Hotels near Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral

Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral Hotels

Whilst the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’ is predominantly known for its grand and glitzy casino hotels, the city is packed with historical sites too. Possibly Macau’s best known landmark, the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral are what remains of a 17th century Portuguese church. The most prominent part of the ruins is the building’s ornate stone façade, which sits perched upon a small hill. Its stonework features intricate carvings, created by local craftsmen and Japanese Christians during the early 1600’s.

Things to see

Alongside the church ruins, the UNESCO listed ‘Historic Centre of Macau’ offers lots of fascinating sites for history buffs, including Senado Square. Flanked by elegant European-style buildings and paved with a traditional Portuguese wave design, the gently bustling plaza is home to a collection of shops, restaurants, and cafés. Whist the Lisboa Casino isn’t exactly a historical site, it opened during the 1960s, making it the first of Macau’s many casinos. Still operating today, the neon-drenched hub captures the glamour of yesteryear’s gaming, and features over 100 slot machines and almost 150 table games. Across the water on Taipa Island, the Taipa Houses-Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s colonial past. The outdoor centre features 5 restored homes, originally built in 1921 by affluent Portuguese families. Visitors can take a snoop through the mint green abodes, which feature furnishings and décor influenced by the Portuguese and Chinese styles of the time.

Hotels in Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral

Because it’s situated within easy reach of the city centre, you’ll find no shortage of hotels near the Ruin’s of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Here you can take your pick from one of the city’s grandiose 4 to 5-star casino hotels such as Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16 and Grand Emperor Hotel, or opt for something more simple, affordable, and low-key. Whilst most hotels near the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral offer the convenience of on-site restaurants and bars, the city’s casino hotels boast a world of luxurious features. Among them you can expect everything from trendy nightclubs and shimmering outdoor swimming pools, to state of the art fitness facilities, and plush suites boasting designer décor and floor-to-ceiling views.

Where to stay

Whilst it’s not a huge city, Macau has 2 very distinct personalities. There’s the neon-gilded gambler’s paradise, with its towering casino hotels, modern nightspots, and non-stop hustle and bustle. And then there’s the historic centre, where the city’s unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese culture can be seen in its colonial architecture, temples, and tantalizing culinary traditions. More of the region’s cultural landscape can be seen in the slightly more peaceful Taipa, just over the bridge from Macau. With its old weathered architecture contrasting against the steely skyscrapers, it’s home to traditional Chinese shophouses, quaint temples, and Food Street - which offers foodies a multicultural feast.

How to get to Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral

The city’s nearest major airport is Macau International - situated just across the water on the east coast of Taipa Island. Because it mainly serves Asian destinations however, those flying from further afield may find it more convenient land at the better-connected Hong Kong International Airport. If that’s the case, then there’s a direct ferry service from the airport to the Macau Ferry Terminal, which sits just a few minutes away from the city’s core. Whether you arrive at the Macau Ferry Terminal or Macau International however, a taxi to a hotel near the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral shouldn’t cost much at all.