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The Awkward Traveller

The Perfect 4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary for First Timers

I am a participant in the Amazon Affiliates Program, so basically I earn a small commission if you use any of the affiliate links on this post - at no extra cost to you! Dope right?

You know, I didn’t intend on visiting Hong Kong. I knew of it, and in theory it seemed cool and all, but it just wasn’t high on my visitation list. YEAH YEAH I KNOW – how foolish and naive I used to be, haha. However, back when I visited Dubai, the transfer airport was through the Hong Kong airport. So I figured why not turn the layover into a stopover? That’s how I ended up quickly putting together a 4 day Hong Kong itinerary only a few days before I left on my trip.

Needless to say, I GREATLY underestimated Hong Kong as a destination. First of all, it’s a LOT bigger than I expected. Yes, it is essentially a city-state like Singapore, but it is made up of over 250 islands! The food blew me awayyy, the shopping was fun and unique, and as someone who absolutely loves cities, the skyscrapers and energy from the city really sealed the deal. All of this to say that I loved my time in Hong Kong, so I’m putting together my lil 4 day Hong Kong itinerary so you can also have a wonderful experience!

Though, I’m no expert on Hong Kong. I’ve literally only visited…once. For four days. So to help me out with this 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, I’ve had the help of my fellow blogger friend Steve from The Trip Goes On . He lived in China for over a decade, but due to being unable to renew his visa, he had to move on to a new country. He lived in Hong Kong for a few months…then unfortunately due to circumstances out of his control, he was unable to stay. However, he kept all his Hong Kong goodies close to his heart so he could help me out with this 4 day Hong Kong itinerary!

I’ll also be dropping a few links from my good friend Nam from  Laugh Travel Eat , a local Hong Kong resident and blogger. She has some incredible resources on her blog full of hidden gems and insider knowledge that you can’t find anywhere else!

4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary Overview

And with that, let’s get this 4 day Hong Kong itinerary on the road! This post will be divided up into an itinerary summary and general “things to do” section (this part), a FAQ section to answer a few common questions about traveling to Hong Kong, and then finally move on to a day-by-day breakdown.

Feel free to use the Table of Contents to hop around to whatever section you’re interested in, or if you have the time, read the whole post for a good overall picture of what a 4 day Hong Kong itinerary might look like for your trip!

Top Sights in Hong Kong

If you’re more of a self-planner and like to take things as they come, here is a list of the top attractions in Hong Kong that I feel are worth prioritizing. All of these are visited in my suggested 4 day in Hong Kong itinerary.

Of course, there is tons more to do in Hong Kong, but yanno, we’re here in Hong Kong for a fun time not a long time haha. Feel free to visit any of these as they are convenient during your trip. Likewise, pick and choose which ones are most appealing to you, and then you can fill your itinerary with other niche attractions that fit your specific interests.

Hong Kong Park

• Silvermine Bay

Victoria Harbour

Victoria peak, itinerary summary.

That said, I know not everyone will have a full four days in Hong Kong. That’s okay! This 4 day Hong Kong itinerary is arranged with the more iconic sights happening in days 1 and 2. Even if you can only swing an overnight layover, you’ll still have a good experience.

1 Day Hong Kong Itinerary :

If you only have one day out of the 4 day Hong Kong itinerary then these are the must-see sights: Kowloon markets, Victoria Harbour, Star Ferry, Victoria Peak, Soho & Mid Levels.

2 Day Hong Kong Itinerary :

Follow the 1 day itinerary and add Hong Kong Park, the village of Stanley, Repulse Bay and finish with a cocktail overlooking the harbour 30 floors up!

3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary :

Follow the above for days 1 and 2 and add charming Lantau Island with its quiet beaches, hiking trails, big Buddha, and authentic fishing villages.

4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary :

On the last day of this 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, we head to the wild New Territories for some exceptional hiking, picturesque beaches and seafood restaurants with the freshest catch!

Hong Kong FAQ

BUT!!! Before we really dive into this 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, you’ll probably want to know the basics about traveling in and around Hong Kong before you go.

Getting to Hong Kong

Hong Kong International airport is one of the busiest in the world with flights to destinations across the globe. US citizens do not need to apply for a travel visa in advance. The airport is situated on Lantau Island and is connected to the metropolitan area by MTR, bus, and taxi. Ubers exist in Hong Kong, but don’t service everywhere .

If you are coming from China, there is a new fast train service from Shenzhen North Railway Station to Kowloon which reduces the journey time from hours to around 30 minutes.

Octopus Card

Even if you are only in Hong Kong for 1 day, it is useful to pick up an Octopus Card. Like the Suica card in Japan, The Octopus is not only useful for the MTR and buses, but can also be used on ferries, in shops and at attractions. At the end of your stay you can return it for a refund. The card costs 50HKD which is refundable. You can get one at any MTR station and some newsagents.

Best Time to Visit Hong Kong

Hong Kong is located in the tropics and enjoys year-round warm weather. Which is nice for us travelers who want to avoid the cold at all costs! Though, some seasons are more…favorable than others. Autumn, Winter and Spring are the best times to visit Hong Kong as you will avoid the intense heat and monsoons of the summer months.

Basically, the worst time to visit Hong Kong is in the summer.

But you know what they say, there’s no bad weather – only bad preparation. So if you know a packing list for monsoons…let me know hahah.

What’s Hong Kong like for Black Travelers

Traveling in Asia, for Black people, often comes with a caveat. A lot of times, we end up being attractions on our own. It seems as though, without fail, people line up to take pictures of Black travelers . So what’s the vibe in Hong Kong?

Visiting Hong Kong while Black, in my experience, was pretty chill. It may be because many residents in Hong Kong are exposed to and familiar with western and Black culture, so Black travelers aren’t an exciting spectacle to many of them. Also, Hong Kong is a major metropolis with many international companies and businesses. Even if someone is shocked or excited to see a Black traveler, city people are more reserved when approaching strangers.

Howeverrrr, when I was out and about during my 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, I was approached a few times and asked to take a picture with the person – but I want to note that it was only by other travelers to Hong Kong, and not Hong Kong residents.

1 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

On your first day in Hong Kong, discover the bustling Kowloon area with its markets and street food before taking a walk down to Victoria Harbor. Take the iconic Start Ferry across to Central and ascend Victoria Peak for impressive views across the harbor and out to sea. Finish off with a lively evening of food and drink in Soho and the Mid-Levels.

Recommended Time: 1 hour

Nearest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui

From Kowloon you can walk down to the most famous of all the sights in Hong Kong; the iconic Victoria Harbour. The harbour stretches from Kowloon to Central on Hong Kong Island and affords magnificent views of the city.

Journey Time: 10 minutes

Nearest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) and Admiralty (HK Island)

There are a few ways of crossing the harbour to Hong Kong Island but none are as fun as the Star Ferry, which has been plying the waters of Victoria Harbour for well over 100 years. The journey time only takes 10 minutes and costs as little as $3 HKD with an Octopus Card. The ferries run every 6 to 8 minutes from 06:30 to 23:30.

Recommended Time: 2 to 4 hours

Nearest MTR: Admiralty

Victoria Peak (also known as Austin Peak or just “the Peak”) is the highest point on Hong Kong Island at 552 metres (1,811 feet). The views from the Peak are incredible as you can see not only the city and harbour, but also fantasic sea views dotted with islands.

There is tram (funicular railway) that goes from Admiralty where you can either hike the myriad paths that criss-cross the peak, or take a series of elevators to the very top. The tram is very packed, so if you would rather take that than hiking, I’d recommend going early. Thankfully, “early” by Hong Kong standards is maybe 8:30am, though the tram opens at 7am and costs $88 HKD. The viewing platfom at the top $75 HKD.

You can reach the peak by tram, bus 15, taxi or even walking (moderate level of fitness required).

Kowloon Markets & Street Food

Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours

Start in Kowloon and explore the busy streets and markets where you are sure to find some bargains. This area is also packed with stalls selling some of the best street food in the world! I knowww people hate when bloggers just tell them to “stroll around and find stuff,” I know because I hate it too, but in this instance it’s true.

There are tons of small little booths along the markets with lots of souvenirs, unique products, and… potentially a few fake designer stuff. I’ll admit, I picked up a few bags for my mom. WHAT? It’s not like she knows. Anyways, as you walk along, you will also find a lot of different food and for the most part, it’s all delicious. The area really comes alive at night though, so that’s my favorite time to go.

If you’d like a more structured approach to visiting the 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, you can take a guided Kowloon tour with a local .

If you are coming from the airport take the airport express line (blue) on the MTR 5 stops to Kowloon and walk, or change to Line 1 (red) at Lai King and go 9 stops to Tsim Sha Tsui.

Soho and the Mid Levels

Recommended Time: 2 hours +

Nearest MTR: Admiralty & Hong Kong

To end day one of your 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, head to Soho. Soho is Hong Kong’s hip nightlife area where expats and tourists come to relax after a hard day’s working or sightseeing. You can find bars on every street, especially along the mid-levels escalators that run through the area.

2 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

For day 2, whether that’s all you have or just your halfway point in a 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, we’ll add Hong Kong Park, the village of Stanley, Repulse Bay, and discover the best place to sip cocktails 30 floors above the harbor.

The best part about this attraction? It’s free! Head to Hong Kong Park behind Admiralty MTR station. The park is an oasis beneath the shining skyscrapers which are partially hidden by large palm trees. Walk around the lake and see the hundreds of turtles sunbathing on rocks. There is a café/restaurant within the park and a visual arts center. It’s a nice break from the bustle of city life.

Thankfully, you can get right back into the bustle by visiting Montane Mansion, the iconic apartment complex in Hong Kong. It even appeared in Transformers 4! If you’re photogenically included, definitely check out some other great Instagrammable spots in Hong Kong .

Repulse Bay

Bus: Take bus 6, 6A, 6X, 66 or 260 from Exchange Square Bus Depot in Central

The Lamborghini Garage as you enter Repulse Bay tells you what sort of place this is. But even if you are not rich and famous you can still enjoy this beautiful sandy beach overlooking rocky outcrops and islands. A great place for a swim year-round, especially in the quieter off-season months.

Stanley Village

Recommended Time: 2 to 4 hours +

Bus: Take bus 6, 6A, 6X, 66 or 260 from Exchange Square Bus Depot in Central.

Continue the day’s journey to Stanley, a small village on the south side of Hong Kong Island. Depending on your mode of transportation, it will take you about 30 to 40 minutes to get there. There is a small market, shops, restaurants, and three small beaches all within walking distance. The bus ride from Central is stunning as it follows a coast road above Deepwater and Repulse Bays.

