Golden Reel Macau
Ride the world's highest figure-8 Ferris wheel for stunning Macau views, blending European charm with modern entertainment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Golden Reel Macau
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the world's highest figure-8 Ferris wheel for stunning Macau views, blending European charm with modern entertainment.
"Experience the world's highest figure-8 Ferris wheel, a cinematic marvel redefining skyline views in Macau."
🚎 Free Shuttle Buses
Utilize free shuttle buses from casinos and ferry terminals to get around easily.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historic sites and resorts. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Reel Ferris Wheel
Studio City Macau
Ride the world's highest figure-8 Ferris wheel for breathtaking panoramic views of Macau.
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Ruins of Saint Paul's
Historic Centre of Macau
Iconic facade, a testament to Macau's rich history and Portuguese colonial past.
Senado Square
Historic Centre of Macau
Vibrant European-style plaza, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere and people-watching.
The Venetian Macau
Cotai Strip
Experience a slice of Venice with its canals, gondolas, and grand architecture.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Macau: Budget-Friendly Options
Maximizing Your Macau Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚎 Free Shuttle Buses
Utilize free shuttle buses from casinos and ferry terminals to get around easily.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historic sites and resorts. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget-Friendly Travel
Many attractions are free, and you can find great food deals. Look for Klook discounts! +1
📸 Capture the Architecture
Macau's unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese influences makes for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚎 Free Shuttle Buses
Utilize free shuttle buses from casinos and ferry terminals to get around easily.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historic sites and resorts. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget-Friendly Travel
Many attractions are free, and you can find great food deals. Look for Klook discounts! +1
📸 Capture the Architecture
Macau's unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese influences makes for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Plan Your Route
Group attractions by area to save time and energy. Consider a one-day itinerary if short on time. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Macau's unique blend of cultures, stunning architecture, and the thrill of its casinos and entertainment. The Golden Reel Ferris Wheel is a standout attraction for its views. While many find it easy to explore on a budget using free shuttles and affordable food, some find the sheer scale of the resorts overwhelming.
"I visited on Monday, and was one of 6 people who ride it. No line at all no where. Was at sunset time and colors were fantastic! Also part glass floor at the cabins!!Highly recommend to visit it for wonderful views of Macau."
Maria Mikheeva
"It’s a nice wheel little different from others, already on 23rd floor so it’s huge in height already, people might like it but not recommended for people with heart problems, as when it takes the curve for completing the 8 from the between it might give you goosebumps and when it’s at the top in centre, it’s at great height and give a spectacular view of the whole Macau city. It has glass all over and a small glass portion on the floor too, as compared to other wheels in Asia it’s not huge like them, it can be a good time paas in Macau, the studio city is full of excitements, recommended to visit with family and friends.
We don’t need to buy tickets in advance as their in not much rush at the ticket counter, per person is 100 Hk$."
nitish singhal
"There was not much of a line even on a Sunday so no need to buy tickets in advance. We got a carriage all to ourselves. Good views, but not really the best when compared to other bigger Ferris Wheels around Asia."
Dexter Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a ferry or a bus. Buses are often recommended as they can be cheaper and avoid ferry terminal crowds. Look for services from Hong Kong's various transport hubs. +1
Yes, international tourists can sometimes travel to Macau directly from Hong Kong Airport without clearing Hong Kong immigration by using specific transfer desks.
Free shuttle buses provided by casinos are a great way to navigate between major resorts and ferry terminals. Taxis and public buses are also available.
Some promotions or specific routes might offer free ferry rides, especially if you book certain packages or during promotional periods. Check TurboJET's website for details.
The ferry journey typically takes about an hour, while bus routes can vary but are often comparable or slightly longer, depending on traffic and border crossing times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many nationalities, including Singaporeans and Malaysians, can enter visa-free for short stays. Always check official government sources for the latest information.
Ticket prices for the Golden Reel can vary. It's best to check the official Studio City Macau website or booking platforms like Klook for current pricing and any available discounts.
Absolutely! Many of Macau's most famous landmarks, like the Ruins of Saint Paul's and Senado Square, are free to visit. Exploring the grand casinos and their themed areas is also free.
Operating hours for the Golden Reel can change seasonally or due to special events. It's advisable to check the Studio City Macau website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, booking tickets for popular attractions like the Golden Reel in advance through platforms like Klook can often save you money and time. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the Ruins of Saint Paul's, Senado Square, the Venetian canals, and the unique architecture of Studio City, especially the Golden Reel.
The Golden Reel offers panoramic views, making it great for photos. Consider going during sunset or at night for stunning cityscapes.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of Studio City, but specific exhibits or performances might have restrictions. Always be mindful of signage.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most travelers. :iphone:
The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset offers beautiful lighting. Nighttime is also spectacular for capturing the illuminated casinos and city skyline.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss Portuguese egg tarts, almond cookies, and Macanese specialties like African chicken and Minchi. Exploring local eateries can be very rewarding.
Yes, you can find delicious and affordable local snacks and meals in smaller eateries and food streets away from the main tourist hubs.
Several bakeries are famous for their egg tarts, including Lord Stow's Bakery and Margaret's Café e Nata. Trying them from different places is part of the fun!
Casinos offer a wide range of dining, from casual food courts to Michelin-starred restaurants. You can find international cuisine and local favorites.
Dining costs can range from very affordable street food and local eateries to high-end fine dining in the resorts. Budgeting accordingly is key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The resort also features the Super Fun Zone, an indoor playground, and a water park, perfect for burning off energy. Exploring the historic center can also be engaging for children, with its unique architecture and open spaces like Senado Square.
💰 Budget Travelers
Food is another area where you can save significantly. Instead of expensive resort restaurants, seek out local eateries and street food stalls for delicious and affordable Macanese specialties and snacks like almond cookies and egg tarts.
couples
Stroll hand-in-hand through the historic streets, admire the colonial architecture, and enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the many charming restaurants. Consider a visit to The Venetian Macau for a gondola ride along its indoor canals, evoking the romance of Venice.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Golden Reel: A Unique Experience
This unique design makes it the world's first and highest figure-8 Ferris wheel, offering a truly distinctive ride experience. Each of the 17 cabins is designed to provide a comfortable and immersive journey, allowing you to take in the sprawling views of Macau's glittering skyline. +1Travelers often highlight the stunning panoramic views from the Golden Reel, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights up.
It's a fantastic spot for photography, capturing the vastness of the Cotai area and beyond. While it's a major attraction, visiting during weekday afternoons can help you avoid the largest crowds, ensuring a more relaxed experience. Beyond the ride itself, the Golden Reel is part of the larger Studio City complex, which offers a plethora of entertainment options, including a water park and a 'Super Fun Zone' for kids.
This makes it a great stop for families and couples looking for a memorable experience that combines thrilling views with entertainment.Navigating Macau: Transportation Tips
For those arriving from Hong Kong, taking a bus is often a more economical and less crowded option than the ferry.
Once within Macau, walking is essential for exploring the historic center, including Senado Square and the Ruins of Saint Paul's.
Macau's Unique Blend of Cultures
This cultural fusion extends to Macau's famous cuisine. Macanese dishes are a delicious mix of Portuguese and Chinese flavors, with influences from Southeast Asia and Africa. Must-try items include the iconic Portuguese egg tart, almond cookies, and savory dishes like African chicken and Minchi.
Beyond the historical sites and food, the city's modern landscape is dominated by lavish casinos and resorts, often themed after famous global landmarks like Venice or Paris.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit