Introduction to the Cotai Strip

The Cotai Strip is Macau’s answer to the Las Vegas Strip, featuring all of Macau’s largest casinos, hotels, and clubs. This area is designed to replicate the atmosphere of Nevada’s famous strip, and it has been remarkably successful. Consequently, the Cotai Strip is home to several blockbuster casinos and boasts the largest casino in the world, where more gambling takes place than anywhere else on the globe.

Similar to Las Vegas, the casinos on Cotai are lined along a single street, Estrada do Istmo, with stunning skyscrapers on either side. The name “Cotai” derives from the island where it is located, stretching from Studio City in the south to the City of Dreams and The Countdown Hotel (formerly known as the Hard Rock Hotel) in the north.

While the Cotai Strip isn’t primarily designed for leisurely strolls, you can easily hop between your favorite casinos, enjoy a variety of spectacular shows, or join the best poolside parties in town. Although you won’t find volcanoes and fountains like in Vegas, inside the casinos, you can experience mesmerizing laser shows, captivating light displays, and extraordinary performances featuring dragons and levitating diamonds.

The Best Casinos on the Cotai Strip

Unlike the smaller venues found in downtown Macau, the casinos and hotels on the Cotai Strip are primarily mega-resorts. The Venetian is the flagship casino resort here, recognized as the largest casino in the world. It offers an impressive range of gaming options, including numerous blackjack tables, roulette wheels, and slot machines, complemented by a 3,000-room hotel and Macau’s largest shopping mall. Moreover, the Venetian hosts some of the biggest events in Macau, such as tennis tournaments and rock concerts, and visitors can also enjoy a gondola ride through its picturesque canals.

Adjacent to the Venetian is the City of Dreams Casino, which, while slightly smaller, offers a unique and trendy atmosphere. This mega-resort features three hotels, vibrant pool parties, and the renowned Evel Knievel-inspired show, the House of Dancing Water.

The Galaxy casino is another major attraction on the Cotai Strip, boasting extensive resort amenities, including three hotels, a luxurious Banyan Tree Spa, and an exhilarating rooftop wave pool, among other attractions.

Hotels and Shopping on the Cotai Strip

Most hotels on the Cotai Strip are interconnected with the nearby casinos. The Venetian stands out with its 3,000 rooms. Additionally, the City of Dreams Casino features three distinct hotels: the opulent Crown Towers, the elegant Grand Hyatt, and The Countdown Hotel. The Galaxy is home to the Hotel Okura and Banyan Tree Macau, celebrated for its exquisite spa services.

When it comes to shopping, the Cotai Strip primarily offers retail experiences within the casinos, rather than along the streets. While all major casinos feature their own shopping malls, the Venetian excels with over 300 stores, attracting shoppers from around China with mid-range and high-end fashion options. For a more luxurious experience, the Four Seasons shop presents elite brands like Cartier and De Beers, catering specifically to high-end clientele.

Cotai Strip Restaurants

Food enthusiasts will find a range of gourmet dining options across the Cotai Strip. Several distinguished restaurants have emerged within each of the primary casinos. Noteworthy mentions include The Tasting Room in the City of Dreams, celebrated for its delectable oysters and outstanding wine selection, earning two Michelin stars. Another gem, Jade Dragon, has also garnered Michelin recognition for its modern take on traditional Dim Sum.

However, for those seeking more budget-friendly options, there is an abundance of casual dining experiences as well as food courts featuring popular chains and local cuisine.