Getting Around Macau
Not to be confused with getting to Macau — this is how to move around once you're there, from free casino shuttles to public buses.
Macau is small enough that no single journey takes very long, but the peninsula and Cotai (Taipa/Coloane) feel like distinct zones connected by a handful of bridges. Here's how most visitors move between them. (If you're looking for how to reach Macau in the first place, see our getting to Macau from Hong Kong guide.)
Free casino shuttle buses
Every major casino resort runs its own free shuttle network, connecting the resort to the ferry terminals, the airport, the border gate, and often to other resorts. These are open to the general public, not just hotel guests — you don't need to be staying at a resort or gambling to use its shuttle.
- Routes and schedules are typically posted at the ferry terminals, airport and outside each resort.
- They can get crowded at peak times (weekend evenings, after major shows).
- This is usually the easiest free way to get between the peninsula and Cotai.
Public buses
Macau's public bus network covers the whole territory, including areas the casino shuttles don't reach — useful for Coloane Village, Hac Sa Beach and more residential parts of the peninsula. Fares are low and can typically be paid with a rechargeable transport card or exact change. See our full guide to public buses and the MacauPass card for fares, routes and useful apps.
Taxis & rideshare
- Taxis — metered, reasonably priced for short trips; can be harder to hail on the street during peak hours, especially near the casino resorts.
- Rideshare apps — available and generally reliable; a good backup when taxis are scarce.
Walking
The historic peninsula is very walkable — most of the UNESCO heritage sites are within a 20-minute walk of each other. Cotai's resorts are also connected by covered, air-conditioned walkways in several stretches, useful in Macau's heat and humidity. Crossing between the peninsula and Cotai on foot isn't realistic — use the shuttle, bus or a taxi.
| Peninsula to Cotai | Free casino shuttle, public bus, or taxi (10–20 minutes depending on traffic) |
|---|---|
| Within the peninsula old town | Walking — everything is close together |
| Within Cotai | Walking between neighbouring resorts, or the shuttle network for further stops |
| To Coloane | Public bus or taxi from Taipa/Cotai — no free casino shuttle runs directly there |
Our take
Default to the free casino shuttles for peninsula–Cotai trips — they're free, frequent, and go exactly where most visitors need to be. Save taxis for late-night trips or when a shuttle isn't running your route.
FAQ
Do I need to pay for casino shuttle buses?
No — they're free and open to the general public, not just hotel guests.
How do I get from the peninsula to Taipa or Coloane?
The free casino shuttles or public buses are the easiest options; taxis work too but aren't necessary for this route given the free alternatives.
Is Macau walkable?
The historic peninsula is very walkable on its own; getting between the peninsula and Cotai requires the shuttle, bus or a taxi.