Alternatively, you can bypass taking the journey yourself and take an Aberdeen Fishing Village tour , also on Hong Kong island!

The Eye Bar

Nearest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui or walk from the Star Ferry pier.

When you’re ready to end the night, you can pair it with getting a beautiful skyline view! The Eye Bar is located on the top (30th) floor of the iSquare Shopping Complex on Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui. It’s not the cheapest place in Hong Kong to eat or drink, but the views across the harbor are worth every penny. You can dine inside on a selection of Eastern and Western dishes and then retire to the roof terrace to sip cocktails above the city.

And, word of warning, it is very pricey. A bottle of Corona costs $80 HKD and cocktails are $120 HKD+ so…just a heads up. If you’re not a fan of going to bars alone, there’s also a rooftop bar tour so you can get local insight on all the myths and misconceptions about Hong Kong over drinks!

3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

For day 3 of the 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, let’s discover Lantau Island, the second largest in the territory! Lantau Island is located roughly 10 kilometers west of Hong Kong Island. If you’d rather not do planning on your own, there are many Lantau Island tours you can join. However, it’s more than doable on your own as well and easily reachable by MTR, bus, and ferry.

Ferry : There are 4 ferries per hour to Lantau (2 fast and 2 slow). The fast ferry takes just 30 minutes and the slow one closer to an hour. Tickets are $15 and $30 respectively and can be paid by Octopus.

MTR : Take the Tung Chung Line (orange) from Hong Kong or Kowloon stations to Tung Chung. Here you can take a cable car to the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery (tickets from $160HKD one way/25 minutes) or a bus to Mei Wo, Tai O, or the start of the hiking trails.

Car : you can get an Uber TO Lantau Island, but there are no Ubers to come back.

Hong Kong Disneyland

Recommended time: 3+ hours

One of the biggest draws toward Lantau Island is an attraction that independently brings both domestic traffic and travelers from all over the world. And that, of course, is Hong Kong Disneyland. Unlike other Disneylands when people start lining up two hours before the park opens…Hong Kong Disney opens at a leisurely 10:30am and I didn’t experience any lines when I went at that time on a week day.

In fact…I don’t think people really started to show up until after lunch.

I loved it!

It’s one of the smallest Disney parks, but that’s part of the charm. But of course, I still recommend downloading the Hong Kong Disney app and making all food reservations in advance. For more insight, be sure to check out my Hong Kong Disneyland Guide !

Lantau boasts some excellent hiking trails including Lantau Peak and Sunset Peak with incredible panoramas of the ocean and islands. Both hikes are pretty tough and require some level of fitness, but are worth the effort for the stunning views.

Hong Kong is home to a variety of venomous snakes from cobras to kraits. Wear sturdy boots when hiking and make noise so snakes can escape. Never put your hands where you can’t see such as under rocks or branches.

Recommended time: 1-2 hours

The pace is much slower on Lantau compared to the city and you can amble around traditional fishing villages like Tai O or trek into the jungle behind Silver Mine Bay . There are quiet beaches perfect for a swim.

Hong Kong is a great place for swimming but leave all marine life well alone. Many of the city’s beaches are patrolled so swim where there is a lifeguard station and shark nets (there haven’t been any shark-related fatalities since 1995 and given overfishing, sharks are unlikely to be a threat again any time soon).

Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery

I’ve seen a lot of Big Buddhas in my time, and the one on Lantau Island is definitely in my top three! From a cultural attraction standpoint, I do feel like this was one of my favorite visits in my 4 day Hong Kong itinerary. The monastery grounds are beautiful and there is a small shop to buy incense, charms, and other items.

Insider Tip: It is definitely worth spending the whole day on Lantau but to get the most out of a trip to the island consider staying overnight at one of the hotels or guesthouses. There is a hostel called the Sea Ranch on the South side of the island that is only accessible by boat or long trek through the jungle. There is another beach a 15-minute walk away that is even more picturesque, and at night you can even witness bioluminescent plankton if you are lucky!

4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

If you are lucky enough to fully follow this 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, you’ll be able to break away from the usual tourist trail and see a side of Hong Kong that many do not. Follow the 1, 2 and 3 day itineraries as above and for day 4 we will spend the day in the New Territories and some of the best beaches you could hope to find anywhere!

Sai Kung Country Park

First, to get to Sai Kung, take the MTR to Diamond Hill on the Kwun Tong line (green) and then change to bus 92 to Sai Kung. From there you can take bus 94 to Pak Tam Chung and start hiking the Maclehose Trail or take one of the ferries or speedboats to the gorgeous beaches that line the park.

The New Territories refers to the area north of Kowloon that goes up to the Chinese border. The area includes hundreds of islands, gorgeous deserted beaches , ancient fishing villages, and the best hiking in Hong Kong. The town of Sai Kung has many seafood restaurants where you can pick your fish/seafood before it is brought to your table. You won’t find fresher anywhere else!

For a more thorough guide to Sai Kung, check out Nam’s local guide to Sai Kung Hong Kong ! And that’s the end of our 4 day Hong Kong itinerary! Of course, there’s a tons more you can add-on to your 4 day Hong Kong itinerary, or if you happen to have more time in Hong Kong, but that’ll get you through all the coolest spots!

Hong Kong Budget Tips

Hong Kong is not a cheap city, but if you are sensible it doesn’t have to break the bank. You can get a bed in a dorm at one of the many hostels for around $100 HKD per night and hotel rooms start at double that for a simple room. If you have hotel points, now is definitely the time to use them. A few other budget tips to keep your wallet cozy on your 4 day Hong Kong itinerary:

• Ensure you pick up an Octopus Card!
• Feast on street food or grab a picnic if you are heading to the outlying islands.
• Search out bargains on tours or

And of course, you could always take the extreme budget option of backpacking Hong Kong ! Just be mindful that your money won’t go AS far in Hong Kong as say…Central America or Southeast Asia, but it’ll help make your 4 day Hong Kong itinerary a bit more financially accessible.

Conclusion: 4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

There you have it folks – a full 4 day Hong Kong itinerary that covers all the bases of this amazing destination. If you can stay longer, I do highly recommend it. I’m ready to book another trip just to go on endless food tours alone. However, if you only have a few days, hopefully this 4 day Hong Kong itinerary will help you plan your vacation.

Have you ever been to Hong Kong? What other food and activities would you suggest on a 4 day Hong Kong itinerary? Let me know in the comments below!

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I would definitely be at Disneyland Hong Kong. We visited Disneyland Paris and loved it

Right???? That’s lowkey why I decided to stay a few extra days in HK, but then I found a bunch of other stuff!

I want to go to Hong Kong Disneyland soooooo much!!!! I’m a huge Frozen fan!!! Thank you for the great recommendations. I’ll definitely saving these recommendations for my trip.

No joke, HK Disney is my favorite park that I’ve been to so far!

Would definitely want to visit the Big Buddha, Disneyland Hong Kong, Victoria Peak and Montane Mansion.

Yess all amazing spots!

I had a layover in Hong Kong and was amazed at how much we could see in 24 hours. My favorites were Victoria Peak and the markets.

I LOVED the markets!!

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Copy My Trip: rediscovering Hong Kong's street markets, buzzy restaurants and Star Ferries

Jan 10, 2024 • 6 min read

From the peak to the harbor, Hong Kong has endless things to do © Alexander Howard / Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet's Managing Editor of Destinations Content, Alexander Howard, recently traveled to Hong Kong. Here, he shares some tips and insights for anyone planning a similar trip.

Hong Kong and I go way back. Several years ago (more than I'd like to admit), I visited as a college freshman and fell in love with the city – its neon-washed alleyways, kaleidoscopic street markets and the nonstop Lan Kwai Fong nightlife.

So for this trip, I was eager to see how Hong Kong had evolved. I wanted to revisit the familiar streets and sights that had left an indelible mark on my early travels and to experience the city from a new perspective.

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

I stayed at the Prince Hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui. Situated near the Kowloon waterfront, just a block away from a convenient Mass Transit Railway (MTR) stop, the hotel was an excellent location for exploring the city. The Prince caters to both business and leisure travelers, so the decor leans towards the inoffensive. It's forgettable, yet professional. Generic abstract paintings meet bold accent walls in green, red, or yellow. The breakfast buffet was a good way to start the day, mixing both Western-style items like eggs and bacon and Eastern-style food in the form of steamed buns and noodles. A room with harbor views is worth the extra expense.

Best thing you ate?

In a city as well known for its food, this question is a bit like asking to choose your favorite child. If I had to choose, I'd pick Hutong . Located on the 28th floor of the H Zenter building high above Tsim Sha Tsui, Hutong is one of Hong Kong's most popular restaurants. The restaurant's design blends traditional Chinese aesthetics and modern style: dark wood tables and fixtures resemble the eponymous alleyways found in Beijing, and expansive windows frame stunning views of the Hong Kong skyline and harbor. The view is especially enchanting during the city's nightly 8 pm light display.

The culinary star of the show is the Peking duck, finished at the table in a dramatic bath of flames. The perfect balance of crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat, the duck was served with the traditional thinly sliced cucumbers, scallions, a sweet and tangy duck sauce, and soft, warm Chinese pancakes. There were supporting roles for delicious dim sum (served anytime), crispy red lantern soft-shelled crab with Sichuan dried chili, and bok choy poached in fish broth.

What was the most under-the-radar activity you enjoyed?

Wandering through the historically working-class neighborhood of Sham Shui Po. Far from the glitz of the central districts, this area is where traditional trades and communities continue to survive amid the city's rapid modernization.

My visit included a stop at Kung Wo Tofu Factory , a humble yet Michelin-starred eatery that has been perfecting bean curd dishes for more than 60 years. Their bean curd pudding, a simple but iconic dish, a silky, delicate dessert made from coagulated soy milk, highlighted the area's culinary heritage – one that thrives without the need for extravagance. I added a heaped spoonful of pink cane sugar for added sweetness.

Sham Shui Po's markets and shopping centers are another reason to visit. Lively Apliu Street Flea Market was an interesting area to stroll, especially once Hongkongers had finished work. and were ready to bargain. Selling everything from tools and lights to various knickknacks, the market offered a glimpse into the everyday lives of Hong Kong's residents. 

Toy Street was a playful contrast to the more practical offerings. This market street, lined with stalls selling trinkets, was awhir with the sounds of beeping toys, chirping plastic animals and locals making purchases. It's a spot where both kids and adults can find something to spark their curiosity. Indeed, I found a plastic robot with light-up eyes that was a hit with my four-year-old son back home.

What was the most touristy thing you did?

