My Personal and Real review is unbiased.

Nestled in the serene elegance of Macao, Holiday Inn Express City Centre offers timeless luxury and impeccable service, providing an unforgettable experience for guests.

My stay at this 4-star hotel was a delightful blend of opulence and tranquility, marked by beautifully appointed rooms that offered stunning views of the cityscape.

The attentive staff ensured that every need was catered to, enhancing the overall sense of relaxation and comfort. With its convenient location, this hotel stands out as a prime choice for discerning travelers looking to explore the rich culture and history of Macao while enjoying the finest hospitality.

Below is an in-depth look at the blog, including pictures.

My Stay at Holiday Inn Express Macao City Center by IHG

Macao, the dazzling “Las Vegas of Asia,” is a city that never fails to captivate. It blends Portuguese heritage with vibrant casinos and bustling streets.

On my recent trip, I chose to stay at the Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre by IHG, drawn by its central location and reputation for reliable comfort. After a two-night stay, I’m here to share my experience—warts and all—in this 2000-word review.

From check-in to checkout, here’s what it’s like to call this hotel home while exploring Macau.

Why I Chose Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre

Planning a trip to Macau can feel overwhelming, with its mix of glitzy resorts and boutique hotels. I wanted a place that offered value, convenience, and a no-fuss experience and within my budget.
The Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre ticked all those boxes. Its location on Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, right in the centre of the city,

Promised easy access to iconic sites like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul’s. Plus, as part of the IHG brand, I expected a consistent standard of service and amenities.

The hotel’s website boasted modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, and —perfect for a traveler like me who values a good start to the day and a place to unwind.

Guest reviews on sites like TripAdvisor and IHG’s own platform highlighted the friendly staff and clean rooms, which sealed the deal.

First Impressions: Arrival and Check-In

After a smooth bus ride from Hong Kong, I arrived in Macau on a humid afternoon. The hotel was easy to find, just a short taxi ride from the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.

Stepping into the lobby, I was greeted by a sleek, modern space with pops of IHG’s signature green and blue hues. The lobby felt compact but functional, with a small seating area and a check-in desk staffed by two smiling employees.

The check-in process was a breeze. The staff—many of whom spoke excellent English—were warm and efficient.

They handed me my key card, explained the breakfast hours and told me it was complimentary, and upgraded me from a standard room to one with a bathtub.

When I heard that they had upgraded my room to a city-view option, a perk that instantly boosted my mood, My heart filled with joy and happiness.

While not as flashy as Macau’s casino resorts, the lobby was clean and served its purpose. My first impression? This was a practical, welcoming base for exploring the city.

The Room: Cozy, Clean, and Functional

My upgraded room on the 10th floor offered a view of Macau’s bustling streets, with glimpses of the city’s eclectic skyline.

The room itself was compact but well-designed, with a functional layout that maximized space.

A plush queen bed dominated the room, flanked by nightstands with USB charging ports—a small but appreciated touch.

The desk was spacious enough for my laptop, and the ergonomic chair made it comfortable for catching up on emails.

The room’s cleanliness was impeccable, a sentiment echoed by a guest on IHG’s site who praised the “impeccably” maintained rooms. The bathroom was compact but spotless, with a powerful hot shower that was a godsend after long days of sightseeing.

The toiletries were basic IHG-branded products, but they got the job done. One minor gripe: the pillows were a tad firm for my liking, a complaint I found in reviews of other Holiday Inn Express properties.

In-room amenities included a mini-fridge, a kettle with tea and coffee, and a safe—everything I needed for a short stay.

The Wi-Fi was fast and reliable, which was crucial for planning my daily itineraries. The air conditioning was a lifesaver in Macau’s humid June weather, though I had to fiddle with the thermostat to find the perfect temperature.

But it was sad to know that the control system was away from bed,
And they had no remote to control it from bed. So for me,
I need to get up from bed, switch it off. In case I feel cold,
At the middle of my cozy sleep. This is one of the drawbacks I faced,
Or I didn’t find it properly.

The city view was a highlight, especially at night when the streets lit up with neon signs. However, the windows were soundproof, and It was calm and quiet in my room because the hotel entrance is on the street side, not on the main road. It didn’t disrupt my sleep,

But light slippers were too much comfy for my legs.
Overall, the room was cozy, clean, and perfectly suited for a budget-conscious traveler.

