Guide to Traveling Between Macau and Hong Kong Airport via Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge

Post date: 2025-05-09 | Categories: Macao Travel

After the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, travelers now have an additional land-based option to commute between Macau and Hong Kong, aside from taking ferries. The Hong Kong landing point of the bridge is located on an artificial island near Hong Kong International Airport. The journey from the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge to the airport takes only about 5 minutes, making bus travel via the bridge a more convenient option than ferries for those heading from Macau to Hong Kong Airport. This guide provides details on taking buses from Macau to Hong Kong Airport via the bridge, as well as the reverse journey from Hong Kong Airport to Macau.

Table of Contents

I. Transportation from Macau to Hong Kong Airport
II. How to Travel from Macau (or Zhuhai) to Hong Kong Airport via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge? Duration and Fare

Transportation from Macau to Hong Kong Airport

Essentially, there are two options for traveling between Macau and Hong Kong Airport: by sea or by land. After the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, land travel between Macau and Hong Kong has become more convenient than sea travel, with more choices available.

1. Taking the Direct Bus from Macau to Hong Kong Airport

According to the original plan, after the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, direct buses would operate from the Macau Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge directly to the restricted area of Hong Kong Airport. Initially, these buses were expected to commence operations only after the completion of Hong Kong’s SkyCity. However, since the enclosed bridge connecting the Hong Kong Port artificial island to the SkyPier at the airport’s restricted area has been completed, the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express” buses have already begun operations. For detailed information on taking the direct bus from Macau to Hong Kong Airport (and vice versa), please refer to the section below titled “Taking the SkyPier Coach from Macau Directly to Hong Kong Airport.”

2. Taking the Direct Bus from Zhuhai to Hong Kong Airport

The “Hong Kong Airport Restricted Area Bus Service” connecting the Zhuhai Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge to the SkyPier at Hong Kong Airport officially began operations on December 12, 2023. This service operates similarly to the Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express, with comparable fares. If tickets for the Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express are unavailable, travelers can opt for this service. The Zhuhai and Macau Ports are adjacent, making it convenient to cross between them, though travelers must hold valid entry documents for mainland China.

3. Taking the Shuttle Bus from Macau to Hong Kong Airport

The “Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus,” commonly known as the “Golden Bus,” is the primary public transport connecting the Hong Kong Port with the Macau and Zhuhai Ports. These shuttle buses operate frequently, are affordable, and run 24/7. Despite the introduction of the Hong Kong Airport Express, the shuttle bus remains a popular choice for travelers heading to Hong Kong Airport. For details on taking the shuttle bus from Macau to Hong Kong Airport (and vice versa), refer to the section below titled “Taking the Shuttle Bus via the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge to Hong Kong Airport.” This section also applies to travelers from Zhuhai.

4. Taking the Airport Ferry from Macau to Hong Kong Airport

Before the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the only way to reach Hong Kong for international flights was by ferry. Prior to 2020, both TurboJet and Cotai Water Jet operated ferry services from Macau’s Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal or the Taipa Ferry Terminal directly to the SkyPier at Hong Kong Airport’s restricted area. Since this route bypasses Hong Kong immigration, travelers could claim a HK$120 Hong Kong departure tax refund. Additionally, most major airlines allowed check-in at Macau’s ferry terminals, making the airport ferry the most convenient and cost-effective option for traveling between Macau and Hong Kong Airport.

The standard adult fare for the ferry from Macau to Hong Kong Airport is $297, but after the $120 tax refund, the net cost is $177.

However, the ferry schedule is limited. Before 2020, there were only 11 daily departures from Macau to Hong Kong Airport and 10 return trips. Travelers often had to wait long hours at the airport to align with ferry timings. The biggest drawback was the lack of nighttime services. If a flight arrived in Hong Kong at night, travelers had to take a bus or taxi to the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan, which was inconvenient. Similarly, early morning flights required taking a ferry to Sheung Wan and then transferring to a bus, MTR, or taxi to the airport. Many Macau residents, including myself, eagerly anticipated the bridge’s opening to address these issues.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, ferry services between Macau and Hong Kong Airport were suspended. After the pandemic, cross-border services gradually resumed. The TurboJet airport ferry resumed operations on December 30, 2022, but currently offers only one daily departure from Macau’s Outer Harbour Terminal to Hong Kong Airport at 10:45 AM, with a return trip at 12:30 PM. Cotai Water Jet’s airport ferry services have yet to resume.

Note: Ferry schedules may change due to operational adjustments. For the latest updates, refer to the official websites.

For travelers with checked luggage, check-in at Macau’s ferry terminal typically closes 1 hour before departure. The ferry ride takes about 70 minutes, and travelers must arrive at the SkyPier at least 2 hours before their flight’s departure. Therefore, the total time required is at least 4 hours before the flight’s departure, often extending to 5-6 hours to accommodate ferry schedules.

TurboJet now offers online check-in for its airport ferry services. Passengers can check in online 48 hours to 1 hour before departure and must print their boarding passes. Those without checked luggage or airline check-in requirements can proceed directly to boarding. For those with checked luggage or requiring airline check-in, check-in at the terminal must be completed at least 30 minutes before departure.

How to Travel from Macau (or Zhuhai) to Hong Kong Airport via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge? Duration and Fare

Land travel via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is more convenient than ferry services, generally requiring less time. Additionally, post-pandemic ferry services between Macau and Hong Kong Airport have not fully resumed, making cross-border buses via the bridge the preferred choice for travelers heading to or from Hong Kong Airport.

Land travel options include direct buses to Hong Kong Airport’s restricted area or shuttle buses to the Hong Kong Port, followed by a transfer to Hong Kong Airport. Similarly, travelers from Hong Kong Airport to Macau (or Zhuhai) can choose between these two options.

1. Taking the SkyPier Coach from Macau Directly to Hong Kong Airport

Operated by “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Passenger Service Limited,” the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express” buses began operations on August 30, 2023. Travelers can board these buses at the Macau Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and arrive directly at the SkyPier in Hong Kong Airport’s restricted area. After security checks, passengers can take the airport’s automated people mover (APM) to the departure hall without clearing Hong Kong immigration. Check-in and baggage drop-off are also available at the Macau Port.

Similar to the airport ferry, travelers taking the direct bus from Macau to Hong Kong Airport can claim a HK$120 Hong Kong departure tax refund at the SkyPier (details). The service also operates in reverse for travelers flying into Hong Kong and heading to Macau.

【Venetian City Check-In Lounge】

Launched on May 23, 2024, the Venetian City Check-In Lounge is a collaboration between Macau-Hong Kong Airport Passenger Service Limited, Hong Kong International Airport Limited, and Zhuhai Airport Management Company. Located at the East Gate of The Venetian Macao, the lounge allows passengers to check in for Hong Kong-bound flights and take a shuttle bus to the Macau Port for the Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express.

Currently, check-in services are available only for four Hong Kong-based airlines: Cathay Pacific, HK Express, Hong Kong Airlines, and Greater Bay Airlines. Baggage check-in services are not yet offered, making the lounge unsuitable for most travelers with checked luggage or those flying with other airlines. Additionally, for residents of Macau Peninsula, traveling directly to the Macau Port is more convenient than transferring via The Venetian. Thus, the lounge primarily targets international tourists staying at Cotai resorts.

The lounge also offers check-in services for Zhuhai Airport flights. Passengers can check in and take a shuttle bus via the Hengqin Port to Zhuhai Airport, though baggage check-in is similarly unavailable.

The Hong Kong Airport check-in counter operates from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while the Zhuhai Airport counter operates from 8:45 AM to 7:45 PM.

1.1 Bus Schedule

Currently, the Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express operates 18 daily departures in each direction. Buses from Macau to Hong Kong Airport run from 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM, while buses from Hong Kong Airport to Macau operate from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Additional services may be added during major holidays such as Chinese New Year, Christmas, and Easter.

The following image shows the updated schedule effective October 1, 2024 (excluding holiday extras).

Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express Schedule

1.2 Bus Fare

The one-way fare for the Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express is HKD/MOP 280 for adults and HKD/MOP 210 for children (1-12 years) and seniors (65+). Macau ID holders enjoy a MOP 10 discount for on-site purchases. Travelers from Macau to Hong Kong Airport can claim the HK$120 tax refund, reducing the net adult fare to $160. (Note: Children under 12 are exempt from the departure tax refund.)

Each ticket allows one free piece of luggage weighing no more than 23 kg or with total dimensions (L+W+H) not exceeding 158 cm (approximately the size of a 29-inch suitcase). Additional or overweight luggage incurs a HK$90 fee per piece.

1.3 Travel Time

The Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express has a speed limit similar to the shuttle buses, so the journey from the Macau Port to the SkyPier takes about 45 minutes.

1.4 Check-in Services

According to official information, 16 airlines currently offer check-in and baggage drop-off services at the Macau Port:

Cathay Pacific
HK Express
Hong Kong Airlines
Greater Bay Airlines
China Airlines
EVA Air
Japan Airlines
ANA
Asiana Airlines
Emirates
Lufthansa
SWISS International Airlines
Thai Airways
Air New Zealand
Garuda Indonesia
Vietnam Airlines

Check-in counters at the Macau Port close 45 minutes before departure. Passengers requiring check-in should arrive at least 60-75 minutes before departure.

1.5 Minimum Connection Time Requirements

The minimum connection time refers to the interval between arriving at the SkyPier and the flight’s scheduled departure. According to the official requirements, this varies by airline and whether check-in is completed at the Macau Port.

Minimum Connection Time from Macau to Hong Kong Airport

For passengers who check in at the Macau Port, the minimum connection time is generally 80 minutes (110 minutes for Asiana Airlines). Adding the 45-minute bus ride, the bus departure should be at least 2 hours and 5 minutes before the flight’s departure.

For passengers who cannot check in at the Macau Port, the minimum connection time ranges from 110 to 120 minutes, meaning the bus departure should be at least 2 hours and 35 minutes (or 2 hours and 45 minutes) before the flight’s departure.

For travelers from Hong Kong Airport to Macau with checked luggage, they must arrive at the bus service counter in the E2 transit area at least 60 minutes before departure. Considering potential flight delays and other factors, it is advisable to book a bus ticket for at least 2 hours after the flight’s arrival time. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased on-site.

1.6 Purchasing Tickets

Tickets for the Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express can be purchased up to 29 days in advance. Due to limited seating (36 seats per bus), early booking is recommended. However, tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable, so confirm your plans before purchasing. Tickets can be bought at the ticket office or via the official website. The MOP 10 discount for Macau residents is only available for on-site purchases.

At the Macau Port ticket office, passengers must present their passport and flight ticket (electronic or printed copy) for each traveler.

At Hong Kong Airport, tickets can be purchased at the service counter in the E2 transit area (before immigration). Passengers must present valid entry documents for Macau and baggage tags (if applicable).

Free Ride Offer for International Travelers

From May 1 to December 31, 2025, international travelers with valid foreign travel documents and proof of arrival in Hong Kong can ride the Macau-Hong Kong Airport Express from Hong Kong Airport to Macau for free. Eligible travelers need only present their foreign travel documents and boarding pass at the Hong Kong Airport counter to receive a complimentary ticket.

In addition to the airport express, eligible travelers who enter Hong Kong can also receive a free ferry ticket (TurboJet or Cotai Water Jet) to Macau within 7 days. For details, refer to the Macau Tourism Office press release.

The easiest way to purchase tickets is through the official website. Online payments are in HKD, while on-site purchases at the Macau Port are in MOP (a 3% difference).

Online bookings require passenger details (name, nationality, date of birth, passport number, email) and flight information (airline, flight number, departure time, destination). Payments are accepted via VISA or Mastercard.

The online booking process is as follows:

After successful booking, a confirmation email will be sent. Passengers must present this confirmation at the check-in counter to exchange for a physical ticket.

1.7 Boarding Process

(1) From Macau to Hong Kong Airport

The boarding process for taking the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus from the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Macau Port to the Hong Kong International Airport SkyPier Transit Hall is roughly as follows:

Arrive at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Macau Port, proceed through security, then go to the check-in and baggage drop counter to complete check-in procedures, collect your boarding pass and checked luggage, and receive a Hong Kong Departure Tax refund voucher. (Note: If check-in and baggage drop are not available in Macau, skip this step, and the Hong Kong Departure Tax refund voucher will be issued when completing check-in procedures at the SkyPier Transit Hall.)
Clear Macau customs for departure;
Wait in the direct bus lounge for boarding;
Take the direct bus to the Hong Kong International Airport SkyPier Transit Hall. After disembarking, proceed directly through security. (Note: If check-in and baggage drop were not completed in Macau, you will need to complete these procedures at the SkyPier Transit Hall and receive the Hong Kong Departure Tax refund voucher.)
Visit the tax refund counter to claim the Hong Kong Departure Tax refund.
Take the shuttle train to the departure hall for your flight.

The “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus requires passengers traveling from Macau to Hong Kong International Airport to arrive at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Macau Port 75 minutes before the scheduled departure time to complete check-in, baggage drop, and Macau departure procedures. The check-in counter closes 45 minutes before the bus departure time, so passengers needing check-in must arrive at the Macau Port check-in counter no later than 45 minutes before departure.

The check-in and baggage drop counters are located before immigration at the Macau Port, visible straight ahead after passing through security.

Airport bus waiting lounge

“Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus

SkyPier Transit Hall

Hong Kong Departure Tax refund counter

Shuttle train

Below is information from the Hong Kong International Airport website regarding airlines that provide pre-departure check-in and baggage drop services for passengers taking direct buses via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge to Hong Kong International Airport:

Below is the official boarding process:

How much time should I allow when taking the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus from Macau to Hong Kong Airport?

As mentioned above, if pre-departure check-in and baggage drop are available at the Macau Port, the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus departure time only needs to be 2 hours and 15 minutes before the flight departure time. Additionally, you need to arrive at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Macau Port 60–75 minutes early to complete check-in and baggage drop procedures. Therefore, taking the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus generally requires arriving at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Macau Port 3.5 hours before the flight departure time.

However, since the Hong Kong Airport Direct bus currently operates only once per hour, if the departure time does not align exactly with the 2-hour and 15-minute window before the flight, you may need to allow additional waiting time. Under normal circumstances, taking the direct bus to Hong Kong Airport requires arriving at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Macau Port approximately 3.5–4.5 hours before the flight departure time.

If pre-departure check-in and baggage drop are not available at the Macau Port, the required time varies depending on the airline. However, since you do not need to arrive too early at the Macau Port in this case, arriving 30 minutes before the bus departure time is generally sufficient. Therefore, the total time required is not significantly longer than when pre-departure check-in is available. If your airline requires a minimum transit time of 120 minutes, you will still need to arrive at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Macau Port 3.5–4.5 hours before the flight departure time.

(2) From Hong Kong Airport to Macau

If you are flying to Macau via Hong Kong, after landing at Hong Kong International Airport, do not clear Hong Kong customs for entry. Instead, follow the airport signs to the E2 transit area’s direct bus ticket counter to purchase your ticket. If you have checked luggage, the bus staff will retrieve your luggage and deliver it to the bus waiting lounge at the SkyPier Transit Hall. However, you must arrive at the bus company service counter in the E2 transit area at least 60 minutes before the bus departure time. When purchasing the ticket, you will need to provide the baggage tag attached to your boarding pass. If you have no checked luggage, you only need to arrive 30 minutes before the bus departure time.

After purchasing the ticket, proceed to the designated boarding gate at the specified time to take the shuttle train to the SkyPier Transit Hall. If you have checked luggage, you must wait until your luggage has been retrieved before passing through the boarding gate.

The bus staff will transport your luggage directly to the bus waiting lounge at the SkyPier Transit Hall. Passengers must first confirm their luggage here before the staff loads it onto the bus.

Below is the official boarding process:

1.8 Comparison Between Direct Bus and Airport Ferry

The fare for the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus is HK$280 for adults, or HK$160 after tax refund, while the airport ferry fare is HK$297, or HK$177 after tax refund. Therefore, the direct bus is slightly cheaper than the ferry.

In terms of time, the bus journey takes only about 40 minutes, shorter than the 70-minute ferry ride. Additionally, the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus operates more frequently than the airport ferry. Taking the direct bus generally requires leaving 4.5 hours before the flight departure time, while the ferry requires leaving 5 hours in advance. The direct bus saves time compared to the ferry, especially since the airport ferry has not fully resumed service and currently operates only once a week, with uncertainty about future operations.

The biggest advantage of the “Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus over the airport ferry is its higher frequency. If the bus company achieves its goal of operating every 15 minutes and running 24/7, the direct bus will undoubtedly be more convenient than the ferry. The ferry’s large passenger capacity makes it impossible to offer frequent departures, and if flight times do not align with ferry schedules, significant time may be wasted. However, the bus has limited capacity, so it is essential to book tickets early to secure a suitable departure time.

2. Taking the Hong Kong Airport Direct Coach from Zhuhai to Hong Kong Airport

Starting December 12, 2023, the “Hong Kong Airport Sealed Bus Line” direct coach service between the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Zhuhai Port and the Hong Kong International Airport SkyPier Transit Hall officially began operations. This service greatly facilitates passengers traveling from Zhuhai, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, and other western Pearl River Delta regions to Hong Kong for flights, as well as those traveling to these areas via Hong Kong International Airport.

Currently, eight airlines offer pre-departure check-in and baggage drop services at the Zhuhai Port: Cathay Pacific, HK Express, Hong Kong Airlines, Greater Bay Airlines, EVA Air, China Airlines, Japan Airlines, and Mandarin Airlines. Starting January 10, 2025, this will increase to 15 airlines.

Passengers flying with other airlines must complete check-in and baggage drop procedures at the SkyPier Transit Hall. For details, refer here.

2.1 Bus Schedule

According to official information, the current schedule for the Zhuhai-Hong Kong Airport direct coach service includes 10 daily departures from the Zhuhai Port to Hong Kong Airport, operating from 10:00 to 19:00, with one departure per hour. From Hong Kong Airport to the Zhuhai Port, there are 12 daily departures, operating from 09:00 to 20:00, with one departure per hour.

2.2 Bus Fare

The one-way fare for the Zhuhai-Hong Kong Airport direct coach is RMB 250 for adults (currently discounted to RMB 220) and RMB 188 for children (1–12 years old) and seniors (65 or older, currently discounted to RMB 180). For trips from Zhuhai to Hong Kong Airport, the HK$120 Hong Kong Airport Tax refund reduces the actual adult fare to approximately RMB 110, or about half the original price. (Note: Children are not eligible for the airport tax refund.)

【Latest Promotion】From January 21 to June 30, 2025, purchasing an outbound ticket entitles you to a 50% discount on the return ticket, valid for six months from the outbound travel date.

2.3 Purchasing Tickets

Tickets for the Zhuhai-Hong Kong Airport direct coach can be purchased up to 30 days in advance. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter on-site, through the official “Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus” website, or via its WeChat official account.

The ticket counter for the airport direct coach at Hong Kong International Airport is located in the E2 transit area (before Hong Kong customs clearance), the same location as the ticket counter for the Macau-bound airport bus.

2.4 Travel Time

The Zhuhai-Hong Kong Airport direct coach operates at a relatively slow speed, taking approximately 45 minutes from the Zhuhai Port to the SkyPier Transit Hall within Hong Kong International Airport’s restricted area.

2.5 Boarding Process

Based on the boarding guide from the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus official website, the boarding process for taking the Zhuhai-Hong Kong Airport direct coach from the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Zhuhai Port to the Hong Kong International Airport SkyPier Transit Hall is as follows. The process for traveling from Hong Kong International Airport to the Zhuhai Port is the same as for the Macau-bound direct bus; refer to the relevant section above if needed. (Note: Some images are from the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus official website.)

1. Arrive at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Zhuhai Port Passenger Terminal Building’s third-floor Hong Kong Airport Direct Service Counter 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Present your ID, visa, and itinerary (boarding pass) for verification and collect the ticket exchange voucher.

2. Proceed through the dedicated immigration channel using your passport, and retain the lower half of the ticket exchange voucher with the immigration stamp.

3. Take the elevator to the first floor and turn right to reach the Hong Kong International Airport Pre-Departure Service Hall.

Zhuhai-Hong Kong Airport Direct Coach Boarding Process

4. Submit the lower half of the exchange voucher to the ticket counter staff, present your passport, visa, and itinerary (boarding pass), and collect the paper ticket.

5. Complete passenger and baggage registration procedures at the check-in counter. Eligible passengers can complete check-in procedures here.

6. Wait in the departure lounge for the guide to lead you to Platform A for boarding.

7. At the boarding gate, prepare your passport and paper ticket for inspection by the ticket checker before boarding.

Hong Kong Airport to Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Bus

8. Take the direct coach to the Hong Kong International Airport SkyPier Transit Hall. After disembarking, proceed directly through security. (Note: If pre-departure check-in and baggage drop were not completed in Zhuhai, you must complete these procedures at the SkyPier Transit Hall and receive the Hong Kong Departure Tax refund voucher.)

9. Visit the tax refund counter to claim the Hong Kong Departure Tax refund.

10. Take the shuttle train to the departure hall for your flight.

3. Taking the Shuttle Bus via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Transferring to a Bus to Hong Kong Airport

Before the introduction of the “Hong Kong Airport Direct Bus,” the overland route from Macau (and Zhuhai) to Hong Kong Airport via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge involved taking the shuttle bus to the Hong Kong Port and then transferring to a bus to Hong Kong Airport. Currently, the “Hong Kong Airport Direct Bus” does not operate 24/7 and has only one departure per hour, so passengers unable to take the direct bus may still need to use the “shuttle bus + Hong Kong bus” option to reach Hong Kong Airport.

Taking the shuttle bus generally requires arriving at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Macau (or Zhuhai) Port 4 hours before the flight departure time, similar to the time required for the “Hong Kong Airport Direct Bus.” However, taking the shuttle bus requires entering Hong Kong and then transferring to a bus to Hong Kong Airport, which involves handling luggage and is more cumbersome. Additionally, during holidays, immigration queues at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port can be long. If your documents do not allow for automated immigration clearance in Hong Kong, you should allow extra time. Furthermore, foreign travelers using this method to reach Hong Kong Airport must hold valid travel documents or visas for Hong Kong entry.

In terms of cost, the adult fare for the “Macau Hong Kong Airport Direct” bus is
HK$280. However, since you can get a HK$120 Hong Kong departure tax refund, the actual cost is only HK$160. Although this is about twice the total fare for taking the shuttle bus and Hong Kong bus (approximately HK$75~80), spending a few dozen extra dollars can save you the hassle of transfers, handling luggage, and going through customs. It’s likely worth it, especially during holidays.

If traveling from Hong Kong Airport to Macau, there is no departure tax refund, so the direct bus fare remains HK$280, which is HK$200 more expensive than taking the shuttle bus. Therefore, some people might still opt for the shuttle bus, although it requires transfers, handling luggage, and going through Hong Kong customs, which can be quite inconvenient.

In terms of time, while the direct bus requires arriving 60 minutes early, the total time for transfers, going through Hong Kong customs twice, and collecting luggage at the airport when taking the shuttle bus would likely not be less than 60 minutes.

Currently, the primary public transportation option for traveling from Macau (and Zhuhai) to Hong Kong via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is the “Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus,” also known as the “Port Shuttle Bus.” Due to its golden exterior, it is colloquially called the “Golden Bus.” To travel from Macau (or Zhuhai) to Hong Kong International Airport via the bridge, you can take the Port Shuttle Bus to the Hong Kong Port and then transfer to the connecting bus from the Hong Kong Port to the airport. After the bridge opened, Hong Kong introduced a new bus route, the B4 bus line, which runs between the Hong Kong Port of the bridge and Hong Kong International Airport. Therefore, the route from Macau (or Zhuhai) to Hong Kong International Airport via the bridge involves taking the “Port Shuttle Bus” + “B4 Bus”, requiring one transfer.

In addition to the shuttle bus, there are currently cross-border direct buses like the “Hong Kong-Macau Express” and “One Bus Hong Kong-Macau” that connect major casinos in Macau to various locations in Hong Kong. However, these cross-border buses do not go to Hong Kong International Airport and are more expensive, so they are generally not recommended for airport travel. Of course, if price is not an issue and you live near a pickup point in Macau, you could take a cross-border bus to the Hong Kong Port and disembark there. If you take a cross-border bus, remember to inform the driver when getting off at the Hong Kong Port that you will not be reboarding to avoid delaying other passengers. Additionally, since cross-border buses cannot pick up passengers at the Hong Kong Port of the bridge, you cannot take a cross-border bus from Hong Kong Airport back to Macau; only the shuttle bus is available.

3.1 How long does it take to travel from Macau (or Zhuhai) to Hong Kong Airport via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge?

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is approximately 55 kilometers long. The shuttle bus ride from the Macau (or Zhuhai) Port to the Hong Kong Port takes about 40 minutes, while the B4 bus ride from the Hong Kong Port to Hong Kong International Airport takes about 5 minutes. Therefore, the total travel time for both rides is 45 minutes. Including customs clearance time (mainly walking time) and waiting time at both ports, the journey from the Macau (or Zhuhai) Port to Hong Kong Airport typically takes no more than 1.5 hours. If everything goes smoothly without queues or delays, it can be as fast as 1 hour. In cases of delays, such as crowds or longer waiting times, it should not exceed 2 hours.

Therefore, if you plan to take the shuttle bus to Hong Kong Airport via the bridge, it’s best to arrive at the Macau Port 4 hours before your flight departure, or at least 3.5 hours in advance.

3.2 How much does it cost to travel from Macau (or Zhuhai) to Hong Kong Airport via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge?

The fare for the Port Shuttle Bus varies between daytime (06:00~23:59) and nighttime (24:00~05:59). The daytime fare for adults is 65 MOP/HKD (Macau Pataca/Hong Kong Dollar, same price), while children (4~12 years old) and seniors (65 or older) pay 33 MOP/HKD. The nighttime fare for adults is 70 MOP/HKD, and for children and seniors, it’s 35 MOP/HKD. The fare for the B4 bus from the Hong Kong Port to the airport is a flat rate of HK$9.1, regardless of time or age. Therefore, the total cost for both rides is 74.1 MOP/HKD (daytime adult) or 79.1 MOP/HKD (nighttime adult).

If you take the airport direct bus or ferry to Hong Kong International Airport, after deducting the 120 MOP/HKD airport tax refund, the cost ranges from 160 to 177 MOP/HKD. Thus, taking the shuttle bus via the bridge is more than half cheaper than the airport direct bus or ferry. Compared to the fare for returning to Macau from Hong Kong Airport via the direct bus or ferry, the shuttle bus cost is only about 26%.

3.3 The process of traveling from Macau (or Zhuhai) to Hong Kong International Airport via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus

The general process for traveling from Macau to Hong Kong International Airport via the bridge is as follows: (1) Take a bus from Macau city to the Macau Port of the bridge > (2) Clear Macau customs > (3) Purchase a Port Shuttle Bus ticket > (4) Take the Port Shuttle Bus to the Hong Kong Port > (5) Clear Hong Kong customs > (6) Take the B4 bus to Hong Kong International Airport.

If traveling from Zhuhai (or other areas on the western side of the Pearl River Estuary) to Hong Kong Airport, the process is: (1) Take a bus to the Zhuhai Port of the bridge > (2) Clear Zhuhai customs > (3) Purchase a Port Shuttle Bus ticket > (4) Take the Port Shuttle Bus to the Hong Kong Port > (5) Clear Hong Kong customs > (6) Take the B4 bus to Hong Kong International Airport.

(1) Getting to the Macau Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge

The Macau Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is located on an artificial island adjacent to the new reclamation area in Areia Preta. Currently, there are only two bus routes from the city to the Macau Port: the 101X and 102X. The single-trip fare is 6 MOP, or 4 MOP with a bus card.

The 101X and 102X buses have limited space for luggage. If you’re traveling abroad via Hong Kong Airport, you likely have large luggage, so taking a taxi is recommended.

Visitors to Macau can take free shuttle buses (casino buses) from the city to the Macau Port. However, to prevent further traffic congestion, the Macau government has restricted the number of casino buses. Instead of each casino or hotel providing its own shuttle, a unified shuttle service (“Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Integrated Resort Shuttle“) is now used.

