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An influx of luxury hotels has transformed Macau into a posh place to stay. The musty three-stars are still out there, but the five-stars are generally worth the splurge. For a true Macau experience, try staying in pousadas, restored historic buildings that have been converted into intimate hotels with limited facilities but lots of character.

PLANNING

When choosing a hotel, consider the surroundings. In pulsating downtown Macau (or in the Outer Harbour, connected to downtown via frequent casino shuttles), historic and cultural sites, casinos, and restaurants are all within walking distance. Hotels in more residential Taipa, just a short bus- or taxi-ride away, often have incomparable sea and bright-lights views. And if you spring for the Altira Macau, you can enjoy the many top-rate facilities within walking distance of Taipa Village. The Cotai Strip offers one-stop sleeping, shopping, eating, and gambling; outside the resorts, however, it’s still a construction field, with new, glitzy hotels opening frequently. The peaceful Inner Harbour has excellent sea views, but for true otherworldly quiet, head to Coloane, where you can hit the beach and hiking trails.

For discounted rates in the grand hotels, book a package through a Hong Kong travel agency. If your tastes are more modest, agents at the Macau hydrofoil terminal can get you a room in a three- to four-star property for a reduced price, subject to availability. Macau hotels are busiest during the Grand Prix (mid- to late November) and all official Chinese holidays. Book at least a couple of weeks in advance at these times. Year-round, weekends fill up fast and walk-ins can be prohibitively expensive. Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and inflated prices. Hotel prices are for two people in a standard double room in high season, excluding 10% service charge and 3% government tax.

DOWNTOWN MACAU

Hotel Lisboa.
$$ | HOTEL | In Macau’s infamous landmark, redolent with history and intrigue, labyrinthine hallways and salons display jade and artworks, and an ostentatiously gilded staircase leads to luxurious guestrooms with handcrafted furniture and Jacuzzi baths. The old hotel now stands in the shadow of its Grand Lisboa sister; the two are connected by a bridge and share facilities, such as the Grand’s modern pool, gym, and spa. Many people come to the Lisboa expressly for its restaurants, most notably Portas do Sol. Pros: historic interior; central location; superior restaurants; linked to the Grand Lisboa.Cons: older building; low ceilings; smoky casino. | Rooms from: MOP$1,480 | 2–4 Av. de Lisboa, Downtown | 853/2888–3888 | www.hotelisboa.com |950 rooms, 50 suites | No meals.

Hotel Sintra.
$$ | HOTEL | What these business lodgings lack in luxury they make up for with lots of pluses: the location, minutes away from Senado Square, is great; the cozy, carpeted rooms are decorated in soothing brown-and-cream color schemes; and the staff is smartly dressed and helpful. The Mocha, a mini-casino owned by the same company as the Altira’s Mocha, is accessible through the lobby, and the New Yaohan department store is right down the street. Breakfast is an extra MOP$121 for an American buffet. Pros: in the heart of downtown; simple but tasteful decor. Cons: small rooms; lackluster dining options. | Rooms from: MOP$1,200 | Av. de Dom João IV, Downtown | 853/2871–0111, 800/969–145 in Hong Kong | www.hotelsintra.com | 240 rooms, 9 suites | No meals.

Fodor’s Choice | MGM Macau.
$$$ | HOTEL | The chic accommodations, with their muted cream, brown, and beige color palette, have everything you’d expect in the way of comfort and elegance from a luxury brand; the striking hotel around them, however, distinguishes these rooms from the rest. A golden lion statue stands guard over the grounds on the peninsula’s southern coast; artwork by Dale Chihuly adorns the hotel lobby and reception; and the spectacular Grande Praça (Grand Square), a glass-ceiling space modeled after a European town square, serves as an inner courtyard and offers dining under the stars. Pros: tasteful architecture; fine art; refined dining and lounge options. Cons: inseparable from the casino, which can get smoky and loud; high-traffic location. | Rooms from: MOP$2,688 | Av. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, NAPE, Outer Harbour | 853/8802–8888 | www.mgmmacau.com | 468 rooms, 99 suites, 15 villas | No meals.

Pousada de Mong-Há.
$ | B&B/INN | A training hotel run by students of the Institute for Tourism Studies offers exemplary service and spacious rooms nicely decorated with hand-stitched carpets. This secluded pousada halfway up Mong-Há Hill was once a Portuguese military barracks, before being used to house foreign civil servants. The restaurant, open at breakfast and teatime, shows off traditional Portuguese azulejos (tiles). Kun Iam and Lin Fung temples are nearby.Pros: historic charm; hillside walks and views. Cons: half-hour walk north from city center; no pool. | Rooms from: MOP$700 | Colina de Mong-Há,Downtown | 853/2851–5222 | www.ift.edu.mo/pousada | 20 rooms and suites | Breakfast.

StarWorld Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Luminous open-plan suites have high ceilings, Jacuzzi tubs, and panoramic bay windows, and even the deluxe rooms, with their high-quality bedding and dark-wood furniture, make you feel like you’re somewhere special. Flashy dancers and live bands entertain at the happening Whisky Bar on the 16th floor, as well as downstairs in the lobby. The dazzling blue building was designed by Rocco Yim, also known for Hong Kong’s towering Two IFC. Pros: celestially designed suites; live entertainment in the lobby and lounge bar. Cons: high energy at all hours; in a heavy-traffic area. | Rooms from: MOP$2,500 | Av. da Amizade, Downtown | 853/2838–3838 | www.starworldmacau.com | 465 rooms, 40 suites | No meals.

Wynn Macau.
$$$ | HOTEL | If you just can’t get enough of the Wynn’s Performance Lake, all rooms here have floor-to-ceiling windows—many with a plunging view of the fire-and-water spectacle, as well as of the peaceful Nam Van Lake. Alternatively, you can opt for a glittering city view of the outdoor pool and neighboring Lisboa casinos. Fine dining options include Il Teatro and Golden Flower, which has a resident tea sommelier. Pros: exclusive VIP club space; Nam Van and Performance Lake views. Cons: light pollution from neighboring casinos; lowest rooms on 5th floor. | Rooms from: MOP$2,500 | Rua Cidade de Sintra, Downtown | 853/2888–9966, 800/966–963 in Hong Kong | www.wynnmacau.com | 460 rooms, 134 suites | No meals.

MACAU OUTER HARBOUR

FAMILY | Grand Lapa Macau.
$ | RESORT | With a more understated opulence than many of its neighbors, the Grand Lapa weaves Mediterranean charm throughout the resort. The rooms feature old-world Portuguese decor, with views of the city or of the resort itself. The Grand Lapa is also widely known for deluxe treatments in the enormous spa complex next to the tropical swimming pool. The hotel’s renowned restaurants include the Café Bela Vista for its endless buffet and green views. Pros: classic luxury facilities; new gym; tennis courts; kid’s club. Cons: old casino; rooms showing age; high-traffic location. | Rooms from: MOP$1,000 | 956–1110 Av. da Amizade, Outer Harbour | 853/2856-7888, 2881–1288 in Hong Kong | www.grandlapa.com | 389 rooms, 27 suites | No meals.

Rocks Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | The posh yet quaint five-story Rocks Hotel is done up in English Victorian style, and each room and suite is individually decorated. All rooms have a novelty old-fashioned bathtub in addition to a modern shower stall, and balconies offer sea views on all sides. The extensive Asian and American breakfast buffet (included in rate) will keep you fueled during your day’s adventures. Pros: distinctive decor; low-key fine dining. Cons: no pool or spa; inside an amusement park. | Rooms from: MOP$1,700 | Macau Fisherman’s Wharf, Outer Harbour | 853/2878–2782, 800/962–863 in Hong Kong |www.rockshotel.com.mo | 66 rooms, 6 suites | Breakfast.

Sands Macao.
$$$ | HOTEL | The Sands Macao is nothing if not luxurious, with spacious rooms that have deep, soft carpets, large beds, and huge marble bathrooms with Jacuzzis. If you opt to become a high-rolling member, you can stay in one of the 51 deluxe or executive suites, ranging in size from 92 to 743 square meters (990 to 8,000 square feet), with all-in-one remote-control plasma TV, karaoke, and lighting, plus personal butler service on request. VIP members also have privileges such as high-limit gaming rooms at both Sands casinos and at the Venetian Macao. All guests can enjoy the outdoor heated pool on the 6th floor, as well as the exclusive sauna, spa, and salon. Pros: heated outdoor pool; across the street from Fisherman’s Wharf. Cons: older property; near lots of traffic. | Rooms from: MOP$2,000 | 203 Largo de Monte Carlo, Outer Harbour | 853/2888–3388 | www.sands.com.mo | 238 suites, 51 VIP suites |No meals.

MACAU INNER HARBOUR

Fodor’s Choice | Pousada de São Tiago.
$$$$ | B&B/INN | This romantic lodging’s origins as a 17th-century fortress permeate every corner, from the tunnel-like entrance to the 12 modern luxury suites, each boasting a Jacuzzi bathroom and large balcony. La Paloma, the on-site restaurant, specializes in Spanish dishes, but you can also enjoy high tea beneath 100-year-old tress on the terrace, or stop for tapas in the mirrored Cascata Bar. Pros: all the modern comfort of a luxury hotel; complimentary minibar and Wi-Fi; intimate sunset views of the Inner Harbour. Cons: small pool; limited facilities. | Rooms from: MOP$3,000 | Fortaleza de São Tiago da Barra, Av. da República, Inner Harbour | 853/2837–8111 | www.saotiago.com.mo | 12 suites | No meals.

Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16.
$$ | HOTEL | Ever since its 2008 opening, Ponte 16 has pioneered the revamp of Macau’s retro western port into an emerging casino and commercial pole. The neighborhood may not be there yet, but Sofitel is Ponte 16’s crown jewel, with over-the-top themed suites and a giant, curvaceous pool, complete with cocktail and juice bar, just outside the indoor buffet lounge. Adventurous and up-and-coming, it is stocked with topshelf perks and, oddly enough, a Michael Jackson museum. Pros: outdoor pool with bar; some rooms have unique views of the Inner Harbour. Cons: still-developing neighborhood; heavy traffic outside; tough to get a cab. | Rooms from: MOP$1,485 | Rua do Visconde Paço de Arcos, Inner Harbour | 853/8861–0016 | www.ponte16.com.mo | 363 rooms, 45 suites | No meals.

TAIPA

Fodor’s Choice | Altira Macau.
$$$ | HOTEL | Towering over northern Taipa, the Altira provides stunning sea views of the Macau Peninsula from all its suitelike rooms, each of which also comes with a dedicated lounge, walk-in wardrobe, and circular stone bath. Other perks here include a panoramic-view swimming pool, a two-level spa with 12 treatment rooms, and classy VIP gaming rooms. For cool cocktails in a romantic setting, 38 Lounge has starlight seating on the roof. Pros: eye-popping pool; open-air rooftop bar. Cons: may sometimes be noisy from nearby construction; still a taxi ride from the peninsula. | Rooms from: MOP$2,500 | Av. de Kwong Tung, Taipa | 853/2886–8888 | www.altiramacau.com | 184 rooms, 24 suites, 8 villas | No meals.

COLOANE

FAMILY | Fodor’s Choice | Grand Coloane Beach Resort.
$$ | RESORT | This is where you truly get away from it all: built into the side of a cliff, every room faces the ocean, and the vast private terraces are ideal for alfresco dining and afternoon naps. Guests also receive access to Macau’s renowned golf club, the PGA-standard, 18-hole Macau Golf and Country Club, which was built on the rocky cliffs and plateaus above the hotel. Pros: green surroundings on Hác-Sá Beach; golf-club access; free shuttles; fun for kids.Cons: isolated location. | Rooms from: MOP$1,300 | 1918 Estrada de Hác Sá, Coloane Island South | 853/2887–1111, 852/2114–4368 in Hong Kong |www.grandcoloane.com | 200 rooms, 8 suites | No meals.

COTAI STRIP

Crown Towers.
$$$ | HOTEL | The lobby of the Crown Towers is filled with fine art, alluding to the luxury within. The bright rooms are spacious at 47 to 81 square meters (506 to 872 square feet), with soft carpeting, sleek furnishings, and huge bathrooms. The spa, with an indoor heated pool and fully equipped fitness center nearby, has an extensive menu of relaxing treatments as well as a Jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna. Pros: plenty of privacy; luxurious spa. Cons: part of a themed complex; undergoing construction to expand. | Rooms from: MOP$2,300 | City of Dreams,1 Estrada do Istmo, Cotai | 853/8868–6888 |www.cityofdreamsmacau.com | 257 rooms, 33 suites | No meals.

