Macau Currency

Macanese Pataca is the official Macau currency. It is often abbreviated and expressed as “MOP” with a dollar sign.

However, the Hong Kong Dollar is also widely used and accepted in Macau.

Macau Currency, Pataca, MOP To HKD, Money, Notes, Coins

The MOP is pegged to the Hong Kong Dollar, with an official exchange rate of 1.03 MOP to a dollar. Since there are very few differences between the two, they are considered to have the same value, which is why the Hong Kong Dollar is accepted as an alternative to the Macanese Pataca. Likewise, the Chinese Yuan is also accepted in many places in Macau, though less commonly so compared to the Hong Kong Dollar.

When using Macau currency, remember that transactions in casinos, major hotels, and high-end restaurants will usually accept MOP and Hong Kong Dollar. Notes are available in 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000, though it also helps to have coins occasionally, especially if you are taking public transportation.

Macanese Pataca coins are available in 10, 20, and 50 denominations known as avos; MOP$1, 2, 5, and 10 are also available. One MOP can be broken down into 100 avos.

The Pataca bank notes are available in Portuguese as well as Chinese. These are issued by the Bank of China and the Banco Nacional Ultramarino. Macau’s best currency exchange centres are typically found in shopping malls, ferry terminals, tourist landmarks, and major hotels, particularly those around Senado Square, Grand Lisboa, and the small shopping alley behind the Holiday Inn. In addition, you can expect good currency exchange rates in any casino around town, given that Macau is the global gambling capital.

With the Hong Kong Dollar and Macanese Pataca accepted at most places around Macau, it’s easy to always have the right currency with you.