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Travel to Hong Kong Is Back — Here's What It's Like to Visit and What to See and Do

After three years of near-total closure, Hong Kong is finally back on the tourist map. One travel reporter returns to the city to determine what’s changed — and what’s better than ever.

Virgile Simon Bertrand/Courtesy of Herzog & de Meuron

It seemed almost too good to be true. After 34 months of hard quarantine rules and ever-shifting regulations that scared off all but the most determined travelers, Hong Kong announced in late 2022 that it would drop almost all COVID-19 restrictions. These days, only a self-administered rapid test is required of visitors coming from the U.S.

I jumped at the chance to be one of the first Americans to enter under the newly relaxed rules. Though I hadn’t been to Hong Kong since May 2019, this would be my 12th visit to the city — a place that my parents once called home. Much has changed, as a result of both the pandemic and recent political turmoil, including protests against government curbs on freedom of expression. Yet I still found much to enjoy, not least Hong Kong’s blend of Chinese and international cultural influences — a mix that, as a Chinese American, resonates particularly strongly for me.

“Now more than ever, we want to remind travelers what there is to love about our city — its rich and layered culture, its historic-meets-contemporary atmosphere,” says Hugo Montanari, managing director of the Rosewood Hong Kong .

Here’s how to make the most of a trip, whether it’s your first, or just your first in a while.

What’s New Around Town

Lok Cheng/Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

Despite the difficulties of the past few years, Hong Kong has undergone a museum renaissance, particularly in the West Kowloon Cultural District, which sprawls along reclaimed land lining Victoria Harbour. The centerpiece is M+ , a self-described “global museum of visual culture,” which opened in November 2021. During my visit, I was impressed by several exhibits, including the permanent installation Conserving Neon Culture, which celebrates the electric signs that have illuminated Hong Kong for decades. Though a Yayoi Kusama show closed in mid-May, other intriguing options, like a survey of contemporary Chinese art, will run through the summer.

Meanwhile, the Peak Tram , a Hong Kong classic since it opened in 1888, has gotten a glow-up. In August 2022, new (if retro-looking) carriages increased capacity on the line by 75 percent and are wheelchair accessible. Unchanged is the lovely journey from Central to the top of Victoria Peak, where visitors can soak in sweeping views of the Hong Kong skyline.

Where to Stay Now

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

For much of the past three years, Hong Kong’s legendary hotels have hosted local staycationers rather than overseas visitors — but they’ve also taken time to rebuild and refresh. Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong , for example, redesigned its 399 rooms and suites and opened Argo, an ambitious art deco–ish bar with skyline views that went straight onto the 2022 World’s 50 Best list. “We have full confidence that Hong Kong is back on the global stage,” says hotel general manager Christian Poda.

Other big names, such as Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong and Regent Hong Kong, which was formerly the InterContinental, have also gone through major renovations. For its part, The Peninsula Hong Kong has introduced wellness programs, including classes and mindfulness retreats.

New properties on the scene include The St. Regis Hong Kong , which was Marriott’s 7,000th hotel when it opened in 2019. The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong is the brand’s first in the city — and its first-ever resort-style property, with a spa, a massive pool, and a water park.

Montanari, the Rosewood GM, is meanwhile eager to show off his hotel, which occupies 25 floors of a 65-story Kowloon tower overlooking the harbor. Though the property opened in 2019, this year will be the first opportunity many international guests will have to see it. “We expect a resurgence of international business and leisure travel,” the hotelier tells T+L. “And we’re looking forward to the return of cultural events such as Art Basel.”

The Scoop on Dining

Hecho/Courtesy of Sake Central

In addition to easing entry requirements, authorities in Hong Kong have eliminated the curfews and mask mandates that had kept a tight lid on dining out. “There’s an optimism in the air,” says Elliot Faber, a restaurateur who has lived in Hong Kong for more than a decade. “Now is a great time to visit, because you can feel the energy — but it’s not impossible to get a seat,” adds Faber, who’s part of the team at Sake Central. “I see things improving for the first time in a long time.”

Getting There Made Easier

In March, United Airlines resumed its daily nonstops from San Francisco, on Boeing 777s outfitted with 60 Polaris business-class seats. At the same time, Cathay Pacific continues to increase service between the city and the U.S., with capacity expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2024. The carrier is also one of four working with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to give away 500,000 free flights to the city , including some seats reserved for North Americans. Sadly for those who didn’t jump at the offer, the free seats have already been snapped up, Cathay Pacific says, “due to popular demand.”

A version of this story first appeared in the May 2023 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline "Electric Once More.”

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36 Hours in Hong Kong

By Tiffany May Updated Dec. 28, 2023

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In the director Wong Kar-wai’s nostalgic films about neon-tinged 1960s Hong Kong, characters yearn for loves lost. Today, many Hong Kongers are looking at their city with a similar longing as the Chinese territory (handed over by the British colonizers in 1997) undergoes a tumultuous political transformation. After giant pro-democracy protests in 2019, an ongoing crackdown on speech and dissent has dismantled civil society groups and set off a wave of emigration. Famous restaurants shuttered under pandemic restrictions, and locals are flocking to small businesses operating as they did generations ago, not knowing when these living relics could also disappear. It is a meaningful time to visit this glittering, international metropolis in a moment of collective soul-searching, as residents take stock of diminished freedoms, vanishing landmarks and what still makes the city special.

Recommendations

• Sheung Wan , a neighborhood dating to the mid-19th century, abounds with old shops selling tea and spices alongside some of the city’s trendiest cafes.
• Tai Kwun is a former colonial prison compound that has been restored and converted to a public art complex with galleries, restaurants, bars and outdoor performance spaces.
• M+ , a major art museum that opened during the pandemic, holds one of the world’s most extensive collections of contemporary Chinese art and offers expansive views of the harbor from its rooftop.
• Sharp Island is a verdant coastal area away from the city center with easy hiking trails, pristine beaches surrounded by aquamarine waters and volcanic rocks.
• Hong Kong Park is a family-friendly, 20-acre green space with ponds full of koi, turtles and water lilies.
• Garden Hill offers a view over Hong Kong’s candy-colored residential buildings that is magic at sunset.
• Cheung Hing Tea Hong is a historic shop with an extensive inventory of loose-leaf teas and coffee beans.
• Yuan Heng Spice Company , established in 1912, sells Chinese spices and is well known in the neighborhood for the regal cats that live in the store.
• Book Punch , an independent bookstore, has an eclectic selection and gives vegetables and snacks to its customers.
• Cheung Shing Fans Factory sells incense sticks and powders used in religious rituals.
• Kwok Kee Wood Ware Sculpture , a sixth-generation family business, hand-carves and paints wooden figures used in worship rituals.
• Parallel Space is a small, independent gallery that shows emerging Hong Kong artists and is an excellent spot to buy postcards and art books.
• 001 , a speakeasy-style bar hidden in the Tai Kwun complex, serves cocktails like Earl Grey martinis.
• Penicillin , a bar that aims to minimize food waste, creates innovative cocktails from unlikely ingredients like cacao husks and soy sauce.
• Lockdown , whose name refers to the pandemic restrictions that shut down nightlife, serves drinks inspired by the American Prohibition era.
• Nove at the Fringe is an upscale restaurant in a landmark building serving classic Cantonese food with high-quality ingredients.
• LockCha is a serene teahouse where you can linger over vegetarian dim sum and many cups of tea.
• Tai On Coffee and Tea Shop is a cafe that serves Cantonese diner classics with a twist, with paintings and cutout figures that pay homage to scenes in beloved Hong Kong films.
• Hing Kee Restaurant serves aromatic rice dishes cooked in clay pots over a charcoal fire.
• Bound Kowloon is a neon-lit coffee shop and bar with a countercultural spirit.
• Regent Hong Kong , formerly the Intercontinental Hong Kong, reopened in November as an understated oasis that contrasts with the opulence of the ultra-luxury malls and hotels nearby. Its restaurants include Nobu and Lai Ching Heen , which has two Michelin stars. It also has three rooftop infinity pools overlooking Victoria Harbor. Rooms start at 4,500 Hong Kong dollars, or about $576.
• The Hari is a stylish hotel with a lounge filled with art books. A London gallery curates the paintings, which are available to buy, displayed in guests’ rooms. There are in-house Japanese and Italian restaurants, as well as a spacious gym with a terrace for outdoor workouts. Rooms, which have ample natural light, start at around 1,900 dollars.
• Eaton HK is a lively hotel that hosts artistic and community events like the Consciousness Festival and Pride Month . The hotel has a cinema, an art gallery, a Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant , a large food court and a rooftop bar. Rooms start at around 900 dollars.
• For short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb, be aware that bookings under 28 days are not authorized unless the property has a government license. For short stays, it may be simplest to book a hotel.
• Hong Kong has one of the most easily navigable airports in the world, with an airport express train that whisks you to the heart of the city in under half an hour. Get an Octopus card, a contactless smart card used for access to the subway and buses, as well as to purchase items at convenience stores and small shops that don’t take credit cards. The MTR subway system is air-conditioned and has good cell service. Taxis are affordable, but be prepared to pay in cash. Uber is widely available, though it is slightly more expensive than taxis are.

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Travelling to Hong Kong? Here's what you need to know

A guide to help you prepare for your entry into the city

International travellers are free to come to Hong Kong, and there are no more restrictions upon arrival.  If you have some enquiries about travelling to the city, we've compiled a guide to help you with everything you need to know when entering Hong Kong, from things to prepare before arriving at Hong Kong International Airport to all the steps you must take as soon as you land.  

RECOMMENDED:  Keep updated with the  latest Covid-19 measures in the city . 

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Who can visit Hong Kong now?

Hong Kong has already dropped the vaccination requirement for Hongkongers and international arrivals. Unvaccinated residents and non-residents will be able to enter the city without restriction .  

What are the requirements to enter Hong Kong?

With Covid-19 measures now eased in Hong Kong, including arrival restrictions, international travellers looking to explore the city are now free to enter. Of course, if your country requires a visa to visit Hong Kong,  please obtain one before your trip . 

Negative RAT or RT-PCR test results before boarding are no longer required . 

Will they allow entry if my visa is expiring?

If you're not a permanent Hong Kong resident and travelling under a work or tourist visa, ensure your visa has a sufficient validity period, or you will be denied entry. 

The Immigration Department (ImmD) provides electronic services for visa application and 'e-Visa' arrangements , allowing applicants to complete the entire process without going to the immigration office in person. Suppose your visa is under renewal and is getting delayed. It is best to send an authorised representative to the ImmD office to fix your reentry as emails and phone calls will take a long time. 

Visit this link to see ImmD online services for acquiring Hong Kong visas. 

Can arrivals move freely around the city?

Yes, Covid-19 regulations have already eased in Hong Kong. You can freely  explore all the incredible things to do in the city . Mask-wearing mandate, the last major rule to fight against Covid-19, has been lifted since March 1. 

For more clarity,  here's our guide on everything you need to know  about Hong Kong's current Covid-19 restrictions. 

Do I still need to take Covid-19 tests?

You don't need to present negative Covid-19 results when you arrive at the Hong Kong airport, but the government recommends taking daily RAT until the fifth day of arrival (arrival date count as Day 0). Those who take the test may voluntarily declare the result  via the Department of Health's Electronic Covid-19 Monitoring & Surveillance System (eCMSS) .  

Ok, so you finally booked your flight, what to do next?

To ensure a smooth and efficient arrival, prepare all your travel documents, including visa for non-Hong Kong residents. 

What time should I go to the airport for departure? 

Delays, cancellations, and a whole lot of waiting may happen before departure, so make sure to be at the airport at least three hours before your flight. Account for extra time if you encounter any problems with airline check-in. 

Arrival at Hong Kong International Airport

Yes, you're finally in Hong Kong, but not just yet. You still have a few more steps to finish before entering. Though the new system significantly cuts the waiting time in the airport, the influx of inbound travellers may affect processing time.

After landing, all inbound persons will pass through temperature checks upon arrival. Those with symptoms will be referred to the Department of Health for further handling. If you're cleared, you can proceed with immigration procedures, baggage collection, and continue taking public transportation to your hotel or home.

What are the options for airport transfers?

Travellers arriving in the city can take public transport to their destination. Those who want a limousine service can contact their hotels for arrangements.  One of the fastest ways to travel from the Airport to the city is through Airport Express.

Find more information  here . 

What if I tested positive for Covid-19?

Hong Kong government no longer issue isolation orders to infected Covid-19 cases since January 30. The government advises symptomatic persons to stay at home to rest and avoid going out. Those who are asymptomatic can go out at will or go to work.

If you belong to high-risk groups and suffer from fever, cough, shortness of breath, vomiting, and diarrhoea, the government recommends that you seek medical attention. 

For more information, visit this  link .   

Got more questions?

The government has set up a page for all your questions about inbound travel to Hong Kong . Due to the changing nature of Covid-19 measures, please  visit this link  to keep updated with the latest travel regulations. 

Feel free to roam Hong Kong!  These itineraries will give you a dose of inspiration . Looking for hotel accommodations during your trip?  Here's a guide to some of our favourite Hong Kong hotels  – all tried and tested by our editors. You can also check out   the most romantic hotels  in the city or schedule a weekend getaway from the  best beachside hotels ,  boutique hotels , or  luxury camping spots in town .  

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The latest and greatest restaurants to get stuck into this month

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How to Spend Four Incredible Days in Hong Kong (2023 Edition) 

Hong Kong is a place that has to be visited to be described. A cradle of culture, mouthwatering cuisine, towering skyscrapers and lush parks, this city state leaves no room for apathy. 

Old meets new with fishing villages stuck in time, encapsulating the harbor’s humble beginnings, to some of the world’s most modern infrastructure less than an hour away. 

There is no one way to discover the city. Stumble down streets lit with neon after a traditional seafood meal, looking at kitsch that is simultaneously tacky and a must-have. Sip cocktails atop one of the tallest buildings in the world while gazing down at the concrete jungle below. Take a hike through the green hills that make up three quarters of this country.

No matter your travel style, interests, or budget, I can say with confidence there’s a way to make Hong Kong fit your needs. 

Four days in Hong Kong (with a day trip out to Macau) is the perfect amount of time to explore the highlights.

During your first three days in town, explore the three main areas of Hong Kong: Hong Kong Island, Lantau Island, and Kowloon. Devote a day to each of these; enough time to sample some of the biggest highlights they have to offer. By visiting all three areas, you’ll weave together a vibrant mosaic of Hong Kong, with each district contributing its distinctive colors and textures. On your fourth day, I recommend taking the ferry over to Macau for an unexpected sampling of Portuguese culture.

Today, I’m going to be sharing how I spent my most recent four days in Hong Kong and how to make the most of your time here. Let’s jump right in.

Day One: It’s All About Hong Kong Island

I highly recommend staying in the Tsim Sha Tsui area of Kowloon if you’re a first-time visitor to Hong Kong. This part of town is extremely walkable, centrally located, and close to most of the attractions, so it makes most sense to stay here — Hotel ICON is my favourite spot in this area and I have a full review of the property at the end of this article.

Either way, my guide starts with the assumption that you’ll kick off your adventures on this side of the channel. 

If you don’t get breakfast in your accommodation, I recommend starting your first day with a delicious meal at the Australia Dairy Company.

This place is a true Hong Kong institution. It opened way back in 1970, making it one of the longest continuously running restaurants in the city. This isn’t a place to order yourself a flat white and a plate of smashed avo, however! No, this is the place to be if you’re keen to experience a traditional Hong Kong-style breakfast. The name is actually due to the dairy products the restaurant uses, which it imports in from a Land Down Under .

I always recommend jumping in at the deep end when it comes to sampling food in a new city, and if you subscribe to the same beliefs, you’ll be keen to order the macaroni soup with ham — yes, this is a breakfast dish here! — or sweet milk pudding. If these dishes feel like a step too large for your first morning in town, opt for the French toast or eggs and ham on toast.

The food is fantastic, but there’s one other reason why I recommend heading here on your first day in Hong Kong: to get you used to the gruff service that reigns supreme across the budget eateries in town. Don’t expect smiles and patience from the staff here; they’re stern, efficient, and only too happy to scold you if they think you’re taking too long to order. Embrace it! This is part of Hong Kong culture, so don’t take offense: they treat every visitor exactly the same.

With breakfast done and dusted, it’s time to get yourself over to Hong Kong Island, where you’ll be spending the majority of day one.

The ferry terminal is roughly a 20 minute walk from the Tsim Sha Tsui neighbourhood, and as long as the weather isn’t too hot and humid, I recommend getting there on foot. This is a great way to soak up the sights, sounds, and smells of Hong Kong, especially if you can walk along the beautiful Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade to get there.

If walking isn’t feasible, Uber exists in Hong Kong and wins for being the quickest, easiest, and most convenient transportation option in town. Having said that, Hong Kong is actually home to some of the best public transportation in the world, so you might want to consider using your first local bus to get to the ferry terminal. Buses 1, 2, and 6 take you from Tsim Sha Tsui to the pier in less than 10 minutes. 

I’ll take this moment now to introduce you to the Octopus card . An Octopus card is an essential purchase for anybody who plans to spend time in Hong Kong. This is a reusable travel card that you can use on all forms of public transport in the city, from the metro to the buses to trams to the ferries to the taxis to… you get the idea! But not only that; often, you can also use the card to pay at restaurants, cafes, bars, convenience stores, museums, and more.

In other words, this city runs on the Octopus card.

Getting your hands on one is simple: I recommend downloading the Octopus app to your (Android) phone. There, you can add your payment card details to the app, check your balance, and use your phone’s wallet to pay for your rides; just like you would with Google Pay! If you have an iPhone, you might want to get a physical Octopus card (also a cool souvenir from your trip!) instead, as the reviews of the Octopus app on the Apple App store are pretty bad. You can buy an Octopus card from the airport when you arrive or from any MTR (the metro system) station you pass.

Once you reach the ferry terminal for the Star Ferry, you’ll hopefully have your Octopus card ready to use. You want to use it to take the ferry from here to Central station . The Star Ferry company has been helping people cross the Victoria Harbour since way back in 1888 and many of the boats are still from the 1960s, so they are a piece of history in and of themselves. And the price? Just 5 HKD ! (That’s $0.60/£0.50/€0.60) — yes, this is one of the cheapest sightseeing experiences in the world.

For the best views on the Star Ferry, opt for the outdoor seating area, which is located in the centre of the vessel (the front and the back of the ferry provide indoor seating with air conditioning). I recommend taking the entrance for the upper deck instead the lower deck, as you’ll get slightly better views from up high. And once you’re inside, I recommend sitting on the left side of the ferry for the best views.

The boats run every five minutes so if you’re at the back of the queue and realise you won’t be able to nab a window seat, feel free to hang back and wait for the next ferry so that you can board first.

Take in the views of the towering skyscrapers as you cross the harbour, then prepare yourself for an even better view once you’re back on dry land.

Victoria Peak, or simply the Peak, is one of the most famous attractions in Hong Kong and it’s something that has to be seen to be believed. A magnificent viewpoint — 500 metres above sea level — that overlooks a dense cluster of buildings, I recommend heading here first as it really helps you gain a sense for just how jam-packed with skyscrapers this city really is.

Fun fact: Hong Kong is home to more than 4,000 skyscrapers that are taller than 100 metres!

The tram that takes you to the top of the Peak is located a 25 minute walk from the Central ferry terminal. If you love to explore a city on foot as I do, then feel free to walk it. If you’re short on time and want to rest your legs (you’ll go for a walk at the top of the Peak, too), grab an Uber instead.

Another iconic piece of Hong Kong history, the Peak tram started during the same year as the Star Ferry and is an absolute joy to experience. Not for the faint of heart, it was way steeper than I was expecting, but of course, it’s totally safe to ride. The view on the way up, with the buildings appearing almost sideways at some points, is quite dramatic.

A quick note here is that queues for the tram can get quite lengthy at times — as much as two hours long on a sunny weekend just before sunset! — so come prepared for a bit of a wait. If you’ll be visiting on a weekday in the morning, however, you shouldn’t have to queue for more than around half an hour. For me, it’s worth it — and if you have your Octopus card, you can bypass the queue for buying tickets with cash to make the wait even shorter. On my most recent visit, I did just this and managed to avoid a 100-person long queue for tickets!

Buy a return ticket for the tram and don’t opt for any of the add-ons unless you’re desperate to experience them (the sales staff can be quite persistent in trying to convince you that you should also head to Madame Tussauds!) And try to get a seat inside the tram — preferably on the right hand side as you go up — as there is some standing room, which won’t be as comfortable on the steep journey.

If you’re planning on visiting at a popular time, like sunset, you could take a taxi instead (around 20 minutes) from the Central ferry terminal all the way to the top of the Peak, skipping over the queues for the tram, and then opt to take the tram down , which will have a slightly shorter wait time.

And finally, you could also opt to do as the locals do and take the number 15 double-decker bus from Exchange Square (a 10-minute walk from the Central ferry terminal) to the top of Victoria Peak (sit upstairs on the right-hand side for the best views). Pay with your Octopus card; the fare is around 10 HKD (just over $1/€1, or £1) and it takes between 40 and 60 minutes to get to the Peak, so is quite slow.

When you get to the top, prepare to be amazed.

As far as city views go, this is one of the greatest on the planet. And what you’ll quickly learn is that there’s plenty of angles from which to take it all in; there’s a multitude of viewpoints to head to, which makes a visit even more exciting.

First, head to the Lion’s Pavilion — its marked on Google Maps — for your first glimpse of the city laid out before you. It’s a crowded spot at peak (pun intended) times, like sunset, but given that it’s totally free to access, you can’t complain about everybody else wanting to see it, too! From the Lion’s Pavilion, it’s now time to take a walk.

One of the best ways to explore the Peak is by taking the Victoria Peak Circle Walk, which is 3.8 kilometres (2.4 miles) in length and takes roughly an hour to complete. As the name suggests, the trail encircles the top of the Peak, giving you views across the city in all directions. It’s a simple stroll, mostly flat and with anyone from children to the elderly tackling it, so if you like a walk, this is a great way to see Hong Kong from above.

The Circle Walk begins at Lugard Road beside the Peak Tower (the shopping centre that looks like a big bowl) where the tram terminates. You can look for Lugard Road Lookout on Google Maps to give you an idea of where you’ll be heading.

And then, you walk.

From the Lugard Road Lookout, you’ll continue walking along Lugard Road until the path turns into Harlech Road, which then leads you back to the Peak Tower.

Speaking of the Peak Tower, this unusual building is home to the Sky Terrace 428: a viewing platform on the top floor of the structure. This is a paid viewpoint, costing 75 HKD ($10/€9/£7.50) to visit. In my opinion, it doesn’t really add anything extra on top of the views you’ll have already seen on the Circle Walk, so I don’t see it as a necessity.

Wait until you’ve finished your walk around the Peak before deciding if you want to visit the Sky Terrace; you may, like me, feel that you’ve already seen Hong Kong at its best. Alternatively, my parents visited Hong Kong this year and loved their experience at the Sky Terrace! While they agree that it’s not essential to do, they were still glad they went up there.

Finally, there’s one more free viewpoint to check out before you leave: the Peak Galleria. This is another shopping mall at the Peak, but it’s home to a free-to-visit observation deck that’s worth heading to. If you’re not yet tired of looking out over skyscrapers, that is!

If you’re feeling peckish for lunch, stop by Rajasthan Rifles, which is my favourite restaurant on the Peak. To be honest, there aren’t a lot of good options for food up here — in terms of quality and price — so I would recommend avoiding many of the restaurants. Rajasthan Rifles, however, has a great view, tasty British/Indian fusion dishes, and refreshing drinks that can be enjoyed while sitting on the terrace.

I also opted to sip on a latte while looking over the skyline at Pacific Coffee — the coffee is nothing mind-blowing, but the views certainly are!

With that, you’ve successfully conquered the Peak! It’s now time to ride the tram back down — sit on the left-hand side for the best views — and hit up the small-but-lovely Hong Kong Park, which is located directly beside the tram station. There, you’ll find turtles, waterfalls, a butterfly garden, aviary, and an excellent observation deck called Vantage Point.

This patch of green provides a soothing respite from the chaos of Hong Kong, so makes for a perfect spot to have a quick wander before diving back into the madness!

There is a cute teahouse within the park — LockCha — which serves up Chinese tea and vegetarian dumplings and dim sums, with an English menu. If you’re feeling hungry for local eats, this is a good option for a quick snack and an introduction to the cuisine before moving on.

For your next activity, I recommend walking 20 minutes (or taking an Uber to Central Market if you’re tired) from Hong Kong Park to the Central Mid-Levels Escalator, which is… wait for it… the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world.

Yes, it’s a long escalator.

Well, in fact it’s not even that: it’s a series of 20 escalators, stretching for a distance of 800 metres up the mountain. Riding every single one in a stationary position (i.e. not walking up them) takes just over 20 minutes, but we’ll just be taking it for a shorter distance: to Tai Kwun complex, otherwise known as the former Central Police Station.

To get to the start of the series of escalators, head to the second level of Central Market and step aboard. The walkway itself is used by tourists and commuters alike and because it’s raised above the streets, it gives you an interesting vantage point down alleyways, over murals, and into windows.

Opposite the Tai Kwun complex is Messina, by the way, which is one of the best ice cream shops in Hong Kong — do stop in if you’re looking for an excuse to indulge.

Tai Kwun was originally a jail, used by the British back during the colonial years. Since then, it has been revamped to include a myriad of art installations and exhibitions, along with restaurants, bars, and independent stores.

If you’re more into your history than your art, a good place to start is the Barrack Block, which was built in 1864 and is where you’ll find a visitor centre and brochures. Several of the original cells in the old Victoria Prison are open to the public if you want to take a look at the conditioners the prisoners lived in. And a series of old photographs and information panels can be seen in the halls of the former Central Police Station.

The Tai Kwun complex is located within the Soho neighbourhood of Hong Kong, which is famous for its street art and murals, along with its independent stores and galleries. It’s a great place to explore.

On Google Maps find Man Mo Temple — it’s only a 10 minute walk from Tai Kwun — and walk in its general direction, pausing anywhere that looks interesting. Trust me: there will be plenty of stops! Make sure you take a quick detour to Graham Street, which is home to a popular mural for Instagrammers.

At the end of the walk, you’ll find yourself at Man Mo Temple. A Taoist temple that dates back to 1847, it remains an oasis of tradition in this ultra modern city and is a super-cool place to explore. Make sure you go inside and fully explore the temple, as its interior is excellent for taking photos! Entrance is free.

With that, your time on Hong Kong Island is up, so head over to the Central ferry terminal, jump on the Star Ferry back to Tsim Sha Tsui and venture back to your hotel to rest up before dinner.

If you didn’t walk along the promenade to get to the ferry terminal this morning, now might be a great time to do so, as it takes you along the Avenue of the Stars: Hong Kong’s answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, complete with handprints.

Most of the names won’t be too familiar unless you’re a diehard Cantonese cinema fan, however international favourites, such as Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li, all have their hand prints here. 

When night rolls around, it’s time to start thinking about dinner.

There’s tons of options for eating, whether it’s grabbing some xiaolongbao from world-famous Din Tai Fung, sampling Michelin-starred fried dumplings from Cheung Hing Kee, or visiting Yung’s Bistro for a taste of roast goose (a Hong Kong specialty!)

In Hong Kong, you can find any cuisine you feel like, from Italian to Indian, to a greasy burger from Five Guys!

Day Two: Exploring Lantau Island

We spent the previous day exploring Hong Kong Island, so today is going to be all about peaceful Lantau Island! This is one of my favourite parts of the country with the enormous Tian Tan Buddha — or Big Buddha, as the locals call it — one of my favourite attractions.

Unfortunately, it’s also the favourite attraction of most visitors to Hong Kong — and locals. In other words, this is one of the most popular activities in town. Fortunately, there are several things you can do in order to make your visit run smoothly.

Crowds are highest at the weekend, so if you do have the option of visiting on a weekday, you should opt to do so.

However, no matter which day of the week you do decide visit, you should aim to get to Tung Chung MTR station (where you catch the cable car from) roughly half an hour before the ticket office opens. In 2023, that means making sure you get there at 9:30 a.m. for its 10 a.m. opening.

And I really do want to reiterate the importance of getting there early: there’s masses of horror stories online of people turning up at midday on a weekend or public holiday and having to queue for three hours just to get on the cable car!

Yes, really. This is not an exaggeration. Time your visit wrong and you could be queueing for up to three hours to get to the Big Buddha and three hours to get back again. When I arrived at 9:30 in the morning on a Satin 2023, however, I was boarding the cable car by 10:20.

Lantau Island is located roughly 20 kilometres — or 12 miles — from Hong Kong Island, but getting there is easy via the MTR system (and your Octopus card). From Tsim Sha Tsui, it takes between 50 and 70 minutes to get over to Tung Chung Station, changing MTR lines once on the way. What that means is that ideally, you want to be up, breakfasted, and out of your hotel by 8:30 a.m.

Once you arrive at Tung Chung Station, you’re now only a hop, skip, and a cable car from the aforementioned Big Buddha.

From the metro, you’ll want to make your way over to Ngong Ping 360, which is the name of the cable car that will take you over to Ngong Ping village and the Buddha statue. Now, you have two options for buying tickets.

The first is to simply turn up and buy your tickets from the counter.

And the second is to buy your tickets online in advance.

Normally, I’d recommend the latter option, but in this case, I recommend turning up and buying your tickets when you arrive.

The reason is simple: the vast majority of visitors to Ngong Ping buy their cable car tickets in advance — but what they’re actually buying is a voucher. And once you arrive, you still need to queue to exchange that voucher for a ticket. And because everybody already has a voucher, the queues are so much longer than the ones for buying a ticket on the spot.

It seems counter-intuitive but trust me on this: you will queue for less time if you don’t buy a ticket in advance.

Once you’ve successfully navigated the chaos that inevitably awaits you at the ticket counters, it’s time to unwind from it all and transport yourself to a more peaceful side of Hong Kong.

The cable car journey lasts for 25 minutes; over that time you’ll be taken over rolling hills, sparkling waters, and hikers haplessly struggling along dirt trails. Look out for Hong Kong International Airport along the way, as well as the mighty Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge, the world’s longest sea bridge, at a length of 55 kilometres, or 34 miles.

As you near Ngong Ping village, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the bronze Big Buddha — one of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statues — standing proudly atop a series of 268 steps.

Oh, and yes, you’re going to have to climb them.

Once you disembark from the cable car, you’ll find yourself in Ngong Ping, which you can think of as a sort-of commercialised version of a traditional Chinese village. Yeah, it can be a bit Disney-esque at times.

Still, if you’re keen to pick up a souvenir from your trip, you won’t struggle to find one here.

From the village, it takes around 10 minutes to walk to the base of the Big Buddha and from there you’ll need to tackle the aforementioned 268 steps.

Trust me: it’s so worth it. When I visited, I witnessed a variety of age ranges and fitness abilities panting their way up the steps — many of whom stopped frequently on the way up to rest. Needless to say, if you’re not feeling too athletic when you get here, you won’t be the only person pausing to catch their breath!

When you are done taking it all in, hop down to the Po Lin Monastery at the base of the stairs. If you’re not all Buddha-ed out, they even have a hall of 10,000 Buddhas, albeit just a tad smaller than the one outside. The tapestries, art and architecture inside the monastery are mind-blowingly intricate and beautiful.

Now, who’s up for seeing some pink dolphins?

Pink dolphins?

Yep! One of the highlights of a trip out to Lantau Island is visiting the sleepy fishing village of Tai O. This is one of the oldest fishing villages in Hong Kong, and one of the last remaining in the nation, so it’s a truly special place to visit.

To get to Tai O from Ngong Ping village, you’ll want to take the number 21 bus, which runs every half an hour. It’s a good idea to check the bus timetable once you’ve arrived in Ngong Ping (you can do so by using Google Maps to navigate from your current location to Tai O via public transport) — that way, you can keep in mind how long you have to spend at the Big Buddha before you need to be jumping aboard the bus.

A 20-minute journey along the winding roads of Lantau Island brings you to Tai O and its traditional stilt houses that are built over the water. This village is known for its traditional way of life, with fishermen still making a living here, as well as its dried seafood, shrimp paste, and pod of pink dolphins.

Tai O is a wonderful place for wandering small streets, navigating small tin houses, visiting shops, and eating the street food. I really loved the grilled dry squid cooked over charcoal. For dinner you can get some super fresh seafood at Fook Moon Lam restaurant. The salt and pepper fried prawns were a personal favorite of mine.

Take the 21 bus back to Tung Chung and get the MTR back. You might be pretty tired as this day requires a lot of walking so try to get back at a decent time to get some rest because you are going international tomorrow!

Day 3: It’s Time to Head to Macau

Get up nice and early and bring your passport with you because we are going to Macau. Another SAR (special administrative region) of China. Macau was in the hands of the Portuguese instead of the British, giving it a distinctive culture of its own. And since it is just a short ferry ride away from Hong Kong why not?

Have breakfast in the hotel and take the Star Ferry over to Central and from there it is about a 10-15 minute walk to the Macau ferry. There are a couple of different companies you can take with both coming in a little over 170 HKD for a single trip ticket. 

Take a ferry to the Taipa Ferry Terminal, not the Outer Harbour Terminal. However, don’t buy a round trip as we will be departing from the other terminal. There are always sailings and seats available so don’t worry about booking ahead of time. 

When you get to Macau, the immigration process is fairly straightforward and you should be on your way very soon. From the terminal take a taxi to Fernando’s. Opened in the 80s this place is one of the best-known Portuguese restaurants in Macau and in the three times I have been to Macau I have never missed a meal at Fernando’s. 

Extremely simple food with fresh ingredients and a lazy old world ambience, it is a relaxing way to start your day.  There is also a black sand beach next to the restaurant which is great for a stroll.

Take a cab back to the Venetian. Macau is known as the Las Vegas of Asia so it wouldn’t make sense to go the whole day without hitting up a casino right? The moniker isn’t even really accurate, as before the pandemic, this tiny island was bringing in four times the gambling revenue of Vegas!

Take a Gondola ride throughout the casino, with your guide’s voice rivaling and most likely surpassing that of any real Venetian gondolier. The paintings on the wall and ceilings will transport you to the Italian backwaters, and it’s probably just as crowded. When your voyage has ended, head into the casino floor for a couple spins of the roulette wheel and rounds of blackjack. It might just be your lucky day.

With your new found riches in hand, take a cab (the public transport system is somewhat lacking next to Hong Kong)  and make your way towards the old town. Start at the Senado Square. Meander along the gorgeous black and white tiles that carpet the walkways and take in your surroundings. 

Also, make sure to try some street food while you are there, the can’t-miss stuff are the pork chop buns and Portugese egg tarts, phenomenal. 

Take your time and walk through the winding streets of the old town and continue onward to the ruins of St Paul, a 17th century Catholic church. Destroyed by a fire in the 1800s, the facade is a majestic ruin and really a sight to behold. There is also a small museum underneath worth checking out.

To top off the night, have the deliciously tender veal and a glass of Portuguese wine at Mariazinha and wind down from a long day. Take a cab back to the ferry pier and make your way back to the hotel to get ready for your last day. 

Day 4: Round it All Off With a Stint in Kowloon

If you’ve been basing yourself in Tsim Sha Tsui, you’ll have already encountered a small taste of what the peninsula of Kowloon has to offer. Today, however, we’re going to go even more in-depth into this part of the city, venturing into some of the neighbourhoods that are located further north of your hotel.

And we kick out explorations off with a basketball court.

Yes, really.

Choi Hung Estate is located 30 minutes away on the metro from Tsim Sha Tsui and may just be one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

The palm trees, the retro basketball courts, the pastel rainbow buildings: if you love your photography this is going to be a paradise for you. I have to confess it’s a popular photoshoot destination, so you won’t have the area all to yourself, but stick around for 15 minutes and you’ll be able to nab an aesthetic photo for your feed. Just remember: people do live, and play basketball, here so try to remain as non-intrusive as possible.

It can also be a little bit tricky to find as the basketball court is actually located on top of a car park! Put “Choi Hung Estate Car Park” into Google Maps to get you to the right building, which will be a two-storey car park. Look for the set of stairs to get you to the top and you’ll be there!

From one photogenic spot to another: after you’ve finished up at Choi Hung Estate, it’s time to head to nearby Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden. These two connecting Tang dynasty-style gardens are a joy to explore, and you could easily spend hours just wandering through their grounds. Amazingly, both are free to visit.

The best way to get there from Choi Hung Estate is to walk. It takes 15 minutes to get to Nan Lian Garden, or 14 minutes by MTR, so opt to save the money unless you need to save energy.

We’ll start with Nan Lian Garden, as it’s closest. Here, you’ll find a classical Chinese garden and respite from the cacophony of Hong Kong; I was surprised to see how few people opt to visit, making this one of the least crowded spots on my itinerary. As you wander down the paved pathways, you’ll pass by bonsai trees, water features (including a koi pond!), and manicured shrubs, all sat against a backdrop of mountains and skyscrapers. There’s a vegetarian dim sum restaurant on site, as well as a Chinese tea house, and gift shop.

But the true highlight of Nan Lian Garden is the golden pavilion, which is pictured above. Its full name is the Pavilion of Absolute Perfection and once you catch a glimpse of it with your own eyes, I’d be surprised if you didn’t agree. While it’s a little disappointing that you can’t cross the bright red bridge to get to the pavilion, it does mean that you don’t have to deal with other tourists getting in your photo.