However, the shuttle buses do not go directly to each casino or hotel. Instead, they go to the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal and the Taipa Ferry Terminal, where passengers can transfer to casino or hotel shuttles. Similarly, if you’re traveling from your hotel to the Macau Port, you’ll need to take a hotel (or casino) shuttle to one of these terminals first, then transfer to the unified resort shuttle.

If you take a public bus, taxi, or resort shuttle to the Macau Port, you’ll be dropped off at the square in front of the departure hall on the first floor of the immigration building. The same applies if you’re dropped off by a friend. After getting off, walk toward the building to find the entrance to the departure hall.

If you park in the West Parking Lot, you’ll need to go to the 5th floor and use the pedestrian bridge to reach the departure hall.

(2) Clearing customs at the Macau Port

After entering the departure hall, you’ll see the Port Shuttle Bus ticket counter on the left and a row of self-service ticket machines. Next to the machines is the passage to the customs departure hall, where you’ll go through security.

After security, follow the arrows for about 3 minutes to reach the departure hall for Hong Kong, where there are multiple manual and automated immigration channels. Be careful not to go to the wrong hall, as the departure halls for Hong Kong and Zhuhai are in different locations. The signs are clear: follow the blue arrows for Hong Kong.

After clearing Macau customs, take the escalator or elevator down to the waiting hall, where there are also Port Shuttle Bus ticket counters and self-service ticket machines.

The waiting hall has a lounge for airport direct buses and some shops that are not yet open.

(3) Purchasing Port Shuttle Bus tickets

There are four ways to buy Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus tickets: (1) at the ticket counter at the port, (2) at the self-service ticket machines at the port, (3) through the shuttle bus’s WeChat official account, or (4) via the shuttle bus’s official website. However, discounted tickets for children and seniors can only be purchased at the ticket counter.

Shuttle bus tickets are not assigned to specific departures or times, only to dates and time slots (daytime [06:00~23:59] or nighttime [24:00~05:59]). If your travel date and time slot are confirmed, you can purchase tickets online in advance. If your WeChat account supports WeChat Pay, you can buy tickets through WeChat. Otherwise, you can use the shuttle bus website, which accepts credit card payments but requires account registration (only a mobile number is needed).

Tickets purchased through WeChat or the website must still be collected at the self-service ticket machines at the port. After purchase, a QR code will be generated for ticket collection—just scan it at the machine.

Macau to Hong Kong Airport Shuttle Bus Schedule

At the Macau Port, shuttle bus ticket counters and self-service machines are available both before and after customs, so you can choose based on crowd conditions. At the Hong Kong Port, they are only available after customs.

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus Schedule

Self-service ticket machines only accept electronic payments. At the Macau Port, machines accept Macau Pass, MPay, or Alipay (only accounts verified with a mainland ID card). At the Hong Kong Port, machines accept Octopus, Alipay, or AlipayHK. If you don’t have these payment methods, you can use cash at the ticket counter. The Macau Port counter accepts MOP, HKD, and RMB, while the Hong Kong Port counter only accepts HKD and RMB (not MOP).

Using the self-service ticket machines is simple: tap the blue “Purchase” button on the screen, select the route and quantity, confirm, choose a payment method, then tap your card or scan the code. After successful payment, the ticket will be printed.

Shuttle Bus to Hong Kong Airport Schedule

Shuttle bus tickets are not assigned to specific buses or seats—you can board any bus and find a seat. To ensure passengers traveling to Hong Kong Airport don’t miss their flights due to overcrowding, the shuttle bus company prioritizes boarding for airport-bound passengers at the Macau Port.

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus Boarding Point

(4) Taking the Port Shuttle Bus from the Macau Port to the Hong Kong Port

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus operates three types of vehicles: double-decker buses, single-decker buses, and coaches. The double-decker and single-decker buses are new, with spacious interiors and seats similar to Hong Kong buses, plus USB charging ports. If you’re taking the shuttle bus to enjoy views of the bridge, these are recommended.

Both double-decker and single-decker buses have luggage racks—single-deckers at the front and double-deckers at the rear. However, space is limited, making it difficult to store large luggage. Initially, the shuttle bus had strict luggage size restrictions: one piece per passenger, not exceeding 64cm x 41cm x 23cm (a 24-inch suitcase) and 10kg in weight. This made them unsuitable for travelers with larger luggage, such as those flying internationally.

However, besides double-decker and single-decker buses, there is a third option: coaches. These are similar to tour buses, with luggage compartments underneath, allowing for larger luggage. According to the updated passenger guidelines on the shuttle bus website, each passenger can now bring one piece of luggage not exceeding 76cm x 51cm x 32cm (a 28-inch suitcase) and 20kg in weight, matching most airlines’ economy class baggage policies.

Due to luggage restrictions, travelers heading to Hong Kong Airport via the bridge can only take coaches. Double-decker, single-decker, and coach buses operate in rotation, with coaches being the most frequent (followed by double-deckers). Even if you can only take a coach, the wait time is usually short—about 15–20 minutes. However, not all coaches are new; some are refurbished second-hand vehicles, so seats may be worn, and USB charging is unavailable. The shuttle buses also do not offer free WiFi.

