hong kong travel guide 2022

TRAVEL to HONG KONG – Tips and Information Guide [2024]

Everything you need to know about travel to Hong Kong in this epic tips and information travel guide.

When people think of Hong Kong they tend to think of it as a financial hub or an urban and modern city that enjoys the reputation of being the cooler younger sibling of China.

But throughout its history, Hong Kong has drawn influences from both the oriental East and the West.

Its own oriental culture has been under the influence of the British.

Throughout the years, however, it has created its own cultural identity.

This ultra-modern city is made up of 1100 sq. kilometers of coastline south of China and numerous islands of the Pearl River Delta.

It’s known for its urban development which stretches along the North coast of Hong Kong Island.

Here you will see traces of its colonial history in English names or in the presence of double-decker trams that seem to be looming everywhere.

The south of the island contrasts the busy city life with hiking trails, beaches, and a big amusement park.

In the north, right across the Victoria Harbor, is the Kowloon Peninsula.

The tip of the Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, is filled with markets, shops and a variety of accommodation making it a hotspot for tourists.

North from Tsim Sha Tsui is the New Territories, where you can stroll through the older villages and relax at some of their secluded beaches.

Hong Kong also consists of the Outlying Islands, like Lantau and Lamma, that are a great addition to your itinerary.

This is especially true if you want to take a step back from city life, enjoy some downtime and good seafood.

If you don’t have a lot of time to visit Hong Kong don’t worry!

Thanks to its highly developed public transport, the city’s compact footprint and non-stop running transport – 3 days is the perfect Hong Kong itinerary !

If you decide to stay longer than that, you won’t run out of things to do!

This urban city will give you an energy boost that’s needed to keep up with its fast pace, the skyscrapers that dominate the skyline, beautiful neon lights and the maze-like architecture that can seem daunting to even the most experienced of travelers.

There is no shortage of delicious eateries or high-quality street food to be found either.

Next, to the amazing culinary scene, Hong Kong boasts of being home to some of the world’s most renowned architectural wonders.

It also features many culturally enriching and wonderfully curated museums.

The Hong Kong Island’s panorama dominated by towering skyscrapers can be seen from the Kowloon peninsula.

Make sure to read through our Hong Kong travel guide and be prepared to be amazed as Hong Kong is unlike any other city!

Hong Kong Travel Guide

Before you visit Hong Kong make sure you know the basics!

General Info

• Currency : Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
• Language : Chinese, English
• Population : 7,482,500
• Area : 1,108 square kilometers
• Electricity Voltage : 220V, frequency is 50Hz
• Electricity Sockets : type G and D

5 Interesting Facts About Hong Kong

• The term ‘Fragrant Harbor’ is the meaning behind the name of Hong Kong.
• According to the locals, eating ‘Birthday Noodles’ on your birthday will lead you to have a long and blessed life.
• The globally famous food, dim sum, originated in Hong Kong!
• The Peak Circle Walk is considered to be one of the world’s most picturesque walks.
• AI operated metro, with a 99% on-time rate, has made Hong Kong’s metro systems one of the best and most efficient in the world!

Top 5 Places to Visit in Hong Kong

• Eat at the Chungking Mansions . While it was once known for being a sketchy area inhabited by backpackers, asylum seekers and ethnic minorities it has since evolved into a hub of African and South Asian food.
• Temple Street Night Market. When the sun disappears below the horizon, the Jordan area awakens. Roam the maze of stalls and hunt down the perfect trinkets and souvenirs and taste the most delicious and cheap, Chinese street food.
• Visit the Big Buddha, or as the locals refer to it Tian Tian Buddha. This statue is located above the Po Lin monastery and is 34 meters high. Although previously isolated by mountains, Po Lin monastery is now bringing in thousands of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world.
• Night in Lan Kwai Fong . This is a square of streets occupied almost exclusively by restaurants and bars, from locals’ favorite eateries to the craziest nightclubs. Spend at least one night exploring the nooks and corners of this lively area.
• Hong Kong Park is an oasis of green in the middle of Hong Kong Island’s urban setting. It was built in 1991 in Central and it’s a well-designed forest which blends in with the surrounding area. The park boasts of having an aviary with over eighty species of birds, lily ponds, fountains, a greenhouse, a restaurant, playgrounds, the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware and the Hong Kong Visual Art Center.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete list of the top places to visit in Hong Kong !

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Hong Kong

• Ride the ding-ding, Hong Kong’s famous double-decker tram. For a little bit over $2 USD, you can enjoy the trip along the northern shore of Hong Kong’s island. It’s a beautiful route that includes many iconic landmarks of Hong Kong, Central’s skyscrapers, Victoria Park, Western Market and the remaining pawn shops of Wan Chai.
• Take the Central to Mid-Levels escalator . The world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system covers 800 meters in distance and reaches an elevation of over 135 meters. It has been opened in the early ’90s and since then has offered a link between the Central and Mid-Levels.
• Climb the Peak . This is the highest point of Hong Kong Island and offers an amazing view of the city, from Central’s skyscrapers to New Territories’ mountainous region. Take the Peak tram and enjoy the ride to the summit. If you have time you can even hike the 3.5 km Peak Circle Walk and get to the best vantage point of the metropolis of Hong Kong.
• Ride the S tar Ferry . Now considered a historical boat ride (it’s been operating for over a hundred years!), it’s also a cheap and fast way to get you to Central or Wan Chai while you also have the opportunity to bask in stunning views of Hong Kong and the Victoria Harbour.
• Eat at the Tim Ho Wan . This is an opportunity that can’t be missed. It’s not just a Michelin star awarded restaurant but also the world’s cheapest! It’s the place to go to try dim sum so queuing is definitely worth the long wait.

Best Time to Travel to Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s climate is characterized by mild winters and humid, hot summers.

The most preferable times for a visit tend to be in the fall (late September to early December) and spring (from March to May).

In fall the skies are typically sunny and clear with temperatures ranging from 21° to 26°C.

In spring humidity rises. Therefore fog and light rain aren’t uncommon. But the temperatures tend to remain in a pleasant range from 18° to 27°C.

The coldest months of the year are January and February. During these times the temperatures on average are 15°C and rarely fall below 10°C.

Summers can be unbearable with the temperatures on average being from 32° to 37°C and humidity being over 90%.

Summer is perhaps the worst time to visit Hong Kong. But if you do plan your trip then, make sure to stock up on sunblock, water and bring an umbrella as you’re also visiting during typhoon season.

Seasonal Festivals in Hong Kong

When it comes to holidays, Hong Kong celebrates seventeen public holidays a year.

Most of the holidays are Chinese and celebrated according to the lunar calendar (each year the dates change).

Even during holidays all the restaurants, shops and other businesses stay open (with the exception of Chinese New Year). This means that you don’t have to worry about these public holidays interfering with your planned activities.

Here are some of the most celebrated holidays in Hong Kong:

Chinese New Year is the biggest and most popular holiday in Hong Kong.

It’s celebrated for three days! During this time tradition dictates that you settle debts, pay homage to your ancestors, seek advice from a fortuneteller and visit friends and family.

The streets and buildings of Hong Kong are beautifully decorated with lights. And the city overflows with good-luck flowers such as chrysanthemums.

Unless you would like to experience Chinese New Year, this is arguably the worst time to visit Hong Kong due to the large volumes of people.

Expect road closures, booked accommodation, busy streets and crowded transportation systems.

Hong Kong Arts Festival is a month-long celebration of various performances. Whether you’re a fan of opera, theater, dance, jazz, art or ethnic music, there’s something for everyone.

Cheng Chau Bun Festival is an event that lasts over a period of seven days. It is held each year to pay homage to restless spirits.

Tuen Ng Festival , or the dragon boat races, show long and narrow painted boats that can fit around 20 to 22 oarsmen that beat to a drum beat.

Wine and Dine Festival has street food vendors set up shop alongside the promenade and is an opportunity to try wine and local dishes from around the globe.

Food in Hong Kong

• French toast with a Hong Kong twist is the perfect comfort food. This is two pieces of bread with kaya jam or peanut butter that are dipped in egg batter and then fried in butter. It’s served with more butter and plenty of syrup.
• Ginger milk curd is a dessert that’s made by simmering sweetened milk and then adding freshly squeezed ginger juice. The ginger causes the milk to curdle and achieve a soft, thicker texture similar to pudding. It’s creamy with a little bit of a spicy kick.
• Sweet and sour pork is a signature dish of Hong Kong and it can be found everywhere from street vendors’ stalls to the menu of fine dining restaurants. It is by far a favorite comfort food of Hong Kong locals. The recipe of the Cantonese original “gu lo yuk” was made with preserved plums, vinegar, and hawthorn candy while now it’s made with coloring and ketchup.
• Cha siu baau is a steamed bun with pork meat filling. The softly steamed bun is filled with diced barbecued pork and rich brown barbecue sauce.
• Dim Sum is a classic Hong Kong treat. You can’t visit Hong Kong without eating dim sum at least once. It’s served in bamboo steamers and is meant to be shared. You must order the pork dumplings and prawn dumplings. Where better to try the dumplings then at Tim Ho Wan, the Michelin-awarded eatery known for its dim sum.

Travel Itineraries Suggestions for Hong Kong

Depending on how much time you have and want to spend when you visit Hong Kong, there are plenty of things to see and do.

We suggest a great 3-Day Hong Kong itinerary . But if you have more time, check out this weeklong itinerary.

Day 1-3: Kowloon

In the evening walk down the Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui in order to reach the Clock Tower .

Once you’re at the Clock Tower, take in the beautiful, neon skyline of Hong Kong with a fleet of ferries passing in front of it.

The markets in Mong Kok, the Temple Street Night Market near Jordan Road, are great stops during your nighttime Kowloon explorations.

There’s a lot to see during the day too.

Plan to visit the Innovation Tower, Nan Lian Garden, Kowloon Park, Chi Lin Nunnery.

Or if you wish to be more active, go on a long hike to the Lion Rock summit or on a short hike up to the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery.

The really interesting museums to visit are the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of History.

Try booking a Hong Kong sightseeing tour on your first day if you prefer to have someone else figure out the logistics.

Day 4-6: Hong Kong Island

On the next part of your trip go on the iconic Star Ferry ride to Central Pier, on Hong Kong Island.

The affordable journey offers spectacular views of both sides of the island and its impressive skyscrapers.

Once you’re done roaming around the Botanic Gardens, the Zoo and Aviary get the Hong Kong MTR to Tai Kao station.

There you will come across one of the iconic landmarks, the Yick Fat Building.

Have a bite at one of Hong Kong’s fantastic restaurants and then climb the Peak Tower.

After that head down to the Hollywood Road area to get a drink at the bars.

READ MORE: Check out our blog post about the time we went hiking and camping in Hong Kong for free!

Day 7: Lantau and the Big Buddha

Nearby the place where you boarded the Star Ferry to head to Kowloon is where you will get the ferry to Mui Wo on Lantau Island.

After your short ferry ride, you will get a bus to Ngong Ping which leads you to the Po Lin Monastery.

The Big Buddha at Po Lin Monastery is everything but calm as thousands of tourists walk up its steps every day.

The monastery itself is nice to visit and you can even go on the Wisdom Path.

Near the monastery, there’s a cute fishing village, Tai O.

It’s a perfect place to grab dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants and enjoy the sunset before getting to the ferry back to busy Hong Kong.

Day 8: Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland attracts crowds from all over the world!

But make sure to go early and during one of the weekdays to try and avoid big crowds.

It’s the smallest of all Disneylands but it’s still worth a visit. With its 7 themed lands, Mystic Point, Tomorrowland and Fantasyland you’ll have one enjoyable day!

As with other Disneylands, you can stay in the amusement park at their luxurious Disneyland Hotel if you would like.

A trip to Disneyland is perhaps the most fun day trip from Hong Kong !

Visa Requirements for Hong Kong

Most people can travel to Hong Kong without requiring a visa. Stays are permitted for anywhere between 7 to 180 days depending on your nationality.

To see whether you require a visa for entry as well as the length of stay you are permitted, be sure to check out this resource .

Note that if you wish to travel to the Chinese mainland from Hong Kong you will be required to have a Chinese visa in advance of your trip.

How to Get to Hong Kong

Hong Kong is incredibly well connected.

There are many cruise lines and over a hundred direct flights that link Hong Kong with the rest of the world.

The best and easiest way to get into Hong Kong is by plane.

The Hong Kong International Airport is a major international hub.

It’s the largest airport in Hong Kong and it operates 160 destinations with 95 airlines.

Direct flights can be long (from Chicago: 16 hrs, London: 12 hrs and Sydney: 9hrs), so consider paying for more legroom or a class upgrade.

If you wish to fly to Hong Kong from Europe, the US or Canada, you can get a direct flight from many of the major cities.

Flying from Australia or New Zealand to Hong Kong is even more affordable and direct.

Most connections to Europe, the USA, Canada and Australia are operated by Hong Kong’s own airline, Cathay Pacific.

The connection to cities all around Asia is served by Hong Kong Airlines, Hong Kong Express and DragonAir.

The Hong Kong airport is located north of Lantau Island, around 32km from the city centre.

From the airport to the city you can take the Airport Express train that will take you to Hong Kong Island in just 24 minutes.

The fare for the Airport Express train is around USD$12.

The cheaper but also much slower option is to get on a city bus (operated by either Citybus or Long Win).

The tickets can be bought at the ticket counters at the airport in the arrivals hall.

The easiest, but more expensive option is to hail a cab.

It would take around thirty to fifty minutes (depending on what part of the city you’re travelling to) and the price would range from around USD$35 – $50.

If you’re travelling to Hong Kong from China, you can do so via the famous high-speed trains or the intercity trains.

This well-developed high-speed rail connects Hong Kong to 58 destinations in China.

There is a 26 km stretch that goes from Kowloon and connects travellers to the high-speed rail network.

This high-speed rail connection is called Guangzhou – Shenzhen – Hong Kong.

The slower, but regular and reliable, intercity train services connect Hong Kong to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong.

Hong Kong is famous for its maritime location and has the status of being one of the most valuable ports Asia Pacific region.

As such there are numerous opportunities to travel to Hong Kong via cruise ship or ferry.

The two most important cruise terminals are the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal and Ocean Terminal.

Numerous ports in mainland China are linked to Hong Kong via high-speed ferry services.

These ferries run between Kowloon, Hong Kong Island and Hong Kong International Airport.

Travelling from China to Hong Kong is easy with bus services operating the five land crossings:

• Lok Ma Chau
• Sha Tau Kok
• Hong Kong–Zhuai–Macao Bridge
• Shenzhen Bay Port

Travel via a shuttle bus or a coach bus when taking the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge.

The coach bus operates between the urban parts of Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macao in different areas of Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Travel Tips

If you are planning to travel to Hong Kong you know it can be exciting and intimidating at the same time.

There is so much to see and do. The city is crowded. And Hong Kong is generally an expensive place to visit.

Of course, nobody plans to be sick or injured while travelling. But understanding the medical system and safety risks is an important part of the planning process!

Check out our tips below to help you understand what to expect in your budget as well as how to get around the city!

READ MORE: Check out the list of our best travel tips from over a decade on the road.

Budget for Travelling Hong Kong

Hong Kong is very expensive by anyone’s standards. This is especially true when you take into the costs of accommodation.

Backpacking Budget from USD$50 per person/day

The prices of one bed in an 8 person mixed dormitory start from USD$30 per night.

But staying in a hostel for that price is a very affordable option by Hong Kong standards.

If it’s YHA hostel then you can usually expect to have free WiFi, shared bathroom and air-conditioning.

For food, the cheapest you can come by is a microwave meal at corner stores such as 7-Eleven and Circle K. But even these are usually around USD$10 to $15.

At 7-Eleven they have microwaves onsite and they allow you to prepare your meal.

But you can save even more by eating street food. These meals will cost around USD$6.

The one day transport Octopus card (initial deposit is $50 HKD) + $100 HKD (stored value), would cost you around USD$20.

We recommend checking out this list of the best hostels in Hong Kong on Hostelworld to help you choose where to stay.

Midrange Budget from USD$120 per person/day

Staying in a single room at a budget three-star hotel will cost around USD$60 per night.

Eating at midrange local eateries would cost around USD$25 to $40 per meal.

There are a lot of affordable alternatives like Dim Sum cafes or Chinese Soup kitchens. But prices for food in Hong Kong are generally high.

In the evening if you wanted to go to one of the bars for drinks and live music, you could easily expect to spend around USD$60 per person for a few drinks and snacks.

Luxury Budget from USD$350 per person/day

With a little more to spend, you can expect more luxury and options.

A double bedroom in a luxury four-star or a boutique hotel costs around USD$200 per night.

Dinner at some of the finest establishments in Hong Kong would cost you around USD$100 per person.

For entertainment, you could go and see a Cantonese opera (tickets USD$25) or hire a private tour guide for a full day for $250 USD.

NOMADasaurus Tip: Use Agoda to book all your accommodation in Hong Kong, as they have the cheapest prices. You can also use the coupon code AGODANMD10 to get a further 10% off your hotels!

Transport in Hong Kong

There are a lot of places to see and things to do in Hong Kong. Unless you plan to take a taxi everywhere, you will definitively spend some time on public transport.

Getting an Octopus card is essential as it’s usable on the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), ferries, light rail and buses.

The card can be bought at any MTR station and easily topped as well in Circle K and 7-Eleven convenience stores.

You can use the octopus cards not just for transport but also as a means of payment for fast food restaurants, supermarkets and coffee chains.

The MTR is a rail system that consists of underground, overland and light rail services used by four million people daily.

The mass transit rail is clean (no drinking and eating onboard allowed), safe, fast, has air-conditioning and full cellphone coverage and is the easiest form of public transport.

It has nine lines operating through Hong Kong Island, the New Territories and Kowloon, the Airport Express, intercity trains (to Shanghai, Beijing and Guangdong) and light rail in Northwestern New Territories.

The most important line is the red line (Tsuen Wan Line) because it connects Central to Kowloon via tunnel and continues downwards to Tsuen Wan (in New Territories) via Nathan Road.

The blue line goes along the north coast of Hong Kong Island.

The orange line (Tung Chung Line) is the fastest way to Lantau but is also a cheap way to get to the airport (take the S1 shuttle bus from the MTR station ‘Tung Chung’).

All announcements are in Mandarin, Cantonese and English and the signs are also in both Chinese and English.

The staff usually speaks some English to help the occasional lost tourist.

The suburban rail is linked to two international borders with China on the East rail line: Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau.

The ticket price depends on the distance covered.

You cannot pay for tickets or passes with your credit card (excluding the Airport Express).

The MTR ticket machines usually don’t accept bills over HKD$10.

 A majority of the stops have ATMs and they have been increasing the number of toilets as well.

There are nine overland and underground train lines on which there are around ninety stations.

Trains run from 6 AM to between midnight and 1 M in intervals of 2 – 14 minutes.

The rush hour is 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM on weekdays.

The tickets are very cheap compared to other cities around the world (USD$0.65 to $4).

If you get caught eating, drinking or smoking on the train or at the station you can get fined for around USD$650!

The ‘ding dings’ (in Cantonese), or as we call them ‘city trams’ (double-deckers), are used all along the north coast of Hong Kong Island.

They have not only been an affordable transportation option but also a part of their history, as they’ve been operating for over a century.

When riding a tram expect a bumpy, slow ride with no air-conditioning on board.

The trams run from 6 AM to midnight.

Board at the Kennedy Town Terminus and make sure to get a good seat on the upper deck.

The tram will take you eastward and you’ll be able to get an amazing insight into the Hong Kong Island.

Pay attention to all aspects of city life, from its hectic streets, calm residential areas to Central’s sharp business and financial districts.

This tram has been opened back in 1888 and is a very steep 1.7 km route that takes you from Central up to Victoria Peak.

The price like the route taken is quite steep, USD$45 for a return ticket.

But it is worth the money and you can also pay extra to access the observation deck!

The Peak Tram is especially busy during evening hours as many people want to see Hong Kong’s magical skyline.

There are cheaper but slower options to reach the peak. You can get on a green minibus or the #15 double-decker bus.

They also offer views of both sides of Hong Kong Island.

By Light Rail

The light rail system is a more improved version of Hong Kong’s trams.

It differs from the trams in being faster, air-conditioned and modernized.

The light rail runs in Northwestern New Territories and operates from 5:30 AM to 1 AM.

Depending on the day of the week, time of day and line, they operate in intervals of 4 to 12 minutes.

This fast tram connects Tin Shui Wai, Tuen Mun and Yuen Long.

In Hong Kong, there are three types of buses that are operated by numerous companies.

These include the double-decker buses and two varieties of public light buses (red and green minibusses).

Busses are easy to use with the Octopus card. If you wish to travel to Lantau and on the south side of the island, they’re your only option.

Double Decker Buses

These buses operate all over the country, have frequent stops and ticket prices depend on the distance covered.

You can find all the information (ticket prices, where you board, estimated arrival, etc.) on the websites of bus companies or you can also download a mobile app.

Buses only stop by request (unless you’re at the terminus).

To stop an approaching bus, flag them down as if it was a taxi and board at the front.

Public Light Buses

The public light buses are van-sized and can transport up to 16 passengers.

There are two kinds: red minibusses (also referred to as ‘maxi cabs’) and green minibusses.

For tourists, it’s not easy to ride a minibus as you have to call out the name of the stop in Cantonese so your driver would know when to stop.

Green minibusses accept Octopus card (if you pay in cash they can’t give you change).

They have designated stops and have fixed fares.

While red minibusses pick up and drop off passengers wherever it’s requested and prices and destinations are displayed in Chinese only.

Some red buses accept Octopus cards (but if you pay in cash you will get change back).

Either way, expect the minibus drivers to drive faster than you’re accustomed to, especially in the evening hours.

The intervals in which the bus services run vary depending on the area.

Logically, if you’re in the city centre you can expect buses to run in intervals of under 10 minutes and in the more rural areas between 15 to 30 minutes.

There is an impressive fleet of ferries that operates between the islands of Hong Kong.

The most popular ferry is the Star Ferry which operates routes of Tsim Sha Tsui to Central and Wanchai.

It runs from 7 AM to 11 PM, and the ride across the harbour is only eleven minutes. But it doesn’t fail to impress with its views of the island!

The Star Ferry has carried the locals and travellers for over a hundred years and has, rightfully so, earned its title of being Hong Kong’s icon.

