Getting around Macau
The island is accessible via three bridges running from the peninsula to Taipa Island. Another connects the Cotai Strip (the reclaimed land between Taipa and Coloane) to the Macau-China border at Zhuhai.
Although generally well surfaced, many roads in Macau are narrow, winding and steep; traffic can be congested throughout the day.
Since the territory is small, with good public transport and affordable taxis, it is generally not necessary to hire a car. If it is required, however, car hire is easily available through several agencies including large international companies; drivers must be over 21. Chauffeur-driven limousines are also available.
Taxis are either black with a cream-coloured top, or all-yellow (the latter are radio taxis). They generally have a destination guide written in Chinese, English and Portuguese, which is helpful since many drivers speak little English and may know only the Chinese names for key sites. Prices are reasonable and meters are used. There are surcharges for luggage carried in the boot, for taking a taxi from the airport or travelling from Macau to Coloane.
Rickshaws and pedicabs (cycle rickshaws): These are available for hire but many of Macau's attractions are located on hilltops, beyond the reach of even the strongest-legged pedicab driver. Prices should always be agreed in advance.
You can hire bikes on Taipa and Coloane but can't take them to the mainland. Bear in mind that parts of Macau are quite hilly, so cycling can be hard work; generally speaking, Coloane is the most suitable area for cycling.
Buses run between the peninsula, Taipa and Coloane, as well as to the airport (you can catch bus AP1, AP1X, MT1, MT2, MT4, N2, 26, 36, 51A).
The speed limit varies according to the road type. In built-up areas it can be as low as 20kph (12mph) or as high as 60kph (37mph), while on open roads and highways the highest limit is 80kph (50mph).
Car hire agencies should be able to provide contact details for breakdown services.
The main areas of interest to tourists are compact enough to get around on foot, while longer journeys (including those between the peninsula and the islands) are easily made by taxi or bus.
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