I rode the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak, something of a rite of passage for visitors. Operating since 1888, it's one of the world's oldest funicular railways. The steep incline from 28m (92ft) to 396m (1299ft) is quite the engineering feat.  However, the experience was somewhat diminished by the crowds and commercial atmosphere at the peak – there's a Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant and Madame Tussauds at the top, which gives you a sense of what to expect. Then the view from the peak, while pleasant, doesn't necessarily live up to the hype. To catch a glimpse of the cityscape, you might have to wedge between throngs of visitors. 

For those looking for a quieter yet equally rewarding experience, I'd suggest an alternative: seeing the sunrise from Lugard Road. Take a taxi to Victoria Peak, and then follow Lugard Road as it winds its way along the northern side of the mountain. It's a much more peaceful way to enjoy the stunning views of Hong Kong's skyline as it transitions from the cyberpunk night of LED signage and glassy skyrises to a quiet city waking up.

What was your favorite way to get around?

Hong Kong has a bunch of great ways to get around , but my favorite is the Star Ferry. It has served as a practical link between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon since 1888, long before the construction of more modern connections. A ride isn’t just about the history; it's also about efficiency and unbeatable views. Crossing Victoria Harbour is a quick yet scenic look at the city's skyline and surroundings, and it's just HK$4 (around US$0.50) one way for the lower deck.

This ferry isn't a luxury cruise – it's a workhorse of public transport. It’s reliable and straightforward but its affordability and frequency make it a smart choice for anyone moving between the island and the mainland. Each ride was also a chance to take a breather from the fast-paced city.

What should travelers know when visiting Hong Kong?

Most international travelers arrive via Hong Kong International Airport, which serves over 100 airlines, including Hong Kong–based Cathay Pacific and the cheaper Hong Kong Airlines, as well as major US carriers like American Airlines and United. US travelers can find nonstop routes from Boston, LA, New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. Nonstop flights from Europe originate from London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and others.

From the airport, the most convenient option is the Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway's (MTR) Airport Express , a rail that shuttles passengers from the airport to stops at Kowloon (HK$185 round trip) and Hong Kong Island (HK$205) in as little as 24 minutes. Catch up after your flight with the free on-board wi-fi.

Grab an Octopus card to navigate the city's public transportation more easily. Accepted on buses, trams, ferries, and the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), this convenient, rechargeable card makes it a hassle-free way to travel around the city.

While Uber operates in Hong Kong, rideshares are illegal if the driver has no permit. An interesting feature of the app is the ability to request a regular licensed taxi, which allows for cashless payment – a notable benefit since most taxis in the city are cash-only. However, this convenience often comes with a higher price tag compared to hailing a traditional metered taxi on the street.

Hong Kong is almost always humid, especially in the summer months. Even in late November, I found myself sweating while walking around town in jeans and a t-shirt. Lightweight, breathable clothing will make your explorations more comfortable.

Cash is king in smaller establishments. While many places accept credit cards, smaller shops, local eateries, and markets often prefer or only accept cash.

Alexander traveled to Hong Kong by invitation from the Hong Kong Tourism Bureau. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

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Hong Kong Itinerary: What to Do in 4 (or More) Days

Hong Kong. Its name inspires visions of a chaotic, jam-packed city with soaring skyscrapers, thick smog, endless noodle stands, big finance, and wild nights out.

It’s one of my favorite cities in the world . The fast pace creates a sense of permanent change, and the crowds, multiculturalism, and food keep me continuously coming back. Oh, the food! I could sit bent over a noodle bowl all day long.

Hong Kong is a busy city of 7.4 million inhabitants with one of the biggest hub airports in the world. It can be overwhelming for many visitors, especially those not used to crowded places.

And, with so much to do in Hong Kong , many travelers scratch their head about where to start in order to get the most out of the trip.

While you can visit the city within one or two days, it’s best to spend at least three days in Hong Kong. If you’re going to visit Macau, I’d add another day, so you’d need 4-5 days to really see the place.

This four-day Hong Kong itinerary will help you organize your trip, steer you off the beaten path, and show you why Hong Kong is one of the most on-the-go cities in the world.

Table of Contents

Hong Kong Itinerary: Day 1

Hong kong itinerary: day 2, hong kong itinerary: day 3, hong kong itinerary: day 4, other things to see and do in hong kong.

The Hong Kong Museum of History In order to understand a place, you must first understand its past. This museum lets you do just that. It provides an excellent overview of Hong Kong’s long and complex past. There are exhibits relating to the archaeology, social history, ethnography, and natural history of the region. It’s big, so allow about 2–4 hours for your visit.

100 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, +852 2724 9042, hk.history.museum/en_US/web/mh/index.html. Open Wednesday-Monday 10am-6pm (7pm on weekends). Admission is free but some special exhibitions may require a fee.

Kowloon Park Head to Kowloon Island’s gigantic park that features a swimming pool, a fitness center, little ponds where you can watch ducks and other swimming birds, a Chinese garden, an aviary, and the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre (not to be confused with the Hong Kong Heritage Museum; more on that museum below). There are also plenty of rest areas here where you can relax to escape the oppressive Hong Kong heat. Spanning 13 hectares (33 acres), it’s one of the best places to people-watch in the city.

22 Austin Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, +852 2724 3344, lcsd.gov.hk. Open daily 5am-12am and admission is free.

Street Markets in Mong Kok This area of Hong Kong has the largest and busiest markets in which to soak up the frenetic atmosphere, sights, and sounds of Hong Kong. The crowds and sellers really exemplify Hong Kong’s on-the-move essence. The two best markets for inexpensive souvenirs are the Ladies Market (bargain clothing, accessories, and souvenirs) and the Temple Street Night Market (flea market). The markets of Mong Kok are best reached by the Hong Kong MTR subway system, stations Yau Ma Tei, Mong Kok, and Prince Edward on the Tsuen Wan (red) line.

The markets are open every day, starting around noon and closing in the late evening (times vary).

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront and take in the breathtaking skyline view of Hong Kong Island. While you’re here, make sure to visit the Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong’s answer to the Hollywood “Walk of Fame,” where you can see the stars of Chinese and Western film alike. There are shops, restaurants, and, at night, a large outdoor market serving traditional Cantonese food alongside knockoffs and souvenirs. Come ready to haggle.

Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon (next to the Star Ferry pier). Open 24/7.

The Star Ferry The best way to get across the harbor from Kowloon Island to Hong Kong Island is via the Star Ferry, which showcases a fantastic view of the city skyline for only 5 HKD. Riding the ferry is a fun thing to do even if you aren’t using it for transportation! It’s one of my favorite activities.

Star Ferry Pier, Kowloon Point, Tsim Sha Tsui, +852 2367 7065, starferry.com.hk/en/service. The ferry runs 6:30am-11:30pm every day, though they occur less frequently on weekends and holidays. Tickets start at 4 HKD during the week and 5.6 HKD on the weekends, while a 4-day pass costs 50 HKD.  

Ngong Ping 360 This cable car stretches over 5.7 kilometers (3.5 miles) from Tung Chung across the bay toward the airport and then onward to Lantau Island. The cable car gives you a panoramic view of the airport, harbor, and entire city before it travels through the surrounding mountains. The ride lasts about 25 minutes.

When you get to the top, don’t miss the nearby Po Lin Monastery (a Buddhist monastery founded in 1906) and Tian Tan, a 34-meter (111-foot) bronze Buddha statue that sits on the top of the island’s peak. While Lantau Island is a bit touristy, the ride, views, and monastery make it worth the trip.

11 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Island, +852 3666 0606, np360.com.hk/en. Open 10am-6pm on weekdays and 9am-6:30pm on weekends on holidays. A round-trip adult ticket for the cable car is 270 HKD for a standard cabin and 350 HKD for a crystal cabin (a cable car with a glass bottom floor). You can reserve tickets online in advance here .

Take a Food Tour After the morning on the cable car and enjoying a killer view of Hong Kong, spend your afternoon taking a food tour. Hong Kong is a food-filled city (there are over 10,000 restaurants here!) and you’ll find a diverse range of cuisines from around the world. But without help, you’ll never find all the hidden local favorites. The following companies offer the best value tours:

• Eating Adventures
• Hong Kong Foodie Tasting Tours
• Bigfoot Tours
• Secret Food Tours

Expect to spend 690-860 HKD per person for a food tour.

Rent a Junk Boat Junk boats — those classic boats with the large sail you see in any movie about Hong Kong — are a fun way to sail around the harbor on full-day and half-day trips. There is only one traditional junk boat left: the Dukling. It sails Saturdays and Sundays only, with tickets starting at 190 HKD.

Another option is sailing on The Aqua Luna, a boat that was built in the traditional style in 2006. It sails much more frequently and offers a variety of cruises, from a dim sum cruise to an afternoon tea cruise. Tickets start at 270 HKD.

In addition to these traditional-style junks or if you’re looking for more of a party boat vibe, you can also rent a boat with a large group of friends (15 or so people) or join a group cruise around the harbor. There are a ton of different options to choose from, from all-you-can-eat-and-drink boats with add-on water sports, massages, and DJ packages, to companies that let you just rent the boat and bring everything else yourself.

Here are some recommended companies that offer affordable boat tours:

• Island Junks – They have a couple of cruise options, costing around 660-690 HKD per person. You can also charter your own if you’ve got the money!
• Saffron Cruises – This is a great option if you can put together a large group of 20-30 people, as a charter costs 9,000-14,000 HKD.
• Hong Kong Junks – This is more of the classic party boat experience, with options for all budgets.

Ping Shan Heritage Trail Located in the New Territories (the city’s less visited northern district), this trail will lead you past some of the most important ancient sights of the Tang clan. There are 14 historic buildings on the trail, including: Hung Shing Temple, The Tang Ancestral Hall, Yeung Hau Temple, Shrine of the Earth God, and the 15th-century Tsui Sing Lau Pagoda (Hong Kong’s only ancient pagoda). Just be aware that not all of the historic buildings on the trail are open to the public.

Another option is the Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail. It begins at the Taoist temple complex of Fung Ying Seen Koon and passes the walled villages of Ma Wat Wai and Lo Wai before ending at the 18th-century Tang Chung Ling Ancestral Hall.

This part of Hong Kong is often skipped by tourists, and the trails, meandering through the city’s more rural region, are quiet and a welcome break from the giant metropolis of the downtown area.

Ping Shan Trail: Sheung Cheung Wai, Yuen Long District, +852 2617 1959, lcsd.gov.hk. Lung Yeuk Tau Trail: 66 Pak Wo Rd, Fanling, Hong Kong, +852 2669 9186.