Taking a ride on this ferry is a must-do on every Hong Kong itinerary.

There are other ferry routes that depart from various ports and take you to Lantau, Lamma and other islands.

There are two types of ferries, fast and slow ones.

The fast ones charge double the price but travel time is significantly diminished.

Fast ferries don’t operate on all routes. So for some destinations, there aren’t both types of service.

If you’re going with a cheaper ferry, be prepared that it might not have to air-condition.

Ticket prices also increase up to 50% during public holidays and on Sundays.

Taxis are regulated and controlled strictly by the government.

Even though that’s the case, there will be occasional taxi drivers that will try to bargain with you. Just know that this is illegal.

Taxis are very affordable compared to larger cities worldwide.

There are three types of taxi: green, blue and red.

All of them serve Hong Kong Disneyland and the airport.

The red taxis (urban taxis) are the most expensive ones as they operate within Hong Kong (excluding south of Lantau).

The green taxis operate within the limits of the airport, Hong Kong Disneyland and the New Territories.

The blue taxis (Lantau) have the lowest tare as they only travel to the airport, Hong Kong Disneyland and Lantau Island.

Tipping is not obligatory but drivers like to round up the fare.

You get charged for baggage that goes in the trunk (USD$5 per bag) and any toll charges get added to your bill.

The best way to avoid being scammed by taxi drivers (if you speak no Chinese) is to use a mobile app to book your ride.

The advantages are clear, card payment, no need to call anyone, fair price and your ride is typically there within ten minutes.

Accommodation in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is among the most popular destinations in the world.

Thus booking in advance is a must – whether you’re staying at a luxury hotel or booking a bed in a dorm room.

You can stay at some of the best luxury hotels in the world, where a night could set you back several thousand dollars.

Or you can opt for more budget-friendly options such as guesthouses and hostels.

One of the perks of travelling to Hong Kong is the opportunity (if you can afford it) to stay at one of the famous city hotels.

Some of the hotels include historic and globally renowned venues, local brands and major international chains.

The majority of hotels are concentrated in Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island.

Many of them offer a room with a stunning view of the harbour.

More and more resort-type hotels are popping up in the Outlying Islands and in the New Territories.

Hong Kong’s five-star luxury hotels are known for the amazing views, excellent service, luxurious facilities and it’s where you will find the best restaurants.

You can choose from staying at some of their iconic landmarks (i.e., the Peninsula) to a flagship hotel from one of the major international hotel chains.

Chungking Mansions

Don’t let the ‘mansions’ part of the name fool you – if you are looking for the absolute cheapest hotel rooms in the centre of Hong Kong, this is the place to go.

This dilapidated building is home to a whole range of budget mini-hotels, with rooms usually around USD$40 per night.

The rooms are tiny though, barely big enough for a bed and small desk, and the showers are often directly over the toilet.

The building itself can feel slightly sketchy, and you’ll get all kinds of ‘interesting’ characters hanging out here at night.

But still, if you need somewhere cheap to stay, this is the place.

There’s also a whole range of cheap eateries on the bottom floor too, which can be surprisingly tasty.

Guesthouses

The guesthouses are typically comfortable, clean, have air-conditioning, individual bathrooms and are midrange budget accommodation.

To always be on the safe side, pay attention when booking that you’re going to be staying at a licensed guesthouse!

Hostels can be the most important type of accommodation for the majority of backpackers.

Hostels in Hong Kong tend to be clean and comfortable.

Most of them are in the New Territories near picturesque areas such as marine parks and hiking trails.

Because of Hong Kong’s amazing transportation system, getting into the city centre is never an issue!

There are youth hostels that are registered with the Hong Kong Youth Hostels Association and are more similar to a 3-star hotel than a hostel!

Safety in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the safest destinations in the world.

The police are efficient, polite and have a strong presence throughout the city.

The crime rates are very low – especially rates of violent crimes.

But do know that nowhere in the world is 100% safe.

When travelling through Hong Kong still use common sense to avoid becoming an easy mark.

There are still some common scams that are known to occur:

• Foreign currency exchange : Never exchange foreign money into currency as there is a good chance you will end up with fake money. Only exchange money in banks or in currency exchange offices.
• Fake goods : People on the streets will approach you and try to pass fake gold and fake jade bracelets as the real valuable goods. Again if anything is offered to you off the street don’t buy it. You will get scammed. If you wish to buy any valuable goods, only buy from reputable stores.

Our safety tips for travelling in Hong Kong are:

• Pay attention to when typhoons can be expected. If there is one, know what your next steps should be to ensure your safety.
• Do research on what are considered reputable taxi companies.
• Before you get into a taxi, text the registration to your loved ones or even call the reception desk at your hotel. Always sit in the back of the car.
• Always let your loved ones know your last known address (the place you’re staying at).
• Don’t go into what are known to be dodgy areas, especially at night!
• Keep your travel documents in a hotel’s safe and only have photocopies of your documents on you at all times.
• If you go drinking in the evening by yourself, be wary if anyone tries to join you and get all of your own drinks for yourself!
• Don’t carry all your cash with you. Leave some in the safe back in your hotel room.
• Wear a money belt!
• Save all the emergency numbers to your phone, which includes also hotel and taxi numbers (keep all that information written down in your notepad, in case your phone runs out of battery).

Medical System in Hong Kong

The standard of medical healthcare in Hong Kong is excellent but also very expensive.

The healthcare system is divided into private and public and there’s no overlap between the two.

There are many dentists, general physicians and specialists who speak English and can be found in the yellow pages, private hospital or your consulate.

If you don’t have money for a private clinic, go to one of the public hospital’s emergency room in your area and be prepared to wait.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call #999 and the ambulance will take you to a public hospital where you’ll be requested to pay a high fee.

If you can’t pay, you will still be treated but you’ll be billed at a later date.

Medical facilities on Hong Kong Island:

• Queen Mary Hospital (public and with emergency services)
• Ruttonjee Hospital (public)

Medical facilities in Kowloon:

• Hong Kong Baptist Hospital (private)
• Princess Margaret Hospital (public and with emergency services)
• Queen Elizabeth Hospital (public)

Medical facilities in New Territories:

• Prince of Wales Hospital (public)

There are pharmacies all over the city and there is almost always a certified pharmacist working.

A lot of medication can be bought without a prescription. But make sure to check that it’s a well-known brand and that it’s still in date.

If you make sure to collect all of your documentation, once you get to your home country, many of the private insurance companies will reimburse you.

When travelling it’s always of utmost importance to take out a comprehensive travelling insurance policy so you would be internationally covered to receive inpatient medical and some surgical treatments if needed.

Travel Insurance

While not a requirement to travel to Hong Kong, having travel insurance is one thing that we always recommend no matter where you are going.

It goes beyond just covering you for medical care. If your stuff gets stolen, flights are cancelled, you have to return home for an emergency, luggage is delayed, or any one of a hundred other things that can go wrong when you travel, insurance will have you covered.

Have a read of our ‘ Do I Need Travel Insurance ‘ article first before booking any trip abroad.

We recommend World Nomads. Use this form to get a free, no-obligation quote.

Packing List for Hong Kong

• 2x Long pants
• 5x T-shirts
• 3x Long-sleeved shirts
• 1x Sweatpants
• Undergarments
• 1x Rain jacket
• 1x Flip-flops
• 1x Comfortable sneakers
• 1x Dress shoes

Miscellaneous Items

• Power adapter
• Hand sanitizer
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent
• Guide book and a map

Other Travel Tips for Hong Kong

• The “MTR” is referred to as the underground metro, while “Subway” usually refers to underground walkways.
• Download the taxi app , as it’s much easier to navigate the city. You don’t need to speak Chinese, you get a fair price and your car is picking you up within minutes.
• Carry an umbrella, especially in spring and summer. The weather can be very unpredictable! This is especially true if you’re visiting during the Typhoon season!
• Bring a Chinese phrasebook with you . A majority of residents in Hong Kong speak some English. But it’s always handy to have on you.
• Tipping is not expected, but it’s appreciated! Taxi drivers usually round up the price. In some restaurants, they automatically add 10% (but that’s always specified in the menu).
• Free museum entry every Wednesday . One way to save some money is by pushing your museum date to Wednesday. Some of the participants that offer free entry to all are the Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Hong Kong Racing Museum, Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum and the Hong Kong Space Museum.
• Avoid the MTR during peak hours, even thou the public transport is so perfectly organized and highly efficient, the crowds during peak hours can be hellish. The rush hours are from 7 AM – 9:30 AM and from 5 PM – 7 PM during the week. If possible avoid the major connecting stations (like Admiralty).

Read More of our Hong Kong Travel Blog Posts

The perfect itinerary for 3 days in hong kong (2024), 38 best places to visit in hong kong (2024 guide), hiking, beaches and free camping in hong kong.

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Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Hong Kong for the First Time

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Hong Kong is at once both exactly what you'd expect and completely surprising. It's a compact, skyscraper-packed city infused with glamour and energy that also juts up against green open space that's dotted with hiking trails, swimming beaches, and subtropical flora. It's a juxtaposition that is wonderfully refreshing—especially after you've spent several days immersed in Hong Kong's hectic pace.

Thanks to a wonderfully efficient transportation system, you can spend the morning shopping in the Causeway Bay neighborhood and noshing on dim sum in Sheung Wan, before escaping to Big Wave Bay for an afternoon of surf and sun on a tree-lined beach.

While exploring Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula is as easy as hopping on a ferry, make sure you don't miss a visit to at least one (if not several) of the city's lesser-visited islands (there are 261 islands in total). Lantau Island may be the largest and the easiest to visit, but Lamma, Cheung Chau, and Po Lin each boast their own often quieter, less touristy feel.

Hong Kong (GMT+8)

The sky might be blue and the weather sunny, but summer in Hong Kong can be overwhelmingly hot and humid. To avoid sweaty afternoons, visit the city between October and December, when temperatures tend to be more manageable. You might catch similar temperatures in the spring, although the season is short and temperatures can be in the 80s by May.

Find flights

Currency: Hong Kong Dollar

(Check the current exchange rate )

Languages: Cantonese, English

I don't speak Chinese : Wǒ bù huì shuō zhōngwén I'm lost : Wǒ mílùle I would like… : Wǒ xiǎng...

Calling Code: +852

Trains / Light Rails / Buses : The city's Mass Transit Railway (MTR) serves the urban areas of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories and includes trains, light rails, and buses. The services are clean and fast and rely on a fare system that's as cute as it is easy to use (meet the Octopus card). To start, pick up an Octopus card at the airport (the 7-Eleven in the arrivals hall sells them), put money on it, and use it the rest of your trip (including your journey from the airport). When you need to top-up, just stop by one of the many Octopus service providers —including 7-Eleven, McDonalds, Starbucks, and Circle K.

Taxis :You'll have no trouble finding a taxi in Hong Kong. In addition to Uber, local red taxis operate in the urban areas, green taxis serve the New Territories, and blue taxis operate on Lantau Island. Taxi drivers use meters so you don't have to worry about being ripped off and fares are cheap compared to other world-class cities.

Car service : If you want to arrive in the city in style, consider a luxury car transfer with Hong Kong Car Service . You'll be met by an English-speaking driver and can access all of Hong Kong and the neighboring Chinese province of Guangdong.

Mandarin Oriental

Address: 5 Connaught Rd., Central, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2522 0111 Website

It doesn't get more iconic than the Mandarin Oriental, a Hong Kong mainstay with views of Victoria Harbour and the surrounding city. At the Mandarin, you'll be treated to opulent rooms, a tranquil spa, and a level of service that has become a Mandari trademark. Plus, you'll be walking in the footsteps of dignitaries like Margaret Thatcher and Henry Kissinger, who both stayed at the hotel during trips to the city.

The OTTO Hotel

Address: 8 Cameron Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Phone: +852 3551 6888 Website

You don't have to stay at a five-star hotel to experience Hong Kong safely and comfortably. The boutique OTTO Hotel walks the line between affordability and comfort with its simple, clean interiors and tasteful amenities. And thanks to the OTTO's location in Kowloon's Tsim Sha Tsui neighborhood, you'll be in the heart of Hong Kong's renowned shopping and food scene and steps from the harbor.

The Peninsula

Address: Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2920 2888 Website

There's no doubt about it, The Peninsula raises the bar—providing guests with elegant quarters, five-star service, and a location that's hard to top. Sitting on Kowloon Peninsula across the harbor from Hong Kong Island, The Peninsula's dedicated clientele enjoy seven restaurants (including the Michelin-starred French restaurant, Gaddi's), a spa with water views, and upgraded rooms with dreamy floor-to-ceiling windows.

Hotel Indigo

Address: No. 246, Queen's Rd. E., Wan Chai, Hong Kong Phone: +852 3926 3888 Website

Hotel Indigo's rooms are stunning, but the hotel's true appeal is found in its common spaces and exteriors: a bronze dragon made of solar fins wraps the building and a dramatic, glass-bottomed infinity pool juts out over the street. You can sit on the rooftop bar and look out over the impressive city or swing by Indicolite Restaurant for a menu of local favorites crafted with a clever twist.

Tai O Heritage Hotel

Address: 14 Shek Tsai Po St., Tai O, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2985 8383 Website

Hong Kong may be known for its modern feel and high-rise hotels, but it's an entirely different world at the Tai O Heritage Hotel. In this historic, colonial-style building (which was once a police station) on Lantau Island you'll be perched above the historic Tai O, a prized Hong Kong fishing village. With well-appointed rooms and a boutique feel, the hotel offers guests the ultimate homebase for a day of exploring the fishing village or the giant Tian Tan Buddha statue.

Sun Tung Lok

Address: 132 Nathan Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2152 1417 Website

In a city rich in dim sum, sometimes it pays to stick to the greats; businesses that have been operating for decades and still maintain a loyal following. Sun Tung Lok is one such spot. Opening in 1969, this restaurant earned three Michelin stars in 2011 and continues to operate under two stars. You can order à la carte or rely on the experts and opt for the set menu. Reservations are recommended.

Sang Kee Congee Shop

Address: 7 Burd St., Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2541 8199 Website

This little restaurant is so low key, they don't even have a website. But that doesn't deter the shop's loyal diners who come time and again for some of the city's best congee—a type of rice porridge often eaten for breakfast in Hong Kong. You won't need a reservation, but come prepared to wait for your own steaming bowl of goodness, which is known for having a superior texture.

Address: 49 See Cheung St., Sai Kung, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2792 9966 Website

Seafood is a must in Hong Kong and one of the best places to try fresh, traditionally prepared seafood in Hong Kong is Loaf On. The Michelin-starred eatery is quick and casual (no reservation needed), but you'll leave full and happy. Try the chili and garlic mantis shrimp.

Gaddi's

Address: 1/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2523 5464 Website

When you need a break from Cantonese cuisine—and want to dine in style—head to Gaddi's in The Peninsula hotel. The service is impeccable and the dishes are phenomenal. You'll want to book a reservation, especially if you have your heart set on dining at the chef's table in the kitchen (which is a must).

Luk Yu Tea House

Address: 24-26 Stanley St., Central, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2696 6763 Website

Don't get so immersed in the Hong Kong food scene that you forget China's rich tea history. Here at Luk Yu Tea House, you can enjoy Cantonese-style tea alongside your dim sum among old-world decor.

Address: 5/F Rosewood Hong Kong, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Phone: +852 5239 9220 Website

You'll find some of the best food in the world in Hong Kong, including a fresh take on Indian street food. This refined restaurant turns Indian classics into elevated bites that'll transport you to another world (literally). Reservations are recommended and a post-meal cup of the golden chai masala is a must.

Address: Star Ferry Pier (also called Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry Pier), Hong Kong Website

The Star Ferry is as touristy as it gets, but sometimes activities are popular for a reason. The Star Ferry is one of them. In addition to transporting you between the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island, the trip provides you unparalleled skyline views on both sides—especially at night.

Victoria Peak

Address: 128 Peak Rd., Hong Kong Phone: +852 2522 0922 Website

If you're looking for views over the city, nothing beats a trip up Victoria Peak, referred to simply as "The Peak." You can take a bus or taxi to the highest point on Hong Kong Island, but the best views are found from the Peak Tram or the trail that traverses between the MTR Central Station and The Peak Tower. It doesn't matter how you get there, just make sure you do—from the top, you can look down over the sea of skyscrapers (and the sea itself) toward Kowloon.

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

Address: 128 Peak Rd., Hong Kong

One of the best ways to get oriented is to walk the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, which stretches from the colonial-era Clock Tower to Hung Hom. And while you can watch the ferries cross the harbor and take photos of the Hong Kong Island skyline during the day, nothing beats a walk on the promenade at night, when a sound-and-light show is projected onto the skyscrapers across the harbor.

Tian Tan Buddha

Address: Ngong Ping Rd., Lantau Island, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2985 5248 Website

It's hard (maybe impossible?) to miss the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island—the giant, bronze Buddha statue tops out at 111 feet. The hike to the statue and the surrounding area are well worth your time, as is a quick visit to the Po Lin Monastery at the foot of the statue. To get to the site, nothing beats arriving by cable car—an extra treat that provides views of the island (and the Buddha) from above.

Big Wave Bay

Address: Shek O, Southern District, Hong Kong

At first glance, Hong Kong has a distinct urban feel, but travel to the southern side of Hong Kong Island and you'll find the area's natural, subtropical flora. That's why it's worth a trip to Big Wave Bay, a popular surf and beach hangout north of Shek O. On this side of the island, you can hike, surf, or people watch without sacrificing easy access to restaurants (and surf board rentals).

Nan Lian Garden

Address: Fung Tak Rd., Diamond Hill, Hong Kong Phone: +852 3658 9366 Website

Escaping modern-day Hong Kong is as easy as stepping into Nan Lian Garden. The Kowloon park, which was modeled after the Tang Dynasty style, boasts well-maintained pathways, lotus and koi ponds, and beautiful traditional Chinese architecture. It's a great place to catch your breath, enjoy a snack, and hide out from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Times Square

Address: 1 Matheson St., Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2118 8900 Website

The Causeway Bay area is known for its shopping, but no shopping center can top Times Square, a mall with over 200 stores selling everything from electronics and toys to high-end accessories and clothing.

Temple Street Night Market

Address: Temple St., Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong

You can shop the day away at Hong Kong's nicest boutiques, but don't miss a visit to the city's iconic night market, home to street food, cheap clothes, and trinkets. The wares may not be worth writing home about, but the ambiance will be. The busy market in Kowloon is the place to be once dusk settles — just come prepared with enough energy to take it all in. The buzz can be both invigorating and exhausting.

Island Beverley

Address: 1 Great George St., Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2890 6823 Website

You can find everything from Chanel to Apple products in the Causeway Bay neighborhood of Hong Kong, but for something truly unique, head to the four-floor Island Beverley shopping center. Here, you'll find local designers and independent retailers offering up their unique (often handmade) wares to passing shoppers.

Address: 8 Finance St., Central, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2295 3308 Website

With a location next to the Four Seasons, near the harbor, the IFC Mall is an easy place to swing by (and spend a full day). There's no shortage of high-end shopping, including fashion from brands like Gucci, Chloé, and Valentino and accessories from Bulgari, Rolex, and Tiffany & Co.

Fashion Walk

Address: Great George St., Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2833 0935 Website

This glitzy, open-air shopping center is the place to be if you have a taste for high-end products and cutting-edge labels. It's all too easy to fill your arms with bags from retailers like Max Mara, Adidas, and Zadig & Voltaire.

Causeway Bay : Don't come to Causeway Bay in search of peace and quiet. Like Tokyo's Shinjuku, this bustling neighborhood is almost always crowded with shoppers coming to take advantage of the myriad shopping malls and boutiques.

Wan Chai : You can still catch a glimpse of old-world Hong Kong in Wan Chai, a commercial area on Hong Kong Island that's dotted with casual eateries and bars alongside traditional buildings that show off the island's Colonial-era architecture.

Central : To the west of Wan Chai on Hong Kong Island is the Central neighborhood. Arguably the heart of the island, Central is packed with luxury hotels and fancy malls situated in dense skyscrapers. But it isn't all glitz and glam here, Central is also home to some of the city's best nightlife, delicious eats, and the picturesque waterfront.

Tsim Sha Tsui : It's near impossible to visit the Kowloon Peninsula without passing through Tsim Sha Tsui, home to Kowloon's harbor, skyscrapers, malls, and eateries that run the gamut from Michelin-starred fine dining to family-owned noodle shops. Sheung Wan : Further west of the Central neighborhood is Sheung Wan, a lively area with a hip, down-to-earth feel. In this corner of Hong Kong Island, you'll find trendy boutiques, laid-back eateries, and the Western Market, which is known for handicrafts and fabrics.

Spring: Spring in Hong Kong is short—usually considered to fall in March and April. During this brief period, the temperatures tend to average between the mid-60s and early 70s, with precipitation starting to increase after the typically dryer winter.

Summer: The weather ramps up in the summer months, with heavy rainfall in June and hot, humid temperatures topping out in July and August. It is during this time that the likelihood of typhoons increases (usually June through October).

Fall: In the autumn, temperatures begin to slowly dip, with November typically marking the shift to averages that hover below 70 degrees. During this time rainfall also slows, providing a short, but wonderful window of time that's perfect for tourists looking to explore the city. Winter: Hong Kong has a subtropical climate; even in the middle of winter, temperatures don't average much lower than 60 degrees. The winter months are also when precipitation levels slow.

MTR : Public transportation map and route planning iOs | Android

Uber : Ride hailing app iOs | Android

Google Translate : Language translation with offline capabilities iOs | Android

OpenRice : Searching local restaurants, ordering takeaway, and booking table reservation iOs | Android

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Ultimate Hong Kong Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit & 3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

Last updated on April 9th, 2024 at 04:24 am

Welcome to our ultimate Hong Kong Travel Guide, where we’ll take you on a journey through one of Asia’s most dynamic and vibrant cities. From iconic skyscrapers to bustling markets and stunning natural landscapes, Hong Kong offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. In this Hong Kong Travel Guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best places to visit, a well-crafted 3-day Hong Kong itinerary, the lively night market scene, and a variety of exciting things to do in this captivating destination.

Hong Kong Travel Guide

Hong kong entry requirements.

U.S. passport holders do not need a visa to visit Hong Kong for short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. However, entry requirements can change, so I recommend checking the official website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department or contacting the nearest Hong Kong consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date information before your travel.

