Bus and taxi services serve as the primary means of public transportation in Macau. As a traveller, you will find it convenient and inexpensive to ride a bus around the territory, with local buses both modern and air-conditioned. Taxis are also regarded a convenient option in this relatively small city. If you want to try something a little different, hire a tricycle, bicycle or car to see the sights.

Buses

A frequent bus service runs between the Macau Peninsula, Taipa and Coloane. Route information in Chinese and Portuguese is posted at every bus stop detailing destinations, itineraries and stops.

Bus fares range from MOP3.20 to MOP6.40 depending upon the distance travelled. Passengers should prepare adequate coins for the fare as no change is given on the buses, all of which are air-conditioned. Routes go to and from different spots in the Macau Peninsula, Taipa and Coloane including Macau International Airport. Some buses even traverse narrow streets and alleys in Macau.

Like everywhere else, it is best to avoid travelling during peak hours. It is also recommended that you bring a map in order to better locate your destination.

For route information, please visit: http://www.dsat.gov.mo/bus, or contact the following transportation (bus) companies:

TRANSMAC - Transportes Urbanos de Macau, S.A.R.L.

Enquiries: (853) 2827 1122

Website: http://www.transmac.com.mo

Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos de Macau, S.A.R.L.

Enquiries: (853) 2885 0060

Website: http://www.tcm.com.mo

REOLIAN - Reolian Public Transport Co., LTD.

Enquiries: (853) 2877 7888

Website: http://www.reolian.com.mo

MACAUpass

MACAUpass is an electronic payment system using IC card technology installed on all public transport in Macau. Passengers need not use coins, and can also use the pass to make purchases at convenience stores, some bakeries, and vending machines.

Website: http://www.macaupass.com

Taxis

There are two kinds of taxi: one is black with a cream roof, while the other is yellow. The flag-fall charge is MOP15.00 for the first 1600 metres, with MOP1.50 added for every 230 metres thereafter. MOP1.50 is charged for waiting per minute at the passenger’s request. There is a MOP3.00 surcharge for each item of luggage carried in the boot.

There is a MOP5.00 surcharge for boarding a taxi at Macau International Airport or journeys from Macau to Coloane. From Taipa to Coloane, a MOP2.00 surcharge applies, while there is no surcharge from Macau to Taipa or from the islands to Macau.

There is also a radio taxi service for passengers, in which the taxi will drive the passenger from his or her location at no extra charge. Enquiries: (853) 2851 9519; 2893 9939; 8500 0000 & 2828 3283.

Car Hire

If you prefer to drive yourself with a map and guide, you can hire a car and travel around Macau at your own pace. To obtain permission to drive in Macau, please consult the Traffic Department of the Macau Public Security Police Force at (853) 2837 4214 / (853) 8598 6376.

For companies of Self-Drive Rent-a-Car, please visit: http://industry.macautourism.gov.mo/en/license/search.php?page_id=89&com_type=18

Pedicabs

The pedicab - or tricycle rickshaw - is a uniquely leisurely, romantic and airy form of transport which visitors can hire to tour the captivating waterfront of Nam Van Lake and Sai Van Lake as well as the older historic streets of downtown Macau. Hired at the Macau Ferry Terminal or near Hotel Lisboa, it is recommended that you confirm the price with the rider prior to embarking upon your adventure.