Sir Robert Ho Tung Library Macau
A UNESCO World Heritage library with striking yellow architecture and a serene courtyard, offering a peaceful escape in historic Macau.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere for exploring
Sir Robert Ho Tung Library Macau
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage library with striking yellow architecture and a serene courtyard, offering a peaceful escape in historic Macau.
"Absolutely gorgeous library with a beautiful courtyard, a must-visit for its architecture!"
🤫 Shhh! Be Library-Minded
Remember it's a library! Keep voices low and be mindful of others enjoying the quiet space.
💧 No Food or Drinks Allowed
Macau libraries strictly prohibit food and drinks, even water. Plan accordingly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Courtyard
Central Courtyard
A stunning European-style courtyard with a beautiful fountain, perfect for a moment of reflection.
Architectural Elegance
Exterior and Interior
Admire the distinctive yellow facade and intricate details of this historic, three-story building.
Vast Collection
Reading Rooms
Explore shelves filled with over 100,000 volumes, including rare ancient Chinese classics.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Respect the Quiet Zone
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Shhh! Be Library-Minded
Remember it's a library! Keep voices low and be mindful of others enjoying the quiet space.
💧 No Food or Drinks Allowed
Macau libraries strictly prohibit food and drinks, even water. Plan accordingly!
📸 Photo Opportunities
The yellow facade and courtyard are incredibly photogenic. Capture the European charm!
🚶♀️ Easy to Access
Located in the heart of historic Macau, it's easily walkable from other attractions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Shhh! Be Library-Minded
Remember it's a library! Keep voices low and be mindful of others enjoying the quiet space.
💧 No Food or Drinks Allowed
Macau libraries strictly prohibit food and drinks, even water. Plan accordingly!
📸 Photo Opportunities
The yellow facade and courtyard are incredibly photogenic. Capture the European charm!
🚶♀️ Easy to Access
Located in the heart of historic Macau, it's easily walkable from other attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sir Robert Ho Tung Library for its stunning European architecture and tranquil courtyard, calling it a beautiful and peaceful escape. However, some note the strict no-food-or-drink policy, which can be inconvenient for longer visits.
"We were visiting the St. Augustine's church, when we spotted this library. The gate opens to a garden and a ground floor where are tables and chairs where you can rest.
The library has several floors which you can access via a lift or by stairs. There are reading materials in both English and Chinese. They have quite a collection of books, films, and magazines. It seems to be a very inviting place to spend a quiet afternoon reading a book."
ia likes_eats_travels
"One of the better integrated architecture among the libraries in Macau."
Ricky Lai
"This member of the Historic Centre of Macau World Heritage collection originally served as a place of residence, first for Dona Carolina Cunha, for whom the building was originally constructed back in 1894 and then for the Sir Robert Ho Tung, a Hong Kong businessman for which the building takes its present name.
Sir Robert Ho purchased the property in 1918 and used it as a summer residence until the outbreak of WWII, which saw him relocate here from Hong Kong between 1941 and 1945. Upon his death in 1955, he passed the building onto the Macau Government to be used as a public library.
You can visit this attraction, which has a beautiful front courtyard setting with lawn chairs for resting. Walking through the library entrance into the back courtyard, you will find a bit of a rustic garden of sorts that is very peaceful and inviting. A sufficient area is set aside with tables and chairs and there are bathroom facilities as well as public self-service lockers, which are available to locals who are using the upstairs library facilities. While we haven't tried them, it seems that visitors should be able to use these lockers as well.
Of interest, during our recent visit, we discovered a very strong wifi signal and fast access speed using the free Wifi Go internet service provided by the Macau Government at certain hot spots around the city.
Overall, Sir Robert Ho Tung only take 5-10 minutes to visit the ground level and probably best serves as a relaxing and peaceful place to rest your feet if you've been touring many of the World Heritage attractions all day. The library is open 10.00am to 7.00pm Monday to Saturday and 11.00am to 7.00 on Sunday but we've found it closed on National Holidays."