Hong Kong Airport To The City

Airport Express Train: The Airport Express is a fast and convenient way to reach the city. It departs from the airport and takes you to Hong Kong Station, Kowloon Station, or Tsing Yi Station. The journey takes around 24 minutes to Hong Kong Station and 20 minutes to Kowloon Station.

Public Bus: Hong Kong has an extensive bus network. You can take one of the many buses that operate between the airport and various parts of the city. The journey time and fare depend on your destination.

Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. You can take a taxi to your destination in the city. Be sure to use licensed taxis, and have your destination written in Chinese to avoid any language barriers.

Hong Kong’s Electrical Landscape

Hong Kong’s electrical outlets feature the British-style Type G sockets. This means that if your electronic devices come with plug types commonly used in the United States (Type A) or Europe (Type C), they won’t fit directly into Hong Kong’s outlets. This is where a travel adapter comes to the rescue, enabling you to seamlessly plug in your devices and keep them powered up.

*As an Amazon, Agoda, Klook, and TravelGuide Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

How To Get Around In Hong Kong

1. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway): The MTR stands as the linchpin of Hong Kong’s transportation network, offering a rapid, hygienic, and efficient mode to traverse the city. The extensive network spans key districts and attractions, making it a favored choice for both residents and tourists. From iconic Hong Kong Island to captivating Kowloon and beyond, the MTR serves as your gateway to exploring the city’s multifaceted charm.

2. Buses and Trams: Embark on a leisurely sightseeing journey by hopping onto Hong Kong’s iconic double-decker buses or nostalgic trams. While the MTR might not cover certain areas, the bus system unveils picturesque routes that allow you to relish scenic vistas as you travel. Additionally, trams on Hong Kong Island offer a delightful way to traverse the city’s core.

3. Star Ferry: No Hong Kong adventure is complete without an enchanting voyage on the Star Ferry. This iconic mode of transport seamlessly links Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, offering unparalleled panoramas of the city’s majestic skyline and the enchanting Victoria Harbour. Beyond mere transportation, the Star Ferry embodies an integral Hong Kong experience that beckons exploration.

4. Taxis: Taxis stand as a readily accessible and convenient option, especially for groups or those carrying substantial baggage. Easily identifiable by color-coded zones, Hong Kong taxis provide safety and metered fares. Bear in mind that peak hours may entail traffic congestion, affecting travel times.

5. Airport Express: Effortlessly connect to and from the city center when arriving or departing from Hong Kong International Airport with the Airport Express. This high-speed train service guarantees a seamless travel experience, boasting comfort and onboard Wi-Fi. Make the most of your time in Hong Kong without the hassle of transportation concerns.

6. Ferries to Outlying Islands: Escape the urban hustle and embrace tranquility by embarking on a ferry journey to Hong Kong’s enchanting outlying islands. From the serene Lantau Island to captivating Cheung Chau and cultural Lamma Island, these ferry rides offer a rejuvenating getaway, replete with picturesque landscapes and distinct local cultures.

Where To Stay In Hong Kong

Selecting the right place to stay in Hong Kong is a crucial aspect of planning your trip. With an array of accommodation options catering to various preferences and budgets, our guide will help you navigate through the city’s diverse neighborhoods and find the perfect place to call your temporary home.

1. Central & Admiralty: Ideal for business travelers and culture enthusiasts, Central and Admiralty are bustling commercial districts that also offer a plethora of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Luxury hotels and boutique accommodations dot the skyline, placing you in the heart of Hong Kong’s urban buzz. Recommended hotel is Butterfly on Wellington Boutique Hotel Central

2. Tsim Sha Tsui: Nestled in Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui is a lively hub known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping havens, and breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour. Choose from a variety of hotels, ranging from upscale to mid-range, and revel in the convenience of staying near iconic attractions. Recommended hotel is The Mira Hong Kong

3. Causeway Bay: For those seeking a shopper’s paradise, Causeway Bay is an excellent choice. It boasts high-end shopping malls, local markets, and an assortment of eateries. From luxury hotels to more affordable options, this area offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets. Recommended hotel is Ibis Hong Kong North Point

4. Wan Chai: Wan Chai seamlessly blends business and leisure, offering a mix of corporate centers and entertainment venues. Here, you’ll find a selection of mid-range and upscale hotels, allowing you to experience both work and play in one central location. Recommended hotel is Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong

5. Lantau Island: For a more relaxed experience, consider staying on Lantau Island. With tranquil landscapes and proximity to attractions like Ngong Ping 360 and Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island offers a refreshing escape. Choose from resorts and cozy lodgings that cater to nature lovers and families. Recommended hotel is Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong

Budget-Friendly Hostels: If you’re traveling on a budget, Hong Kong has a range of hostels that provide affordable and comfortable accommodations. Many are situated in popular districts like Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay, offering a convenient base for exploring the city. Recommended hotels are RELIANCE LODGE or Yesinn @YMT

Top 15 Things To Do In Hong Kong

Hong Kong, a city that seamlessly marries tradition and modernity, captivates visitors with its dynamic energy and diverse experiences. From iconic skyline views to vibrant street markets, there’s a wealth of activities that define the essence of this metropolis. Join us on a journey through the best places to visit in Hong Kong, where your itinerary is enriched with a blend of cultural immersion, culinary delights, and breathtaking sights. Let’s dive into the top 15 things to do in Hong Kong, ensuring you make the most of your exploration while enjoying the city’s renowned night markets, urban charms, and everything else that makes Hong Kong an unforgettable destination.

• Explore Victoria Peak for breathtaking skyline views: As one of the best places to visit in Hong Kong, Victoria Peak offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline. Ascend to the peak by the Peak Tram and be mesmerized by the glistening skyscrapers and Victoria Harbour below. This experience is a must-add to your Hong Kong itinerary, providing an unforgettable vantage point. Be sure to walk the Circle Path which is a nice 2 kilometer path.
• Take a tram ride to The Peak for panoramic views: Embark on a tram ride to The Peak for panoramic views that showcase Hong Kong’s splendor. As you ascend, watch the city unfold beneath you, revealing the juxtaposition of urbanity and nature. A tram ride to The Peak is a quintessential experience, earning its place as one of the best things to do in Hong Kong. Only has 4 stations where you can enter but price is the same regardless. Be sure to sit on the right side of the train if you want to take photos.
• Take the iconic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour: Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s history by riding the Star Ferry, an iconic symbol of the city. As you cross Victoria Harbour, marvel at the juxtaposition of towering skyscrapers against the sea. This charming journey should be part of your list of things to do in Hong Kong, offering a unique perspective of the city’s beauty.
• Wander through the lively neighborhoods of Central and Sheung Wan: Explore the heart of Hong Kong by wandering through the vibrant neighborhoods of Central and Sheung Wan. Here, you’ll find a blend of modernity and tradition, with bustling markets, boutique shops, and colonial-era architecture. Adding these neighborhoods to your Hong Kong itinerary ensures an immersive cultural experience.
• Discover the lively nightlife at Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo: When night falls, the atmosphere in Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo transforms into a lively celebration. These districts are synonymous with Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife, featuring an array of restaurants, bars, and clubs. Join locals and visitors for a memorable night out at some of the best places to visit in Hong Kong after dark. Ride the Central-Mid-Levels Escalators to the Top.
• Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade for waterfront vistas: The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade provides stunning waterfront vistas that encompass both the Hong Kong Island skyline and Victoria Harbour. As you take a leisurely stroll along this iconic promenade, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views, making it a picturesque addition to your list of things to do in Hong Kong.
• Visit the impressive Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island: Explore Lantau Island to discover the awe-inspiring Tian Tan Buddha, a testament to spiritual devotion. This towering bronze statue, surrounded by serene landscapes, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. Including this iconic site in your Hong Kong itinerary ensures a blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty.
• Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens Explore the enchanting Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse flora and fauna as you stroll through this tranquil haven. This natural sanctuary offers a peaceful escape, inviting you to connect with the wonders of the natural world in the bustling urban landscape in the best places to visit in Hong Kong.
• Hong Kong Park: Tranquil Escape Exploring Hong Kong’s Urban Oases Discover the serene beauty of Hong Kong Park, a picturesque urban oasis nestled amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Stroll through lush gardens, pause by tranquil ponds, and admire the harmony of nature coexisting with modern architecture. This captivating park provides a peaceful respite, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Hong Kong amidst the surrounding urban energy.
• Take a leisurely boat ride through Aberdeen Fishing Village: Embark on a boat ride through Aberdeen Fishing Village to witness the harmony of traditional fishing life and modernity. This unique experience offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s maritime heritage. Adding a visit to Aberdeen to your list of things to do in Hong Kong introduces you to an authentic cultural encounter.
• Ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for stunning vistas: This exhilarating journey provides a unique perspective of things to do in Hong Kong. Experience breathtaking vistas as you ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, soaring above lush landscapes and offering panoramic views of Lantau Island, making it an enriching part of your Hong Kong itinerary.
• Enjoy a serene escape to Lamma Island’s beaches and hiking trails: Lamma Island offers a serene escape from the urban bustle, with pristine beaches and scenic hiking trails. Immerse yourself in nature as you explore this tranquil haven, making it a serene addition to your list of things to do in Hong Kong, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Explore Ocean Park for amusement park thrills and marine life: Ocean Park seamlessly blends amusement park thrills with marine life encounters, making it a must-visit destination for families and adventure seekers. Enjoy exhilarating rides, live shows, and up-close interactions with aquatic creatures, adding an element of fun and education to your Hong Kong itinerary.
• Unwind at Repulse Bay Beach, a picturesque urban escape: Repulse Bay Beach offers a picturesque urban escape, where golden sands meet azure waters against the backdrop of high-rise buildings. This tranquil oasis allows you to unwind and soak up the sun, making it a relaxing inclusion in your list of things to do in Hong Kong.
• Nan Lian Garden: Delve into the tranquility of Nan Lian Garden, a hidden gem nestled within the city’s urban landscape. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this traditional Chinese garden offers a serene retreat where you can connect with nature and experience the city’s cultural heritage.

Hong Kong’s Signature Dishes

Hong Kong’s culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse culture and rich history. From mouthwatering dim sum to succulent roast goose, the city boasts an array of iconic dishes that captivate the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the must-try dishes that define Hong Kong’s gastronomic heritage.

• Dim Sum: Dim sum is a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s culinary identity. Served in charming bamboo baskets, dim sum offers an assortment of delicate dumplings, buns, and small dishes. Venture to local dim sum eateries to experience the art of selecting these bite-sized creations that showcase the essence of Hong Kong’s culinary craftsmanship.
• Roast Goose: When it comes to indulgence, Hong Kong’s roast goose takes the spotlight. With its crispy skin and tender meat, this dish is a true testament to the city’s culinary prowess. Savor the aromatic flavors of a perfectly roasted goose as you explore the city’s dining scene, a journey that offers a blend of tradition and innovation.
• Wonton Noodles: Immerse yourself in the comfort of wonton noodles, a beloved dish that combines thin egg noodles and succulent wontons in a flavorful broth. This classic choice is available at local eateries across Hong Kong, making it a heartwarming addition to your culinary itinerary.
• Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao): Indulge in the delightful surprise of a pineapple bun, despite its lack of actual pineapple content. These fluffy buns with crispy tops offer a delightful texture contrast. Whether enjoyed plain or with a buttery filling, the pineapple bun is a must-try that adds a touch of sweetness to your Hong Kong experience.
• Egg Tart: Satisfy your sweet tooth with Hong Kong’s iconic egg tart. With two variations—the creamy “Hong Kong-style” tart and the Portuguese-inspired “Macau-style” tart—these flaky pastries filled with smooth custard are a testament to the city’s fusion of cultures and flavors.
• Hong Kong-style Milk Tea: As the sun sets, indulge in the velvety charm of Hong Kong-style milk tea. Served in local tea houses and night markets, this strong and silky beverage offers a symphony of flavors that’s a perfect match for the city’s lively and vibrant nightlife.
• Curry Fish Balls: Satisfy your street food cravings with curry fish balls, a flavorful delicacy enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. These mouthwatering morsels are a staple of Hong Kong’s street stalls and night markets, offering a spicy and savory kick that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. As you navigate through the bustling food scene, don’t miss the chance to savor this quintessential Hong Kong street food that embodies the city’s dynamic flavors.

Hong Kong Nightlife

As the sun sets, Hong Kong’s vibrant energy transforms into a captivating nightlife that offers a unique blend of experiences. From exploring bustling night markets to indulging in late-night food adventures, the city comes alive with activities that cater to every taste. Join us on a journey through Hong Kong’s after-dark scene, uncovering the best places to visit and things to do in Hong Kong for a truly memorable experience.

1. Night Markets: A Shopper’s Paradise: For an authentic Hong Kong experience, explore the lively world of the city’s night markets. Colorful stalls at Temple Street Night Market and Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok offer an array of goods, from trendy fashion items to local handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture as you shop for unique treasures.

2. Sky-High Revelry at Rooftop Bars: Elevate your evening by visiting Hong Kong’s renowned rooftop bars. From OZONE at The Ritz-Carlton to SEVVA in Central, these venues provide a glamorous setting to sip cocktails and enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline. It’s a sophisticated addition to your list of best places to visit in Hong Kong at night.

3. Symphony of Lights: A Visual Spectacle: Witness the awe-inspiring Symphony of Lights, a multimedia light and sound show that illuminates Victoria Harbour. Marvel at the dazzling lights that synchronize with captivating music, turning the city’s skyscrapers into a breathtaking visual spectacle. It’s one of the mesmerizing things to do in Hong Kong that shouldn’t be missed.

4. Temple Hopping: Nighttime Spiritual Journey: Embrace the spiritual side of Hong Kong with an evening visit to its temples. As part of your Hong Kong itinerary, explore Wong Tai Sin Temple and Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery after dark. Experience the tranquility and connect with the city’s religious heritage in a serene setting.

5. Late-Night Food Adventures: Street Eats and More: Satisfy your appetite with a culinary adventure through Hong Kong’s late-night food scene. Indulge in street food delights at Temple Street Night Market or relish 24-hour dim sum joints. It’s a flavorful journey that offers a taste of the city’s diverse culinary offerings.

6. Night Cruises on Victoria Harbour: Embark on a captivating night cruise along Victoria Harbour, adding a touch of romance to your Hong Kong itinerary. Whether you choose the Symphony of Lights Cruise or Aqua Luna’s traditional red-sailed junk boat tours, you’ll be treated to enchanting views of the city’s shimmering skyline.

Hong Kong Nightmarkets

Hong Kong is renowned for its vibrant night markets that come alive after the sun sets. These bustling hubs offer a unique blend of shopping, dining, and local culture, making them must-visit destinations for any traveler. Here are some of the best Hong Kong night markets that are sure to captivate your senses:

• Temple Street Night Market: Located in Kowloon’s Yau Ma Tei area, the Temple Street Night Market is a quintessential Hong Kong experience. This bustling market offers a wide range of goods, from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs. Street performers, fortune tellers, and local food stalls add to the lively atmosphere, making it a hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
• Ladies’ Market: Nestled in Mong Kok, the Ladies’ Market is a paradise for fashion enthusiasts. This sprawling market is famous for its diverse selection of clothing, accessories, and footwear. Whether you’re looking for trendy fashion items or unique finds, the Ladies’ Market offers an exciting shopping experience that reflects Hong Kong’s vibrant style.
• Mong Kok Night Market: Mong Kok is known for its bustling atmosphere, and its night market is no exception. Here, you’ll find a diverse range of products, from fashion and cosmetics to gadgets and toys. The Mong Kok Night Market offers a glimpse into the local lifestyle and is a great place to shop for bargains.
• Stanley Market: While not a typical night market, the Stanley Market offers a unique shopping experience in a charming coastal setting. Situated on the southern part of Hong Kong Island, this market showcases a mix of clothing, accessories, artwork, and handicrafts. The relaxed ambiance and waterfront views make it an ideal place to shop and unwind.
• Jardine’s Crescent Street Market: Located in Causeway Bay, Jardine’s Crescent Street Market comes alive in the evening with a variety of stalls offering clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products. It’s a great spot to shop for trendy fashion items and explore the local street food scene.
• Apliu Street Flea Market: For tech enthusiasts and bargain hunters, the Apliu Street Flea Market in Sham Shui Po is a hidden gem. This market specializes in electronics, gadgets, and second-hand items. It’s a treasure trove for those seeking unique and affordable tech gadgets.

These Hong Kong night markets offer a delightful mix of shopping, entertainment, and local flavor. As you explore these vibrant hubs, you’ll find yourself immersed in the heart of Hong Kong’s bustling nightlife and cultural diversity.

3 -Day Hong Kong Itinerary: Discovering the Best of the City

Day 1 of Your Hong Kong Itinerary: Exploring Iconic Views and Lively Markets

• Start your day with a visit to Victoria Peak for mesmerizing skyline views. This iconic vantage point showcases the city’s modernity against a backdrop of natural beauty.
• As part of your Hong Kong itinerary, take the Peak Tram for a unique and historical experience on your way up.
• Head to Central and Sheung Wan to explore lively neighborhoods that blend tradition with urban charm. Stroll through bustling streets, uncover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture.
• Venture to Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo to experience the lively nightlife that Hong Kong is renowned for. Enjoy a night of dining, drinks, and entertainment at some of the best places to visit in Hong Kong after dark.

Day 2: Cultural Heritage and Natural Escapes

• Begin your day with a visit to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade , where you can stroll along the waterfront and take in stunning vistas of the Hong Kong Island skyline.

Late Morning:

• Make your way to Lantau Island to visit the impressive Tian Tan Buddha . This cultural landmark offers a spiritual experience and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Immerse yourself in the city’s maritime heritage by taking a boat ride through Aberdeen Fishing Village . Witness the harmony of tradition and modernity in this unique urban escape.
• As part of your Hong Kong itinerary, experience the mesmerizing Symphony of Lights show over Victoria Harbour. Watch as the city’s skyscrapers come to life with synchronized lights and music.

Day 3: Nature, Adventure, and Relaxation

• Embark on a thrilling adventure by riding the Ngong Ping 360 cable car . Soar above lush landscapes and enjoy stunning vistas of Lantau Island.
• Escape to the serene beaches and hiking trails of Lamma Island . This tranquil oasis offers a perfect blend of nature and relaxation.
• For amusement park thrills and marine life encounters, spend your afternoon at Ocean Park . Enjoy exhilarating rides and get up close with aquatic creatures.
• Conclude your Hong Kong itinerary with a visit to Repulse Bay Beach , where you can unwind against the backdrop of high-rise buildings and the shimmering sea.

This 3-day Hong Kong itinerary is designed to encompass the best places to visit in Hong Kong, including its iconic views, vibrant markets, and cultural treasures. Enjoy your exploration of this dynamic city!

Free Walking Tours

Free Walking Tour

Conclusion of Hong Kong Travel Guide

Hong Kong is a destination that effortlessly balances tradition and innovation. With our comprehensive Hong Kong travel guide, you’re equipped to explore the best places to visit in Hong Kong, create memorable itineraries, immerse yourself in local night markets, and enjoy a range of fun activities and things to do in Hong Kong. Get ready for a journey that will leave you captivated by the unique charm of this dazzling city. From Here Travel To Macau .

Are there any visa requirements for visiting Hong Kong?

Many nationalities can enter Hong Kong without a visa for stays ranging from 7 to 180 days. Check with your local embassy for specific requirements.

What is the best time to visit Hong Kong?

The best time to visit Hong Kong is during the cooler and less humid months of October to December or March to April.

How do I get around in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has an efficient public transportation system, including the MTR (subway), buses, trams, and ferries.

Is English widely spoken in Hong Kong?

Yes, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and businesses.

Is tipping customary in Hong Kong?What is the currency in Hong Kong?

The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD).

Is tipping customary in Hong Kong?

Tipping is not obligatory, but it’s appreciated, especially in restaurants and for services like taxis.

Are there any health and safety tips for travelers to Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is generally safe, but it’s wise to take precautions like drinking bottled water and being aware of your surroundings.

Join Me As I Document My Travel Adventures Through Asia.

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Planning a trip to Hong Kong? Our travel guide contains up-to-date information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay and what to eat !

• What to see
• How to get there
• Public transport
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

The  most influential city in Southeast Asia , Hong Kong has more than 7 million inhabitants in just 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles), making it one of the most densely populated places on the planet.

Why visit Hong Kong?

A dazzlingly contemporary city with legendary history  and culture, vast protected natural parks, and mouth-watering cuisine, Hong Kong has an endless list of reasons to visit . Contrasts abound in the former British colony, and a fusion of ancient Chinese tradition, Western influence, and modernity gives the city its unique personality.

One of the world's most important financial centers and commercial ports , Hong Kong is a hotspot for any number of leisure and cultural activities ; it's a shoppers' haven, offering everything from street markets to chic boutiques, and its iconic skyline puts it up there with New York City .

Admiring the  Symphony of Lights show  from the illuminated Victoria Harbour, enjoying an elegant meal with a view from a skyscraper, immersing yourself in nature on Victoria Peak, or delving into local culture in a market are just a handful of the ever-compelling reasons to travel to Hong Kong .

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Hong Kong  will help you decide the best areas to look for hotels or apartments, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

top activities

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Enjoy spectacular views from Ngong Ping reaching the peak by cable car . Admire Lantau Island's natural scenery and marvel at the majestic Big Buddha.

Symphony of Lights Traditional Boat Cruise Watch the the incredible Symphony of Lights show on Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour from the famous Aqua Luna on this traditional boat cruise !

Hong Kong Pub Crawl Experience the best of Hong Kong's vibrant nightlife on this pub crawl . Meet new people, enjoy free shots and dance till dawn!

Hong Kong MTR Airport Express Save time and money with this quick and easy airport train . Reach the centre of Hong Kong in 30 minutes and enjoy incredible city views along the way.

Hong Kong Free Tour This free tour of the Hong Kong financial district will reveal all the secrets of the enormous Asian metropolis and its colonial past .

Ticket to Disneyland Hong Kong With this ticket to Disneyland Hong Kong , you'll meet your favourite Disney characters in the city's most iconic theme park - fun for the whole family!

Victoria Harbour Evening Cruise Sailing around Victoria Harbour is an unmissable experience in Hong Kong, and there's no better way to enjoy it than aboard a traditional Chinese junk.

Kowloon Tour Visit all the highlights in Kowloon , such as  Mong Kok , the Flower Market , the Ladies Market , and more. Let's discover this unique side of Hong Kong!

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck Experience unique views from the tallest skyscraper in Hong Kong. Travel up to the 100th floor in just 60 seconds and enjoy views of the stunning city below.

Lantau Island Private Tour Join us on a trip to one of the must-see places in Hong Kong; Lantau Island . You're sure to be impressed by the incredible views!

Lantau Island Cable Car, Bus Tour & Boat Trip Discover the best of Lantau Island from three different perspectives: by air, land and sea. Explore by cable car, sightseeing bus and boat cruise!

Hong Kong Tourist Bus The Hong Kong Tourist Bus is the most comfortable and practical way to discover this incredible city . Hop on and hop off to explore at your own pace.

Dive into the diverse culinary scene of Hong Kong on this food tour , where you'll get to taste a variety of authentic dishes served in traditional restaurants.

Private Walking Tour of Hong Kong See the best of Hong Kong on a private walking tour that is tailor-made to suit your likes and interests. There's no better way of exploring!

Madame Tussauds Ticket Ever dreamed of taking a selfie with your favourite celebrity? Visit Madame Tussauds Hong Kong to see wax figures of Bruce Lee, Madonna, Gandhi, Obama and more!

Hong Kong to Beijing 11 or 14-Day Tour Enjoy the best of China on this  11 or 14-day tour from Hong Kong to Beijing . We'll visit important cities and learn about the  origins of the Silk Road .

The Go City: Hong Kong Explorer Pass offers a convenient and hassle-free way of seeing all the main attractions in Hong Kong at your own pace!

Go City: Hong Kong All-Inclusive Pass Booking the tourist ticket Go City: Hong Kong All-Inclusive Pass you'll be able to enjoy the most popular attractions in the city over your chosen days.

Hong Kong Ghost Tour Discover the spookiest stories and legends that have taken place in this city on this ghost tour around Hong Kong. Ready to be scared?

Lantau Island Tour Join us on this  tour of Lantau Island!  We'll visit the  Lantau Giant Buddha  and the beautiful Tai O fishing village , and get to taste delicious local delicacies .

Hong Kong Guided Tour & Dim Sum Lunch Immerse yourself in the city's culture in just one morning with this Hong Kong Guided Tour & Dim Sum Lunch. Visit a local market and enjoy the cuisine!

Helicopter Tour of Hong Kong Discover Hong Kong's iconic skyline from a new perspective: enjoy bird's eye views of the Skycraper City flying over it in a helicopter on this unique tour.

Victoria Harbor Sunset Cruise Climb aboard a luxurious yacht for a fabulous evening cruise on Victoria Harbor , where you will see the stunning Hong Kong skyline lit up in neon.

Symphony of Lights Cruise Join us to witness Hong Kong's famous Symphony of Lights with this fantastic cruise. Enjoy an exclusive panorama of the city's illuminated skyline.

Hong Kong Harbour Night Cruise Admire Hong Kong's impressive skyline and the illumination of its skyscrapers after dark on this  Star Ferry cruise of Victoria Harbour at night .

Star Ferry Harbour Tour No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a cruise on Victoria Harbour! Admire the city's incredible skyline from a new perspective with a Star Ferry boat tour.

Victoria Peak Tram Sky Pass Enjoy spectacular views over Hong Kong . Your Sky Pass gives you access to the  Victoria Peak Tram  and to the  Sky Terrace 428 Viewpoint .

Why is our Hong Kong travel guide the best?

Introducing Hong Kong is a guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the country.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

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Hong Kong welcomes visitors with an iconic skyline, a legendary kitchen, and lush, protected nature where rare birds and colorful traditions thrive.

Best Things to Do

Your next trip starts here.

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Po Lin Monastery & Big Buddha

Po Lin is a huge Buddhist monastery and temple complex that was built in 1924. Today it seems more of a tourist honeypot than a religious retreat,…

This cable-hauled funicular railway has been scaling the 396m ascent to the highest point on Hong Kong Island since 1888. A ride on this clanking tram is…

Victoria Peak

Standing at 552m, Victoria Peak is the highest point on Hong Kong Island. It is also one of the most visited spots by tourists, and it’s not hard to see…

Man Mo Temple

One of Hong Kong’s oldest temples and a declared monument, atmospheric Man Mo Temple is dedicated to the gods of literature (‘Man’), holding a writing…

High Island Reservoir East Dam

Sai Kung Peninsula

Handsome architecture, the South China Sea, and 140-million-year-old volcanic rocks make this one of Hong Kong's most breathtaking places. High Island…

Hong Kong Museum of History

Prepare to be whisked through millennia of Hong Kong history at this extraordinary museum, starting with prehistory (don't linger, the best is yet to come…

Sha Tau Kok

Part of Hong Kong Global Geopark, 400-year-old Lai Chi Wo is Hong Kong's best-preserved Hakka walled village and has an intact woodland. With 200 houses,…

Temple Street Night Market

When night falls and neon buzzes, Hong Kong's liveliest market rattles into life. Covering multiple city blocks from Man Ming Lane in the north to Nanking…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 10 best things to do in hong kong in 2024.

Yau Ma Tei Theatre

Adjacent to the Wholesale Fruit Market, historic Yau Ma Tei Theatre (1930) stages regular performances of Cantonese opera. For decades, the art deco…

Just north of (and parallel to) Hollywood Rd is Upper Lascar Row, aka ‘Cat Street’, a pedestrian-only lane lined with antique and curio shops and stalls…

Chun Yeung Street Market

Wan Chai & Northeast Hong Kong Island

Hop on a tram bound for North Point, and past Fortress Hill you’ll turn into a narrow street teeming with market stalls and old tenement buildings. This…

Be prepared to bump elbows with locals at this tiny, basic joint known for its roast goose. Anthony Bourdain gushed over the bird. The leg is the most…

Happy Valley Racecourse

An outing at the races is one of the quintessential Hong Kong things to do, especially if you're around during the weekly Wednesday-evening races. Punters…

Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade

One of the finest city skylines in the world has to be that of Hong Kong Island, and the promenade here is one of the best ways to get an uninterrupted…

If Ernest Hemingway was still alive today, the chances are he’d love this tiny no-sign speakeasy named after his novel The Old Man and the Sea with a neo…

Yau Ma Tei Wholesale Fruit Market

This historic market, founded in 1913, is a cluster of one- and two-storey brick and stone buildings with pre-WWII signboards above the stalls. Although…

Consistently voted one of the world's top 50 bars, Quinary is a sleek, moodily lit cocktail bar that attracts a well-dressed crowd. Its gifted mixologists…

Kam's Roast Goose

Expect to queue for half an hour or more to worship at the oily altar of perfectly roasted goose. A spin-off from Central's famed Yung Kee Restaurant,…

Hong Kong Disneyland

Disneyland serves as a rite of passage for the flocks of Asian tourists who come daily to steal a glimpse of one of America’s most famous cultural exports…

The 8 best free things to do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Park

A hillside oasis squeezed between Central and Admiralty, Hong Kong Park was built in 1991 over part of the former Victoria Barracks. Terraced landscaping…

Apliu Street Flea Market

A geek’s heaven, this grungy flea market specialises in all things digital and electronic. The market spills over into Pei Ho St.

Aberdeen Promenade

Aberdeen & South Hong Kong Island

Tree-lined Aberdeen Promenade runs from west to east on Aberdeen Praya Rd across the water from Ap Lei Chau. On its western end is sprawling Aberdeen…

Cyberport Waterfront Park

Sandwiched between luxury residences and the sea, this beautiful park has lots of lawns for picnics, a seafront jogging trail, a cycling trail, and trees…

This arts and lifestyle hub occupies the multistorey modernist building complex of the old married police quarters (c 1951). Dozens of small galleries and…

Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Gardens

This Victorian-era garden has a welcoming collection of fountains, sculptures and greenhouses, plus a zoo and some fabulous aviaries. Some 160 species of…

Central–Mid-Levels Escalator

The world's longest covered outdoor people-mover zigzags from Central's offices to homes near Conduit Rd in the Mid-Levels using an 800m system of…

Kowloon Park

Built on the site of a barracks for an Indian regiment of the British Army, Kowloon Park is an oasis of greenery and a refreshing escape from the Nathan…

Edward Youde Aviary

A raised wooden walkway snakes through a netted area of tropical trees at this aviary at the top of Hong Kong Park, offering branch-level views of some 80…

Hong Kong Museum of Art

This excellent museum was closed at time of research while it undergoes a multimillion-dollar renovation. When open, it has galleries spread over six…

Hong Kong Global Geopark

Part of the Unesco Geopark network, this spectacular geopark consists of two regions of formations: volcanic rock from 140 million years ago that often…

The long-awaited reinvention of Hong Kong's Central Police Station as a heritage and arts complex was completed in May 2018. It's impressive and vast,…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Transportation

Hong Kong has a swish subway and train network, but for visitors, it can be more rewarding to slow down, stay above ground and savor the journey.

Free Things to Do

Hong Kong is an expensive place to visit, so save your dollars with this guide to some of the best things to do there that are completely free.

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Hong Kong and beyond

Hong Kong Travel Guide: explore Asia's World City

Explore the shopping hubs, asian cuisine, skylines, and other extravaganzas of hong kong.

HONG KONG EXPLORED

HONG KONG NATIONAL PARKS VISITED

Discover Hong Kong, Asia's best travel hub!

Hong Kong is not just a harbor city. It is a destination that offers breathtaking views for travelers with its enchanting landscape and buzzing city life. Hong Kong is " Asia's World City " and has several ports. Through the ultimate Hong Kong Travel Guide, we will delve into the best time to visit, and things to know and do in Hong Kong, Asia. You can also find other interesting facts related to Hong Kong.

Though Hong Kong does not have any UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it has 24 national parks. Hong Kong's mountainous terrain is yet another attraction for travelers. There are countless destinations you can explore in Hong Kong. From its extravagant cuisine to its shopping hubs, Hong Kong is a place that will continue to mesmerize you throughout your journey. The Hong Kong skylines are amazing and you can visit the second largest sitting Buddha statue in the world, the Tian Tan Buddha . Other places worth visiting in Hong Kong are Victoria Peak, Victoria Harbour, and Ocean Park. You can take part in several festivals while in Hong Kong. They include the Chinese New Year Night Parade and the HK Art Festival. Planning to travel to Asia? Definitely start your vacation in Hong Kong and start exploring the wonders of Asia from there.

Interesting Facts Hong Kong

  Flag of Hong Kong

  Hong Kong's National Animal

  Hong Kong National Dish

   Currency in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Dollar

 Hong Kong Time Zone

Hong Kong Standard Time (GMT+8)

Best time to visit Hong Kong

What is the best time to travel to Hong Kong? Hong Kong is a destination you can travel to anytime around the year. Different seasons have their own unique attractions. You can visit according to what you are planning to do while in Hong Kong. However, the weather can get extreme during the peak summer as well as winter season. The Hong Kong peak season extends from Autumn to early Spring. In the spring season, from March to April, you can enjoy the blooming of Hong Kong's emblem, Bauhinia flowers.

