Portas do Cerco (Border Gate), Macau - A man riding a motorcycle in front of a gate
1 / 10

Portas do Cerco (Border Gate) Macau

4.6
·491k reviews·, Macao

Historic 1870s Portuguese gate marking the Macau-China border, offering a unique walkable crossing experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Experience the bustling atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Portas do Cerco (Border Gate), Macau - A man riding a motorcycle in front of a gate

Portas do Cerco (Border Gate) Macau

Best Time

Daytime

Experience the bustling atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1870s Portuguese gate marking the Macau-China border, offering a unique walkable crossing experience.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience the unique sensation of walking across an international border at this historic Macau landmark."

Vertical photo
TIP

Visa for China

Ensure your China visa is complete before attempting to cross. :passport:

Border Crossing Choice

Consider Hengqin border for 24/7 access, especially for foreigners. :bullettrain_front:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Gate

The Historic Gate

Macau-China Border

A striking 1870s Portuguese-style gate, symbolizing the historical connection between Macau and mainland China.

Walkable Border Crossing

Walkable Border Crossing

Portas do Cerco

Experience the unique sensation of walking across an international border, a memorable travel moment.

Gateway to Zhuhai

Gateway to Zhuhai

Macau-China Border

Your entry point to explore Zhuhai, a vibrant city in mainland China, easily accessible on foot.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Border

Crossing from Macau to mainland China via Portas do Cerco requires careful planning. While walkable, visa requirements for China are essential. Some travelers recommend the Hengqin border for a smoother experience, especially if arriving late.

Transportation Tips

Google Maps can be unreliable in Macau. Consider using the Macau Pass for public transport and shopping. Buses from Hong Kong to Macau are often cheaper and less crowded than ferries.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Experience the bustling atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Evening
Why
Fewer crowds, unique ambiance
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tips hemat naik bus dari Hong Kong ke Macau 🇭🇰🇲🇴 . . . . #travel #explore #solotravel #macau #hongkong #hongkongtrip #tutorial #tips #macautrip #transportation #asiatravel #explore #explorepage #libu...
@creativejr
11.3K likes • 282.5K views

Visa for China

Ensure your China visa is complete before attempting to cross. :passport:

Border Crossing Choice

Consider Hengqin border for 24/7 access, especially for foreigners. :bullettrain_front:

DONT TRUST GMAPS😭‼️ bener-bener hampir nyerah but i made it hua akhirnya muterin Macau🤌🏻 #macautiktok🇲🇴 #tipstomacau #hongkongtiktok #hongkongtrip #macao
@matakukecil
10.5K likes • 212.6K views
Lintas negara jalan kali 🚶‍♂️ Aneh juga yaa 🤔 Kalau kalian ada rencana ke Hong Kong dan Macau, coba sekalian consider mampir ke China deh! Khususnya dari Macau, kamu bisa ngerasain lewatin border j...
rakaikrar
82 likes • 4K views

Macau Pass Convenience

Use Macau Pass for easy public transport and shopping. :credit_card:

Bus vs. Ferry

Buses from Hong Kong to Macau are often cheaper and less crowded. :bus:

Unlock the magic of Macao with Macao Pass! 🌟 Your access key to convenience in Macao. 🚀 Skip the lines, embrace the ease, and dive into the adventure! 🎉 #tiktokmacao #macaolife #travelbucketlist #tikt...
@macaotourismgov
10K likes • 272.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Visa for China

Ensure your China visa is complete before attempting to cross. :passport:

Border Crossing Choice

Consider Hengqin border for 24/7 access, especially for foreigners. :bullettrain_front:

Macau Pass Convenience

Use Macau Pass for easy public transport and shopping. :credit_card:

Bus vs. Ferry

Buses from Hong Kong to Macau are often cheaper and less crowded. :bus:

Navigation Apps

Google Maps can be unreliable; explore local alternatives. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Portas do Cerco is a significant landmark for its historical architecture and its function as a major border crossing. Visitors appreciate the unique experience of walking between Macau and mainland China and the convenience it offers for onward travel to Zhuhai. However, navigating Macau's public transport can be challenging due to unreliable mapping apps, and border crossing wait times can vary.

What People Like

Historic Portuguese gate
Walkable border crossing
Gateway to Zhuhai

What People Dislike

Unreliable navigation apps
Potential border queues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Portas do Cerco (Border Gate) by taking local buses in Macau. Some travelers mention needing to take a shuttle to a casino first before transferring to another bus if coming directly from the airport. :bus: Reddit

Yes, you can walk across the border at Portas do Cerco. Ensure you have the necessary visa for mainland China. :walking: Instagram

Many travelers find taking a bus from Hong Kong to Macau to be more economical and less crowded than taking the ferry. :ferry: TikTok

Some casino resorts offer shuttle services that can take you to the vicinity of the border crossings, though direct routes might require transfers. :shuttle_bus: Reddit

You can check wait times for the Macau-Zhuhai border crossings on the official government website, which lists options like Portas do Cerco. :computer: Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a valid visa for mainland China is required for most nationalities to cross at Portas do Cerco. :passport: Instagram