Breakfast: A Bright Start to the Day

One of the biggest draws of Holiday Inn Express hotels is the complimentary breakfast, and the Macau City Centre location didn’t disappoint. Served in a bright, airy dining area on the second floor, the breakfast buffet offered a mix of Western and Asian options.

The spread included scrambled eggs, sausages, and bacon for Western palates, alongside congee, dim sum, and stir-fried noodles for those craving local flavors. Fresh fruits, yogurt, and pastries rounded out the selection.
The coffee was surprisingly decent for a hotel buffet, and the staff kept the area clean despite the morning rush.

If you’re staying longer, the repetition might feel monotonous. Another downside was the lack of seating during peak hours. Still, I insert an menu of restaurant you can try in room. The breakfast was a solid value, saving me time and money before heading out to explore.

Location: A Gateway to Macau’s Charms

The hotel’s location is its biggest asset. Situated in the heart of Macau’s city center, it’s a short walk from key attractions like Senado Square, the Ruins of St. Paul’s, and the historic A-Ma Temple.

One Booking.com reviewer called the location “awesome,” and I wholeheartedly agree. I spent my first afternoon strolling through Senado Square, snapping photos of the pastel-colored colonial buildings.

The hotel is also close to public transport, with bus stops nearby and taxis readily available. For those interested in Macau’s casino scene,
The Grand Lisboa and Wynn Macau are a 10-minute walk away. I ventured to the Venetian one evening via the hotel’s shuttle, which was a convenient option.

The surrounding area is lively, with local eateries, convenience stores, and souvenir shops within steps of the hotel. I discovered a fantastic noodle shop just around the corner,

Staff and Service: A Standout Feature

The staff at Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre were a highlight of my stay. From the front desk to the housekeeping team, everyone was courteous and eager to help.

Another time, I asked for restaurant recommendations, and the concierge suggested a nearby spot for authentic Macanese cuisine. Their local knowledge added value to my trip.

Housekeeping was prompt and thorough, refreshing my room daily with fresh towels and replenished amenities. The staff’s attentiveness made me feel valued as a guest, setting this hotel apart from other mid-range options.

Value for Money: Worth It?

At around $100 per night (including taxes and fees), the Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre offers solid value for a centrally located hotel.
The complimentary breakfast, fast Wi-Fi, and clean rooms justify the price, especially compared to Macau’s pricier casino resorts.

A Travelocity review called it a “good hotel but a little old,” but I didn’t find the age detracting from the experience.

For budget-conscious travelers or those prioritizing location over frills, this hotel is a great choice. If you’re splurging on a special occasion, you might prefer a five-star resort like the Parisian or Galaxy.

The Good, the Bad, and the Verdict

The Good:

• Prime location: Walking distance to major attractions and public transport.
• Friendly staff: Warm, efficient, and genuinely helpful.
• Clean, functional rooms: Comfortable beds, hot showers, and reliable Wi-Fi.
• Complimentary breakfast: A varied spread that saves time and money.
• Value for money: Affordable for a central Macau hotel.

The Bad:

1) The only bad thing for now is considerable is I found hair lying on the bathtub.
2) No Remote to control Air Conditioner, which will make customer less comfy when their are tired from their trip all day long.

The Verdict:

The Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre by IHG is a reliable, no-frills option for travelers seeking convenience and comfort in the heart of Macau. It’s not a luxury resort, nor does it try to be. Instead, it delivers clean rooms, friendly service, and a prime location at a reasonable price. For solo travelers, couples, or small families exploring Macau’s cultural and casino attractions, it’s a solid choice.

Would I stay here again? Absolutely, especially for a short trip focused on sightseeing. If you’re after a practical base to experience Macau’s magic, this hotel won’t disappoint.

Have you stayed at the Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre? Share your thoughts in the comments below! For more travel tips and reviews, follow my blog or connect with me on social media.

My referral link to book hotels:
Expedia:- https://www.expedia.com.hk/?siteid=18&langid=3076
Trip:- https://www.trip.com/t/DDoezJMztQ2

Word count: 2000

Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience in June 2025. Opinions are my own, and I received no compensation for this post.

Thank you for reading this,
Happy staying Hotelier,
Vintage Envisioned.