One final thing: there’s a pottery exhibition on site, which costs 20 HKD ($2.60/€2.35/£2) to visit, with free admission on Wednesdays. It’s not really my kind of thing, to be honest, but it’s a small cost and others tend to really enjoy it, so pop in if you think you would, too.

Once you’ve soaked up all the greenery at Nan Lian Garden, a small footbridge connects you to Chi Lin Nunnery.

This complex opened back in 1934, originally as a retreat for Buddhist nuns, and to this day remains the largest hand-built wooden building in the world. Once you get inside and see it for yourself, you’ll realise what an impressive undertaking this must have been! Constructed from cypress wood, this structure was put together without the use of any nails; just interlocking pieces of wood.

As with Nan Lian Garden, this part of Hong Kong is rarely crowded. As you wander through the picturesque grounds, you’ll come up against temple halls — 16 of them! — gardens, and lotus ponds. Inside the halls, Buddha statues abound, made from gold, clay, and stone.

In a city that is so built-up and busy, this part of Hong Kong is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle that’s undoubtedly been wearing down your energy levels. In total, you can expect to spend an hour across both Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery; two hours if you really like your architecture and greenery.

It’s time to move on and the next step is just a 5-minute metro ride away: you’ll want to take it from Diamond Hill Station to Wong Tai Sin Station. Alternatively, you could walk to Wong Tai Sin Temple; it takes just over 20 minutes to get there.

And what’s so special about this temple? Well, this is the place to come if you’re looking for good fortune; if you’re keen to have your prayers answered. The temple is dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, who was known as the Great Immortal Wong and believed to grant the wishes of all who pray to him.

If you want to participate in the fortune telling

It’s one of the loveliest Chinese temples in Hong Kong, with the soothing scent of incense wafting through the air. The architecture is all classic Chinese, with red pillars and intricate details that add a sense of tradition.

Visitors light incense, make a wish, and hope for a bit of positive energy to come their way.

Strolling through the temple grounds feels like a step back in time. There are beautiful gardens with ponds and pavilions, providing a quiet retreat from the urban hustle. One interesting tradition is the Kau Cim, where you can shake a bamboo cylinder, pull out a stick, and discover your fortune. It’s a simple, yet charming, experience.

For those curious about their future, there are fortune-telling stalls where you can consult with wise practitioners. It’s a cultural experience that adds a layer of authenticity to your visit.

If you haven’t picked up on it yet, this part of Hong Kong is home to tons of beautiful sections of green space. The final one we’ll visit is the Kowloon Walled City Park, which is a 20 minute walk south of Wong Tai Sin temple.

This peaceful garden sits on the site of the former Kowloon Walled City, once a densely populated, chaotic maze of buildings. Now, it’s a calming retreat that beautifully contrasts with its storied past.

Wander through the garden and you’ll find remnants of the old city walls, standing like silent storytellers of a bygone era. The red-bricked walls whisper tales of resilience and transformation, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Kowloon.

As you stroll along the pathways, there’s a sense of calmness that permeates the air. Traditional Chinese architecture dots the landscape, creating a harmonious blend of old and new. It’s not flashy or grand, but it exudes a quiet charm that captures the essence of Chinese culture.

Take a moment to appreciate the bonsai trees and well-maintained greenery, providing a peaceful backdrop against the remnants of the walled city. It’s a bit like nature reclaiming its space, reminding you that even in the midst of change, there’s a certain beauty in resilience.

For history buffs, the Walled City’s South Gate has been lovingly restored, offering a glimpse into what the area might have looked like in its heyday. It’s a step back in time, a visual bridge between the past and the present.

Kowloon Walled City Garden is not about flashy displays or bustling crowds. It’s a hidden gem: a quiet retreat where you can reflect on the city’s history while enjoying a moment of peace.

It’s time to take a break from all the green space now and throw ourselves headfirst back into the madness! We’re heading now to the neighbourhood of Sham Shui Po. This part of Kowloon may look similar to what you picture when you think of Hong Kong back in the day; all neon signs in traditional Chinese script.

Head next to Hong Kong History Museum in Tsim Sha Tsui. It is always good to get an idea of how the place got to be how it is and put everything into perspective. They have revolving exhibitions as well as a permanent one that does a fantastic job sharing the story of Hong Kong. 

Following that, have lunch in ChungKing Mansions. ChungKing is like a portal to another world that transports you to South Asia and Africa. Migrant workers are a huge part of the tapestry that makes up Hong Kong and their cuisine severely underrated. If you are in the mood for African, I love the jollof rice and black-eyed peas at Ghana Locals and Pakistani food in Khyber Pass Mess Club. 

Next, hop on the bus or MTR and go to the ladies markets in Mong Kok. Don’t let the name fool you, there is stuff here for everyone and a great place to find souvenirs, clothes, and electronics at fantastic prices. You can even buy designer clothes at bargain prices. Whether they are authentic or not is another question, even though the sellers will try to convince you that their Christian Door is genuine. This place is also great to polish your bargaining chops. I always start at half what they quote and work from there. It’s good fun and the shopkeepers are fun to banter with and always jolly. 

You have been walking a lot these past few days so you might need a massage, and luckily in Hong Kong that is not too hard to find. One of my favorite places is the TaiPan reflexology parlor. Very traditional and chic decoration, extremely fair prices and world-class therapists, they will have you back in walking shape in no time!

End your day and your time in Hong Kong, the way you started it, on the harbor. At 7:30 every day the Aqualuna , sets sail for a magical sunset cruise followed with a scrumptious dinner at Hutong Restaurant with a window seat that continues giving you that sweet sweet harbor view. 

Watch the buildings light up in all their fluorescent glory and at 8:00 there is also a “Symphony of Lights” show that you will have front row seats for. It is the perfect way to end a magical stay in HK and will leave you with an image of the city you won’t soon forget.

I would encourage you to make a reservation as seats are limited especially during the high season. This is one thing that you honestly cannot miss. 

If you still aren’t done then I don’t blame you. If you don’t have an early morning flight and are not shopped out there is also a night market in Jordan that is a personal favorite. Similar to the ladies market in Mong Kok, however, there are less clothes and more gadgets, paintings and souvenirs. 

A little more of a shady feeling than the day market but is actually a little more fun. There are also lots of seafood stalls on the sides with plastic chairs that are great for having a few Tsing Taos, late night snacks and watching all the life go by.  

If you just want to get loose and let your hair down, make Knutsford Terrace your last stop. Kowloon’s answer to Lan Kwai Fong, but with more of a local vibe there is any kind of venue you want. Want a club? China Bar. Want a chill place you can play pool, darts, or beer pong? Arena Bar. Casual cocktails and beer? Assembly. 

Head back to the hotel, satisfied, happy and hopefully not too hungover tomorrow.

What To Know Before You Go

Know Where to Stay

Tsim Sha Tsui is the best place to stay for visitors hands down. It is extremely walkable, centrally located and close to most attractions. It is also home to the most iconic hotel in Hong Kong, the Peninsula Hotel . There is no other hotel in the city that even comes close to having the history of the Peninsula Hotel all while maintaining a standard of luxury that is astounding. 

Amazing dining options, Roman-style indoor pool, and reportedly the most comfortable beds in the city. Now I can’t speak to that as there are hundreds of other hotel beds that I would need to try, however, sleeping on this I definitely believe it. 

It is also located right next to Victoria Harbour with stunning views out the window and the building itself built in 1928 is a work of art. It does not come cheap, but if you can swing it, you will not be disappointed. The service I experienced is also outstanding, but at the price point you expect it to be!

Know When to Go

I feel like most guides say to go everywhere from March to April and September to November, but realistically going to Hong Kong anytime that is not May to September is prime time. Most of the rain falls May to September and it is sweltering hot with humidity usually in the 90s and temperatures in the mid 30s. Outside those months the temperature is moderate and the climate is dry. 

Travelers from a colder climate will not find the winters harsh at all despite the amount of locals looking like they are preparing for an Everest trek. 

The Mid Autumn festival usually held in October is a great time to travel as the mood is festive and there are tons of things to do. I would advise the opposite for Chinese New Year as most things are closed and many people are in mainland China to spend time with family.

Know How to Get Around

The public transportation system in Hong Kong puts most of the world to shame. With only 10% of the population owning personal vehicles, it’s a wonder anyone needs them at all. Trains, buses, taxis and ferries interconnect every part of this metropolis with ease. I would recommend downloading the Citymapper app before you visit, it was a lifesaver for me. It shows all the different routes and combinations of routes to get to your final destination along with how long each way will take and the price for each one. 

All the public transportation options take cash but the most efficient way to get around is an Octopus card. It is a prepaid card that you can use on all public transport save taxis and makes it easy so you are not fumbling for change the whole time. You can pick one up at every train station for a 50 HKD deposit. When you leave you can get the deposit back at any train station, and you can top up in the station or any 7-11 or Circle K.

There is Uber in Hong Kong but will usually find a taxi before your Uber arrives and it will likely be cheaper. If you are going to a main location, they will understand you just fine, but if going somewhere out of the way and you don’t speak Cantonese, it might be better to Uber to make sure you end up at the exact spot. All taxis are metered however so scamming is not an issue. 

Know Some Tips and Tricks

• I say this everywhere I go but get an eSIM ! Especially in Hong Kong, where you are usually fully reliant on public transport, being able to get your bearings is very important. 
• Scams and pickpocketing aren’t very common at all. Exercise a normal amount of caution and you will be more than fine.
• Hong Kong is a great place to pick up used electronics. The phone and laptop I am using right now are from a computer center in Hong Kong and they are still going strong three years on. The Golden Computer Center in Sham Shui Po, the Computer Center in Wan Chai and Sin Tat Plaza in Mong Kok give reliable devices at great prices!
• You don’t really need to tip in Hong Kong. The only instance would be at fancy restaurants and while it would be appreciated, most people don’t as service charge is already included. 
• It’s always nice to learn a few phrases. M’goi is thank you, Jou San is good morning and Nei Ho is Hello, and while Hong Kong is technically part of China now, Ni Hao isn’t used unless you are a pure Mandarin speaker.
• Take the airport express into the city, it’s super fast, convenient and much cheaper than a cab. If you are staying in the hotel recommended above, get off in Kowloon Station and take a short five minute cab from there. 

And that was Hong Kong!

Spending four days in Hong Kong (and Macau) is loads of fun. I would suggest no less than that and if you wanted to add more days I would highly encourage it. Hong Kong is one of my favorite places and if you get the chance you have to go! I hope with this guide that you will be able to discover even more cool places on your own.

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Hello Lauren, I have just completed my impromptu Hong Kong trip, and followed your itinerary for the 5 days I was here.. Thank you for collecting all the little details and putting them here for us.. This is such a nicely crafted itinerary, with every minor detail at one place, which I personally love collecting before visiting any new city, but due to time constraint I couldn’t, so your article was very helpful for me.. Lots of thanks & love.

Ah, thank you so much, Megha! I’m so thrilled to hear you found my itinerary helpful :-)

Hi Lauren, thanks for the great writeup and suggestions. I’m planning a multi-generational trip to HK this spring for about 4-5 days. I have concerns around limited mobility of the grandparents; who can walk but not long distances. I’m hoping that we can get door-to-door transportation (taxi) as much as possible, and take it slow. Obviously the steps to the Buddha are out, but of the other places in your story, are there any that would be just not possible for elderly people with limited stamina? Any other tips for how best to prioritize so we can see/enjoy HK even with limited mobility? Thanks so much!

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Meet Lauren Juliff

UPDATED HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG 2023: Itinerary, What to Do and See, Where to Eat, and More

Tips for traveling to hong kong for the first time.

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The Ultimate 2023 Budget Travel Guide To Hong Kong

Table of Contents

Hong Kong is one of the premier tourist destinations for everyone who wants to experience the colorful environment coupled with sumptuous street food offerings and unlimited shopping options. Explore the vibrant and bustling city of Hong Kong, where Eastern and Western cultures meet and blend together! With this travel guide, you’ll have all the essential information and recommendations to make the most of your trip to this fascinating destination.

About Hong Kong

95% of the population of Hong Kong speaks Cantonese. However, English is a common language, and tourists won’t have any problems navigating the place, for English translations are everywhere. Hong Kong is officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. It’s an autonomous territory located on the eastern side of the Pearl River estuary.

It’s a bustling city thanks to its trade, business, and tourism. Hong Kong Island is the center of its economy and politics, while Kowloon is where the museums, markets, Avenue of Stars, and most budget guesthouses are located. The New Territories are where the wetland parks and temples can be found.

Hong Kong is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. With its iconic skyline, bustling street markets, and diverse culinary scene, it offers a unique travel experience. Don’t miss a Star Ferry ride or a Victoria Peak trip for breathtaking views. Explore neighborhoods like Central, Mong Kok, and Tsim Sha Tsui for shopping and dining. Visit cultural landmarks like the Tian Tan Buddha and Wong Tai Sin Temple. Enjoy local delicacies such as dim sum and egg tarts. Remember to experience the vibrant nightlife and catch the famous Symphony of Lights show. Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

In this Hong Kong Travel Guide 2023 Blog, we’ll share essential travel tips with recommended things to do and see, itineraries, money-saving tips, the best hotels to stay, places to eat, tour packages, and more.

Best time to visit HK

You’ll have an easier time touring Hong Kong from October to March when the weather is cool enough but not raining. The summer months are from June to September, and there are times when there are typhoons in August.

Key events include Chinese New Year (January/February, dates vary), the Hong Kong International Film Festival (March-April), the Dragon Boat Festival (June), and National Day (October 1).

Hong Kong Currency and Money Changer Locations

Hong Kong’s currency is Hong Kong Dollar. You can change your currency to the Hong Kong dollar in five areas. Central District, Causeway Bay, Chungking Mansions, Hankow Center, and Mong Kok. You’ll also find currency exchange at the Airport and hotels.

Hong Kong Visa Requirement

About 170 countries and territories may visit Hong Kong without a visa, including the Philippines, which varies from 7 days to 180 days in duration. Filipinos can enjoy up to 14 days in Hong Kong, while U.S., Europe, Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand citizens can enter for up to 90 days. U.K. nationals can stay in Hong Kong for up to 180 days.

Macau Permanent Resident Identity Card Holders are also eligible for 180 days of entry. The country with the fewest days allowed in Hong Kong is East Timor, with 7 days.

Other nationalities who wish to enter Hong Kong are eligible to apply if they have enough funds for their stay, have an onward ticket to their destination place, and are bona fide citizens.

How to Get There

Cebu Pacific and AirAsia offer cheap flights to Hong Kong from Manila, while Philippine Airlines (PAL) provides a full-service flying experience.

The Hong Kong Airport Express proves to be the fastest way to get to the city from the Airport. It will take about 24 minutes. Buses are another way to get to the city but take longer with about 45 minutes of travel time. You can also choose the red taxi, which drives in urban areas such as Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

Hong Kong Airport Express Train Tickets (Q.R. Code Direct Entry)

There is no need to redeem a physical ticket; just enter the gate with the Q.R. code on your voucher.

Getting around Hong Kong

The MTR system is the easiest and fastest way to get around Hong Kong. Use Hong Kong’s MTR mobile app while touring; it provides the best routes to all your chosen destinations. The app has maps and other info you’ll need while staying in the country. You may also want to avail yourself of the Octopus Card, which has a prepaid stored value for MTR and bus rides.

Buses, ferries, trams, taxis, and UBER can ride in Hongkong. The cabs have color-coding schemes depending on which place you’re going to. The red taxis serve Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Island; the Green taxis cater to the areas of the New Territories, while the Blue ones will only serve Lantau Island.

Hong Kong Tourist Octopus Card

• Use your Hong Kong Tourist Octopus card for dining, traveling, having fun, shopping, and more.
• Simple and easy to use: Place the Octopus card over a reader, and the payment amount will be automatically deducted from the stored value.
• Start immediately with HK$50 of preloaded credit on your Hong Kong Octopus Card.
• Take your decorative card home after your trip and keep it as a souvenir to remember your Hong Kong trip.

Where to stay

From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, Hong Kong has various accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a 5-star hotel experience or a cozy guesthouse, you’ll find something that meets your needs. The vibrant Central district, the bustling Tsim Sha Tsui, and the lively Causeway Bay are popular areas to stay in.

Luxury Accommodations

Renaissance Hong Kong Harbour View Hotel

No.1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

The lowest rate for a Garden view room is USD229 via Agoda

The hotel restaurant overlooks Victoria Habor. It’s located on Wan Chai Waterfront and has direct access to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center. The hotel has its own landscaped pool and fitness center. Its rooms are styled with marble bathrooms and have amenities like a safe and cable TV.

Empire Hotel Hong Kong

Location- 33 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

The lowest rate for Twin Room is USD191 via Agoda

The hotel features minimalist guestroom interiors with pastel colors and its own amenities like flat-screen cable T.V. and tea/coffee maker. Its Café 33 is open all day with international dining options. It’s located in the Central Business District, which makes touring and shopping fun and easy.

Budget Accommodations

Rainbow Lodge HK

Flat fo1, 5/F, Hai Phong Mansion House, 99-101 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

The lowest rate for Dormitory Accommodation is USD22 via Agoda

Despite its low accommodation rates, this lodge in H.K. has standard amenities like T.V., air-conditioning, and computers. Its common dining area offers free WiFi access and other kitchen amenities. There’s also a shared lounge area, a game room, and a tour desk. It’s near many shops like Tiffany & Co. and Louis Vuitton.

City H.K. Guest House

Location- Flat E3, 10/F, Block E, Chungking Mansion, 40 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

The lowest rate for a Standard Double Room is USD53 via Agoda

This Guest House is near the Clock Tower, Mira Place 2, and Avenue of Stars. Guests who need to do some work while staying at the guest house can enjoy their free WiFi. It’s near many shopping destinations, and the guests have a private shower.

• Top 10 Hotels in Hong Kong
• Best Hong Kong Luxury Hotels

Local Cuisine

Hong Kong is a food lover’s paradise, offering diverse culinary delights. Don’t miss trying these local favorites:

• Dim Sum: Indulge in the bite-sized delights of Cantonese cuisine, such as dumplings and buns.
• Roast Goose: Savor the succulent and crispy roast goose, a specialty of Hong Kong.
• Hong Kong-style Milk Tea: Experience the rich and smooth flavors of this beloved beverage.
• Egg Waffles: Try the famous street snack, known for its crispy exterior and soft interior.

Where to eat

You’ll never go hungry in Hong Kong. You can have different gastronomic adventures with every cuisine imaginable, as there are many.

DiVino Wine Bar and Restaurant

Moderately priced menu options attract guests to this Italian Restaurant. Still, more than that, the romantic ambiance and its authentic servings of pasta, antipasti, Italian desserts, and wines make it the go-to place for tourists wishing to have a taste of Italy in Hong Kong.

The Sweet Dynasty in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

For a hefty price, you’ll be treated to their signature dishes like Barbecued pork, Deep-Fried Cashew, Shredded Taro, and Deep-Fried Lobster. They serve only the best and most authentic Cantonese cuisine in Hong Kong.

Bistecca Italia Steak House

Another Italian restaurant you shouldn’t miss for its vegan and gluten-free options. Large groups of people can be accommodated in the Restaurant, and they serve gorgeous steaks and other authentic Italian dishes.

One Dim Sum Chinese Restaurant

If you want to fill your tummy without spending so much, visit this Restaurant that serves Asian dishes like Steam Rib Bone Rice with Chicken Paws, Steam Cake in Mala Styles, and Deep Fried Sesame Balls. There are plenty more to choose from on their menu.

Hong Kong Food Tours

Hong Kong Sham Shui Po Food Tour

• Explore some of the best foodie hot spots in this old Kowloon district. Sample 10 tastings plus many other cultural, historical, and architectural highlights.
• Eat like a local and taste sweet and savory classics at 6 holes in the wall family-run eateries.
• This food tour is highly recommended by the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

Central and Sheung Wan Food Tour

• Discover beautiful colonial architecture in this Hong Kong district. Soak up the street vibe and immerse in the local culture of Hong Kong’s most iconic neighborhoods.
• Visit six family-run restaurants like the famous noodle shop and more!

Tai Po Market Food Tour

• Explore various points of interest to understand more about Tai Po Market’s past and present.
• Eat like a local at six unique tasting locations in Tai Po Market. Sample made-to-order steamed rice rolls and local dessert, and more!
• Hong Kong Food Trip: Taking a Food Walk in Mongkok
• Hong Kong Food Trip: “Eatsperience” Hong Kong like a local
• Most Popular Hong Kong Street Food To Try On Your Vacation

What to Do in Hong Kong?

The activities that tourists can embark on in Hong Kong are countless. It would be nice if you could make a plan before your trip, so you can visit all the places there.

Going to Amusement and Theme Parks

You can visit Hong Kong Disneyland , Snoopy World , and Ocean Park . Visitors can enjoy Jungle River Cruise plus other rides in Hong Kong Disneyland, the Boating Canal in Snoopy World, and cable car in Ocean Park. Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park have numerous rides, eating, and shopping options for visitors.

Visiting Temples

Plenty of temples abound in Hong Kong, which you can visit. Some are Wong Tai Sin Temple, The Big Buddha, and Po Lin Monastery. Wong Tai Sin Temple honors Daoist monk Wong Tai Sin. It keeps 3 religions; Daoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. The Big Buddha is home to Buddhist statues and Chinese structures. It also houses a meat-free restaurant and beautiful gardens.

Shopping is truly a must in Hong Kong. The best shopping places are Argyle Center, Citygate Outlets, Times Square, Hysan Place, Harbour City, Langham Place, PMQ, Central District, Causeway Bay, Mong Kok, Sham Shui Po, and many more. You’ll find beauty products, high-end items, electronic devices, clothes, and other products in these areas. There are both cheap and expensive items you can buy there.

Market Hopping Tour

• Enjoy shopping at some of the most popular Hong Kong street markets.
• Feel the local atmosphere when roaming the alleyways, watching people buy, haggle, and buy Hong Kong souvenirs.
• At the end of the shopping tour, get to know more about the Hong Kong street food culture with a taste of local snacks.

Also Read: Hong Kong: Your Next Shopping Destination

WiFi and Internet Access in Hong Kong

WiFi connection is available in most hotels and guest houses in Hong Kong. You can also buy a 4G/3G sim card as you arrive in Hong Kong. You can also rent 3G mobile WiFi. You can avail of these when you get to the Airport.

4G WiFi (Hong Kong Pick Up) for Hong Kong

Enjoy mobile data use with a Hong Kong 4G pocket WiFi device that conveniently fits in your pocket.

Hong Kong Travel Tips

Whether you’re going somewhere new or going again, following some tried and tested tips won’t hurt to make your trip better and more efficient.

• Put your passport, I.D.s, and other essential documents in one envelope or waterproof clutch bag.
• List the address of your hotel and put it in your wallet.
• List your itinerary so you can maximize your time.
• Know the ride schedules and your destinations.
• Get an Octopus Card which can be used in many establishments and rides in Hong Kong.
• Take the MTR.

Hong Kong Travel and Tour Packages

Introduction to Hong Kong Guided Walking Tour

Experience a guided walking tour of Hong Kong and its famous landmarks. This Tour includes:

• Visit H.K. historical attractions
• Explore Tsim Sha Tsui
• Visit Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan
• Ride Hong Kong’s iconic transport, including the Star Ferry
• Experience Riding a ‘ding ding’ tram and the Mid-Level Escalators

Unseen Hong Kong Tour

Travel the way locals have done since the early 1900s. This Tour includes:

• The experience aboard the Star Ferry and the double-decker ‘Ding Ding’ (tram)
• Learn about the traditional practice of ‘Villain Hitting’ (Da Siu Yan)
• See the Mid-Level Escalators, the most extended series of covered outdoor escalators worldwide.
• Visit Stone Slab Street, named for its granite stone steps.
• Take a walla-walla boat ride at Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter.
• Visit Hong Kong’s oldest public housing, supposedly enriched with feng shui

Hong Kong Big Bus Tours

• This Tour offers Classic, Premium, Deluxe, or Single Route Tour with the most flexible sightseeing and unlimited stops.
• See Hong Kong’s main sights from your seat by exploring from designated bus stops.
• Get on the Peak Tram, scale the heights of Sky100, board the Star Ferry and back, and embark on a sampan ride with the Premium and Deluxe tours.

Cultural Etiquette

It’s essential to be mindful of local customs and etiquette when visiting Hong Kong:

• Respect: Hong Kong residents value politeness and respect. Be courteous to locals and follow their lead in social situations.
• Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping is appreciated for good service in restaurants and hotels.
• Queuing: Hong Kongers take queuing seriously. Be patient and wait your turn in lines.
• Language: English and Cantonese are widely spoken in Hong Kong, but learning a few basic Cantonese phrases will be appreciated by locals.

Sample Itinerary and Budget 3D/2N Hong Kong Travel Guide

• 8:10 am – arrive in Hong Kong
• 9:30 am – get Octopus Card, ride the MTR or bus going to your hotel/ have your money changed for local currency
• 11:30 am – arrive at the hotel (possible check-in depending on room availability
• 12:00 N.N.- eat lunch
• 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – walk around Central District
• 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm – go to Victoria Peak
• 6:00 pm to 7:30 Eat dinner
• 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm tour Causeway Bay or other shopping districts
• 10:00 pm – onwards -have a drink or two at DiVino Wine Bar and Restaurant
• 6:00 am to 7:00 am – have breakfast
• 7:00 am to 9:30 am – explore Wong Tai Sin Temple in Kowloon
• 9:30 am to 10:30 am – Ride all you can in Hong Kong Disneyland/ Ocean Park
• 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm – visit a random place suggested by a local
• 7:00 pm to onwards – visit a night market, have dinner, and shop
• 7:00 am to 11:00 am – explore Mong Kok
• 12 N.N. – hotel check out and proceed to the Airport

Embark on a journey of discovery through the bustling streets of Hong Kong and be mesmerized by the captivating blend of modernity and tradition. Admire the iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and towering skyscrapers of the city’s impressive skyline.

Sample the delectable variety of cuisine, from traditional Chinese dishes to international flavors. Visit the city’s many museums and art galleries to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s captivating history. Ride on the famous Star Ferry and be awed by the stunning harbor views.

Explore the lush parks and gardens and be enchanted by the vibrant greenery. Stroll along the waterfront and be captivated by the majestic skyline. With its endless sights, sounds, and flavors, Hong Kong is the perfect destination for an unforgettable and unique experience.

• Hong Kong Bucket List: Top 10 Most-Loved Hong Kong Activities in 2018
• Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Do you have a Pinterest Account? Please pin this Hong Kong Travel Guide blog post 🙂

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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30 Things To Do in Hong Kong (2023-2024)

TravelRaval » Blog » 30 Things To Do in Hong Kong (2023-2024)

T here is a wide range of things to do in Hong Kong . This city, formally known as China’s Special Administrative Region, is a busy metropolis. People from various parts of the world come here to vacation all year. It has a distinct culture, history, and ambiance. It is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, with 18 districts. The skyline is dotted with numerous skyscrapers.

In addition, this city is an important port and shopping center. Besides that, it is a land of wonderful cuisine, exciting nightlife, and gorgeous nature reserves. Given all of this, the city enthusiastically accommodates travelers and offers them the best possible experiences.

1. Spend a Day At the Iconic Hong Kong Disneyland

2. victoria peak offers the best view of the city, 3. hong kong museum of history, 4. art enthusiasts must make their way to hong kong museum of art , 5. take a family photo at victoria harbour, 6. spend some time meditating at po lin monastery, 7. a symphony of lights: a mesmerizing sight, 8. visit the world-renowned madame tussauds, 9. lantau island: experience the best of hong kong, 10. escape the city hustle at dragon’s back, 11. beach days at lamma island, 12. kids will love ocean park, 13. sik sik yuen wong tai sin temple, 14. stunning architecture of ten thousand buddhas monastery, 15. hong kong dragon boat carnival: worth all the hype, 16. tian tan buddha: abode of spirituality, 17. a unique eatery: cafe 8, 18. marvel at the layout of nan lian garden, 19. man mo temple, 20. get refreshment from halfway coffee, 21. che kung temple: ideal for families, 22. hong kong maritime museum, 23. holiday shopping at stanley market, 24. kowloon walled city park, 25. zoological and botanical gardens greenhouse, 26. get your hands on some vintage books at tung choi market, 27. hong kong space museum: ideal for young minds, 28. lan kwai fong, 29. attend the grand celebration of chinese new year , 30. tai long wan: beautiful contrast of hill and beach, best hotels to stay in hong kong, what is there to do in hong kong.

This skyscraper city with some of the most magnificent skylines combines Chinese and British architectural styles. With art as an important feature, Hong Kong welcomes visitors to numerous cultural festivals. The variety of attractions and fun activities in Hong Kong will astound you.

It is a cultural melting pot with a distinct identity. The vibrant nightlife is a significant attraction. To properly appreciate the city, walk through its illuminated streets. Explore the city with an overview from the list below.

Spend a day at Hong Kong Disneyland, enjoying popular Disney attractions and characters. Together with your children, tour the seven themed zones. Aerial tours of Hong Kong’s Stark Tower are a must-do for Marvel adventures.

Visit the Hong Kong-only Mystic Manor and take a journey around its enchanting exhibition. Those looking for excitement can ride the Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars.

The Flights of Fantasy procession is a great opportunity to see all the popular Disney characters and princesses. The Disney musical theater shows offer families the chance to sit back and enjoy. After all these explorations, refuel with a delightful meal.

Interestingly, the highest point in Hong Kong is Victoria Peak, which rises to a height of 552 m. The top features include panoramic views of the city, thick greenery, and short treks.

• A traditional way to go to the Peak is by using the Peak Tram.
• It has been in use since the 1870s. 
• Peak Tram is among the world’s oldest cableways still in use.
• The peak offers something for everyone.
• You may go on a short hike on the forest trails or browse shops. 
• The dazzling Victoria Harbour in the evening is mesmerizing. 
• Furthermore, there are several fine dining locations with breathtaking scenic backdrops.

The most fascinating museum in Hong Kong is perhaps the Hong Kong Museum of History. In 1975, the existing City Museum was divided into this museum and the Hong Kong Museum of Art. With its many displays, it highlights the city’s cultural legacy. Natural history, regional history, archaeology, and ethnography are all represented in the exhibits.

This Hong Kong Story exhibition uses objects dispersed over eight galleries to illustrate the evolution from prehistoric days through the 20th century. So it’s an excellent Hong Kong activity to learn about the region’s history and culture.

The Hong Kong Museum of Art is located close to several significant sites. One may have a true understanding of the present culture of Hong Kong via the fascinating displays.

• The Chinese Antiquities Exhibition Hall features more than 4,000 original works. 
• These include beautiful glassware, clothes, and ceramics, as well as needlework.
• More than 5000 works of art and calligraphies may be seen in the Chinese Fine Art Exhibition Hall.
• In the Historical Pictures Exhibition Hall, there are over 1,200 artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. 
• These illustrate Hong Kong’s path of advancement and growth.

You will be surprised to know that the Victoria Harbour skyline is the most iconic feature of this city. This well-known tourist icon is one of Hong Kong’s top five attractions. Skyscrapers, green slopes, the waterfront, and ships all combine to create a stunning and lovely scene. You will appreciate the sight, day or night.

Visit the observation deck, which is at the top of Ocean Terminal’s five-story structure. It provides a stunning view of Victoria Harbor and is bordered by water on three sides. From here, you may catch a view of the harbor’s magnificent sunset. Make sure to take some memorable photos against the iconic backdrop.

Po Lin Monastery, located in Ngong Ping, was once referred to as a big thatched hut. The monastery’s construction work started in 1906. In 1924, it was given the name Po Lin Monastery.

• It is an internationally recognized Buddhist institution for its distinctive architectural features.
• The monastery’s main structure has a distinct structural arrangement. 
• San Men would ascend to the notable Hall of Skanda Bodhisattva along the principal axis. 
• After that, you may visit another place – the magnificent Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas and the Main Shrine Hall of Buddha. 
• You are welcome to spend some time sitting and meditating on the monastery’s serene grounds.

“A Symphony of Lights ”   is an exquisite daily light and sound show on this island. The  Guinness Book of World Records has recognized it as the world’s biggest permanent light and music show. Watch this show before thinking about what to do in HK .

• 42 prominent structures join the musical beat and dance in synchrony for 14 minutes. 
• The skyline is transformed into a visual feast thanks to the plethora of lasers, searchlights, and LED screens.
• This multi-media display has brought significance to the city.
• Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Golden Bauhinia Square, and the Victoria Harbour Cruise add extravaganza and beauty.

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is a wax museum exhibiting over 100 famous people. The museum has featured famous personas from various fields, including movies, sports, music, and more. Inaugurated in the year 2000, it became the first Madame Tussauds wax museum in Asia.

• Historical and National Heroes Gallery showcases life-size replicas of famous figures throughout human history.
• At Hong Kong Glamour, visitors may see their top-tier all-time favorite celebrities from Hollywood.
• The K-Wave Zone has become a popular corner for famous Korean celebrities.
• Visitors can enjoy the “Chamber of Horrors,”  “Kung Fu Zone,” and  “Selfie Gallery.”

Hong Kong’s largest island is located in the center of the Pearl River. Stunning features include exquisite Buddhist architecture, a famous amusement park, and extensive sandy beaches.

• It is the best place for discovering the city.
•  Hike your way through various trials, enjoying the scenic beauty.
• Obtaining views of native life by visiting adjacent towns.
• Enjoying the theme park is a must.
• Interacting with the pink dolphins is a must and will keep you entertained.
• Visit between October and December to have the best experience.

Disneyland and Big Buddha have must-do things here in Hong Kong . They can make your day with every activity offered.

Dragon’s Back runs amidst Wam Cham Shan and the significant Shek O Peak on southern Hong Kong Island. This is among Hong Kong’s most famous treks. Be astounded by the picturesque vista of Hong Kong Island. This route leads to the stunning Big Wave Bay.

• A 7-kilometer section belonging to the Hong Kong Trail takes about 2-3 hours.
• Soak in the charm of Shek O Beach, the Shek O Golf Course, and Big Wave Bay Beach  from the summit.
• The hike offers two major routes to explore.

Located 10 kilometers from Central Hong Kong, Y Island, or Pok Liu Chau encompasses tropical rainforest slopes with winding uphill routes. The mesmerizing coastline landscape, charming beaches, and walking trails will keep you calm. 

• The island is separated into three sections.
•  Yung Shue Wan has several restaurants, pubs, and local stores.
•  Sok Kwu Wan is ideal for experiencing fishing, followed by BBQ.
• Green sea turtles lay eggs on Sham Wan beaches and are an attraction.
• Kayaking and swimming also keep this area populated.
• A family trail that connects two villages, is ideal for families to spend quality time.

Ocean Park is an amazing marine mammal park. It is also recognized as an oceanarium and animal theme. Not only this but it is also called an amusement park. 

This is based in Wong Chuk Hang. The Summit and a notable Waterfront are the two major areas. They are linked by a 1.5-kilometer cable car system as well as the Ocean Express Funicular Railway. This park is very popular for its rides. 

• Summit and Waterfront are divided into different zones.
• Marine World, Adventure Land, Thrill Mountain, Rainforest, and Polar Adventure are located at the Summit.
• Amazing Asian Animals, Aqua City, as well as Whiskers Harbour, are located on the Waterfront.
• Visitors can enjoy a variety of rides, activities, and games.
• It is a fun place in Hong Kong to let your kids have a great time.

This shrine honors Wong Tai Sin, the Great Immortal Wong. This place has religious significance as it is home to Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Wong Tai Sin Temple is a marvel in itself, with its serene Taoist garden pond and paths with waterfalls.

• Paths with waterfalls are a major tourist attraction.
• People fascinated by fortune-telling must visit this shrine.
• Face reading and palm reading stalls are put up along the southern compound.

The Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery in Sha Tin is a 20th-century Buddhist shrine with over 13,000 Buddha figurines but no residing monks. The 400 stairs leading to the monastery are lined with magnificent golden sculptures of Buddha in various stances.

• The Complex is separated into two architectural levels: ‘lower’ and ‘upper’
• The main temple hall, the pagoda, three pavilions, and two galleries are located on the lower level.
• The main temple hall houses over 12,800 miniature sculptures of the Buddha, each in a different position and emotion.

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival has grown to be amongst the largest and most spectacular events in the city. The carnival is held on the Central Harbourfront, beneath the beautiful skyline of Victoria Harbour.

Southern China and Hong Kong have a long tradition of dragon boat racing. Teams take the tournament very seriously, putting in months of rehearsal before the main event. You can hear the pounding of the drum and the excitement in the air.

There is plenty of entertainment, including live performances by prominent musicians. You can enjoy entertaining games and fun activities in Hong Kong City during this event.

The enormous bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, located in Ngong Ping, is known as Tian Tan Buddha. The Tian Tan Buddha statue rests on a three-tiered altar, encircled by six smaller bronze sculptures known as “The Offerings of the Six Devas.”

• The relic of Gautam Buddha, composed of his cremated ashes, is the principal attraction at Tian Tan Buddha.
•  The  Hall of Remembrance, Hall of Universe, and Hall of Benevolent Merit are situated underneath the monument.
• “The bell” which is rung 108 times a day representing human tempers fascinates visitors. 
• You can take a ferry, cable or taxi to reach here.

Cafe 8 is a one-of-a-kind collaboration between Nesbitt Centre and Hong Kong Maritime Museum. The cafe is located on the rooftop of Pier 8. It has established a progressive atmosphere for those with learning disabilities. 

It has allowed them to get more involved in their community, engage with individuals from different walks of life, and broaden their job and life perspectives. Enjoy complimentary WiFi, courteous service, lunch, and coffee or tea. You may spend some precious time in this unique spot in the city.

The 35,000-square-meter garden is a visual feast of lush decorative trees, massive boulders, wooden constructions, and hills. It was designed using traditional gardening techniques that follow the Tang Dynasty’s one-way approach. 

• Lion Rock Mountain provides a beautiful background to the garden. 
• The noise barrier shield makes the environment considerably more peaceful. 
• This Chinese garden has an interesting one-way layout.
• Chi Lin Nunnery is located near the garden.
• The garden and nunnery can be visited free of cost.
• The Pond garden and Pine Path view are major attractions.

Note : Nan Lian Garden is among the free places to visit in Hong Kong.

Sheung Wan’s Man Mo Temple has been constructed in honor of the God of Literature or Man Cheong. It also celebrates the presence of the God of Martial Arts, that is, Mo Tai. The Sheung Wan Man Mo temple is the most renowned and well-known of the several Man Mo temples in the city of harbor. 

Tourists must go to this location if they want to devote some quiet time to the home of the gods. This temple is an excellent location for architecture enthusiasts as they can see some amazing architectural ideas and techniques that were used to build the temple.

Halfway Coffee is a cute cafe, primarily known for offering coffee in classic Hong Kong ceramic mugs. It’s a modest coffee shop nestled away near all of the vintage stores on Upper Lascar Row. 

• They feature all of the traditional coffee selections as well as a large range of tea.
• For something a little unusual, visitors recommend tasting the Okinawa black sugar milk. 
• You will undoubtedly enjoy the overall atmosphere of the establishment. 
• After a long day of exploring the top places to visit in Hong Kong , nothing beats a nice cup of tea or coffee.

This temple, also known as “Che Kung Miu,” was constructed in memory of Che Kung, a military leader of the Southern Song Dynasty. He is praised for his efforts to put down the southern Chinese uprisings and prevent the dynasty from suffering several tragedies. 

A gigantic statue of Che Kung, a massive drum, and bells are all present inside the Che Kung temple. A wheel of fortune with three blades in the shape of a fan is said to bring luck when spun three times. A small payment is requested as it is the temple’s only source of income.

Add this to the places where families can go in Hong Kong . They can bless themselves and feel the joy of this place.

The government funds the non-profit educational and interactive Hong Kong Maritime Museum . It depicts the dynamic history of trade and groundbreaking expeditions in China’s maritime heritage. It is situated at Pier 8 along the Pearl River Delta shore to tell a story about China’s nautical history and trading practices.

• The museum has a  collection of over 100  models of ships depicting history.
• An exhibit of 300 ceramics from the 18th century garners a lot of attention.
• The Harbour Viewing Gallery offers visitors a live view of the Central Harbor Waterfront.
• It also houses the famous Alexander Hume Painting.

Everything from apparel to minor electronics may be found in this market. Stanley Market honors the conventional structure of an outdoor street market. This market is a representation of Hong Kong’s spirit. The Boat Festival is celebrated on the seashore of this market.

• Exploring and bargaining help a lot while shopping here.
• This place is a magnet for tourists.
• Souvenirs and gifts are a must.
• This market provides a variety of options to foodies. 
• The Dragon Boat Festival is a sight for sore eyes.
• Handcrafted bamboo items and Chinese embroidered pieces are exclusive in this market.

When you are looking for what to do in Hong Kong for free , this is a place to go to. As a major historical location of Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, the Kowloon Walled City Park is quite famous. 

The park is noteworthy for its remnants from its past as a Chinese military tower. The architecture of this historic building will amaze you.

It was designed in the early Qing Dynasty’s Jiangnan garden style. Kowloon Walled City Park, which has eight flower trails, also provides free guided tours to guests. You may take your family on a garden excursion paired with other attractions.

The Zoological and Botanical Gardens, covering approximately 5.6 hectares, is Hong Kong’s first park. Approximately 40 caged enclosures are sheltering 500 birds, 70 mammals, and 50 reptiles. It even includes several uncommon species. 

Apart from a diverse range of flora and fauna, it is one of the most beautiful free outdoor spaces in the city. It also has a beautiful fountain terrace, a memorial arch, and two bronze statues of Arthur Edward Kennedy and King George VI. 

After sightseeing, families may let their children play at the children’s park. Hike down the heritage path to discover seven historical features.

Tung Choi is one of the city’s busiest streets. It is a center for finding inexpensive goods and a diversity of aquatic life, particularly goldfish. Tung Choi Street is separated into two main zones. Ladies Street has a variety of reasonably priced items for women. Similarly, Bute Street is well known for specializing in wholesale items

• Be ready to splurge because this place is a hub for stylish apparel.
• Furnishings for homes, books, antiques and other decorative items are reasonably priced.
• This street credits its existence to visitors and tourists.
• Hence, this is the best market to explore unique things in Hong Kong.

The dome-shaped Hong Kong Space Museum is a distinctive structure on the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. Spread over 8000 square meters, the museum is divided into East and West wings. Besides the Stanley Ho Space Theatre, the Hall of Space Science, an OMNIMAX projector, a resource center, and the Lecture and Astronomy Hall, there are various pieces of modern equipment.

Visitors can create “Aurora” and icy bodies using dry ice. The museum also has an Astro-Park that can amuse students. A Solar Telescope has been recently installed and it aids the observation of celestial bodies

Lan Kwai Fong is the epicenter of drinking, clubbing, and partying in Hong Kong. The grid of streets is known for its nightlife, street food, and restaurants. This street has seen excellent artists rise from nothing

• Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s are celebrated with great pomp and show.
• It has its very own unique festivals.
• Visit Lan Kwai Fong with your loved one to explore new cuisines and drinks.
• Enjoy singing and dancing in the streets.

Chinese New Year is the most important yearly festival in Hong Kong. During this time, there is a huge wave of celebrations. There’s plenty for everyone, from fireworks and horse racing to traditional dragon dances and parades.

The parade usually includes floats, costumed lions, acrobats, dragon dancers, and other festive elements. The Chinese New Year firework display is the city’s biggest of the year. The 23-minute fireworks display may be seen from both sides of the harbor.

Chinese New Year lanterns are large, colorful Chinese New Year lanterns. During the celebration, you will be absolutely fascinated by the overall charm of the city.

Try the Tai Long Wan hiking trail for difficult climbs with magnificent scenery and gorgeous beaches. It has beautiful landscapes with mountains and beaches. 

• It is frequently referred to as one of Hong Kong’s most beautiful natural sites.
• This trek begins with several steep climbs before dropping to a chain of beaches. 
• You may take in the sights from the high hills and then cool yourself in the water by the coast.
• Plan a whole day for this adventure, based on where you want to go in Hong Kong .

Tourists are attracted to this busy metropolis on a regular basis. Visitors to the city have a wide range of preferences. There are several hotel options available to meet everyone’s needs. Budget travelers can lodge at:

• Alva By Royal 
• Harbour Plaza Metropolis 
• Eaton Hong Kong

When your budget is flexible, choose 

• Hari Hong Kong
• Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour
• Novotel Hong Kong Century 

These mid-priced options provide excellent service. For those who wish to spend a lavish holiday, there are several luxurious alternatives available. The Mandarin Oriental and Peninsula put the best of Hong Kong’s amenities at your service.

All in All,

Everything is better in Hong Kong. From temples to monasteries, and from fireworks to picturesque treks and Michelin-starred restaurants, Hong Kong has it all. You may have a peaceful holiday by visiting monasteries or temples, or you might immerse yourself in the craziness of city entertainment. A trip to this city will definitely be unforgettable.

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25 Best Places to Visit in Hong Kong [2023]

Hong Kong is a bustling territory that gracefully blends ancient Cantonese traditions with booming cosmopolitan growth. Once home to dozens of rural fishing villages, Hong Kong now has the largest number of skyscrapers in the entire world!

During your visit to Hong Kong, you might not know where to start. Should you visit the historic temples and monuments that set the foundation of Hong Kong? Or should you spend your time exploring the skyscrapers and metropolitan city center that put Hong Kong on the map? Don’t worry, because we’ve put together a list of must-see activities that incorporate both old and new traditions!

You’ll find that Hong Kong has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking to explore it’s small, sandy islands or taste it’s decadent world-famous cuisine, we guarantee that you’ll enjoy your time in Hong Kong!

Best Places to Stay in Hong Kong

Our Favorite Hostel in Hong Kong: Hop Inn on Mody

Nestled in between the posh resorts and upscale hotels, Hop Inn on Mody is an affordable hostel where you can still enjoy the best location in all of Hong Kong. Each dorm is decorated and designed by a local artist, which gives this hostel charm and life!

The Top Budget Hotel in Hong Kong: Harbour Bay Hotel

Within walking distance to the Star Ferry and Kowloon’s top attractions, the Harbour Bay Hotel is a clean hotel that offers larger than average rooms. Enjoy the complimentary mini bar, or the free smartphone so you don’t get lost on your journey through the city!

An Amazing Luxury Hotel in Hong Kong: The Cordis Hong Kong

Situated on the upscale island of Kowloon, The Cordis offers guests a prime location for exploring everything Hong Kong has to offer. While the rooms and suites offer basic amenities such as wifi and smart TVs, the biggest draw is the giant marble bathrooms to make you feel like royalty.

Staying Safe in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is considered one of the safest places to visit in Asia. It has one of the lowest crime and danger rates of any territory or country, but visitors should always use common sense when traveling through any large city. Keep your belongings locked up in the hotel safe or protected in your bag.

But while Hong Kong is very safe as a whole, no matter where you travel you absolutely NEED to have travel insurance.

Travel insurance  is the best way to keep you and your belongings safe and secure while you are traveling abroad. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out the form below to get a quote :)

#1 – Ten Thousand Buddhist Monastery

One of the most incredible free places to go to in hong kong.

• Over 13,000 Buddha statues on-site
• Several pavilions, waterfalls, and temples to view

Although there are actually no monks that live at Ten Thousand Buddhist Monastery, this 1950s temple is a stunning landmark located in the middle of Hong Kong’s Pai Tau Village.

Designated by the Government of Hong Kong as a Grade 3 Historic Building, Ten Thousand Buddhist Monastery is a beautiful piece of architecture that can’t be missed during your visit. The temple sprawls over eight hectares and two floors to explore!

Best Attractions

• The walk to the monastery is an attraction on its own! Although you’ll need to walk 431 steps up the hillside of Pai Tau Village in order to get to the top, the stairs are lined with hundreds of golden statues to make the climb more interesting.
• The main hall is also home to thousands of golden Buddha statues. Although you aren’t allowed to photograph anything inside the hall, the imagery of statues stacked back to back and over every inch of the walls will be breathtaking enough.
• Climb the Pagoda outside the main hall for a bird’s eye view over the entire temple. It’s nine stories high and is the famous pagoda that’s on the front of Hong Kong’s $100 bill!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Ten Thousand Buddhist Monastery

• The BEST Hotel in Ten Thousand Buddhist Monastery → Royal Park Hotel

Want to learn more about Hong Kong? These are the most AMAZING tours in Hong Kong !

#2 – Wan Chai Heritage Trail

• Stop at over 15 different sites
• Two-hour walking tour

This walking tour guides you through one of Hong Kong’s oldest and busiest districts, Wan Chai! Throughout the walk, you’ll see some of the most prominent landmarks and sites in all of Hong Kong, which is a perfect introductory tour if you’re a first time visitor.

Make sure to bring a pair of sturdy walking shoes because parts of the trail can be quite steep in order to reach certain landmarks!

• Wan Chai Market is a bustling open-air market selling all sorts of toys, knick-knacks, and souvenirs for every type of shopper. If you get hungry, there are also several food stalls selling street snacks.
• The Blue House is quite literally a brightly painted blue house that was once a hospital in the late 1800s. It has since been transformed into an apartment block, but the vibrant facade makes it a worthwhile stop on the walking tour.
• The Wan Chai Haunted House is an eerie two-story building with a very strange and dark past! Despite all the scary legends and rumors about the house’s history, visitors are still allowed to enter…if they dare!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Wan Chai Heritage Trail

• The BEST Hotel in Wan Chai Heritage Trail → The Fleming Hong Kong

Still haven’t booked for Hong Kong? Check out our favorite boutique hotels in Hong Kong

#3 – Tamar Park

A beautiful and scenic place to check out in hong kong.

• Over 17,000 square meters
• Art installations from local Hong Kong artists

Located near the Central Government Complex harbor is the peaceful and lush Tamar Park. You’ll find many students, seniors, and visitors spending a quiet afternoon here, whether they are having a picnic or simply reading and relaxing. You’ll also find amazing views of Victoria Harbour and Kowloon from the edge of the park!

• Sculptures are scattered throughout the grassy areas of the park. Spend some time walking around and admiring the few metal and rock art installations that bring out the charming character of Tamar Park.
• iBakery is the perfect place to unwind with a snack or a fresh cup of coffee after you walk through the park. The cafe also doubles as an art gallery, so you’ll have something to admire while you take your break!
• Tamar Amphitheater is a 250 person wooden theater where several of the park’s larger events take place. If you’re in town during Chinese New Years, don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display that is held here.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tamar Park

• The BEST Hotel in Tamar Park → The Upper House

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#4 – Lockhart Road

• Tons of bars, nightclubs, and lounges
• The setting for many popular movies

Lockhart Road dissects the bustling Wan Chai district and is one of Hong Kong’s lively nightlife area when the sun goes down. If you’re familiar with the novel and movie The World of Suzie Wong, then you’ll know that it took place on Lockhart Road!

Although the area used to be considered Hong Kong’s red-light district, Lockhart Road has transformed over the years to be cleaner and more touristy. The sky is illuminated with bright neon lights which make for excellent people watching on your way to grab dinner and a few drinks.

• Coyote is a world-famous Mexican-themed bar that supposedly serves it’s patrons drinks while they sit on antique dentist chairs! Come to try one of the 75 different Margaritas they offer.
• Bottoms Up Club was popularized several movies and novels, but most notably the setting for the 1974 James Bond film, The Man with the Golden Gun. Although the club is now closed, movie buffs can still view the building from the outside.
• Carnegies is a Hong Kong establishment that’s very popular with international tourists. They whip up juicy burgers and serve cold beer on tap which you can enjoy while watching their nightly live entertainment.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Lockhart Road

• The BEST Hotel in Lockhart Road → Causeway Bay Inn (@Percival Street)

Recommended Reading – Check out our article about the Best Hostels in Hong Kong .

#5 – Pak Tai Temple

• Over 400 years old statue
• Originally called Yuk Hui Kung Temple

Dedicated to the Taoist God of the Sea, the Pak Tai Temple is a compact but astonishing work of architectural art. Pak Tai Temple was built over 200 years ago in Cheung Chau and contains many monuments are artifacts that date back to the Song and Qing Dynasty.

The garden surrounding the temple is beautifully landscaped with tall banyan trees which makes for a tranquil walk right in the middle of the city.

• The Pake Tai statue is a 3-meter tall copper statue dedicated to the temple’s namesake. This 400-year-old statue is actually older than the temple itself, and Local Hong Kong residents still come on a daily basis to pray and worship to it.
• The incense coils are hung all over the inside walls of the temple. Incense can also be purchased outside of the temple if you’re looking to make a prayer for yourself!
• Murals on the inside walls of the temple are wonderful works of art that show images dedicated to other Taoist deities such as the Dragon Mother and the Gold of Wealth.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Pak Tai Temple

• The BEST Hotel in Pak Tai Temple → The Upper House

#6 – Victoria Harbor

One of the most amazing places in hong kong.

• Stunning city skyline views
• Nightly neon light shows
• Home to the largest financial buildings in Hong Kong

For some of the most spectacular views of the Hong Kong skyline, take a walk through Victoria Harbor! The harbor was originally named Hong Kong Harbor but was soon renamed after Queen Victoria when Hong Kong was colonized by the British.

Now Victoria Harbor is a great place to watch ferries and containerships chug by, as it is one of the busiest river ports in all of Asia.

• A ride on the Star Ferry is the best way to enjoy the iconic Victoria Harbor view. Shuttling passengers between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, the ferry gives riders a unique opportunity to see the skyline from far away!
• The Victoria Harbor Promenade gives visitors an up close and personal view of some of the legendary skyscrapers next to the harbor. The impressive statures of the Bank of China, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center, and the HSBC Building all call Victoria Harbor their home.
• The Avenue of the Stars is a Hong Kong’s nod to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is an impressive collection of Asian celebrity statues and handprints. Over 100 actors and actresses are recognized on the Avenue of the Stars.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Victoria Harbor

• The BEST Hotel in Victoria Harbor → The Upper House

#7 – Tsing Yi Island

A nice non-touristy place to visit in hong kong.

• Mostly residential island for locals
• Towering apartment blocks and skyscrapers

Off the coast of Hong Kong Island lies the smaller rocky island of Tsing Yi. Originally the village to many of Hong Kong’s farmers and fisherman, Tsing Yi Island soon became the center for industrial lime and oil factories which drew in a large population of Hong Kong’s working class.

It is now a densely populated island for local residents. If you’re looking to experience what daily life is like for Hong Kong citizens, then venture away from the tourists and check out Tsing Yi Island!

• Tsing Yi Park is a beautifully maintained park that’s accessible right off the main metro station on Tsing Yi Island. Rent a bike and cycle around the park to enjoy some of the best views of Hong Kong Island.
• Maritime Square is a popular shopping center with over 140 shops covering 46,000 square meters. You’ll find all the hottest brands, a cinema, and even a wide variety of international restaurants here in the mall.
• Tsing Yi Sports Ground is a hub of athletic activity if you’re looking to burn a few calories on your vacation! There’s a swimming pool, soccer pitch, and running track on site.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tsing Yi Island

• The BEST Hotel in Tsing Yi Island → Commune

#8- Victoria Peak

An awesome place to visit in hong kong for half a day.

• Magnificent views from the highest hill
• Lots of restaurants at the top
• Ride Hong Kong’s oldest public transportation

Proudly standing over 550-meters high, Victoria Peak is the tallest hill in all of Hong Kong! Often nicknamed “the Peak” by locals, Victoria Peak’s summit provides expansive and dramatic views over the entire country and surrounding islands.

The tram and lookout points may become crowded with tourists during the afternoon rush, so it’s recommended that visitors arrive as early as possible!