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Many travelers opt for the bus from Hong Kong to Macau, which is often cheaper and less crowded than the ferry. Look for bus B5 from San Po Kong. Once in Macau, the library is centrally located and easily accessible by foot from other historic sites.
The Sir Robert Ho Tung Library is situated in the historic center, making it very walkable from attractions like Senado Square. Public buses are also a convenient and budget-friendly option for exploring Macau.
Yes, it's located in the heart of historic Macau, close to Senado Square and other UNESCO World Heritage sites, making it easy to combine with your sightseeing.
Taxis are readily available in Macau and can take you directly to the Sir Robert Ho Tung Library. It's a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport.
Parking in the historic center of Macau can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk to the library to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Sir Robert Ho Tung Library is generally free. It's a public library, so you can explore its beautiful spaces without a ticket.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the library is open during regular daytime hours on weekdays and Saturdays. It's advisable to check the official Macau Public Library website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
There is no admission fee to enter and explore the Sir Robert Ho Tung Library. It's a public facility for everyone to enjoy.
While there aren't typically formal guided tours, you can explore the library at your own pace. The architectural beauty and historical significance are evident as you wander through its rooms.
As a library, visitors are expected to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Food and drinks are not permitted inside.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially in the public areas like the courtyard. However, always be mindful of others and avoid flash photography in reading areas.
The striking yellow exterior and the serene courtyard are prime photo locations. The interior reading rooms also offer a glimpse into a classic library setting.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites in Macau. It's best to avoid flying drones near the library to comply with local regulations.
Be respectful of the library's function. Avoid disruptive photography, especially if people are studying. Some areas might have specific signage regarding photography.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the yellow facade. The courtyard offers a lovely ambiance throughout the day, but consider the angle of the sun for the best shots.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
You can admire the beautiful European architecture, explore its collection of books, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the courtyard. It's a great spot for quiet contemplation.
Yes, it's a public library and offers a quiet environment for studying. However, be aware that food and drinks are strictly prohibited.
A visit can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in browsing the collection or simply enjoying the architecture and courtyard.
While it's a library, it's not specifically geared towards children's activities. However, families can visit and appreciate the historical and architectural aspects.
The library is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of European architecture in Macau, housing a significant collection of books. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it's a functioning library, so maintaining a quiet environment is crucial. Avoid loud games or running. The library's proximity to other family-friendly attractions in historic Macau makes it an easy addition to a day trip itinerary.
📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs
+1 You can spend time browsing its extensive collection of over 100,000 volumes, including rare ancient Chinese classics, offering a unique insight into Macau's cultural past. The library's European-style architecture and serene courtyard provide a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely exploration. It’s a perfect spot to immerse yourself in a quiet, scholarly atmosphere and appreciate the blend of cultures that define Macau.
+1📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
The European-inspired courtyard with its fountain and surrounding architecture offers a picturesque setting for portraits and detail shots. Inside, the reading rooms provide a more subdued yet equally photogenic environment, showcasing the classic library aesthetic. Aim for morning light to get the best illumination on the building's facade. Remember to be respectful of the library's purpose and other visitors while you capture your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Macau's Heritage
Visitors often remark on the serene and beautiful courtyard, which provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. This space, along with the elegant interiors, offers a glimpse into a bygone era. It's a place where history, culture, and quiet contemplation converge, making it a must-visit for those interested in Macau's rich past.
+1When exploring the library, take a moment to appreciate the details of its construction and the atmosphere it cultivates. It's a reminder of Macau's colonial history and its evolution into a vibrant modern city, all encapsulated within this charming building.
Navigating Macau: Getting to the Library
Once you are in Macau, the library is easily accessible. It's a short walk from other major attractions like Senado Square, which is a hub for many UNESCO World Heritage sites.
This walk allows you to soak in the atmosphere of the historic streets. If you prefer not to walk, public buses are a widespread and affordable way to get around the city, with many routes passing near the library's vicinity. For those who prefer direct transport, taxis are readily available throughout Macau. They can drop you off right at the library's doorstep. However, be aware that parking in the historic center can be difficult, so public transport or walking are often the most practical choices for visitors aiming to explore the area around the library.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit