The last day in Macau is always special. After exploring the grand casinos of Taipa, today I chose to explore the other side of the city—Old Town Macau, often called San Ma Lo. From the Grand Lisboa Hotel, a taxi took us along Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, the main street on the Macau Peninsula, which, despite its name, remains narrow. Turn after turn, the street became narrower, and finally, we decided to get out of the taxi and walk along the pedestrian-only alleys.
Walking the cobblestone streets of Old Town, I felt as if I had traveled through time. Portuguese colonial buildings coexisted with elements of Chinese culture, creating a unique architectural harmony. The chaotic traffic was replaced by the hustle and bustle of people from all over the world, and each corner held its own unique charm.
As usual, I didn’t miss the Portuguese Egg Tarts, pastel de nata, a Macanese culinary icon. The crust is crispy, layered, with a soft custard center—just the right amount of sweetness, reminiscent of this snack’s long history, from the Jeronimos Monastery in Portugal to local adaptations in Macau. While a single piece costs almost 2 euros in Lisbon, here 50 Patakas buys four. For me, the Macanese version is more appetizing, although of course everyone’s tastes vary.
After munching on the sweet egg tart, my gaze fell on the majestic facade of the Ruins of St. Paul, the remains of the 17th-century Mater Dei Church. The steps leading to the ruins were crowded with tourists, but the hustle and bustle only added to the lively atmosphere. Around the ruins, local vendors hawked souvenirs and local snacks, while taxis occasionally passed by, moving slower than people on foot—our decision to get out proved to be a good one.
Enjoying matcha ice cream at one of the small shops added to the refreshing experience. The bittersweet flavor, typical of Japanese green tea, felt like an oasis in the city heat. Not only was it refreshing, but it also reflected the vibrant cultural mix of Macau, a city with both Portuguese colonial roots and Asian influences.
The journey continues to Senado Square, a historic plaza surrounded by Portuguese-style colonial buildings. The cobblestone streets, patterned with black and white waves, evoke the classic atmosphere of the Iberian Peninsula. Surrounding the square are the Leal Senado and St. Dominic’s Church, showcasing a blend of Eastern and Western architecture, while cafes, shops, and restaurants add to the vibrant city.
We conclude our journey through Macau’s Old Town in front of the beautiful Macau Post Office, a perfect place to conclude our exploration before waiting for a taxi back to the hotel. This afternoon, we continue our journey to Zhuhai, on the border with Guangdong Province. Macau’s Old Town, with its narrow streets, delicious egg tarts, and storied ruins, leaves an unforgettable impression.