• The Peak Tram is the easiest and most scenic way to reach to the top of the hill. The funicular was originally built in the late 1800s and remains a historic landmark that chugs up the mountain to provide riders with stunning views.
• Victoria Peak Garden sits right below the tip of the summit and is a pristine Chinese garden with abundant trees and flowers. You’ll also see a colonial building that was once the home to the Governor before it’s evacuation during World War II.
• The Peak Lookout Restaurant is a historic building that once housed the workers that were tasked with building the Peak Tram in the 1800s. It has since been turned into a restaurant, but still keeps its historic charm that is sure to delight any history buff.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Victoria Peak

• The BEST Hotel in Victoria Peak → The Fleming Hong Kong

#9 – Po Lin Monastery

One of the most religious places to see in hong kong.

• Buddhist temple for tourists and locals
• Means “Precious Lotus” Monastery

Lantau Island is home to the Pol Lin Monastery which was constructed in 1906 by three Chinese monks. The colorful temple is ornately decorated in shiny golds, deep reds, and vibrant greens that will astound any visitor who sets their eyes on it.

From the top of the temple, you’ll be able to see the glorious mountain range on Lantau, which makes for a picture perfect backdrop.

• Tian Tan Buddha is the world’s largest seated Buddha in the entire world. This impressive 34-meter high bronze statue can be reached by walking up a set of stairs for 10 minutes from the Po Lin Monastery. Don’t miss this awe-inspiring work of art when visiting Hong Kong!
• Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas may be a new addition to the monastery, but its architecture remains authentic to the Song Dynasty. Inside you’ll find a meditation hall, a library, an exhibition hall for events that happen throughout the year.
• The Ngong Ping 360 is a panoramic aerial lift that takes you from the monastery to either Ngong Ping Village or Tung Chung.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Po Lin Monastery

• The BEST Hotel in Po Lin Monastery → Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong

Not traveling 4-star? These cheap hostels in Hong Kong won’t disappoint you!

#10 – Lan Kwai Fong

Easily one of the most fun places to check out in hong kong.

• Restaurants and bars galore
• Live street buskers and music

For some of the craziest and wild parties in Hong Kong, look no further than Lan Kwai Fong. With over 90 different restaurants and bars covering just small side streets and alleys, Lan Kwai Fong is the epicenter of Hong Kong’s nightlife.

The area caters mostly to tourists and expats, which means drinks may be on the pricier side than other parts of the country, but it’s neon lights and rambunctious nature will certainly make for an unforgettable night of fun!

• Fring Club is a unique red and white striped building that offers facilities to local artists so they can paint or sculpt for free! It also has a posh rooftop bar on top if you are looking for a quick drink.
• Opera Gallery is perfect for a break in between glasses of wine. This five-story art gallery shows different installations and displays from famous artists not only from Asia but also from Europe and the Americas.
• Lan Kwai Fong Hotel is home to the two Michelin-star restaurants Celebrity Cuisine. It’s a refreshing culinary treat compared to the buzzing street food stalls that are mostly found on Lan Kwai Fong.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Lan Kwai Fong

• The BEST Hotel in Lan Kwai Fong → The Upper House

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#11 – Dragon’s Back

• Suitable for children and seniors
• Views of Hong Kong’s southern side
• Only 20 minutes to the first lookout

To escape the hectic city skyscrapers and businesses of Hong Kong, spend the day hiking Dragon’s Back trail. This popular trail can be trekked by hikers of any skill level, but make sure to bring sun protection as more than half of the trail is uncovered!

The walk along the mountain ridge provides sweeping views of Tai Tam, Big Wave Bay, and Shek O Beach, so don’t forget to bring your camera as well.

• The short walk leads you from the arriving bus stop to the lookout point of Shek O Beach. It’s 5km long and will take intermediate hikers roughly 2 hours roundtrip. Although it’s the shortest route, you’ll still be able to witness the 284-meter high view from Shek O Peak!
• The long hike is only 45 minutes to an hour longer, but takes you to Big Wave Bay, a popular inlet for surfers. The hike is moderately flat and the views are worth the extra effort.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Dragon’s Back

• The BEST Hotel in Dragon’s Back → Stanley Oriental Hotel

#12 – Tai O Fishing Village

• Nicknamed “Venice of the Orient”
• Picturesque stilt houses
• Dozens of seafood restaurants and stalls

Lantau Island’s Tai O Fishing Village is a rural marine town with hundreds of unique Chinese dwellings that were built on stilts! These often colorful homes hover high above the water channels and allow the rickety fishing boats to dock on shores underneath them.

Tai O Fishing Village is also known for some of the freshest seafood in all of Hong Kong! If seafood snacks are more up your alley, the village also specializes in a variety of dried, crunchy bags of fish and squids.

• Tai O Street Market is your one-stop shop for everything seafood! Tai O is known for its large salted fish, which come wrapped and ready for you to fry right on the grill. Shrimp paste, dried seafood snacks, and BBQ oysters are also popular dishes to buy.
• Kwan Tai Temple dates all the way back to 1488 and is supposedly used for warding off evil spirits. You can’t miss the ornately decorate temple that sits in the middle of Tai O.
• Hung Shing Temple was constructed in the mid-1700s and remains a busy worship spot for the local of Tai O. Dedicated to the sea gods, praying at Hung Shing Temple will supposedly keep you safe from the tidal waters.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tai O Fishing Village

• The BEST Hotel in Tai O Fishing Village → Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong

#13 – Tung Ping Chau

An unknown (but awesome) place to see in hong kong.

• Closer to China than Hong Kong Island
• Ferries only operate on weekends

The hidden gem of Tuan Ping Chau Island is a remarkable landscape of cascading rock coastlines. The unique rock formations are large sheets of sandstone that jet directly into the crashing waves of the ocean.

Tung Ping Chau is pretty remote and can only be visited during the weekend, making it the perfect island escape if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax and soak in the wild, natural atmosphere. Although the island has very few amenities and shops, you’ll still be able to find guesthouses and family run restaurants.

• Kang Lau Shek park has the stunning sheets of rock that make Tung Ping Chau so popular. Yes, you can climb over the rocky shores, but just be careful and make sure you’re wearing proper shoes since they can get slippery!
• Cheung Sha Wan Beach is located on the northern side of the island and is a sandy spot to relax compared to the contrasting brown, rocks.
• Tin Hau Temple is a small and unassuming Taoist temple dedicated to the sea goddess Tin Hua. It’s the oldest temple on the island and has a simple but beautiful courtyard in the center.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tung Ping Chau

• The BEST Hotel in Tung Ping Chau → Vienna International Hotel Shenzhen Dapeng Cuinan

#14 – Lamma Island

A perfect place to visit in hong kong if you’re on a budget.

• Only 20-minute ferry ride from Central Pier
• Excellent easy hiking
• Freshly caught seafood

Catering to international backpackers and young students, Lamma Island is a refreshing alternative experience that’s vastly different from the cosmopolitan life of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

You’ll find everything here from crystal clear bays, green luscious hills, and even sleepy fishing villages serving seafood directly from their boats. Lamma may be Hong Kong’s third largest island, but it feels quiet and remote since no vehicles are allowed.

• Yung Shue Wan is the main town located on Lamma Island. Dotted with street side cafes and boutique shops, Yung Shue Wan is the main lively hub for Lamma’s 6,000 residents.
• Sok Kwu Wan is a smaller fishing town with only 300 people! Dine at one of the several family-run waterfront restaurants, or watch the busy fisherman hawk their freshly caught fish to the locals.
• The Lamma Island Family Walk is an easy trail with many resting stops and even snack stalls on the way. You’ll find some of the highest peaks with sweeping viewpoints on the trail as well!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Lamma Island

• The BEST Hotel in Lamma Island → Man Lai Wah Hotel

#15 – Stanley Market

• Chinese open-air market
• Several authentic Chinese restaurants

Stanley Market is more than just a shopping hub, it’s a Hong Kong landmark that offers an authentic Hong Kong experience! Located on Hong Kong Island, Stanely Market mostly attracts tourist looking for the best bargains on clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and artwork out there.

It’s less crowded than the other traditional markets found throughout Hong Kong, which makes for a more laid back experience. Besides the shopping market, you’ll find plenty of casual dining spots and historic monuments in the surrounding areas.

• Stanley Plaza Square is an open-air garden where visitors can rest under the towering shade of the trees after a full day of shopping.
• Murray House is a Victorian-style building from the mid-1800s and one of the remaining colonial buildings in the entire country. Although it was used to house the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, Murray House reopened in 2013 as a restaurant and shopping center.
• Dai pai dong are open-air food stalls that can be found throughout Stanley Market. Grab a cheap bowl of hot noodles or congee and enjoy the busy streets from your plastic table and chair!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Stanley Market

• The BEST Hotel in Stanley Market → Ovolo Southside

#16 – PMQ

• Over 100 art and design shops
• Free daily workshops and classes

The Police Married Quarters (or PMQ for short) used to be a historic site that used to house an old school and apartment building. In 2014, it was transformed into a trendy and contemporary building filled with art shops, design offices, and pop-up galleries that attracts a young and hip crowd.

Some of the best independent handicrafts have boutiques in PMQ, so you can purchase unique decor, jewelry, and clothing to take back home.

• The weekly night market at PMQ is a bustling mix of live music, gourmet food, and handcrafted brands that set up in the middle courtyard of the building.
• Workshops and classes are offered for free by some of the independent boutiques. The most popular are cooking classes, art workshops, and textile making.
• Traveling exhibitions rotate their installations at PMQ every few months. From art galleries to public readings, don’t forget to check their monthly calendar to see if anything exciting is happening during your visit!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Police Married Quarters

• The BEST Hotel in Police Married Quarters → Hotel Madera Hollywood

#17 – Nan Lian Garden

• Over 3.5 hectares of gardens
• Free to visit

Adjacent to the Diamond Hill is one of Hong Kong’s most pristine parks. The Nan Lian Garden is a classical Chinese garden with many brightly colored Chinese pagodas. Although the Garden was built was built in the early 2000s, it’s still modeled in an ancient style often found during the Tang Dynasty.

The Nan Lian Garden is a perfect balance of the four Chinese elements found in most parks; water, plants, rocks, and architecture. It’s a very tranquil place to spend a few hours if you find yourself near Diamond Hill!

• The Chinese Timber Architectural Gallery includes beautifully crafted models of ancient Chinese buildings found in Hong Kong. Each of the models is built using a dark, rich wood.
• Nan Lian Garden Pavilion of Absolute Perfection is a glimmering yellow gold pagoda that stands two-stories high over a babbling pond. The pagoda can be reached by crossing the vibrant red Chinese bridge.
• Chi Lin Nunnery is a temple located next to the Nan Lian Garden and is an astonishingly large complex also built in the same style as the gardens. It has over 16 halls, an on-site school, a library, and even a bell and drum tower.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Nan Lian Garden

• The BEST Hotel in Nan Lian Garden → pentahotel Hong Kong, Kowloon

#18 – Hong Kong Wetland Park

• 10,000 square meters of wetlands
• Free binocular rental during your visit

Hong Kong Wetland Park is an ecological 10,000 square meter plot of land dedicated to preserving and conserving the swampy wetlands of the country. Catering to eco-tourists looking to learn more about Hong Kong’s natural flora, the park is a great place to see a greener side to the country.

Although it’s protected land, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained during your visit.

• Swamp Adventure is a children’s indoor play area that resembles the muddy outdoors! Kids can climb up to the tree forts or propel down the long, wooden slides of the tree trunks.
• Mangrove Boardwalk takes you over the wet marsh through the dense growth of mangrove trees. It’s an easy walk where you can admire the diverse wetlands from a clean and sturdy boardwalk above!
• The Discovery Center is located indoors and is a museum exhibit that explains the habitats of the wild plants as well as the conversation efforts that the park strives to make.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Hong Kong Wetland Park

• The BEST Hotel in Hong Kong Wetland Park → Hotel COZi Wetland 

#19 – Shek O

• Often accessed by hikers from Dragon’s Back
• Beachfront restaurants and cafes

The coastal town of Shek O is brimming with pastel-colored houses and picturesque beach views from its shores. Home to two of the most beautiful beaches in Hong Kong, Shek O Beach, and Big Wave Bay, this special area is off the beaten path and not completely overrun with tourists.

Come to relax on the beaches with friends or wander through the charming town to really soak in the laid-back atmosphere of Shek O!

• Shek O Beach is the main site within the village with it’s spotless, white sand and turquoise waters. Come with friends to BBQ at one of the many grills on the beach, or hit up some of the beachfront restaurants for a chill afternoon!
• Shek O Village is a quiet settlement with a mix of modern dwellings and old vibrant houses attracting Hong Kong’s affluent crowds. The cafes and restaurants in the village serve everything from grilled skewers of meat to hot, steaming bowls of fresh noodles.
• Golfing at Shek O Golf and Country Club is a nine-hole manicured, green golf course that also has an 18-hole putt putt range for children.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Shek O

• The BEST Hotel in Shek O → Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel

#20 – Sai Kung Town

A very cool place in hong kong to go for a day.

• Dates back to Ming Dynasty
• Straight from the boat seafood!

The fishing village of Sai Kung Town is the best place to spend a weekend away from the city! Attracting a variety of tourists and expats, Sai Kung Town has grown up from the tiny, quaint village it once was hundreds of years back.

It is now a flourishing paradise of trendy restaurants, luxury yachts, and bustling seafood markets centered around an animated and lively harbor. Seafood is king here, and won’t take you long to find a delicious restaurant or cafe where you can enjoy the freshly caught fish.

• Walk the waterfront promenade to catch a glimpse of the floating fishing boats and sailboats docked to the piers. If you come in the early morning you might also see the fisherman proudly hauling back their catch of the day.
• Rent a junk boat to enjoy a fun, activity-filled day out on the water! Each junk tour company offers something different, but most tours include swimming, and a few drinks and live music!
• Floating markets can be found in the early morning and afternoon hours near the piers. Boats are filled with colorful plastic tubs containing everything from fish to shrimps to squids that are available for purchase!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Sai Kung Town

• The BEST Hotel in Sai Kung Town → Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East

#21 – Tai Mo Shan Country Park

• Covers 14 square meters
• Over 1,500 species plants and 30 species of orchids

Hong Kong’s highest mountain is Tai Mo Shan which reaches almost 1000 meters into the sky. This once active volcano now has the coolest temperature in all of Hong Kong, making a perfect place to escape the muggy heat of the city.  

If you’re interested in spending a few hours on vacation in the fresh air, then think about taking a leisurely hike through Tai Mo Shan Country Park!

• Hiking Tai Mo Shan is the main activity in the park. Although hikers can’t reach the tippy top of the peak, you’ll still be able to enjoy the view from high up the side. The hike is also not very steep which is good for beginner to intermediate hikers.
• Shing Mun Reservoir can be reached at the end of the Tai Mo Shan trail past Lead Mine Pass. It’s roughly 2-3 hours from the start of the trail.
• Pineapple Dam is located near the Shing Mun Reservoir and gets its name from the farms around the area that used to grow pineapples hundreds of years back. The dam looks like the entrance to a rocky gate and has a uniquely bright red painted door.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tai Mo Shan Country Park

• The BEST Hotel in Tai Mo Shan Country Park → Hotel Ease Tsuen Wan

#22 – Tsim Sha Tsui

A great place in hong kong if you love to shop.

• Hong Kong’s high-end district
• Endless hotel, food, and drink options
• High-class shopping

No trip to Kowloon would be complete without visiting the metropolitan hub of Tsim Sha Tsui! Whether you’re looking for sky-high fine dining, sophisticated cocktail bars, or high-end fashion brands, Tsim Sha Tsui will fulfill your wish for luxury! You can also check out our article about the best day trips from Hong Kong.

Some of the city’s most upscale resorts and hotels are located right by the waterfront and offer jaw-dropping views from their high floors or rooftop terraces. If you can afford it, then a posh night out in Tsim Sha Tsui is a memorable way to spend your evening in Hong Kong!

• K11 is a six-story shopping mall that sells everything under the sun. K11 is unique in that it’s also an art gallery mall, which means you’ll see a variety of paintings and art installations throughout the building.
• Knutsford Terrace offers late-night partygoers a plethora of dining and nightlife options. The street is littered with an endless number of establishments, many of which are open until the sun comes up the next morning!
• Kowloon Park is a 13.5-hectare large green space where visitors and relax and enjoy the peaceful landscape while still being in the center of a big city.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tsim Sha Tsui

• The COOLEST Hostel in Tsim Sha Tsui → Apple Inn Tsim Sha Tsui
• The BEST Hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui → InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong

#23 – Cheung Chau

• 10 kilometers from Hong Kong Island
• Several temples and beaches to explore
• Dozens of festivals held year round

The delicate island of Cheung Chau may be small, but it is overflowing with a multitude of activities for the whole family. Once a fishing village, Cheung Chau now attracts a variety of tourists that come to enjoy its beaches and festivals.

The roads and alleys are so narrow on the island, that normal size cars cannot fit which means police, ambulance, and firetruck vehicles have been specially made in a smaller size to fit through the streets!

• Chueng Po Tsai Cave supposedly hid a Guangdong Pirate that took refuge on the island in the early 1800s. Despite the authenticity of the legend, visitors still flock to the cave to walk through the tiny 88-meter long dark, hall.
• Chueng Chau Sai Tai Road is a pedestrian-only walkway with outstanding views of the surrounding coastal scenery. It’s a leisurely 15-minute walk towards the Chueng Po Tsai Cave.
• Pak She Praya Road is an active fish market where fisherman and farmers sell their catch to locals and visitors. There are plenty of restaurants on the side of the pier if you’d rather have someone cook your dinner for you.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Cheung Chau

• The BEST Hotel in Cheung Chau → B & B Cheung Chau

#24 – Hollywood Road

• Antique shopping galore
• Contemporary and classic art galleries

Hollywood Road was the first street to be completed in Hong Kong, and now houses some of the country’s most popular museums and art galleries. Stretching just one kilometer through Hong Kong Island, Hollywood Road is filled with dozens of boutique shops selling everything from religious figurines to antique porcelains.

• Man Mo Temple was built in 1847 and is dedicated to the God of Literature and the God of War. When you’re in the main hall, don’t forget to look up and see the hundreds of incense coils hanging from the ceiling!
• Antique shopping down Hollywood Road is considered the best in the country. You’ll find everything from porcelain vases, to jade statues and ancient ink paintings at one of the many dealers on the street.
• Plum Blossoms Gallery open in 1987 and is world renowned for displaying innovative art created by famous Asian artists. Focusing more on contemporary and modern art, The Plum Blossoms Gallery is worth popping into.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Hollywood Road

• The BEST Hotel in Hollywood Road → Travelodge Central, Hollywood Road

#25 – Soho

A great place to visit in hong kong at night.

• Hong Kong’s nightlife district
• Mix of expats and locals

Hong Kong’s premier entertainment zone is located south of Hollywood Road, and is a lively neighborhood overflowing with shops, restaurants, and nightclubs for every type of visitor!

You’ll eat very well in Soho, as the streets are chock-full of markets, vendors, and restaurants that you can hop between in order to taste all the local delicacies. Soho really comes alive at night, when the bars and pubs open up into the streets and hydrate the thirsty visitors looking for a fun night out on the town.

• Cat Street Market may not sell the highest quality good or souvenirs, but its bustling atmosphere makes for an exciting walk.
• Mid-level escalators are a strange but popular attraction in Soho. This walkways system shuffles people over 800 meters up or down the Hong Kong Island hills and offers unique views through the center of the city.
• Man Hing Lane is one of Soho’s busiest nightlife districts during the evening. You’ll find plenty of cafes and clubs attracting the cool, laid-back crowd of Hong Kong.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Soho

• The BEST Hotel in Soho → The Upper House

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re exploring the fish markets of the tiny villages or enjoying a handcrafted martini at the rooftop overlooking the iconic skyline, Hong Kong has something for every traveler and every budget!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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5 days Hong Kong itinerary (2023)

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Vertigo-inducing skyscrapers, delicious dim sum and some of the best nightlife and shopping in the world. 

These are some of the images that Hong Kong conjures up in the minds of travelers. 

Hong Kong might be a bit overwhelming to a first-time traveler, because there are so many things do in this city. 5 days in Hong Kong is a perfect amount of time to see the city and some of its surrounding areas including Lantau Island. And If you want to visit the gambling mecca Macau, add an extra day. 

5 Days in Hong Kong itinerary

Day 1: Explore Mong Kok

Where to stay: Metropark Mongkok

Hong Kong is divided into Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories. 

I started my trip in Kowloon, a peninsula across Victoria Harbor that is known as an entertainment and shopping district. I suggest starting your 5 days Hong Kong itinerary with Mong Kok, an area of Kowloon where you can shop and eat inexpensively. 

Translated as “crowded corner” in Cantonese, Mong Kok is a home to bustling street markets and delicious street food. 

The famous Ladies Market in Mong Kok has plenty of stands with knock-off luxury goods, souvenirs, clothing, and trinkets. Remember to haggle if you want to get a good deal.

Book one of the best guided tours of Kowloon

Another place you might consider visiting in Mong Kok is Sai Yeung Choi, a long, pedestrian street where you can find many stores and malls that sell trinkets, gadgets and clothings. 

✅ DISCOVER KOWLOON MARKETS AND TEMPLES ON THIS HALF-DAY TOUR

Check out Wong Tai Sin Temple

Your 5 days Hong Kong Itinerary should include at least one temple. And it’s good to start with Wong Tai Sin because it’s located further away from busy areas. To get there, hop across several MTR lines to get to Wong Tai Sin Temple in Chuk Un, a residential area of New Kowloon. 

✅ BOOK THIS PRIVATE HONG KONG TOUR FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

This colorful temple is home to three religions: Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism . It also commemorates the monk of yore, Wong Tai Sin. 

Perhaps, the large number of people at Wong Tai Sin Temple could be explained by the fact that it the temple is said to make every wish come true upon request.

Cruise along the Victoria Harbor in Star Ferry

Where to stay: Grand Hyatt

Make your way to Tsim Sha Tsui promenade for a spectacular view of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbor. 

Here, you can find the Avenue of Stars that features many statues of stars from the Chinese and Western movies such as Bruce Lee. The area is also a stone throw away from museums, restaurants and night clubs in Kowloon.  

Best cruises of Victoria Harbor

Where to buy star ferry tickets.

To wrap up your first day, catch a Star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island. You can purchase tickets at Harbour/Water Tour ticket office located at Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier or the Central Pier 7.

Take a night ride on Star Ferry because it culminates with a colorful light show that lights up the Hong Kong skyline in a myriad of colors. 

You can also book your tickets online ahead of your trip  here.

Day 2: Walk around Nan Lian Garden

Take a morning stroll along Nan Lian Garden on the Diamond Hill in Kowloon. 

The beautiful Chi Lin Nunnery, a Buddhist temple built in 1934 spans 33,000 square meters, but only a small part of it is open to visitors. Visit Nan Lian Garden early morning before most people begin to arrive.

How to get to Nan Lian Garden:  The garden is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day and the entrance is free. To get there, get off the train at Diamond Hill Station and walk across the road. 

Grab a bite at one of Kowloon restaurants

Kowloon restaurants boast a variety of food. 

Here you will find tons of options with Western, Asian and Cantonese cuisines. But dining in Hong Kong doesn’t necessarily mean spending big money.

Another option is to enjoy local flavors during a fun cooking class .

The city has tons of pop-up food stands and inexpensive diners where you can eat on a budget. A good place to find good and inexpensive places to eat is Nathan Road , a central street of Kowloon that stretches from Tsim Sha Tsui to Sham Shui Po.

Enjoy some of the best Hong Kong food tours

Leaving Hong Kong without trying local street food is a HUGE mistake! Make sure to try grab some delicacies while strolling the city street, or better yet, join one of the awesome tours guided by a local foodie.

Visit Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery in Hong Kong is one of the most remarkable cultural sites the city, and although it takes a while to get there, it’s an absolute must on your 5 days Hong Kong itinerary.

The monastery is located in Sha Tin, part of New Territories and it contains several buildings including a nine-story pagoda, several halls and ornate gazebos with religious displays. 

How to get to Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery:  Get off at Sha Tin station on MTR’s East Rail Line and take an Exit B. Walk down the ramp and make a left turn to Pai Tau Street. After that, turn right onto Sheung Wo Che Street. As you get to the end of the road, you will see a few signs that will direct you to the monastery.

When you get closer to the monastery, you will see a narrow concrete path that snakes up the hill. You will have to climb up nearly 400 stairs with two rows of Buddhas in different positions on each side.

Book a guided tour of Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

Why you should consider booking a guided tour of hong kong.

Hong Kong is a huge city and you have a lot to cover even if you have 5 days in Hong Kong. Trying to visit all of the popular landmarks in Hong Kong could be simply overwhelming, that’s why I suggest taking one of Hong Kong guided tours to save time and hassle.

THIS PRIVATE TOUR OF HONG KONG IS A PERFECT OPTION

Day 3: Explore Hong Kong Island

Where to stay: Conrad Hong Kong

After you get the taste of the gritty Kowloon, visit the cosmopolitan Hong Kong Island.

Home to towering skyscrapers and a busy financial district, Hong Kong Island has a whole different vibe to it than many popular Hong Kong neighborhoods across the harbor.

Here you can find offices of many international companies, big shopping malls, restaurants, and the largest public park in Hong Kong.

Shopping lovers should head to Causeway Bay that has an abundance of boutiques and small stores for every budget.

LET ME HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP TO HONG KONG!

Besides being a travel blogger, I also create itineraries for my readers 😃 If you want me to plan your trip to Hong Kong, provide insider tips and do all the research for you, fill out the form. 

My custom itineraries include information on popular landmarks, restaurants, and hidden corners that most tourists miss. As part of my services, I also offer suggestions on flights, hotels and activities.

Can’t wait to hear from you! 💛

Climb up Victoria Peak

Most travelers prefer to take the renowned Peak Tram to Victoria Peak, the highest point in Hong Kong to get panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills. You can also take a bus that will take you there.

However, you might have to spend some time in line if you want to take a tram, since it’s very popular.

The Sky Terrace 428 at Victoria Peak is the tallest platform that offers a 360-degree view of the city. 

Visit Old Town Central

On your way down from Victoria Peak, make a stop at Old Town Central.

Here old meets new as modern restaurants and hipster bars are nestled next to historic temples. Take a walk along Hollywood Road where you will see several graffiti walls alongside art galleries and souvenir stalls. 

Old Town Central is also famous because of its street art. 

As you walk around Hollywood Road and surrounding streets, you will find dozens of graffiti covering the walls. The graffiti along Tank Line and Graham Street are especially famous and it’s not uncommon to see lines of people waiting to take photos. 

Step inside Man Mo Temple

One of the main attractions of Old Town Central in Hong Kong is Man Mo Temple (Or Man Mo Miu) located on Hollywood Road in Sheung Wan.

The 19-century temple attracts many tourists and locals as its inside its adorned with hanging incense coils, Buddha statues and colorful paraphernalia. The Man Mo Temple pays tribune to the God of Literature (Man Tai) and the Martial God (Mo Tai).

The temple is open from  8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. 

Grab a drink at Lan Kwai Fong

Lan Kwai Fong is a historic area in the heart of the Hong Kong Central District famous for its nightlife, and entertainment. If you are in the mood partying and don’t mind staying up all night, Lan Kwai Fong is the place to be. Lan Kwai Fong boasts over 90 restaurants and bars. 

Day 4: Visit Monster Building

You have seen it in Transformers, numerous magazines and on social media.

This concrete behemoth nicknamed Monster Building has become a target for tourists and photographers from all over the world thanks to a profile in a famous movie and subsequent Internet articles, and you simply can’t miss during 5 days in Hong Kong.

The Monster Building consists of five units that were built during the population boom in the 1960s to accommodate low-income residents. Despite its seemingly depressing look, the complex offers great potential for street photography because of its perfect symmetry.

How to find the Monster building: To get to the Monster building get off at Quarry Bay, take exit A and make a left turn on King Road. Walk toward Tai Koo. The building is located inside one of the yards, and if you ask around, you will easily find it. 

Ride a Hong Kong Tram

Otherwise known as Ding Ding, Hong Kong’s most eco-friendly mode of transportation can be spotted in many parts of the city including Quarry Bay.

Riding the famous train during your 5 days Hong Kong itinerary will give your feet a break and provide you with an opportunity to take in the surroundings as the train moves pretty slowly. 

You can check routes and schedules  here . 

Take photos in front of the colorful Choi Hung Estate

If you want to snap a colorful image for your social media, don’t miss  the Choi Hung Estate Basketball Court in Kowloon during your 5 days in Hong Kong. Choi Hung means “rainbow” in Cantonese, so it’s an easy name to remember. 

The basketball court located on the top floor of the parking garage in Wong Tai Sin District of Kowloon. 

How to find Choi Hung Estate Basketball Court:  Take MRT to Choi Hung station and get off at exit C3 or C4. Make a left turn toward the Estate and walk to the top floor of the car parking right in the middle of it. I recommend to bring photos of the place with you, in case you need to ask for directions.

Check out Lok Wah South Estate

Another popular spot for photos in Kowloon is Lok Wah South Estate. Just like Choi Hung, it is located on top of the car parking. 

How to find Lok Wah South Estate: Get off at Kwun Tong MTR and make a left turn when you get out of the train station. Walk uphill for about half an hour and make a right turn as you get to the top and see residential buildings. Lok Wah South Estate is on the roof of one of the car parking buildings right before the rainbow school. 

Just down the road from Lok Wah Estate sits the rainbow school. You might want to check it out once you are done taking photos at Lok Wah

Day 5: Spend a day on Lantau Island

Lantau, the largest island in Hong Kong is likely to take your whole day, which makes it a perfect place to finish you 5 days Hong Kong itinerary.

How to get to Lantau Island from Hong Kong: Take the MTR to Tung Chung and take an Exit B. From there, you can either take a bus or the Ngong Ping Cable Car that will carry you over the emerald-green hills of Lantau Island and the clear blue waters of Tung Chung Bay.

Best guided tours of Lantau Island from Hong Kong

As someone who spent nearly two hours in line to get tickets to a cable car, I have to warn you that it can get pretty crowded during the busy season.

THIS PRIVATE DRIVING TOUR OF LANTAU ISLAND IS A PERFECT WAY TO SKIP THE LINE

If traveling on your own, check the bus and cable car schedule online ahead of your trip to select the best transportation option.

If you are going to the island by cable car, you will be able to see Tian Tian Buddha, the bronze sculpture that is accessible by a climb over 268 steps. 

Right nearby sits Po Lin Monastery, a colorful monastery with many shrines, halls, and gardens. To get a glimpse into the pre-colonial Hong Kong, take about a tour or Tai O Village and when you get tired, relax at the Silvermine Bay Beach located in the small town called Mui Wo.

I recommend spending your whole day at Lantau Island, as it also offers the 70-kilometer long  Lantau Trail , pristine nature and villages built in a traditional Chinese style.

Best time to visit Hong Kong

Summer and spring tend to be hot and humid in Hong Kong.

The typhoon season is from May through November and often brings rainstorms and flight delays. 

From November through March, the city has some of the mildest temperatures that won’t leave you drenched in sweat after 10 minutes of being outside. 

Where to stay in Hong Kong

You will need a good accommodation for your 5 days in Hong Kong, but keep, but there are a couple of things to know before you begin your search. Hong Kong hotels from three stars and above tend to be expensive around Hong Kong Island and parts of Kowloon that overlook the waterfront.

While low prices are tempting, do your research and read reviews before booking hotels or hostels in Hong Kong. 

Cheap hotels in Hong Kong are sometimes crammed in huge buildings that are packed with residential apartments, stores, and restaurants. Often those hotels are so tiny that there is barely enough space for a bed and shower next to it.

That doesn’t mean that you can’t find good budget accommodations in Hong Kong. You just need to be more savvy about it. Check out  Agoda , a platform that offers great budget options for Asia

PRO TIP: To avoid making mistakes in Hong Kong, read my article about some of the most common pitfalls among travelers in this city.

Best Hotels in Hong Kong

✅ Four Seasons Hong Kong – located on Hong Kong island, this is one of the best hotels in Hong Kong that offers panoramic views of Victoria Harbor and Kowloon and top-notch services.

✅ Rosewood Hong Kong – One of the best Hong Kong hotels, Rosewood is located within a walking distance from MTR Tsim Sha Tsui Station and has a fitness center, private parking, and a restaurant.

✅ Metropark Mongkok – A great value hotel in Kowloon, Metropak is within walking distance from the Goldfish Market and Fa Yuen Street. The Ladies Market is less than 10 minutes away.

5 Days in Hong Kong: FAQ

What’s the currency in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)

What language do they speak in Hong Kong?

The official languages in Hong Kong are Chinese and English. Hong Kongers speak Cantonese which is different from Mandarin Chinese that is spoken in mainland China. 

Is 5 days enough in Hong Kong?

5 days in Hong Kong is a good amount of time to see major tourist landmarks and take a day trip to Lantau Island or Macau.

How many days to spend in Hong Kong?

Spend no less than 3 days in Hong Kong. It’s a minimum amount of time that will allow you to see the highlights of the city. I don’t recommend less than 3 days in Hong Kong because you will end up missing a lot of things.

How to get around Hong Kong?

Hong Kong subway system is the best and cheapest way to get around the city. 

Octopus Card  covers travel on MRT (Mass Transport Rail) and also gets you a free ride to Hong Kong Airport on Airport Express. You have to pay the 50 HKD deposit to get the card, however, you get money back if there’s anything left over when you return the card at the airport.

Visit  mtr.com.hk  ahead of your trip to get information on public transport. To navigate Hong Kong’s train system, download  the Hong Kong MTR app   on your phone. 

5 Days in Hong Kong: Final words

Hong Kong is an amazing city and one of the best places to visit in Asia that absolutely has to be on your bucket list! I hope that my itinerary for 5 days in Hong Kong helped you to plan your trip and answered all of your questions.

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Hong Kong 2023 Go-To Travel Guide

• Written by Alya Miranti Azzahra
• Posted on September 20, 2023

Hong Kong: the City of Skyscrapers with a long list of impressive things that will amaze just about anyone! A home to more than seven million residents, Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China known for its financial success and is a highly popular tourist destination in Asia.

Living up to its reputation as one of Asia’s hottest tourist destinations, Hong Kong offers modernity and traditionality through its plethora of attractions, culinary delights, cultural celebrations, and much more!

If you are planning to visit Hong Kong soon or if Hong Kong is one of your dream travel destinations, be sure to check out this travel guide for your trip. Here, you will find packing tips, recommended hotels, and a list of the best things to do once you are in Hong Kong!

What to Prepare for Your Hong Kong Trip

Every trip starts with preparing the essentials! When traveling to any country for the first time, we might find ourselves wondering what to prepare and bring with us. You might have the same question about your trip to Hong Kong, but there’s no need to worry because we have compiled a list of things to prepare for your Hong Kong trip !

1. Flight Ticket

The first and foremost thing to prepare for your trip to Hong Kong is the essential item that allows you to reach your destination: a flight ticket! Hong Kong is a popular travel destination, which means there are plenty of flight options widely available. Here’s a tip for those seeking affordable flights: compare prices and book as early as possible.

2. Passport and Visa

Your passport should have at least one month of extra validity beyond the duration of your intended stay in Hong Kong. Depending on their nationalities, international tourists may visit Hong Kong visa-free with varying periods of stay. However, if you plan to stay longer than the allowed period or for other purposes, an appropriate visa permit is still required. You can find more information on visa requirements and the application process here .

3. Outfits, Prescription Medicines, and Masks

Hong Kong has a monsoon-influenced subtropical climate, with the warmest period typically occurring from late May to mid-September and the coolest period from mid-December to February. Therefore, make sure to pack suitable outfits based on the dates of your trip . If you are bringing prescription medicines, remember to carry the doctor’s prescription as well, and, although COVID-19 regulations have been lifted in Hong Kong, it is still recommended to bring masks, as you may be required to wear them in some indoor spaces.

4. Cash, Credit and Debit Cards

Sufficient funds are required when traveling to Hong Kong. If you have cash, make sure to exchange it for Hong Kong dollars (HKD) at your preferred currency exchange. Credit and debit cards are also essential, as they are widely accepted throughout Hong Kong, and ATMs are readily available in the region.

5. Hong Kong MTR Mobile App

The easiest way to navigate the region is by utilizing Hong Kong’s MTR (Mass Transit Railway), the underground public transportation system! Tourists can conveniently check train arrivals and plan their trips by downloading the Hong Kong MTR mobile app, available on iOS and Android app stores.

Recommended Hong Kong Hotels for Your Stay

It’s easy for tourists to find accommodations all over Hong Kong! There are plenty of hotels with varying prices to suit every type of traveler, from budget-friendly options to the more luxurious ones. Booking a hotel room before your arrival in Hong Kong is strongly recommended! If you haven’t secured your reservation yet, our recommendations for Hong Kong hotels might be the ticket to elevate your stay.

For Those Looking for Affordable Hotels:

• The Sheung Wan

A boutique hotel with four room categories, all well-designed with contemporary and colorful aesthetics!

Situated in Prince Edward, Kowloon, this hotel makes it easier for guests to reach the MTR within walking distance and navigate the city with ease.

Although small in size, the hotel is perfectly formed, which makes it fitting for long or short stays!

