Local Transportation

Peninsular Macau covers an area that’s no more than a few square miles and can mostly be seen on foot. Streets signs are often non-existent and visitors commonly get lost, but this is part of the charm of Macau. There is bus and taxi service available. Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos de Macau and Transportes Urbanos Macau operate bus services. Taxi service is reasonably priced and distances between attractions are very short.

Other than walking, the best way to get around the Macau Peninsula is by air-conditioned bus or minibus. Routes take in most of the sights. Taxis are metered and reasonably priced, but not too many drivers speak English. As for those touristy three-wheeled pedicabs ( triciclos ) clustered round the Jetfoil pier and Lisboa Hotel - well, they can be more expensive than the taxis, plus they're slow-moving and restricted to touring the waterfront. Bicycles can be hired from Taipa Village but remember you cannot cross the Taipa-Macau bridges on a bike. Driving in Macau can be a somewhat hair-raising experience - there are way too many cars in too small a space, and the drivers all seem to think they're Grand Prix heroes. Cars can be hired though the traditional Mokes (Jeep like-convertible) may soon be phased out. Either way, they're best reserved for more tranquil Taipa and Coloane.

pedicabs

Pedicabs are the slowest but also the most romantic and venerable way of experiencing the long sweep of the Praia Grande Bay, and the older and traditional streets downtown.

Main locations for catching a cycle-rickshaw are : outside the Maritime Terminal and opposite the main door of the Lisboa Hotel. Fares are negotiable, but expect to pay about MOP$150 for an one hour trip, depending on where you go. Be sure to agree on a price first.

taxis

Taxis are easy to get most of the time. The all-yellow taxis are radio equipped while the cream-black taxis are not.

Fares are standardized. Flagfall is MOP$10 for the first 1500 metres and then MOP$1 for every subsequent 250 metres. Luggage carried in the trunk is charged at MOP$3 per item. Trips from Taipa to Coloane have a surcharge of MOP$2 while trips from Macau to Coloane have MOP$5 surcharge. For journeys starting from Macau International Airport, there is a surcharge of MOP$5. There is no surcharge for returning trips to Macau.

buses

The two bus companies offer air-conditioned buses and mini-buses service from 6:15a.m. to 12:00 mn at high frequency on routes within the city. The fare is MOP$2.50 per journey.

Buses also shuttle from Macau to popular tourist destinations on the islands through out the day, The fares range from MOP $3.3 to MOP $5. Route number AP1 links the airport with the ferry terminal and downtown. It costs MOP$3.3.

self drive

Normal vehicles and motorbikes are available for hire, but a great way to explore the islands of Taipa and Coloane is by driving the characteristic mokes, which are mini-based jeeps with sunroofs.
Drivers must be at least 21 years of age and hold a valid International Driving License for driving in Macao.