What to see in Macao: 8 must-sees

Peek into the ruins of St. Dominic's Church, in Macau, and walk the stone structures that still rise among the streets of the historic center. Note the architectural details left from the old Dominican church and the reliefs worn by time, as you follow the traces of the communities that occupied it for centuries. From its surroundings you also get a view of the city around the monument, with its commercial alleys and colonial facades.

Look at Macau Tower, the tallest structure in the territory at 338 meters above the isthmus. Ride to the observation deck and gaze across the peninsula, the islands of Taipa and Coloane and the Pearl River Delta on clear days. If you want a thrill, try the bungee jump from the outer platform or walk the glass floor of the observation level. In the base you will find restaurants, cinemas and shops that round off the visit. Inaugurated in 2001, this concrete tower designed by New Zealand architect Gordon Moller has become the reference point of Macau's cityscape.

Behold the facade of the 16th-century Portuguese church where stone, history and culture create a unique monument. UNESCO 2005, Portuguese and stone. Take in the site declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history, architecture and culture create a landscape that has inspired travelers for centuries. UNESCO experts have recognized it for its exceptional value. This site stands as an exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a vanished civilisation.

Discover Nam Van Lake, an artificial lake at the foot of Macau Tower that gathers some of the peninsula's most photographed corners. As evening falls, the dancing fountains start their show of water and light across the surface, while the golden skyline of casinos and hotels reflects on the water. From the pedestrian walkway skirting the shore you get one of the best views of the tower — ideal for anyone after a calm plan between visits to the historic center. Nearby benches and terraces invite a short sit before moving on.

Cross the atrium of the Guia Hermitage and enter the church from which the Portuguese Jesuits evangelised the Far East. Observe the crypt with frescoes blending Western angels and Chinese-style clouds. Then climb to the lighthouse beside the church — the first Western-style one in the Far East — and gaze over the sea and Macau's profile from the hill.

Come down to Hac Sa Beach, the largest in Macau, and walk its shore of dark sand with the sea of Coloane Island ahead. Snorkel in the crystal-clear water, rest in the shade of the trees along the coast and contemplate the contrast between fine sand, sea and the natural landscape around this quiet cove — very unlike the large resorts of the peninsula.

Admire Coloane Island, Macau's greenest corner, where dark-sand beaches alternate with hills of signposted trails and open views over the South China Sea. Follow the path that climbs toward Alto de Coloane, stop at Hac Sa Beach or at Cheoc Van Bay, and watch herons and butterflies among the subtropical vegetation. Over millions of years, the erosion of wind and waves has drawn rock formations you can now explore on foot — far from the casinos and the pace of central Macau.