The Gongbei border crossing, which Portas do Cerco connects to, typically closes at 1 AM. However, the Hengqin border crossing is open 24/7 and is also an option for foreigners. :clock1: Reddit

The Macau Pass is primarily for transportation and purchases within Macau. It is not used for border entry into mainland China. :moneybag: TikTok

There are generally no fees for pedestrians to cross the border itself, but you must meet all entry requirements for mainland China. :ticket: Instagram

A valid passport and the appropriate Chinese visa are essential. Some travelers also recommend having your onward travel plans documented. :scroll: Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Navigating Macau can be challenging as Google Maps is not always reliable. Using the Macau Pass for public transport and familiarizing yourself with bus routes is recommended. :bus: TikTok

Portas do Cerco is a busy landmark, especially during peak hours, as it's a major crossing point. It offers a unique experience of walking between two distinct territories. :people_hugging: Instagram

Photography is generally permitted in public areas, but be mindful of any restricted zones or security personnel. :camera: Instagram

The currency in mainland China is the Renminbi (CNY). You'll need to exchange your currency or use payment apps that support CNY. :yen:

The time taken to cross can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the specific border gate. Walking across is quick, but immigration and customs checks can take time. :stopwatch: Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the iconic Portuguese-style gate itself, the bustling activity of the border crossing, and the transition between Macau and mainland China. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Drone usage is likely restricted in border areas due to security regulations. Always check local drone laws before flying. :noentrysign:

Daytime offers vibrant scenes of activity, while early morning or late evening can provide softer light and fewer crowds for more atmospheric shots. :sunriseovermountains: :city_sunset:

The unique aspect is capturing the 'walking across countries' experience, showing the distinct architectural styles and the flow of people. :camera: Instagram

Vary your settings based on light. For busy scenes, a faster shutter speed can freeze motion. For the gate, a wider aperture can create a nice depth of field. :camerawithflash:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, the Portas do Cerco offers a unique educational opportunity to discuss borders and different countries. While the crossing itself is straightforward, ensure children have their necessary travel documents. Instagram Consider using the Macau Pass for easier public transport, which can make getting to the border less stressful. TikTok The experience of walking across an international border can be exciting for kids, but be prepared for potential crowds and queues, especially during peak travel times. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Portas do Cerco is an excellent point of access for budget travelers looking to explore mainland China from Macau. Walking across the border is free, and opting for bus travel from Hong Kong to Macau is often cheaper than ferries. TikTok Utilizing the Macau Pass for local transport within Macau will also help keep costs down. TikTok Researching visa requirements for China in advance is crucial to avoid unexpected expenses or rejections. Instagram

🚶 Solo Adventurers

Solo travelers will find Portas do Cerco an accessible and intriguing point of entry into mainland China. The ability to walk across the border offers a sense of independence and adventure. Instagram Relying on the Macau Pass for navigation and transport within Macau is a smart move, as local mapping apps can be unreliable. TikTok Be prepared for the border procedures and consider the Hengqin crossing if you're arriving late, as it offers 24/7 access. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Macau's Transportation

Getting around Macau, especially to and from border crossings like Portas do Cerco, can be a bit tricky. Many travelers report that Google Maps is not always reliable for navigation within the city. This means relying on other methods is key. The Macau Pass is highly recommended by visitors for its convenience. It functions similarly to other transit cards in Asia, allowing you to easily pay for public buses, and can also be used for purchases at convenience stores and some dining establishments. TikTok

For those traveling from Hong Kong, taking a bus is often cited as a more budget-friendly and less crowded option compared to the ferry. TikTok If you're arriving at Macau International Airport and heading directly to the Gongbei border (connected to Portas do Cerco), be aware that you might need to take a shuttle to a casino first, and then transfer to another bus. Reddit This multi-step process highlights the importance of planning your route in advance.

When considering border crossings, the Hengqin border is noted as being open 24/7 and a potentially smoother option for foreigners, especially if arriving late at night. Reddit This offers an alternative to the Gongbei border, which has more limited operating hours. Understanding these transportation nuances will significantly enhance your travel experience in Macau.

Crossing the Border: What to Expect

The Portas do Cerco, or Border Gate, is a significant landmark marking the physical connection between Macau and mainland China. It's a place where you can literally walk from one territory to another, a unique experience for many travelers. Instagram The gate itself is an impressive 1870s Portuguese-style structure, offering a visual representation of the historical ties between the regions. As you approach, you'll notice the increased security and the flow of people crossing in both directions.

Crucially, visa requirements for mainland China are paramount. Most nationalities will need a valid Chinese visa to enter. Instagram It's essential to have all your documentation in order before you even consider crossing. Some travelers have found the Gongbei border crossing to be a 'pain' at times, suggesting that the Hengqin border might offer a more streamlined experience, especially as it operates 24/7. Reddit This is particularly relevant if your travel plans involve late-night arrivals or departures.

While the act of walking across the border is straightforward, the immigration and customs procedures can take time, so factor this into your schedule. Checking border crossing wait times through official government resources can help you plan your journey more effectively. Reddit The experience at Portas do Cerco is not just about transit; it's a tangible encounter with geopolitical boundaries and the daily lives of those who traverse them.

You may also like

1 of 2