Hong Kong Heritage Museum This museum showcases the city’s history and love of art. There’s a large exhibit about the New Territories and an opera house for performances. It fills in some of the blanks left from the Hong Kong History Museum and gives you a look at the artistic culture of the city. It’s also located near the beautiful Sha Tin Park and Shing Mun River, making the surrounding area just as interesting as the museum!

1 Man Lam Rd, Sha Tin, New Territories, +852 2180 8188, hk.heritage.museum/en/web/hm/highlights.html. Open every day but Tuesday 10am-6pm (7pm on weekends). Admission is free.

Che Kung Temple Just across the river from the Heritage Museum, this temple is dedicated to Che Kung, a general during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) in ancient China who was known for stopping both uprisings and epidemics. This temple was built in his name during an epidemic in the 17th-century, and it is said that the epidemic ceased the day after its official dedication.

The temple complex is always filled with people, so be prepared for crowds. The traditional architecture and intricate sculptures, including the large golden sculpture of Che Kung himself, make this worth visiting after you see the Heritage Museum.

Che Kung Miu Road, +852 2691 1733, ctc.org.hk. Open daily 8am-6pm.  

The Peak Tram This tram, which has been in operation since 1888 (with several renovations since then) takes you to the top of the Peak, Hong Kong Island’s largest mountain, at 518 meters (1,700 feet). Upon exiting at the top, you’ll enjoy spectacular 180-degree views of the skyscrapers of Victoria Harbor, Kowloon, and the surrounding hills. It’s the best view of the city.

Also at the top is the huge, wok-shaped Peak Tower with its viewing platform Sky Terrace 428, Madame Tussauds, and a variety of restaurants. Head away from this area and you’ll find many different trails to get into nature and see the city skyline from a bunch of different vantage points. When you’re done at the top, you can either take the tram or walk back down along the trails.

No.1 Lugard Road, +852 2849 7654, thepeak.com.hk. Open daily 7:30am-11pm, with trams running every 15-20 minutes. A return trip is 88 HKD, while the same with entry to the sky terrace viewing platform is 148 HKD per person and 168 HKD on peak days.

Hong Kong Museum of Art This museum on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront is a fascinating and intriguing place. Established in 1962, it was the first public art museum in the city. There are both rotating temporary exhibitions as well as a permanent collection where you’ll find everything from Chinese ceramics, terra cotta, rhinoceros horns, traditional calligraphy, and Chinese paintings, to contemporary art produced by Hong Kong artists.

Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2721 0116. Open Monday-Wednesday, Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 10am-7pm. Admission is 10 HKD.

Lan Kwai Fong Nightlife LKF is the main nightlife and party area in Hong Kong and is filled with tons of bars, clubs, shisha (water pipes), and cheap drinks. Nights out here are wild — the street is always crowded, people get very drunk, and shots get handed out like candy. It’s rowdy, but if you want to see Hong Kong’s wilder side, this is the place to do it.  

Take a cooking class — Hong Kong is full of food. Why not learn how to cook some of it? This Hong Kong expat website has a list of 20 schools offering classes! Prices vary but expect to spend around 550-800 HKD per person.

Go hiking — Hong Kong may be a densely packed city, but there is also scenic hiking in the outer mountains and islands. There are a lot of trails (especially in the undeveloped parts of the New Territories). The Hong Kong tourism board lists all the trails here .

Visit Disneyland — If you’re on a family trip, or if you’re a backpacker in touch with your inner child, head to Disneyland. Hang out with Mickey Mouse and shake hands with sea creatures. ( Tickets start at 639 HKD .)

Day trip to Macau — The gambling mecca of Macau is a short boat ride away. For 175 HKD, the 60-75–minute boat ride from Hong Kong’s ferry terminal will take you to this former Portuguese colony, where you can wander gigantic modern casinos, stroll historic streets lined with Portuguese-inspired houses, and dine on egg tarts, a famous local specialty.

For more, here are my recommendations for the 23 best things to do in Hong Kong.

In a city of almost 8 million people, there are countless things to see and do. One could fill weeks exploring Hong Kong’s many islands, markets, restaurants, sights, and nightlife and still not see it all. Though impossible to condense a city so vast into four-days, this Hong Kong itinerary will help you experience the most Hong Kong has to offer in a short period of time!

Book Your Trip to Hong Kong: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite place to stay is:

• The Mahjong

For places to stay in Hong Kong, check out my post on my favorite hostels in the city . It has an even more detailed list.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Hong Kong? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Hong Kong for even more planning tips!

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I Traveled to Hong Kong As Soon As It Reopened to American Travelers, Here's What It Was Like

What you need to know about getting to Hong Kong right now, and what to do once you're on the ground.

DuKai photographer/Getty Images

After nearly three years, Hong Kong’s entry restrictions have been fully lifted, testing requirements are no more, and hotels, bars, and restaurants have their doors wide open. United Airlines also announced plans to restart flights to Hong Kong in March, and flag carrier Cathay Pacific will increase capacity throughout 2023, reaching 70 percent of pre-pandemic passenger numbers by end of year. 

While change is inevitable after years of isolation, travelers to this fiercely metropolitan city will find so much to love. Now is the time to visit — or revisit — this cosmopolitan megacity. 

What It’s Like in Hong Kong Right Now — and What to Know About Entry and Exit

The path to Hong Kong's reopening has been far from easy. Since 2019, Hong Kongers have faced seemingly insurmountable challenges. First, the government outright suppressed a pro-democracy movement, banning political demonstration and arresting those who defied. Then, the outbreak of the pandemic, along with subsequent extreme restrictions, forced the city’s residents into lockdown for months on end — and kept travelers at bay. 

It’s no doubt the one-two punch of political turmoil and a pandemic knocked Hong Kong down temporarily. But for the first time in years, Hong Kongers — and those visiting — have good reason to get back up swinging (and exploring) again. That’s because there’s a resurgent cultural and museum scene, new or refurbished landmark luxury hotels, and at the moment, fewer crowds to get in the way of it all. 

I arrived in early January, nostalgic and eager, to a quiet Hong Kong International Airport to discover that, at least on the surface, not much has changed since my last visit in mid-2019. There are no tests to take, no paperwork to fill out, and no apps to download. While tourists have yet to return in droves, the metropolis still has a steady pulse. I felt that energy as I criss-crossed Hong Kong Island from Kennedy Town to Causeway Bay on a “ding-ding tram” and sailed through Victoria Harbor on my favorite mode of transportation, the long-beloved Star Ferry, between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. In many ways, it feels like the ideal situation; the day-to-day fast-paced life of Hong Kong remains without the out-of-towners adding overwhelming volume to the city. 

The city’s vibrant streetscape — with throngs of pedestrians sharing the same thoroughfare as double decker buses and signature red taxis — hasn’t changed too much either. Hong Kong is a transportation lover’s dream where multi-modal transit and pedestrians coexist in organized chaos. Des Voeux Road at rush hour is still filled with the local after-work office crowd on their way to happy hour and dinner. After all, Hong Kongers, by the very nature of their small apartments, love to eat and drink out. It’s not all the same, though. While some of the city’s most popular pre-pandemic markets have thankfully survived — like the Temple Street Night Market in Jordan or Flower Market in Mong Kok — they don’t have the bustling energy and crowds that they used to, at least not yet.

The New Places to Stay in Hong Kong 

Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental

Several high-end luxury hotels have either come on the scene, or thoroughly refreshed their offerings since the city’s pandemic-induced lockdown. Both Rosewood Hong Kong and the St. Regis Hong Kong debuted in 2019, less than a year before travel to the region came to a halt. Last May, the Fullerton Ocean Park Hong Kong opened with 425 rooms and an inviting infinity pool overlooking the South China Sea. Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong , celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, unveiled a revamped food and beverage offering mid-pandemic, including an impressive top-floor Japanese izakaya restaurant concept with three distinct bars and sweeping views of the city. The hotel will also embark on a room modernization project later in 2023. And after its biggest transformation in 30 years, Regent’s flagship Hong Kong hotel (the former Intercontinental) is in the midst of its much-anticipated soft reopening. 

What to See and Do in Hong Kong Right Now

On the culture and heritage front, there has been a trove of recent developments. Few neighborhoods are more symbolic of Hong Kong’s new museum renaissance than West Kowloon . This cultural district created from reclaimed land, set across 100 acres, will be home to 17 arts, culture, and performance venues when complete. The centerpiece is the M+ contemporary art museum , Asia’s first venue dedicated to visual culture, which opened in November 2021. 

Across the harbor on Hong Kong Island, there is a hum of activity, too. Tai Kwun Center for Heritage and Arts, where 16 historic colonial-era buildings in the center of the city were converted to a multi-purpose enclave of buzzy exhibitions and galleries, alongside an array of international restaurants and bars, opened in mid-2018. An art exhibition focused on LGBTQ perspectives, called “Myth Makers - Spectrosynthesis III,” was a personal Tai Kwun highlight and shouldn’t be missed. 

Just up the road from Tai Kwun is the new, sixth-generation Peak Tram, Asia’s oldest funicular railway and one of Hong Kong’s most popular attractions pre-pandemic. The refreshed panoramic tram, with capacity for 210 passengers, opened in August 2022. For a little more adventure, consider hiking up to the Peak, enjoying a Hong Kong-style milk tea at Hong Kong Day, and taking the scenic tram down.

Digging deeper into the hearts and minds of many Hong Kongers, you may find a less rosy picture of the city, one in which leaders have restricted the rights to complete freedom of expression. However, the people here are rebellious by nature, and they openly spoke of their frustrations when prompted. Friends even told me how they have their own silent ways to revolt, such as supporting small businesses that embrace the color yellow, a hue symbolic of the pro-democracy movement. For all that Hong Kongers have had to endure (and will continue to endure), now feels like the best time to visit and show your support. Everything else the city offers is just the icing on top. 

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Home » Asia » China » Hong Kong » Itinerary

HONG KONG Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Hong Kong is quite unlike anywhere else on earth and is chock full of unique and exciting activities. Whether you are visiting for fun, business or simply to experience a different culture, you’ll be blown away by everything it has to offer. From its ancient temples to futuristic theme parks and everything in between – Hong Kong literally has it all!

You wouldn’t want to arrive in Hong Kong without a plan, as you may end up missing some amazing things to do! While the attractions are relatively easy to access, no matter where you are, there are optimal ways to see and do the best on offer. Which is exactly what we’ve highlighted in this detailed Hong Kong travel guide!

 A Little Bit about this 3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary

Where to stay in hong kong, hong kong itinerary day 1: lantau & hong kong island, hong kong itinerary day 2: kowloon & more, hong kong itinerary: day 3 – hikes and beaches, what to do with more than 3 days in hong kong, best time to visit hong kong, how to get around hong kong, what to prepare before visiting hong kong, faq on hong kong itinerary, final thoughts.