Four Seasons Hotel Macao.
$$$$ | HOTEL | With five pools ringed by private cabanas, a restaurant that earned two Michelin stars, and a sensational spa offering the latest treatments, the Four Seasons Hotel Macao conscientiously upholds its brand-name reputation. Nestled in the southeast corner of the Venetian Macao complex, it’s independently managed, and, without a casino to worry about, the focus is on providing guests with the best possible experience. The understated luxurious decor in the rooms is a welcome respite from the overwrought design of the nearby Venetian. The luxury boutiques of the Shoppes at Four Seasons await just outside the lobby, as you rejoin the tourist flow. Pros: luxury from start to finish; focus on service; extensive spa treatments.Cons: beside a shopping mall. | Rooms from: MOP$3,200 | Estrada da Baía de N. Senhora da Esperança, Cotai | 853/2881–8888 |www.fourseasons.com/macau | 276 rooms, 84 suites | No meals.

Grand Hyatt Macau.
$$$ | HOTEL | The Grand Hyatt Macau’s two towers were inspired by waves, in keeping with the aquatic City of Dreams theme. The elegant interior has both Portuguese and Chinese decorative elements, and the rooms are comfortable, rather than ostentatious, with simple soft white sheets, plush brown carpeting, and a sleekly designed bathroom. Speedy check-in and check-out make the trip smooth. Pros: stunning pool area; large spa with extensive menu. Cons: nearby construction; surrounding neighborhood lacks character. | Rooms from: MOP$2,088 | City of Dreams, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai |853/8868–1234 | www.macau.grand.hyatt.com | 791 rooms, 288 suites | No meals.

Hard Rock Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | This may be the perfect hotel for music enthusiasts, with some 700 pieces of memorabilia displayed in various spots throughout. The rooms are hip and cozy, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows that let in ample natural light and lovely minimalist bathrooms. You can select your very own soundtrack from the streaming tunes to set the mood for your vacation, or plug in your own MP3 player. Because it is part of the City of Dreams complex, restaurants, bars, and shops are accessible without even stepping foot outside. Near the pool there’s an artificial beach, complete with a beach volleyball set-up. Pros: youthful appeal; makes use of new technology Cons: music theme may not appeal to everyone. | Rooms from: MOP$1,200 | City of Dreams,2 Estrada do Istmo, Cotai | 853/8868–3338 | www.hardrockhotelmacau.com | 256 rooms; 66 suites | No meals.

Pousada de Coloane.
$$ | B&B/INN | At Cheoc-Van Beach, on the southernmost tip of Coloane, Pousada de Coloane makes the most of its quiet, natural setting. There are ample opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and swimming. A long winding path paved with Portuguese azulejo tiles leads you to a spacious beach-view terrace, which is ideal for outdoor wedding receptions and other celebrations. The open terrace restaurant serves traditional Portuguese, Macanese, and Chinese favorites cooked in a heavy, home-style way, but there are also seafood restaurants down on the beach itself. All 30 rooms have private hot tubs, cable TV, elaborate Portuguese furniture, and free WiFi. Private balconies overlook the water, with the mountains of mainland China in the distance. Pros:intimate coastal location; sea-view balconies. Cons: limited facilities; far-flung address. | Rooms from: MOP$1,200 | Cheoc Van Beach, Coloane Island South | 853/2888–2143 | www.hotelpcoloane.com.mo | 30 rooms | Breakfast.

Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel.
$$$$ | RESORT | You either love it or you hate it. The Venetian Macao’s strong presence in the Cotai area is both its draw and its bane. It’s not everywhere you have singing gondoliers in manmade canals leading to clowns on stilts under an always-blue sky—but the other place you find it is Vegas, not Venice. Service is geared toward mainland Chinese gamblers, confirming that the Venetian is first a casino, second a shopping mall, third a convention and entertainment venue, and only last a hotel. On the upside, its Royale, Bella, and Rialto suites are spacious enough for family-sized comfort, and the extra TV in every room, the variety of swimming pools, and the miniature 18-hole golf course make the difference with the kids. Come for the over-the-top environment, but be prepared to share it with a round-the-clock flow of tourists. Pros: living rooms; comprehensive shopping and dining. Cons:pretentious decor; gambling and convention crowds; lack of intimacy outside the suite. | Rooms from: MOP$4,000 | Estrada de Baía de N. Senhora da Esperança, Cotai | 853/2882–8888 | www.venetianmacao.com | 2,841 suites, 64 Paiza suites | No meals.