The Senado Square, also named the “喷水池” by locals, is located in the Lobby area of the Macau Peninsula. As a part of the Historic Centre of Macau, it is listed on the World Heritage List. The square is a lively area of commercial and cultural activities. The architectures around the square are in European style, reflecting the blend of Chinese and Western cultures in Macau.
As the city center of Macau, Senado Square also hosts a variety of performances and events during the major festivals every year. This is a great place to experience the history and culture of Macau. You can’t miss the site during your trip to Macau.
Fast Facts of Senado Square
- In Chinese: 议事亭前地
- In Portuguese: Largo do Senado
- Location: the Central District of Macau, China
- Opening time: All day
- Ticket price: Free
- Recommended visit time: 1-2 hours
- Best time to visit: All year round
- Suited to:culture lovers, history lovers, and shopping lovers
What to See and Do in Senado Square
Visit the Leal Senado Building
One of the landmarks of the Senado Square and is located on the north side of the square. The building is formerly the seat of the Portuguese government in Macau, belonging to the Baroque style of architecture. The stone sculptures, the Great Hall and the Library witness to the history of Macau. The Leal Senado Building is open from 09:00 to 21:00 daily.
Admire the Santa Casa da Misericórdia
It is the first Western-style hospital building in China. The building’s facades are all painted white, with classical columns. A small museum on the first floor shows the history of exchanges between East and West.
Explore the St. Dominic’s Church
St. Dominic’s Church is a Catholic church with over 400 years of history. The exterior of the church has a yellow facade and the interior is colorful. There are delicate paintings, statues and other art treasures to show the characteristics of Catholic art in Macau.
Leisurely Stroll along the Square
Wander along the streets made up of Portuguese gravel floors, with black and white stones paved in the shape of waves. Senado Square is also a good place for shopping. There are many shopping malls, jewelry stores and handicraft stores around for shopping. Also taste Macau cuisine at Senado Square’s snack bars and restaurants.
Enjoy Some Cultural Events
Senado Square hosts many special cultural events every year with a lively atmosphere. Every June, the Macau Lotus Flower Festival is held, with more than 60 varieties of lotus flowers on display. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the square is decorated with colorful lanterns, creating a beautiful night view. On the National Day, a market festival is also held here, offering exquisite handicrafts.
Immerse in the Night View of Senado Square
As night falls, the splendid buildings are even more charming illuminated by the lights. Locals also take a stroll here or chat with friends in front of the fountain. Experience the local life of Macau while taking photos of the Senado Square’s stunning night view.
Best Time to Visit Senado Square
The weather in Macau is mild all year round. In spring, the temperature in Macau ranges from 15℃ to 25℃. In this season, you can stroll around Senado Square to enjoy the blooming flowers at the attractions.
The summer is hot, with temperatures ranging from 25℃ to 35℃. However, many festivals and events are organized at Senado Square during this time, such as the Macau Lotus Flower Festival.
Autumn is the best time to visit Macau. Choose to join the lively Mid-Autumn Festival events and National Day celebrations at Senado Square.
In winter, Macau’s temperature ranges between 10℃ and 20℃. Christmas Day and New Year events are organized at Senado Square to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
How to Get to Senado Square
By flight: If you arrive in Macau by plane, you will land at Macao International Airport. Take a taxi for about 20 minutes to the Senado Square or fifty minutes by buses.
By bus: Opt for buses 3X, 3, 4, 6A, 8A, 18A, 19, 26A, 33, or N1A to get Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro and take a short walk to the square. Or take buses 3, 10, 3A, 10B, 12, 32, 28B from Fisherman’s Wharf to reach here, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Buses 26A, 33, 11, 21A can also take you to Senado Square from Taipa Village in 30-50 minutes.
By taxi: Taking a taxi in Macau is convenient and you can go directly to Senado Square any location. For example, it takes a 15-minute taxi ride from Macau Tower and a 10-minute taxi ride from A Ma Temple to get here.
Tips: The starting fare is MOP 19 (for the first 1,600 meters), and the fee increases by MOP 2 for every 240 meters traveled. In addition, if the vehicle stops to wait for you, the cost per minute is also MOP 2. If luggage needs to be placed in the car, there is an additional charge of MOP 3 per piece of luggage.
By ferry: If you’re arriving from Hong Kong, you can take a ferry to either Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal or Taipa Ferry Terminal. The ferry journey lasts around 50mins and costs about 200-220 HKD for a standard-class ticket. From the ferry terminals, you can move to the square by buses or taxi.
Attractions nearby Senado Square
- The Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedralwas built in 1637, reflecting a combination of European Renaissance architectural styles and oriental architectural features. In 2005, it was listed on the United Nations World Heritage List, making it one of the highlights of Macau.
- The Monte Forte (Fortaleza do Monte)is situated on a hillock in the middle of the Macau Peninsula and is the main high point. Covering an area of about 8,000 square meters, it is well equipped and was formerly the center of Macau’s defense system. Here experience the history of Macau.
- The Na Tcha Templefeatures an introduction to the legend and festivals of Na Tcha. Founded in 1888, the temple is a treasure among traditional Chinese temples with its unique Lingnan style architectural features.
Recommended Macau Tours to Senado Square
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