Hong Kong actually consists of 3 islands and 1 peninsula. The peninsula that connects to mainland China is known as Kowloon and this is where a lot of tourists attractions are situated. Then there is Hong Kong Island, Lantau Island and Lamma Island.

This itinerary spans all of these areas but fortunately, they are well connected by Metro or Ferries.

The first 2 days are very busy and time will be of the essence. Day 3 is more like a buffet option whereby we set out a number of cool options for you to choose from. Anyway, let’s dive in and look at what do for your first time in Hong Kong.

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3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary Overview

Day 1 in Hong Kong: Big Buddha , Tai O Fishing Village , Victoria Peak , The Symphony of Lights , Drinks at the Old Man

Day 2 in Hong Kong: 10, 000 Buddhas Monastery , Sham Shui Po , Hong Kong History Museum , Hong Kong Museum of Art , Cocktails in the Sky at Ozone

Day 3 in Hong Kong : Ocean Park , Lamma Island , Tai Chi Class , Dragons Back

When choosing your accommodation in Hong Kong , it’s good to know that there are several neighborhoods of varying atmospheres to choose from. If you’re wanting shopping malls, nightlife and being in the center of excitement, then staying in Hong Kong central is your best bet. Causeway Bay or Wan Chai are also fantastic choices too!

Lantau Island is not only where you will land, but also home to Hong Kong’s Disneyland, so this is usually a family favorite location. The Western District is a slightly “quieter” neighborhood, perfect for those who need some peace and tranquility at night. Alternatively, you can stay in Kowloon, which is busy, but full of budget accommodation and backpacker lodges.

Best Hostel in Hong Kong – Hop Inn on Mody

The Hop Inn on Mody is a comfy, affordable hostel nestled in the center of TST, Kowloon. There are both female-only and mixed dorms, sleeping 4 – 8 people each. It’s the perfect mix of quiet rooms and colorful artistic decor, with open common areas to chill and meet other travelers, making it one of the best hostels in Hong Kong !

Best Airbnb in Hong Kong – Cozy Studio near Mongkok

Conveniently based in northern Kowloon, this spacious apartment is as cool as the bustling streets outside. With exposed brick walls and quirky egg-shaped chairs, it’s every hipster’s dream – minus the avocado. It also boasts high-speed WiFi, 24-hour security and easy access to the subway.

Best Budget Hotel in Hong Kong – Ovolo Southside

This may be budget accommodation, but it certainly won’t seem like it when you’re there. The hotel has 162 rooms, each as comfy and stylish as the next. The floor-to-ceiling windows show off the beauty of Hong Kong, while you rest comfortably in your soft, relaxing bed! Enjoy in-room comforts, as well as on-site extras such as a restaurant and fitness center.

This is gonna be a busy day and your legs are going to get a workout! Day 1 of this itinerary also covers some pretty extensive ground so be prepared to spend some time in transit. However, it will be worth it as we whisk you around Hong Kong’s Biggest Buddha, Hong Kong’s iconic peak and finish off with a light show.

9:00 AM – Tian Tan Buddha – Big Buddha

The Tian Tan Buddha stands at 34 meters high and is a must-see for any trip to Hong Kong! You can visit this ginormous statue any day of the week. To get to the platform you must first take the cable car or bus (definitely way more fun on a cable car) to Ngong Ping village.

The statue is at the top of the village next to the Po Lin Monastery, you’ll need to walk up the grueling 268 steps – quite a workout, but oh so worth it!

For those with mobility issues, or simply unable to fathom a 268-step climb, opt for the small, winding path that leads up to the Buddha instead!

Once at the top, you’ll have insaaaane views of Lantau Island, as well as a close-up look of this huge landmark.

You can choose to go inside the statue, there are 3 halls inside and they are full of Buddhism relics and interesting items. However, staying on the outside of the statue doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on anything though. You’ll be able to catch some fabulous photos either way!

• Cost:  Free unless you want to go inside (in which case purchase a meal ticket ranging from Us $ 9 – 13)
• How Long Should I Stay here?  The visit should take no more than 2 hours
• Getting There?  Lantau Island is reached by taking the Tsung Chung line from Tung Chung Station. The ride takes 25 minutes. If you are coming from Tsim Sha Tsui, the whole journey will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes

12.00 PM – Tai O Fishing Village

Hong Kong is famous for its skyscraper city line, but it wasn’t always like this. Tai O fishing village takes you back to rural Hong Kong times when it was just a fishing port, and not much else.

When you’re tired of all the rush and crowds, then a trip to the Tai O fishing village is the perfect antidote.

You’ll find it’s a much slower pace of life here, and it’s the best place to pick up some fresh seafood street food to eat while you’re at it too.

If you’re into nature and wildlife, you can take a boat ride around the village with one of the locals, and even look for pink dolphins. Now they are super rare and I’ve never actually seen one, but the boat ride is only $30HKD or so and it’s a nice activity – you get to see all the stilt houses in their pride and glory..

• Cost:  Free to explore – only pay for food and the bus ticket
• How Long Should I Stay here?  2 hours
• Getting There?  There is a bus directly from Ngong Ping to Tai O.

5.00 – Victoria Peak

To get from Tai O to Victoria Peak will take some time. I suggest getting the bus from Tai O to Mui Wo, and then the ferry back to Central. This journey should take around 1.5 hours if you time it right.

Victoria Peak is the highest point on Hong Kong Island and draws a crowd of tourists each day. This mountain stands at 552 meters above sea level and was used as a natural signal for cargo ships in the 19th century. Today, it is simply a beautiful place to visit and enjoy.

On top of the peak, you will find The Peak Tower.

Inside this fantastic building, there are shops and restaurants galore, as well as Sky Terrace 428 – Hong Kong’s highest outdoor observation deck.

At the peak, visitors can also take advantage of the Madness 3D Adventure experience, the  Post Love to the Future  mailbox, and the amazing nature walks available.

• Cost:  The train is $5 one way
• How Long Should I Stay here?  Stay to enjoy the sunset over Hong Kong city before heading down.
• Getting There?  I’m giving you options! If you want a perfectly manageable but sweaty 45 minute hike, do it. But after hiking up to Big Buddha, I reckon your feet are feeling tired. So, you should definitely opt for the peak tram! It’s a funicular railway system that’s iconic for Hong Kong.

8.00 PM – The Symphony of Lights

When you’re ready to leave Victoria Peak, you can take a bus down to central, or the tram. From central, you can get the MTR or ferry over to TStT to catch the Symphony of Lights. This should take you around 1 hour at most.

Each night, at exactly 8 pm, tourists and locals alike will make their way to the harbor to amaze their senses with the Symphony of Lights show! This show is a mix of dazzling lights and glorious orchestra music. The best vantage points include the “Avenue of Stars” on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, on the waterfront promenade outside the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai and on sightseeing ferries (i.e. Star Ferry) running across the Victoria Harbour. 

It can be seen from both the Hong Kong main island and Kowloon and is one of the top attractions in Hong Kong .

As well as from The Peak, and other rooftop bars and lounges, but from those spots, you won’t be able to hear the music…  So why not just take a boat cruise and enjoy the show from the water??

The best way to see the show is to find a comfy spot, preferably where they serve dinner and drinks and sit back to relax. The show only lasts around 10 minutes, but it’s a definite must-see!

• Cost:  Free
• How Long Should I Stay here?
• Getting There?  Get the Metro to Tsim Sha Tsui and walk along the promenade to take in the spectacle

9.00 PM – Drinks at the Old Man

Whether you are a Hemingway fan, or not, The Old Man is sure to delight and entertain you! This cozy bar has been fashioned in a way that honors Hemingway and his love of literature.

Ready for some classy and seriously elegant cocktails? Bingo! This venue is the ultimate place to end of a busy day. The quiet atmosphere and innovative drinks are sure to be the cherry on top of a perfect first day in Hong Kong!

• Cost:  About $4 per drink
• Getting There?  It’s a 16 minute walk from Central down near the Waterfront.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Any trip to Hong Kong must swing by the 10,000 Budda’s monastery as well as take a look at the fascinating history of this unique city state. Day 2 of our 3 days in Hong Kong itinerary does just that.

9.00 AM – 10,000 Buddhas Monastery

Day 2 starts in the north of Kowloon, at the 10, 000 Buddhas Monastery – a must see in Hong Kong. Slightly off the beaten path, on a hill in Sha Tin New Territories, sits the 5 temples, 4 pavilions and 1 pagoda that make up the 10, 000 Buddhas Monastery! To get there, from Kowloon, it takes around an hour if you take the bus, a taxi cab could do the trip in around 20 minutes too.

Fill up on a big breakfast before you leave, because this is going to involve a lot of walking!

There is much to explore once you are here, and with a long hill and many steps to climb, those with mobility issues will, unfortunately, find this a hard activity to take part in.

Take a walk through the forest – beware of the wild monkeys though – and take your time to really appreciate the serenity that this place offers. Many people come here to meditate and reflect on their thoughts.

By the way, contrary to the translation of its name, the monastery houses 13,000 Buddha statues in total.

• How Long Should I Stay here?  2 -3 hours
• Getting There?  Head to Sha Tin Metro station

12.00 PM – Sham Shui Po

Sham Shui Po is a district you can’t miss on your Hong Kong trip! Firstly, you absolutely must try out Tim Ho Wan, the district’s only Michelin-star restaurant, offering some of the best Dim Sum you’ll ever eat. Dim Sim is by the way one of THE things to do in Hong Kong in 3 days.

You can visit the many shops, from clothes to electronics, and even toys!

There are many a special and sale to be found along these crowded streets too, so keep your eyes peeled.

The main attraction, though, is the food! We suggest walking around for a little while, just enough to gain an appetite, you know? Then, make your way through your list of faves – bite-by-bite. Try out a 3-course traveling meal – doing each course in a different eatery.

• Cost:  Free to explore – pay for what you buy
• How Long Should I Stay here?  1 -2 hours
• Getting There?  From 10,000 Budda’s you take the Blue East Line metro from Sha Tin Station to Kowloon Tong Station. Then take the Green Kwun Tong line to Prince Edward Street

2.00 PM – Hong Kong History Museum

The Hong Kong Museum of history tells the fascinating and complex history of the region using a series of exhibitions. From ancient times, through the rise and fall of Chinese dynasties and into the days of the British Empire, the full tale of Hong Kong is told here. There are some wonderful mock-up’s of Hong Kong corner shops, banks and shipping terminals that give you a feel of how it must have been back when it was the world’s major trading hub.

