper themselves won’t be disappointed with a treatment at Banyan Tree Macau. A massage at its award-winning spa is the best way to end your stay and leave refreshed – especially if you had too much fun the night before.

With more than 20 treatments available, the best way to recharge is one of the 75- or 90-minute massages, from Thai to Balinese to Indonesian styles. As befits a brand renowned for its wellness offerings, the facilities are second to none and the therapists highly experienced; they will tailor treatments to your needs and make you truly appreciate the art of well-being. The spa cabins and common areas are a world away from the buzz of the glitzy malls and busy casinos and will make you feel like you’re holidaying in a secluded resort in Phuket or Koh Samui.

Where to stay

Macau’s luxury hotel scene is exceptional and with forthcoming openings from five-star chains such as Capella, the city remains a favourite destination for high-end hoteliers looking to expand. Alongside Raffles, Andaz Macau is another recent addition to the city’s property market. It’s the brand’s largest hotel in the world, offering 700 rooms and suites. The design pays homage to Macau’s Chinese and Portuguese heritage: accommodation are decorated in a colourful palette of orange and green and come with amenities including wireless charging stations, complimentary minibar and “smart” glass in the sleek bathrooms.

Macau

Asia travel

Luxury travel

Food and Drinks

Luxury Hotels

Greater Bay Area

Tourism

Vincenzo La Torre

Formerly the fashion editor of the South China Morning Post, Vincenzo La Torre is the chief editor of Style, the South China Morning Post’s luxury monthly publication. Born and raised in Italy, Vincenzo started his career in journalism after graduating from Columbia University in New York, where he studied East Asian Languages and Cultures with a focus on Japanese and Chinese art. He has previously worked for Vogue Japan in Tokyo, Harper's Bazaar in Singapore and Prestige in Hong Kong. Before joining the Post as fashion editor in 2017, Vincenzo was a member of the launch team of Vogue Arabia in Dubai. He covers topics such as jewellery, watches, luxury, beauty, celebrity, entertainment and lifestyle, and has interviewed some of the most influential designers and CEOs in the luxury industry. Vincenzo speaks Italian, French, Japanese and Mandarin, and is a regular at high-profile events such as fashion week in Milan and Paris.

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