The speed limit on the bridge is 100 km/h, but the shuttle buses maintain a speed below 80 km/h, so the trip from the Macau Port to the Hong Kong Port takes about 40 minutes.

(5) Clearing customs at the Hong Kong Port

The Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is smaller than the Macau Port, with a more streamlined layout. After disembarking, you won’t have to walk far—just go through Hong Kong customs to reach the arrival hall.

(6) Taking the B4 bus from the Hong Kong Port to Hong Kong International Airport

To get from the Hong Kong Port to Hong Kong International Airport, you’ll need to take the B4 bus. While multiple bus routes (A11, A21, A22, A29, NA11, NA12, NA20, NA29) from Hong Kong city stop at the Hong Kong Port before heading to the airport, they only drop off passengers—no boarding is allowed. Therefore, the B4 bus is the only public bus option for this route.

The B4 bus is a circular route connecting the Hong Kong Port and the airport, with only 7 stops. A full loop takes about 16 minutes, and the ride from the Hong Kong Port to the airport is just one stop (about 5–6 minutes). The return trip takes about 10–11 minutes.

B4 Bus from Airport to Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge

The B4 bus stop at the Hong Kong Port is located at the local public transport interchange outside the arrival hall. After exiting the hall, the first bus stop ahead is for the B4. The B4 runs frequently: every 8–12 minutes during the day (06:15~24:00) and every 15–30 minutes at night (00:00~06:15). The fare is HK$9.1, payable with cash or Octopus.

B4 Bus from Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge to Airport

The B4 bus has a luggage rack, but space is limited.

The B4 bus stop at the airport is located below Terminal 1. It’s the first stop after departing the Hong Kong Port. If traveling from the airport to the Hong Kong Port, board at the same stop.

After disembarking, walk about 30 meters back in the direction the bus came from to find two elevators. Although labeled for cargo, they are mostly used by passengers. Taking these elevators to the 7th floor leads to the departure hall of Terminal 1 (or Terminal 2), while the 5th floor is the arrival hall.

Alternatively, you can cross the road via the zebra crossing and take the ramp up to the arrival hall, then use the elevators to reach the departure hall.

3.4 The process of traveling from Hong Kong International Airport to Macau (or Zhuhai) via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Shuttle Bus

The process is essentially the reverse of traveling from Macau (or Zhuhai) to Hong Kong Airport.

(1) Taking the B4 bus from Hong Kong International Airport to the Hong Kong Port

The B4 bus boarding point at the airport is the same as the drop-off point—on the road below Terminal 1.

The most convenient and fastest way to reach the B4 bus stop is to take the two elevators opposite the B Arrival Hall in the arrivals lobby of Terminal 1 (press “3” for the third floor). After exiting the elevator, turn left and walk straight for about 30 meters to reach the bus stop.

Hong Kong Airport to Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge

If the area is too crowded, you can also walk from Terminal 1 to the bus stop and cross the zebra crossing to reach the B4 bus stop.

Hong Kong Airport to Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge

The B4 bus takes approximately 10 minutes to travel from the airport to the Hong Kong Port of the bridge, and the final stop is the Hong Kong Port.

(2) Immigration at Hong Kong Port

The B4 bus from Hong Kong International Airport to the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge drops passengers off outside the departure hall on the upper level. After disembarking, entering the passenger inspection building will lead you directly to the departure hall.

(3) Purchasing Shuttle Bus Tickets at the Port

At the Hong Kong Port, ticket counters and self-service ticket machines for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge shuttle buses are only available in the hall after immigration. Since there are two types of shuttle buses departing from Hong Kong—Macau-bound and Zhuhai-bound—be careful not to purchase the wrong ticket. Additionally, the self-service ticket machines at the Hong Kong Port do not accept Macau Pass or MPay. If you do not have an Octopus card or a Mainland ID-verified Alipay account, you can only purchase tickets with HKD at the ticket counter.

(4) Taking the Shuttle Bus from Hong Kong Port to Macau Port

After exiting the departure hall, follow the signs to reach the shuttle bus boarding point. Note that the boarding locations for Macau-bound and Zhuhai-bound buses are different. Currently, there are two ticket-checking exits in the departure hall—one leads to the Macau-bound boarding point, and the other to the Zhuhai-bound boarding point—so there’s no need to worry about boarding the wrong bus.

Details about vehicle types and luggage restrictions have already been explained in the section “Travel Process from Macau to Hong Kong International Airport via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge,” so they will not be repeated here.

(5) Traveling from Macau Port to Macau City Center

The arrivals hall of the Macau Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is located on the lower level of the departure hall. After exiting the arrivals hall, you will find bus stops, taxi stands, and resort shuttle bus pickup points. If someone is picking you up by car, the private car waiting area is on the left.