• Cost:  $10
• How Long Should I Stay here?  90 – 120 minutes
• Getting There?  It’s a ten minute walk from TST East Metro Station. If you are happy trying the bus, then it’s 3 minute walk from the Empire Centre. From Sham Shui Po it should take about 30 minutes.

4.00 PM – Hong Kong Museum of Art

Located on Salisbury Road, the Hong Kong Museum of Art offers extensive collection of Chinese art.  The collections include a busy mixture of Qing ceramics, ancient calligraphic scrolls, bronze, jade, lacquerware, textiles, and contemporary canvases. It is an essential stop for those wishing to understand Hong Kong’s artistic culture through the ages. If you are wondering what to see in Hong Kong in 3 days then some fine art is a good safe bet.

• Cost:  $2
• How Long Should I Stay here?  60 minutes
• Getting There?  It’s a 13 minute walk from the History Museum

6.00 PM – Cocktails in the Sky at Ozone

Provided you’re not afraid of heights, this is an experience you should have at least once in Hong Kong. The Ozone bar is listed on the list of the 10 highest bars in the world! It’s situated on floor 118 of The Ritz-Carlton hotel. The elegant, rich decor gives the bar a classy feel, and the large windows allow for the perfect night.

The friendly staff, delicious cocktails, and breathtaking views make this an experience on its own! You can get anything from beer to top-quality whiskeys and wines. Their menu includes sushi and scrumptious tapas, so you can easily enjoy a luxury dinner on the terrace, overlooking Hong Kong.

• Cost:  Cocktails are about $25 each
• How Long Should I Stay here?  I think 1 drink is plenty!
• Getting There?  It’s a 10 minute walk from Kowloon Metro

8.00 PM – Temple Street Night Market

If you want to pick up some epic souvenirs, you’ll need to head over to Temple Street Night Market. The market opens around 8pm and goes on until late. Here you will find everything from souvenirs, to random electronics (including sex toys, if you’re into that), tarot card readers and psychics. Yes, it is a varied place.

It’s also a great place to sample some delicious street food (if your belly isn’t full yet). I also recommend getting an egg waffle from Mamma Pancake while you’re there – they are so good!

Alternatively, you could visit Ladies Market in Mong Kok which is basically the same thing, but without the tarot card readers and psychics.

• Cost:  whatever you want to spend on souvenirs
• How Long Should I Stay here?  1 hour should be enough
• Getting There?  It’s a 5 minute walk from Jordan MTR

On your third and final day in Hong Kong, you’re gonna want to rest your weary legs after all that walking the last two days…NOT! Hong Kong is known for its hikes, in fact, it has over 100 hiking trails and more than 60% of Hong Kong is a national park. Sure, the Hong Kong skyline is nice, but the mountains and beaches are out of this world.

Today we will just be doing one hike because they do take a long time, and no Hong Kong trip would be complete without hiking. But don’t worry, because this hike is suitable for beginner hikers and families. It is the world-class Maclehose Trail to Sai Wan beach.

9.00 AM – Breakfast in Sai Kung

The hike I have picked for you for today’s hiking adventure starts at Sai Kung Town Center.

It is completely up to you when you start your hike, but I do suggest getting to Sai Kung early to catch the bus. In that case, you should also have breakfast in Sai Kung.

There are a ton of local breakfast restaurants in Sai Kung, and it’s a very expat-heavy area, so you’ll find a ton of hipster coffee shops. I went to Shiba Taro Cafe when I was there and it was great.

After breakfast, you will need to catch a village bus to Sai Wan Pavilion. The bus has a sporadic schedule, it only comes 4 times a day in the week and 8 times on weekends.

If you miss the bus, you can catch a taxi to Sai Wan instead (make sure to get a green taxi because they are cheaper).

• Cost: depending on where you eat
• How Long I Should Spend There? 1 hour to eat, you can also walk along Sai Kung pier but there is not much else to see.
• Getting there: You can catch a red mini bus from Dundas Street in Mong Kok, or more commonly, from the bus station outside Hang Hau MTR.

10.00 AM – Sai Wan Pavilion – Sai Wan Beach

Once you have made it to Sai Wan Pavilion you can begin hiking. The walk is completely paved and is sometimes shaded, but mostly exposed to the elements.

It should take you no more than an hour to reach Sai Wan beach and it is mostly downhill all the way.

Once you reach Sai Wan, you will find a couple of restaurants and a magnificent beach to bask on.

If you like water sports, you can rent a surfboard or just kick back and relax on the beach.

• Cost: bring around $50 HKD for food, or you can bring your own and pay nothing!
• How Long I Should Spend There? 2-3 hours
• Getting there: Hike from Sai Wan Pavilion. There is only one trail and everyone takes it, so you won’t get lost.

12.00 PM – Sheung Luk Stream

If you’ve had enough of the beach and fancy a nice cool river to swim in, take a short walk to the Sheung Luk Stream, or Sai Kung Rock Pools, which in my opinion is one of the best waterfalls in Hong Kong .

Here you will find a huge natural river pool, and probably some daring teenagers jumping off rocks. Don’t do it though, because accidents are known to happen to those who try!

It is a magnificent place for a cool and refreshing dip in the Hong Kong heat, but once you’ve spent an hour there, there’s not much more to do.

• Cost: free HKD for food, or you can bring your own and pay nothing!
• How Long I Should Spend There? 1 hour
• Getting there: Hike from Sai Wan beach. The trail is only a 20 minute walk from the village.

2.00 PM – Ham Tin and Tai Long Wan Beach

If you’re not tired and want to see what I think is THE BEST beach in Hong Kong, continue hiking towards Ham Tin beach and Tai Wan Beach.

You can stop in Ham Tin if you’re tired, but if you can continue on to Tai Wan you won’t be disappointed.

By now, you would have done a lot of hiking, but this is the last stop, I promise!

Tai Wan beach is a long stretch of pure white sand beach with excellent surf. It’s usually very quiet, because it takes some effort to get to, but it is the cleanest and most picturesque beach in Hong Kong, hands down.

• Getting there: Hike from Sheung Luk Stream. It will take 30 minutes to Ham Tin beach and 45 minutes to Tai Wan.

5.00 PM – Boat to Sai Kung

There are two options to get back to civilization. One, the way you came. That means hiking all the way back to Sai Wan Pavilion and trying your luck with the bus.

Or, and the most popular choice is to take a boat back to Sai Kung pier.

You can catch the boat from either Sai Wan or Ham Tin, so if you’re at Tai Wan beach you should plan to get back accordingly. You can buy your boat ticket from the restaurants at Ham Tin or Sai Wan.

• Cost: around 120HKD for the boat
• Getting there: Hike from Tai Wan back to Ham Tin or Sai Wan Beach and wait for the boat. The boat takes roughly one hour.

7.00 PM – Rooftop dinner @ Wooloomooloo

For your last evening in Hong Kong, you must have a rooftop dinner to get the second-best view (after the views from the hike today) of Hong Kong. The best views are by far from a rooftop restaurant.

Now there are a lot of rooftop restaurants in Hong Kong, but a lot of them are really overpriced and a bit of a gimmick.

That’s why I always recommend people visit Wooloomooloo. Yes, it is pricey, but they serve the best steaks in Hong Kong! And the views are insaneeeeee.

There are two restaurants in Hong Kong, both are stunning. If you’re staying in Kowloon, head to the Tsim Sha Tsui branch, or if you’re staying on the Hong Kong island side, there’s a great one in Wan Chai. Ideally, try to book ahead as they tend to fill up quickly, though you can have luck with walk-ins too.

• Cost: depends on what you order
• How Long I Should Spend There? 2 hours
• Getting there: Take the MTR to either TST or Wan Chai and walk.

Aside from the itinerary, there are loads more stuff to do in Hong Kong. If you’re lucky enough to be spending three or more days in this exciting city, be sure to check out some of these exciting, quirky and memorable activities!

The Ocean Park in Hong Kong is so much fun, you really need an entire day to fully enjoy it! You’ll find adventure rides, bumper cars, a cable car, jumping castle, even wet rides. You would want to miss the chance to visit the many animal encounters, from koalas to pandas and marine animals, too!

To eat, there is a list of amazing restaurants, as well as food kiosks for a quick bite in between the fun!

You can get anything from traditional Hong Kong dishes to seafood. There are also some amazing desserts, cakes and other sweet dishes available from the several restaurants and bakeries.

Shopping is an experience on its own in the park! Check out the Waterfront Gift Shop and take an ocean-themed souvenir home with you, or go to The Panda Kingdom Shop and pick one of the many panda-related gifts on offer there.

The park is big on conservation! The seafood served in the restaurants is all sustainable, they encourage visitors to bring reusable bags, and charge for plastic bags to be taken when shopping or taking home doggy bags. They also offer conservation resources on their website and app.

• Cost:  An adult day ticket is $65USD
• How Long Should I Stay here?  4 hours
• Getting There?  There are 3 main options.  Take South Island Line and  get  off at  Ocean Park Station , Exit B. Take bus 48, 107, 629, or 973 to  Hong Kong   Ocean Park  directly. Take bus 71, 71P, 72A, 75 or N72 to Wong Chuk Hang. Then, you will see the  Park

Ferry over to Lamma Island

If you’re in Hong Kong for an extended period, a trip to Lamma Island is absolutely worth it! This fishing village-turned multicultural hub is home to many different types of people and offers some splendid sights.

You can hike the Lamma Island family trails or take a breathtaking cycle around the island. Fill up on a delicious lunch at the Rainbow Seafood Restaurant.

Then, make your way to the Lamma Fisherfolks Village where you can learn about this community and even take part in some of their fishing activities if you wish to!

You can spend a good 7.5 hours doing the sea kayaking and hiking tour around the island – a wonderful, active way to spend a day! Be sure, though, that you don’t leave the island before grabbing a coffee at the Book Worm Cafe. Sit down with a good book – read one of theirs or bring your own – and relax after a day of walking!

Other sights to see are the power station, the wind power station, and so many gorgeous picnic spots and beaches to relax in. Whether you visit the island for an entire day or just a few hours, it makes for a great break from everyday life! If you need to stay over, there are affordable and comfy spots to rent a room on the island as well.

• Cost:  Exploring is free, the ferry is around $30 HKD.
• How Long Should I Stay here?  4 to 5 hours
• Getting There?   Lamma is easily reachable by ferry from Central Pier 4 on Hong Kong Island and from Aberdeen on the south side of Hong Kong Island.

Take a Tai Chi Class

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art, known for its health benefits. If you’ve never tried it before, doing a class in Hong Kong is a brilliant idea! Not only will you be learning from masters of the art, but the culture of the activity is well-preserved as well.

