Explore Macao's heritage and creative side

The city's heritage and community districts of ZAPE, NAPE, Barra & Lai Chi Vun are packed with history and culture. Here's where to head and what to expect

Read more: What's on in Macao this autumn

Macao's stunning A-Ma Temple is one of the city's most important cultural landmarks (image courtesy MGTO)

Macao’s revitalised heritage and community districts offer families a fun mix of history, culture, creativity and outdoor experiences. From discovering legendary Grand Prix racing cars to exploring science and enjoying waterfront walks, there’s plenty for families to enjoy.

ZAPE - motorsport, museums and waterfront fun

Macao Grand Prix Museum celebrates the city's annual motor racing event

Families can discover Macao’s exciting racing heritage at the Macau Grand Prix Museum, where children and adults can get up close to historic Formula 3 and GT cars, racing motorcycles and vehicles driven by legends such as Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher. Kids can also try the virtual-reality racing simulators, explore the mock-up pit garages and pose for a family photo on the winner’s podium. Afterwards, run off pent-up energy in the fresh air of the nearby parks and waterside spaces.

This year's Macau Grand Prix takes place November 19 to 22, see online for details.

NAPE - science, waterfront views and family strolls

Explore Macao Science Center on the waterfront

Over in NAPE, the Macao Science Center is a great family stop, offering interactive and educational experiences that can spark children’s curiosity. Families can then take a leisurely walk along the waterfront and Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-sen, with plenty of cafés and boutique spots where parents can take a break while enjoying the views.

Barra District – History, culture and family discoveries

A-Ma Temple was built in the fifteenth century and is dedicated to the Chinese sea goddes Mazu

Barra District is one of Macao’s most historic neighbourhoods and a wonderful place for families to experience the city’s traditions and local community life. Visit the beautiful A-Ma Temple, one of Macao’s most important and oldest cultural landmarks, and thought to be the city's namesake. Then explore the revitalised D. Carlos I Dock Area Navy Yard No. 1, where families can discover contemporary art and enjoy creative community spaces. Keep an eye out for pop-up music, local events and family-friendly activities that bring the neighbourhood to life.

Lai Chi Vun Village & Shipyards - discover Macao’s maritime heritage

Discover Macao's wooden shipbuilding heritage at Lai Chi Vun Village's restored shipyards

Head to Coloane to explore Lai Chi Vun Village and Shipyards, where families can step back in time and discover Macao’s fascinating shipbuilding heritage. The beautifully restored shipyards as well as the ‘Moments in History’ thematic exhibition offer an engaging glimpse into the area’s past. On weekends, families can browse local art markets, discover creative works by local artists and enjoy the relaxed coastal atmosphere. End the visit with a stroll along the waterfront and take in the beautiful sunset views together.

Getting around

If you’re visiting Macao with children in tow, you’ll want to take advantage of the Macao Leisure Bus. This free-of-charge shuttle service features 14 routes and ten key stops around Macao, connecting major Cotai Strip and Peninsula resorts with tourism spots and historical neighbourhoods. Top tourist attractions on the routes are Macao Grand Prix Museum, ZAPE district (for Macao Science Center and Macau Fisherman's Wharf), the leisure area of Kun Iam Statue Waterfront and the neighbourhood district of Rua Seis do Bairro Iao Hon, macaotourism.gov.mo.

Free transfer from Hong Kong

The Macao Government Tourism Office’s ‘Fly You to Macao’ programme offers free coach transfer from Hong Kong International Airport to Macao for international passport holders. To qualify for this promotion, you must hold an international passport with valid foreign travel documents, a boarding pass to Hong Kong and a declaration form. Before you travel, simply head online; macauhkairportbus.com.

This feature was produced in collaboration with Macao Government Tourism and was first published in the Autumn issue of Asia Family Traveller magazine; read the issue here.