3 Best Sights in Macau, China

Macau’s largest representation of Guangdong residential architecture spans 43,055 square feet and has more than 60 lovingly restored rooms. Built in 1869 and refurbished in 2010, the compound blends Chinese and Western architectural elements. It was the home of Zheng Guanying, a late Qing Dynasty literary figure, who completed his influential Words of Warning in Times of Prosperity here. Just steps away, Lilau Square, a banyan-shaded plaza near one of Macau’s first Portuguese residential quarters, reflects the city’s deep cultural ties.

Founded by Jesuits in 1560, the Church of St. Lawrence is one of Macau’s three oldest churches and has been carefully rebuilt over the centuries, with its current form dating to 1846. Set amid palm-shaded gardens overlooking the sea, it once drew families of Portuguese sailors, who gathered on its steps to pray for their loved ones’ safe return, hence its Chinese name, Feng Shun Tang (Hall of the Soothing Winds). Inside, elegant wood carvings, striking stained glass, a baroque altar, and crystal chandeliers create a breathtaking display of craftsmanship and devotion.

This large, family-friendly park has extensive botanical gardens, ponds, and waterfalls, as well as the popular Giant Panda Pavilion and a walk-through aviary with more than 200 bird species. There are lots of things of interest to children, including playgrounds, a minizoo with flamingos, monkeys, and other animals, and an interactive museum with exhibits on nature and agriculture.