You can find many places to catch a Tai Chi class , most are free and open, taking place in public spaces.

Some of these will have numbers or emails where you need to book ahead of time, while others let you simply drop in and find a space! These will usually be in a public park, under the shade of a large tree or next to a calm body of water.

The carefully choreographed moves, along with the peaceful setting allow for a tranquil, yet energized experience! This truly is a rejuvenating activity for both body and mind.

If you prefer to learn in a more private setting, you can book one of the private classes on offer, which are not free but offer you some privacy in a smaller group.

This is actually something you can do on more than just one occasion, if you find the right spots, you can try and catch a Tai Chi class each morning of your stay.

• Cost:  Varies
• How Long Should I Stay here?  Classes are usually 1 hour
• Getting There?  Depends where it is

Hollywood Road

Hollywood road is one of the oldest, and most famous, roads you will find in Hong Kong. It is approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) long and features many cultural and historic landmarks.

Fun Fact, Hollywood Road was built and named in 1844, before the famously known Hollywood, California! Along this road, you will find art galleries, museums, and temples galore.

These show off the history of Hong Kong, and the culture that the state has preserved all these years.

Some attractions to look out for:

• Man Mo Temple
• Hollywood Mural
• Hollywood Road Park
• Liang Li Museum

Although not quite on Hollywood Road itself, you should definitely make a detour to check out the Alex Croft G.O.D  graffiti wall in Graham Street .

• Cost:  Free to explore – only pay for food and gallery/temple entrances where necessary.
• How Long Should I Stay here?  3 hours
• Getting There?   The metro from Lantau’s Big Budda takes around 1 hour 15 minute

Dragon’s Back

Hiking Dragon’s Back is thought to be the best way to start a hiking habit! The peak is easy to access and doesn’t require a very high level of fitness. The scenic views are well worth the climb as well, as from the top of the ridge you get to see a more natural side of Hong Kong.

The name, Dragon’s Back, comes from the shape of the spinal ridge.

The ridge is situated between the Wan Cham Shan and Shek O Peak.

The ridge is a 4-hour bus ride from Central Hong Kong. It is best to do the hike before it gets hot, so you’ll want to leave quite early in the morning or find closer accommodation for the night before. The bus will bring you right to the foot of the ridge, allowing you to start your hike without too long of a pre-walk!

There are different hiking options, ranging from 5 – 8 km, and will take around 2 to 3 hours. Finishing the hike will leave you either at the bus stop, where you can take a bus to Shek O Beach, or it will take you right to Big Wave Bay beach, depending on the route you decide to take.

Once the hike is done, you can enjoy the afternoon soaking up the sun on the soft beach sand. There are also some great lunch spots to fill you up for your trip back to your hotel.

• Cost:  Free!
• How Long Should I Stay here?  The hike may take 2 – 3 hours
• Getting There?   Take the metro to  Shau Kei Wan Station.  Then take the bus to  To Tei Wan, Dragon’s Back

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Hong Kong:

Tsim Sha Tsui

As one of the most central districts in Hong Kong city, it’s little wonder Tsim Sha Tsui receives so many visitors and we believe it’s the best area to stay in Hong Kong on a first-time visit. The nightlife, cafes, and markets might also have something to do with it.

• Kowloon Park – those keen to escape city life can take a wark in sprawling Kowloon Park which is home to greenery, plants and birdlife.
• The Avenue of Stars walkway beside Victoria Harbor is as famed for its static telescopes allowing you to admire the cities skyline and it also focuses on another type of star – those from the movies.
• Don’t miss the K11 art gallery and shopping center which displays exhibitions all throughout the year. Pick up some goods as you explore the installations.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

First things first, when is the best time to head down to this beautiful location? There isn’t necessarily a wrong time to visit Hong Kong, but each season has pros and cons of its own. The table below is pretty helpful.

Wherever you choose to base yourself in Hong Kong, you’ll have easy access to transport and accessing the attractions and sights on this itinerary. Taxis in Hong Kong come by often, and the Star Ferry shuttles crowds across from the main island to Kowloon and back often each day.

The Metro is perhaps the easiest way to get around as you can study the maps and announcements are in English. However, it gets very crowded. Busses can sometimes be faster and signs are written in English – still drivers do not speak much English and knowing where to get off can very confusing. As you only have 3 days in Hong Kong, wasting time getting lost may not be adviseable.

If you are visiting Hong Kong for the weekend then the business and financial districts will be quieter but the shopping areas and temples may be busier.

Planning a trip to Hong Kong is simple enough as many nationalities don’t need a visa to enter. The weather can be very hot and humid all year round. Even when it rains it can remain very stick out. Despite the tropical climate, people in Hong Kong dress very well usually donning a mixture of business/casual/fashionable attire. For this reason, flip flops and cargo shorts are not advisable – you will look ridiculous.

Instead, wear loose but nice clothes of thin material. If you must wear shorts make sure they are nice ones and dress them up at least. Most things a traveller will need can easily be bought in Hong Kong so if you do forget anything, don’t worry too much.

Hong Kong is relatively safe and violent crime is rare. There is a significant criminal underworld in Hong Kong but it is not a concern tourists or backpackers in Hong Kong need worry about. However, always travelers are encouraged to stay vigilant when in crowds and to keep valuables safe.

There is a high police presence all throughout Hong Kong, which creates a safe feeling for both locals and tourists.

The public transport in Hong Kong is relatively safe and reliable, and walking through the streets and parks shouldn’t be an issue! If you a female traveling alone, however, take the necessary precautions and try not to walk down secluded streets on your own, especially at night.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Hong Kong

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their ultimate Hong Kong itinerary.

How many days do you need in Hong Kong?

That depends on what you want out of your trip. 3-5 days are enough to cover top attractions, but you could easily spend up to 10 days exploring!

What should you include on a 3 day Hong Kong itinerary?

Make sure to include out these awesome Hong Kong hotspots: – Big Buddha – Victoria Peak – Sham Shui Po – Buddhas Monastery

What is the best month to visit Hong Kong?

February-April are the best months for sightseeing in Hong Kong, as these have the lowest chance of rain and smallest tourist crowds.

Where should you stay in Hong Kong?

Kowloon, Causeway Bay, and the Western Districts are some of the best areas to stay in Hong Kong for sightseeing.

Now, you can easily plan your trip to Hong Kong, knowing where you should go and what you should do when there! All there is to do now is book your trip and decide how long you have to spend there. Be double sure that you make time to try out Hong Kong’s food – as this is usually a large part of the enjoyment for visitors!

We hope you found valuable information in this Hong Kong guide, and that you’re able to travel Hong Kong with the knowledge you need. Also remember that in between the larger, better-known attractions are tiny sights and scenes that are not often found in other parts of the world. Keep your eyes peeled and be sure to arrive in Hong Kong ready to learn and embrace all their culture has to offer you!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Area geography

Hong Kong is located in East Asia and shares its boundary with South China Sea and China. It covers an area of 1,092 square kilometres, out of which 1,042 square kilometres is land area and 50 square kilometres is covered by water bodies. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) consists of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories, along with over 200 islands. The narrow Victoria Harbour, one of the world’s deepest natural harbours, separates Kowloon and the New Territories from Hong Kong Island. Hong Kong is a combination of hills and developed lowlands leaving very little land for agriculture (only around 6 per cent of the 1,104 square kilometres). Despite being located on volcanic plains, there are no major seismic activities, the last one being recorded in 1874.

Notes currencies cards

Hong Kong’s local currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HK $). ATMs can be found all across the city and many accept international cards. There are some HSBC ‘Electronic Money’ machines that offer 24-hour cash withdrawal facilities in the local currency for Visa and MasterCard holders. If you are looking to exchange your currency, you can do so at the banks or any of the licensed moneychangers, located all over the city. You are more likely fetch a better exchange rate for higher denominations. Make sure that before the actual exchange is made, the moneychanger gives you a form to sign with the amount due to you, the exchange rate and any service charge. You can also exchange your money at Hong Kong’s International Airport, where the counters stay open from early morning till late into the night. However, bear in mind that you are least likely to fetch decent exchange rates here. International credit cards such as American Express, Visa, Diners Club and MasterCard are accepted at hotels, retail shops and restaurants. Travellers cheques are accepted by most leading banks and hotels.

Cellular service for tourists

Pre-paid SIM cards can be procured from 7-Eleven and Circle K convenience stores. These top-up cards are available in a variety of price options.

Wifi internet

Regarded as one of the most wired cities on the globe, Hong Kong has excellent Wi-Fi connectivity. Wi-Fi is easily available throughout Hong Kong, in hotels, public areas and even shopping malls. One can also log in for free at major MTR stations (example, Central and Causeway Bay) and many public libraries.

Drinking laws

The legal age for drinking in Hong Kong is 18 years.

Tipping is not compulsory in Hong Kong. A 10 per cent service charge is added to all restaurant bills. However, if are happy with the service you can leave a tip.

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For visits up to 14 days, visas are available on arrival. For visits to Macau up to 30 days, visas are not required. If you are planning on staying longer, you will need to apply for a visa to the Chinese Embassy. While Hong Kong is a duty-free port, there are certain items on which duty is charged. Import taxes are levied on cigarettes and spirits, but not on wine and beer. Visitors to Hong Kong have a duty-free allowance of up to 60 cigarettes and 1 litre of spirits. If you are arriving from Thailand or Vietnam, be prepared for a thorough check of your luggage, as the custom officers are constantly on a look out for drug peddlers. 

Hong Kong is a safe destination, with police officers keeping a close watch day and night. However, tourists should observe certain basic precautions. It is advised to put away your passport, flight tickets, extra cash and travellers cheques, along with any extra credit or ATM cards into the safe the minute you check in. Keep a close watch on personal belongings especially in crowded places and avoid dark, deserted areas.

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Hello: Néih hóu

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Sorry: Deui-m̀h-jyuh. (In Hong Kong, it is more common to use the English word "sorry")

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I visited a Cathay Pacific first-class lounge in Hong Kong. It was so incredible I forgot I was even in an airport.

Posted: April 22, 2024 | Last updated: April 22, 2024

• I visited The Pier, a Cathay Pacific first-class lounge at Hong Kong International Airport. 
• The lounge was one of the best I've ever visited and had tons of seating, a restaurant, and a spa. 
• I'd visit the lounge again — and I get why it's been called one of the best in the world.

On a recent visit to Hong Kong , I visited The Pier, a Cathay Pacific first-class lounge, before my flight to New York.

The flagship lounge has a restaurant, stunning bar area, nap rooms , free WiFi, and complimentary massages. It's accessible for passengers flying first class on Cathay Pacific or another Oneworld carrier or for those with status as an Oneworld Emerald member.

