Payment method in Macau/which exit to zhuhai

Question

We will only spend 2 days in macau. Would like to know do alipay Malaysia (ewallet TNG) widely accepted in macau as I can see that our ewallet do have the exchange rate and qr code for macau.

We don't want to exchange too much hkd just for the short trip.

Do taxi, bus, small restaurant accept qr code payment?

We going from Taipa crossing to Zhuhai. We will need to go to Zhuhai Railway Station to take train to Guangzhou South. Which exit point in Macau we should use? Do we need to book the train in advance for a Sunday during summer?

Thanks so much.

Thanks

Answer

For a short 2-day trip to Macau, here are detailed points regarding payments, transport, and crossing to Zhuhai:

1. Payment Methods in Macau:

Macau primarily uses the Macanese Pataca (MOP), but Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) are widely accepted in most places. Regarding e-wallets:

Alipay is widely accepted, especially in larger shops, hotels, and casinos.
Touch ‘n Go (TNG) e-wallet from Malaysia is not commonly accepted in Macau. Small shops, taxis, and local restaurants usually do not accept foreign QR code payments unless they specifically support international QR codes.
For small payments, taxis, buses, and street food, cash in MOP or HKD is still the most reliable option. Most buses and taxis accept coins or small bills, though some taxis now support Alipay and WeChat Pay.

2. Exchanging Money:

It’s practical to exchange a small amount of HKD/MOP for cash for taxis, buses, and small purchases.
Most larger restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers accept credit cards.

3. Traveling from Taipa to Zhuhai:

When crossing from Macau to Zhuhai by land:

The usual exit for travelers coming from Taipa is via the Cotai Border (Lotus Bridge) or the Gongbei Port of Entry, depending on your location. For Taipa, Gongbei is more convenient for reaching Zhuhai Railway Station.
Once you reach Zhuhai, take local transport or a taxi to Zhuhai Railway Station. The ride from Gongbei to the station is short, usually under 10 minutes by taxi.

4. Train from Zhuhai to Guangzhou South:

Tickets can be bought in advance, especially for Sundays or summer holidays, as it can be busy. Online booking or purchasing at the station works well.
High-speed trains run frequently throughout the day, typically every 15–30 minutes, and the journey takes about 1 hour.

Summary recommendations:

Carry a small amount of cash (MOP/HKD) for taxis, buses, and small eateries.
Use Alipay or WeChat Pay for larger shops, hotels, or casinos if convenient.
Exit Macau via Gongbei Port for easier access to Zhuhai Railway Station.
Book train tickets in advance for peace of mind during weekends or peak travel periods.

Following these tips will help ensure a smooth short trip and easy transfer to Zhuhai for your onward journey.