For Those Looking for Luxury Hotels:

• The Pottinger

The 68-room luxury hotel is a fusion of modern and traditional, standing at the gateway between Hong Kong’s historic landmarks and trending hotspots.

• Rosewood Hong Kong

Guests can gaze out at the glittering Victoria Harbour while enjoying the touch of contemporary art in the hotel’s interior!

Blending creative architecture, diverse cultures, and timeless elegance, the St. Regis hotel in Wan Chai district is home to four two-MICHELIN-star restaurants!

Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

Welcome to Hong Kong! Do you have any plans for what to do yet? If not, you might want to check out our recommendations for the best things to do in Hong Kong. From places to visit in Hong Kong to traditional dishes worth trying, you’ll find what you can do in Hong Kong here !

1. Explore Hong Kong’s Attractions

Hong Kong boasts a plethora of tourist attractions, so be sure to explore its best places to your heart’s content! You can start with the famous Hong Kong Disneyland, which welcomes around 5.2 million tourists every year, the iconic Victoria Peak for an exquisite view of Hong Kong, or Lantau Island if you prefer relaxation amidst sandy beaches.

2. Indulge in Hong Kong’s Culinary Delights

Renowned as one of Asia’s culinary capitals, Hong Kong offers memorable dining experiences through its variety of local dishes and world-class restaurants. If you are a fan of dim sum, you should try it here as dim sum originated in Hong Kong. Other recommended cuisines to try include roast goose, a famous Hong Kong dish prepared in the authentic Cantonese style, and egg tarts, a staple food of Hong Kong and a common delicacy for both locals and tourists.

3. Experience Hong Kong’s Amazing Festivals

Tourist spots and local cuisines are not the only things that attract international travelers to Hong Kong. The region’s collection of festivals is also a factor that never fails to charm tourists! There are plenty of festivals celebrated in Hong Kong throughout the year, such as the Chinese New Year Festival where you can see people dressed as dancing dragons and lions, and the Dragon Boat Festival, celebrated every year on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. If you are lucky, you can experience these unique festivals when visiting Hong Kong!

4. Shop at Hong Kong’s Markets and Malls

Want to stroll around or maybe buy a souvenir or two along the way? Well, you’re in the right place because Hong Kong is a paradise for shoppers of all kinds! Some of Hong Kong’s street markets you can explore include the Temple Street Night Market (great for experiencing the local vibe) and the Stanley Market (an open-air market selling clothing, unique gifts, and more). As for malls, don’t miss the Landmark Hong Kong, a complex of four buildings housing over 200 international brands!

5. Enjoy Hong Kong’s Vibrant Nightlife

Hong Kong has always been known as a party hub, which is no wonder why its nightlife is so vibrant. You can start exploring Hong Kong’s nightlife at the popular Lan Kwai Fong. This area is home to expensive clubs and restaurants and is renowned for hosting the best parties in Asia! However, if you prefer an open-air location, visit Knutsford Terrace for lively eateries while enjoying the evening air, or head to Tung Choi Street, a favorite local hangout spot lined with Chinese-style bars!

Wrapping Up

Now you are all set for your Hong Kong trip! Enjoy the tour to the fullest and remember to respect the local culture and residents. Of course, you can always count on this go-to travel guide during your time in Hong Kong.

Traveling to Hong Kong is on the bucket list of many, and if you are planning to visit the region too, allow us to recommend a more fun and beneficial way to turn your Hong Kong trip dream into a reality: by joining RMC Asia’s Cultural Exchange Programs!

Our Cultural Exchange Programs consist of hands-on internship and management training programs focused on the hospitality industry. The programs take place in prestigious hotels and resorts across Asia, with Hong Kong being one of the program destinations.

With various hospitality positions to choose, our Cultural Exchange Programs’ participants gain more than just practical work experience in international-scale hotels or resorts; they also get to experience unique cultural exchanges and immerse in the beauty of each program destination!

Think you are up for this adventure? Join our successful participants now and embark on your own internship and management training journey in Asia!

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The Must-Visit Summer 2023 Events in Hong Kong

Experience vibrant Hong Kong as it comes alive with a multitude of captivating summer 2023 events and cultural celebrations. Welcoming back international travel, the city is the perfect destination for a true East-meets-West experience. 

Hong Kong, known for its captivating skyline, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage, offers an ideal backdrop for a memorable summer getaway . Beyond its picturesque landscapes and architectural wonders, the city’s dynamic summer events never fails to impress, ensuring that there is always something exciting happening regardless of the time of year.

Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a food lover , art connoisseur, or simply seeking an unforgettable summer adventure, Hong Kong’s summer events lineup for 2023 promises to provide an unparalleled experience. With the added significance of Pride Month 2023 , the city’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity shines through, making it an even more compelling destination for visitors from around the globe. 

So, mark your calendars and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy and endless possibilities that await you in Hong Kong this summer.

Hong Kong Food Expo 2023

Get ready for the ultimate culinary extravaganza this summer! The much-anticipated Hong Kong Food Expo is back and bigger and better than ever. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey around the globe, as you indulge in a wide array of international cuisines and delicacies. But that’s not all – this event is a food lover’s paradise, offering you the opportunity to take home your favourite snacks and food products from both established and up-and-coming brands.

To add to the excitement, the culinary event coincides with the Home Delights Expo , the Beauty & Wellness Expo , and the Hong Kong International Tea Fair . With such a diverse range of events happening simultaneously, there truly is something for everyone. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, home decor aficionado, a wellness seeker, or a tea connoisseur, you’re guaranteed to find treasures to bring them home.

Date: 17 – 21 August 2023

Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

Expos & Festivals

Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon Boat Festival takes place on June 22 this year, setting the stage for thrilling dragon boat races held across various locations in Hong Kong. This cherished festival traces its roots back to the tragic story of Qu Yuan, a revered Chinese scholar who chose to end his life by drowning in a river. 

In a desperate attempt to save him, locals threw steamed rice dumplings, known as ‘Zongzi,’ into the water while paddling down the river to prevent fish from consuming his body. These customs have since evolved into annual traditions, marked by the consumption of Zongzi and the exhilarating sport of dragon boat racing. 

For an immersive experience during the festival, consider joining a competitive team and embarking on a training journey to participate in the races.

Date: 22 June 2023

Location: Various across Hong Kong

Summerfest Hong Kong

After a three-year break, the much-loved Summerfest Hong Kong is making a grand comeback at the Central Harbourfront! With a delightful array of exhibitions, activities, live performances, shows, and parties, the organisers have brilliantly transformed the heart of the city into a sprawling 30,000 square metre playground, offering endless enjoyment for everyone.

Engage in lively games including Ping Pong Fun, Hoops Wall. a thrilling Racing Track, and be sure not to miss the iconic One CityBus Exhibition . Immerse yourself in the excitement of playgrounds, browse through vibrant craft markets and fairs, and try your luck at the engaging game booths. And if that’s not enough, indulge in the delightful experience of a sandy beach right in the heart of the city!

The entertainment extravaganza doesn’t end there with dance parties, rejuvenating yoga classes, a Ukulele Festival , and Balance Bike Carnival . As the sun sets, concerts will ignite the stage with incredible performances, and you can satisfy your cravings with a variety of delectable carnival food.

Date: June 9 – July 23, 2023

Venue: Central Harbourfront Event Space

S2O Hong Kong Songkran Music Festival

The  S2O Songkran Music Festival  is making its debut in Hong Kong, offering an extraordinary experience against the backdrop of  Central’s  skyscrapers and  Victoria Harbour .

This immersive event combines music, water, and lights to create an unforgettable spectacle. Renowned DJs and artists will deliver high-energy performances, accompanied by stunning visual effects, enveloping the audience in a euphoric atmosphere.

The festival also introduces a unique element: a 360-degree water splashing experience, where attendees can revel in the joyous spirit of  Songkran , the traditional Thai New Year.

This groundbreaking event transcends boundaries, inviting participants to indulge in a world of limitless possibilities.

Date: 5 – 6 August 2023

Location: Central Harbourfront

radseason.com

Ani-Com and Games

With a jam-packed schedule featuring the trendiest and most cutting-edge entertainment, Ani-Com and Games has gained a reputation as one of Asia’s premier shows. Prepare to be dazzled by a multitude of captivating activities, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

Immerse yourself in stage forums and presentations where industry experts share their insights and latest developments. Witness the excitement of model kit competitions as talented enthusiasts showcase their skills and creations. And don’t forget the autograph sessions with renowned comic Masters, where fans can meet their idols up close and personal.

Date: July 28 – August 1, 2023

Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

Disney Street Summer Water Party

Hong Kong Disneyland is renowned for its annual Summer Water Party , which promises a delightful dose of fun each year. Additionally, the second half of 2023 will witness the much-anticipated unveiling of the enchanting “ World of Frozen ,” a themed land dedicated to the beloved movie franchise.

Adding to the excitement, 2023 holds special significance for the Walt Disney Company as it commemorates its 100th Anniversary . In honour of this milestone, a series of thrilling events have been planned. Visitors can look forward to encountering their favourite Disney characters donning celebratory outfits, along with an array of festive merchandise, delectable food offerings, and charming souvenirs.

Date: June – August 2023

Location: Hong Kong Disneyland

mousehacking.com

Chinese Opera Festival

Chinese Opera, a captivating art form that encapsulates China’s rich history and traditional culture, showcases the meticulous and distinctive movements of actors’ hands, eyes, body, and feet, representing a comprehensive system within Chinese performing arts.

With a legacy spanning centuries, the Hong Kong Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) aims to promote a deeper understanding of this ancient art through their annual Chinese Opera Festival .

If you have yet to encounter this remarkable traditional art form, the festival provides an exceptional opportunity to do so. Leading companies in the genre will grace the stage with their performances, offering a firsthand experience of the mesmerising world of Chinese Opera. Beyond the stage, the festival curates a diverse range of events, including symposiums, Chinese Opera film screenings, and exhibitions, to enrich the overall experience.

Date: June 16 – October 8, 2023

Location: Stage performances are held at various locations across Hong Kong

allevents.in

DOUBLE DUCKS by Florentijn Hofman

Making a comeback as the iconic attraction celebrates its 10th anniversary, DOUBLE DUCKS is a unique and must-see spectacle. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Victoria Harbour, the event offers a grand display of art and nature. Witness the larger-than-life Rubber Ducks floating near Tamar Park and the Central and Western District Promenade is a visually stunning experience that will leave you in awe. 

Moreover, this limited-time public art exhibition, DOUBLE DUCKS by Florentijn Hofman , showcases the creativity and symbolic power of art. It serves as a reminder of the importance of friendship and connection. 

Date: June 10, 2023 onwards

Location: Victoria Harbour

Pride Events 

Gay Games 11 Hong Kong 2023

In a groundbreaking decision back in October 2017, Hong Kong’s LGBT+ community achieved a significant triumph by securing the privilege of hosting the 11th Gay Games (GGHK). This marked a historic occasion as Asia welcomed the quadrennial sports and cultural event for the very first time.

Spanning nine days, this all-encompassing event invites individuals from diverse backgrounds to partake in an array of sports, arts, and cultural activities. Regardless of one’s sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, or skill level, everyone is encouraged to participate in various sports such as trail running, dragon boat racing, dodgeball, and even mahjong.

Moreover, attendees will be treated to three nights of extraordinary music and performances at the Wonderland Main Stage in West Kowloon , featuring artists and performers hailing from different corners of the globe. Alongside these captivating performances, a multitude of cultural activities will showcase Hong Kong’s distinctive blend of culture and creativity, including art exhibitions, after-dark cabaret shows, and captivating junk boat tours.

Registration for the diverse range of events is now open , offering an exciting opportunity for individuals to secure their spots and be part of this remarkable celebration. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience—sign up now and be a part of the 11th Gay Games in Hong Kong!

Date: 3 – 11 November 2023

Location: Various locations across Hong Kong

It Takes Two with Emery Fung & Zephyrus Tsang

Experience the dynamic duo of Emery Fung and Zephyrus Tsang at a special Pride Month edition of It Takes Two , collaborating with Gay Games Hong Kong (GGHK) representatives. Join us for an exclusive opportunity to meet Emery Fung, the Founder of Awkward Conversations , an HK-based Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultancy firm, and Dr. Zephyrus Tsang, Co-founder of Quarks , the pioneering organisation for transgender youth in Hong Kong. 

These remarkable individuals will share their inspiring stories, shed light on their efforts to foster a more trans-friendly and inclusive environment in GGHK. Gain valuable insights from Emery Fung and Zephyrus Tsang as they discuss their profound impact on the local and international LGBTQIA+ community. Don’t miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to be part of the conversation and uncover why It Takes Two truly stands out.

Date: Thursday, Jun 29, 2023

Time: 7:00pm – 8:30pm (GMT +8)

Location: the Hive Central x CCG Commons

The Dollhouse Drag Takeover – Pride Edition

Join this unforgettable and inclusive event to celebrate Pride Month in true style and show your support for the LGBTQ+ community.  “ The Dollhouse Drag Takeover – Pride Edition ” promises to be an evening of glamour, talent, and unity, highlighting the vibrant spirit of Pride Month in Hong Kong

Experience the captivating performances of Hong Kong’s finest drag queens from The Dollhouse, including the talented Violette Blanche , Gigi Reyes , Parris Mami Govel, Southeast Asia Miles , and Emma Ohrey . Prepare to be mesmerised as these exceptional artists take the stage and deliver an evening of non-stop drag entertainment, starting from 10 pm and continuing into the late hours.

Date: 2 June 2023

Location: Vivere

@The-DOLL-HOUSE-852

Featured Banner Image: @CentralHarbourfrontSummerFest

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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

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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!

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Hong Kong Welcomed 34 Million Visitors In 2023, With 79% Coming From Mainland China

Hong Kong saw almost 34 million visitor arrivals in 2023, exceeding the tourism board’s original forecast of 30 million. Tourists from Mainland China accounted for 79% of arrivals, and most of them crossed the border into Hong Kong during the Labour Day and National Day golden weeks, and over the summer holidays. 

According to data released by the Hong Kong Tourism Board , visitors from Southeast Asia accounted for a majority of non-Mainland tourists, and travellers from the Philippines and Thailand more than doubled the figures from before the pandemic. In addition, overnight visitors made up half of the entire year’s tourists , and they stayed for an average of 3.6 nights, also longer than before 2020. However, the 2023 figures are still well below the pre-pandemic era, when a total of 55.91 million travellers visited the city in 2019 .

Once Hong Kong removed the last of its anti-epidemic restrictions in early 2023 — most notably the mask-wearing mandate and the pre-departure Covid-19 testing requirements — the government began a months-long campaign to encourage tourists to visit the city called Hello Hong Kong . During this time, the Hong Kong International Airport gave away 500,000 free airline tickets to travellers from around the world to visit the city, and the tourism board distributed vouchers that visitors could use at restaurants and bars.

The tourism board also noted that travellers to Hong Kong were moving away from viewing the city as a shopping destination and were more interested in its cultural experiences . Authorities decided to revive hotspots that lost visitors during the pandemic — such as the new-look Temple Street Night Market — and bring back annual events like the New Year’s Eve fireworks display and the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance .

There have also been reports about the city keeping the border control points between Hong Kong and Mainland China open for longer during the forthcoming Chinese New Year holidays, especially in view of the reports that Mainland tourists were stranded at Sheung Shui MTR station during the New Year’s Eve rush.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said, “We will explore ways to extend the operating hours of certain boundary control points and to open more boundary control points. We will also consider extension of various services to tie in with the change of operating hours of border control points to make it more convenient for visitors over the festivals.”

Header image credits: danielvfung via Canva

From the Middle East to the Far East and a couple of places in between, Anjali has lived in no fewer than seven cities in Asia, and has travelled extensively in the region. She worked as a lifestyle journalist in India before coming to Hong Kong, where her favourite thing to do is island-hopping with her daughter. You can check out her musings on motherhood, courtesy her Instagram profile .

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World's Best Airports: How India fared

W orld's Best Airports: 13 turned out to be unlucky for Singapore's Changi airport, which with its Jewel’s Canopy Park, larger-than-life art pieces and high-end luxe brands among other attractions had won the Skytrax World Airport Awards for the 12th time last year.

The prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards, often dubbed the Oscars of the airport industry, have long been dominated by a tight race between Singapore Changi, one of the busiest passenger hubs for south east Asia, and Doha’s Hamad International Airport.

But in 2024, there's a new champion and that's Doha’s Hamad International Airport.

Hamad International Airport, the main airport for the city of Doha, is said to be about a third of the size of Qatar's capital city spread over 600,000 square metre that is equal to 75 football fields. While Hamad International Airport secured the second rank last year, it was described as the most architecturally significant terminal complex in the world and also the most luxurious one at that.

In great news for Asia, Seoul Incheon Airport secured third place in the rankings. It was also named the most family-friendly airport of 2024. Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports came in fourth and fifth place.

Hong Kong Airport had a big improvement, jumping up 22 spots to reach 11th place. This boost came after the city recovered from the effects of Covid-19 and more passengers started using the airport.

As for Indian airports in the list of world's best airports, just four made it to the top list, while just 1 was in the top 50 rank.

Delhi airport retained the 36th rank in the list, while Mumbai airport just managed to hold on to a place in the top 100 best airports list with its rank dropping to 95 from 84 last year.

Bengaluru airport jumped 10 ranks though in the top 100 best airports list, climbing to 59 from 69 last year. Hyderabad airport too climbed to 61th place from being the 65th best airpot in the world in 2023, according to the Skytrax World's Top 100 Airports for 2024.

The list is prepared based on votes from air travellers around the world in the 2023/2024 World Airport Survey.

Dubai airport, which however was submerged in water recently after the glitzy city witnessed unprecedented rainfall pouring 1.5 years of rain in 24 hours , made a remarkably jump in the world's best airports lis. It climbed to the 7th rank from 17 last year.

Hong Kong airport also moved to 11th rank this year from 33 in 2023.

Once more, US airports didn't make it near the top of the list. Seattle-Tacoma, the highest-ranked US airport, dropped six spots to 24th place.

Meanwhile, Europe kept its strong presence, with Paris Charles de Gaulle, Munich, Zurich, and Istanbul all staying in the top 10.

Here's the list of the top 20 airports in the world according to Skytrax, and their ranks last year:

• Doha Hamad (2)
• Singapore Changi (1)
• Seoul Incheon (4)
• Tokyo Haneda (3)
• Tokyo Narita (9)
• Paris CDG (5)
• Istanbul (6)
• Hong Kong (33)
• Rome Fiumicino (13
• Vienna (11)
• Helsinki-Vantaa (12)
• Madrid-Barajas (10)
• Centrair Nagoya (16)
• Vancouver (20)
• Kansai (15)
• Melbourne (19)
• Copenhagen (14)

For more news like this visit The Economic Times .