Airport lounges have been touted by many as the secret to making air travel far less miserable, and with ones as nice as this I can see why.

Here's what my experience was like at The Pier, one of Cathay Pacific's first-class lounges at Hong Kong International Airport.

I didn't have to wait to get into the lounge, which felt premium as soon as I walked in.

Cathay Pacific has two lounges for first-class fliers in this airport — The Wing and The Pier — but the latter was closest to me, so I chose to visit it during my travels.

According to Cathay Pacific's website, the lounge is available from 5:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. daily. It's located in terminal one, near gate 63.

To enter the lounge, I scanned my boarding pass at the check-in station. Unlike other lounges that I've been to, there was no line or overcrowding. I was able to walk right in.

From the moment I entered, it felt like a premium airport lounge experience .

My first stop was the lounge's restaurant.

Everything at The Pier's restaurant was made-to-order. Menu options included a burger, fish, and ramen — all cooked to your liking.

The airline has a partnership with the Rosewood Hotel in Hong Kong, so there were also dishes from the collaboration available.

Guests in the lounge get access to both the regular menu and the collaboration menu, with each offering some seasonal options that change regularly.

Although I'm not typically one to order airport food, this was exceptional, and I'm glad I did.

I've been to plenty of lounges, and this was by far the best lounge food I have ever had.

I liked that the restaurant didn't have a buffet like many other lounges, so there were no people grabbing or picking at communal food. Instead, I felt like I was like dining in an actual restaurant with menus, waiters, and service directly to my table.

I ordered a specialty drink and pasta dish from the Rosewood collaboration. Both were delicious.

Everything I sampled was cooked to perfection, and it felt like I was dining in a fancy restaurant — not just a few yards from my gate. The service was impeccable, too.

Admittedly, I'd visit the lounge again just to try a few more of the tempting menu options.

After eating, I explored the lounge. It was spacious and luxurious.

Onyx stone covered the wall in the main hallway, and there was ample seating space wherever I ventured.

The furnishings throughout the space were upscale and the lounge felt like a luxury hotel . At times, I didn't even feel like I was in an airport.

The lounge had two main seating spaces, and the one by the bar felt ultra cozy.

There was no shortage of seating space in this first-class lounge.

Large couches, clusters of chairs, workstations, and other seating options offered plenty of spaces to suit a variety of travelers' needs.

A fully stocked bar was at the center of one lounge, and it had eveything from coffee to cocktails.

The bar served specialty coffee drinks, sodas, waters, and an abundance of cocktails, wines, and spirits.

Some of the cocktails were from the Rosewood Hong Kong collaboration with its bar, DarkSide, which is touted as one of the 50 best bars in Asia .

I ordered coffee and a few glasses of wine while I was waiting for my flight. The bartender was super attentive.

Since the lounge is so exclusive, there wasn't a wait for drinks like you often experience in other airport lounges . The service also felt more personalized.

Another lounge space felt like it was made for larger groups.

A separate seating area was a bit more spread out and featured larger tables in the center of the chairs.

The space also had large picture windows that overlooked taxiing planes outside.

There were also gorgeous shower suites, complete with luxury amenities.

The shower suites had to be reserved with an attendant. However, there were plenty of them, and they seemed easy to access.

Each suite seemed well stocked with a blow-dryer, plush towels, and other essential toiletries. They were easily the nicest airport shower suites I have ever seen. I've never been one to shower in lounges, but I would absolutely shower here on a long layover or between connecting flights.

My favorite part of the lounge experience was the complimentary massages.

The massage space was dimly lit and quiet. If time slots were available, I could reserve a complimentary foot massage, neck/back massage, or head massage in 15-minute increments with a masseuse.

There were also day suites available.

The lounge features eight day suites, which each have a daybed, reading lamp, and shades that fully close on both sides for privacy.

I loved the layout of these spaces and if I had a long layover or a late-night flight, I think these private sleep spaces would be an awesome spot to take a nap.

The bathrooms were equally as impressive.

Bathrooms featured luxury bath amenities, well-lit mirrors, and spacious stalls.

The snack bar also felt luxurious.

The lounge had a snack room of sorts with cheese, fruit, crackers, and many other snacks. It also had a fridge with water, sodas, and other bottled drinks. Personally, I'd opt for the dining room since the made-to-order food was phenomenal. However, this seemed to be a great spot to grab a snack if you weren't too hungry. The room felt like a luxury snack bar.

Cathay Pacific's The Pier was easily one of the best first-class lounges I’ve ever been to.

Overall, I loved spending time in the lounge. The space had tons of amenities and was a great place to relax in during my connection.

I can see why many publications have dubbed it one of the best airport lounges in the world .

The Pier was easily one of the nicest lounges I've ever visited and is somewhere I see myself visiting again — hopefully soon.

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A quiet sanctuary to unwind from the overwhelming sights and sounds of the airport. A place with a relaxing atmosphere and modern business amenities to help you focus and catch up on work. Delicious cocktails and dishes to whet your appetite for a premium inflight dining experience . As you upgrade your Cathay membership status, your journey is elevated along with it, granting you access to benefits such as access to The Pier, Business lounge when you become a Silver member. 

No matter how you want to spend your time waiting for your boarding call, all your pre-flight needs will be taken care of at The Pier, Business lounge .

Location and access

It’s noon on a weekday at Hong Kong International Airport . After passing through security and immigration, the hustle and bustle of travellers making their way to their gate is in full force. Descending the escalator near Gate 65, there’s a sense of calm at the entrance of The Pier, Business – Cathay Pacific’s largest airport lounge in the world. 

Cathay Pacific First class and Business passengers, as well as select Cathay and oneworld partner programme members who meet the admittance requirements , can simply hand over their boarding pass to one of the staff members at the reception counter and enter the lounge.  

Overall layout and design

Spanning more than 35,000 square feet, the sprawling lounge designed by the London-based Studioilse features a series of interconnected spaces arranged in a long and thin layout. Once inside, you’re greeted by an inviting atmosphere, with a series of wooden or stone furniture and design elements, nature-inspired colour tones and artworks, and warm soft lighting. These factors all come together to offer a sense of elegant comfort that you’d find at a tasteful upscale hotel. 

The lounge has enough seats to accommodate more than 500 travellers at any given time. During lunch hour, the lounge is buzzing with activity, but it doesn’t feel crowded at all. Instead, it feels like you’re part of a choreographed dance, with travellers flowing in and out of each section of the lounge at a relaxed pace.

Food and drink

The quality of the food and beverage options is one of the most important elements of an airport lounge, and at The Pier, Business, you’re spoilt for choice. Upon entering, you’ll encounter the Food Hall – the first of four main dining concepts within the lounge. Designed as a place to grab a quick bite, this gourmet food market serves a range of Western dishes, from wood-fired oven pizza to fresh salads, warming soups and indulgent pasta. After building a plate of your favourite comfort foods, settle onto one of the wooden picnic benches or high countertop chairs and enjoy the meal.

Next, you’ll find the Bar, a cosy lounge where you can enjoy a cheeky cocktail or a glass of wine or champagne, as well as signature non-alcoholic drinks like the Cathay Delight (a delicious combination of milk, coconut milk, kiwi juice and mint leaves) before your flight. Seating extends all the way to the far end of the lounge, where floor-to-ceiling windows span the entire length of this section, offering plenty of natural light and panoramic views of the runway. Single armchairs and two- and three-seater leather sofas are thoughtfully arranged throughout the area so that solo travellers can get lost in the pages of their book while charging up their electronic devices, and small groups can chat about their upcoming trip over refreshments. 

The Noodle Bar is the busiest space at The Pier, Business – and with good reason. The alluring aromas of Hong Kong classics as well as your favourite Chinese dishes hit your senses as you enter this bustling dining room, where you’ll find booths for two to four people, as well as bar seats and communal tables that are ideal for individuals and larger groups respectively. In addition to a buffet spread of fried rice, steamed pork buns and other staples, don’t miss the made-to-order signature wonton noodle soup, dan dan noodles in a rich spicy peanut broth, Hong Kong-style roast meats with rice, and other delights that truly reflect the airline’s heritage. 

Heading deeper into the lounge, you’ll find the Teahouse, a quiet sanctuary for tea connoisseurs to slow down and enjoy a curated selection of JING’s loose-leaf teas , ranging from Japanese sencha and aged pu-erh to Earl Grey and peppermint. Simply choose your favourite tea or be guided by the recommendation of a tea specialist, pick up a few treats from the baked goods counter, park yourself at a seat along the leather bench or small round tables, and enjoy a moment of peace.

Focus and relax

Besides dining, the lounge also has a range of well-appointed features and amenities that will help ensure your trip starts on the right note. Looking for a quiet space to get some work done? The Bureau near the lounge entrance has workstations equipped with iMacs and printers that are perfect for this. Travellers in transit, meanwhile, can stay refreshed before their next flight by taking a shower at one of the 14 shower suites, all of which are fitted with Bamford bath amenities. And if you have a few hours to kill before the next leg of your journey, head to the Relaxation Room. With more than a dozen semi-private resting pods featuring plush daybeds and dimmed lighting, it’s the ideal place to rest up before you continue your journey.

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Hong kong tourism board, trip planner.

Start planning your holiday today! Use our trip planner to copy or modify one of our suggested itineraries, or create your own from scratch, and share it with your travel buddies. Remember to save your itinerary so you can retrieve and build on it later.

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Input the dates of your visit — up to seven days per itinerary — to start creating your own unique plans — find inspiration in the recommended itineraries below. To retrieve your itinerary and continue editing, just save your unique code and input this next time. 

The ultimate long weekend in Hong Kong

The ultimate 12-hour layover in Hong Kong

A walk through Old Town Central's highlights

Hong Kong in 60 Hours

A treasure hunt in Old Town Central

A trend-hunter's guide to Hong Kong

Hong Kong for shopaholics

Causeway Bay walking tour

A culture of creativity in Sham Shui Po

Family fun within a budget

Families with teens

Fun and educational family tour

4 days of family fun

Two days in the islands

Lamma Island walking tour

Two days, two ways of eating around Hong Kong

Tasting Hong Kong in Old Town Central

Hong Kong local foodie guide

A delicious walk through Sham Shui Po

One day in Southern District

North District walking tour

One day in Tai Po

Neighbourhoods

Wan Chai walking tour

Kowloon City walking tour

One day in Tuen Mun

Kwun Tong walking tour

One day in Tsuen Wan

One day in Sha Tin

Trip planner is only available on our English and Chinese sites.

Special information for Labour Day Golden Week (1 – 5 May 2024)

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