Things to know before you travel to Hong Kong

Safety in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a safe place to visit . Though pickpocketing and petty crimes occur, violent crime rates are pretty low. However, it is essential to take good care of your passports, money, and other valuables when you travel in crowded regions. You can consider keeping your valuables in the locker provided by your hotel or hostel. Women travelers and solo travelers have to be more careful while traveling in Hong Kong. Chances of demonstrations and strikes happening in the city are high. You have to keep track of the local news and travel cautiously to avoid any unexpected incidents. 

Visa requirements for Hong Kong

Visa requirements depend upon the country you are a citizen of and how long you plan to stay in Hong Kong . People visiting from 170 countries can travel without a Visa from seven to 180 days in Hong Kong. Some of these places include the US, Albania, Canada, New Zealand, Europe, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Travelers from these countries do not require a Visa for 90 days. UK citizens can stay in Hong Kong for 180 days. However, they must have a valid passport. You can always apply for a Hong Kong Visa online through the official website of the Immigration Department of the Government of Hong Kong .

Responsible Travel in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a clean tourist destination . Though there are problems of over-tourism , the Hong Kong tourism sector is trying to implement measures to safeguard the environment. Air pollution is yet another crucial problem faced by Hong Kong. To reduce the issue, the Hong Kong government has formed ways to reduce carbon emissions by providing reusable products and waste management measures. Hotels in Hong Kong also focus on eco-policies and green tourism to enhance sustainability. 

Vaccinations & anti-Malaria tablets for Hong Kong

The WHO and CDC recommend travelers take their routine vaccines before traveling to Hong Kong . All travelers have to get vaccines for Measles, Chicken Pox, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Flu, Mumps, Rubella, and Polio. Most travelers have to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines are others you can take while traveling to Hong Kong. Vaccinations for Hong Kong also depend upon the country from where you are traveling. It also relies upon the places you are planning to visit in Hong Kong.

Spoken languages in Hong Kong

What language do they speak in Hong Kong? 96% of people in Hong Kong speak Cantonese. Other commonly used languages are Mandarin and English . Around 46% of people from Hong Kong can communicate in English. Most of the people involved in the tourism industry can speak English. People in main tourist spots like Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, and Tsim Sha Tsui can easily communicate in English. However, taxi drivers rarely speak English. You can always use Google Translate or other such applications to speak in the local language. Google Lens is yet another option that can help in understanding the local language.

Things to do add to your bucket list while traveling to Hong Kong

The Big Buddha (Tian Tan)

Located on the hills of Lantau Island in Hong Kong, the Big Buddha is a beautiful site. The statue is 34 feet tall and is the tallest seated bronze Buddha figure in the world. Several hundred thousand tourists visit the Big Buddha every year. You can travel to this destination all around the year and the best time to visit is during early mornings on weekdays. Visiting Tian Tan in the summer season can be crowded. The statue of the Buddha faces south, which makes it unique. You can also visit the monasteries to have a view of the decorations in their halls. There are six small statues of Devas as well.  

Victoria Peak and Peak Tram

Victoria Peak is one of the best places to visit in Hong Kong. It offers a spectacular view from the top and is also known as Mount Austin. You can hike via the trekking path to reach its highest point. Peak Towers and Peak Galleria are the two main leisure centers in Victoria Peak. You can get a spectacular view of Central Hong Kong, Victoria Harbour, and Lamma Island from Victoria Peak. 

Peak Tram , operating since 1888, carries millions of people to Victoria Peak every year. It takes around seven minutes to reach the top of the Peak if you are using the tram. It is suitable to enjoy the night view of the place. On top of the Peak, there are restaurants and a scenic garden.

Tai O Fishing Village

Located on the west coast of Lantau Island, Tai O Fishing Village is a small community. People lead a life based on fishing, and they belong to the Tanka Tribe. The village is also called "The Venice of Hong Kong" . The houses are small, and in the alleys, you can find people selling local products like dried fish, shrimp paste, and squid. From the viewpoint of Tai O, you can catch a view of Lantau Island and the airport. You can go on Kayaking trips, watch dolphins, and enjoy the culture of the region. It is better to visit the place on weekdays. 

Kowloon, Hong Kong

Located in the mainland of Hong Kong, Kowloon is an urban peninsula with numerous shops and other destinations. Tsim Sha Tsui and Mongkok are the two main tourist hubs in the region with several shops and markets. Kowloon Waterfront is yet another spot that offers an enchanting view of the seashores.  

Mong Kok is a destination best suited for having street food. The new Kowloon has numerous Taoist temples and Buddhist nunneries. You can find the remains of old Hong Kong in Sham Shui Po in Kowloon.

Avenue of the Stars

Avenue of the Stars is akin to Hollywood's walk of fame. It has statues and handprints of various movie stars. The place is scenic throughout the day. However, it is best to visit either in the morning or in the evening. There is a light show at 8 pm on the Avenue of the Stars . There are exhibitions related to films, local music, and other events. You can enjoy local music, theatres, and dance. You can also view the skyline and Victoria Harbor from Avenue of the Stars.

Symphony of Lights in Victoria Harbor 

Being the most famous harbor in Hong Kong, Victoria Harbor offers a magnificent view. You can also enjoy the harbor by walking on Avenue of the Stars. There have been many shows in the harbor, along with fireworks. Symphony of Lights is a music and lighting show. It offers an extravagant night view of Hong Kong City . You can always browse back to our Hong Kong Travel Guide before you pack your bags for your vacation to Hong Kong or visit the Hong Kong Tourism Board for the latest events happening in this vibrant harbor city.

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Home » Asia » China » Hong Kong » Itinerary

HONG KONG Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

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

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

 A Little Bit about this 3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary Overview

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

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

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

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

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

Best Hostel in Hong Kong – Hop Inn on Mody

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

Best Airbnb in Hong Kong – Cozy Studio near Mongkok

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

Best Budget Hotel in Hong Kong – Ovolo Southside

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

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

9:00 AM – Tian Tan Buddha – Big Buddha

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

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

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

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

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

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

12.00 PM – Tai O Fishing Village

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

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

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

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

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

5.00 – Victoria Peak

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

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

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

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

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

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

8.00 PM – The Symphony of Lights

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

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

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

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

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

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

9.00 PM – Drinks at the Old Man

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

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

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

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

9.00 AM – 10,000 Buddhas Monastery

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

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

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

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

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

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

12.00 PM – Sham Shui Po

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

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

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

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

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

2.00 PM – Hong Kong History Museum

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

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

4.00 PM – Hong Kong Museum of Art

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

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

6.00 PM – Cocktails in the Sky at Ozone

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

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

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

8.00 PM – Temple Street Night Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

9.00 AM – Breakfast in Sai Kung

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

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

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

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

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

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

10.00 AM – Sai Wan Pavilion – Sai Wan Beach

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

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

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

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

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

12.00 PM – Sheung Luk Stream

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

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

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

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

2.00 PM – Ham Tin and Tai Long Wan Beach

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

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

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

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

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

5.00 PM – Boat to Sai Kung

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

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

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

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

7.00 PM – Rooftop dinner @ Wooloomooloo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ferry over to Lamma Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take a Tai Chi Class

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hollywood Road

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

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

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

Some attractions to look out for:

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

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

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

Dragon’s Back

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tsim Sha Tsui

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Hong Kong

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

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

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

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

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

How many days do you need in Hong Kong?

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

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

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

What is the best month to visit Hong Kong?

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

Where should you stay in Hong Kong?

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

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

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

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

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Hong Kong Travel Guide: What to SEE, DO & EAT in HONG KONG

1. Top Tips for Hong Kong First Timers

2. how to get to hong kong | hong kong international airport, 3. hong kong transportation: trains, ferries, tram, mtr, 4. best time to visit hong kong, 5. top 3 things to do in hong kong, must-visit attractions, 6. hong kong food guide, 7. hong kong shopping: what to buy and where to buy, 8. local customs in hong kong.

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Known for being a world-class center of business, culture, and trade, Hong Kong is a jewel in the orient with international flairs. Its iconic skyline, dynamic food scene and multicultural influences attract over 65 million tourists each year. For many, Hong Kong is also a starting point for visiting China and the rest of Asia.

Officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong is located on the south coast of China, neighboring Guangzhou Province. It is made up of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, and the New Territories (including more than 250 outlying islands). Ranked as the 8th most densely populated city in the world, Hong Kong’s population is made up of mainly Chinese residents. But it is also an international hub of commerce where English and Cantonese are the official languages.

Hong Kong wouldn’t be what it is today without its complex past. Though it has existed for thousands of years, in as little as 100 years, Hong Kong went through dramatic transformations from a fishing community in China to a British colony to an international trade center, and eventually back to being part of China again.

Like its dense population, Hong Kong h as also packed in a tremendous amount of attractions. For example, you can visit one of the city's oldest temples, Man Mo Temple; ride on the Peak Tram for a bird’s eye view of Victoria Harbor; or immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of Temple Street Night Market. Beyond the urban hustle and bustle, there’s a serene side to Hong Kong. Chill out on the beach in the Sai Kung East Country Park, enjoy a challenging hike on Lantau island’s many trekking trails, or do a little wildlife spotting in Plover Cove Country Park.

The most common way to reach Hong Kong is by air. The Hong Kong International Airport has connecting flights to all major domestic and international cities. Visitors can easily find transfer options into different parts of HK, such as taxis, Airport Express trains, and buses. Some hotels offer transfer options too, so it is better to check in advance. Getting around town is also simple and convenient. Visitors can easily reach top attractions by using the extensive and affordable MRT, bus and tram systems.

Hong Kong is considered one of the world's most expensive cities to live in. It can be a cash-burner for travelers too if you don’t plan well. The cheapest months to fly to HK are May and June because of the high humidity and lack of major festivals. As result, this is a great time for deals on flights and hotels. But if money is no object, the best time to visit is from October to early December.

Having the right accommodation can really make or break a trip. In Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui is a great place for first-timers as it’s considered downtown with many top attractions nearby. If you love the nightlife, shopping, and that 24/7 vibe, the Central District is a popular choice. Traveling with the family? Causeway Bay has endless restaurants options and is close to scenic spots.

It’s never easy trying to find your way in a hectic city, especially when you want to watch your budget too by opting for public transport. Here are some tips for first-time visitors. Get an Octopus card as soon as you arrive as all public transportations accept this card as payment. HK$50 is already pre-loaded on your Tourist Octopus Card if you pick it up at the airport. Also get the Hong Kong Taxi Card App while in town, it translates where you’re going into Cantonese or speaks it out loud to your driver.

First-time foodies to the city will soon realize Hong Kong can cater to all tastes and budgets. From Michelin-starred restaurants (e.g. Kam’s Roast Goose) to popular food stalls (e.g. Mammy Pancake), you’ll not be disappointed. If you love to shop but don’t want to splash out, the best time for shopping is during the two sales seasons: winter sales occur from December to February, and summer sales occur from July to September.

For visitors flying in, Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) on the island of Chek Lap Kok is where you’ll land. It is about 35 kilometers (22 miles) from the city center of Hong Kong. This airport is a major hub for passengers from all over the world and it is the base for Cathay Pacific, Cathay Dragon, Hong Kong Airlines, and Hong Kong Express. The airport provides top-quality facilities including airline lounges, children's play area, courtesy showers, banking services, smoking lounges, and several restaurants and shopping options. The airport has signage that will point you to all transfer options. Also available are information kiosks, which can assist if necessary.

Visitors to Hong Kong can travel by various means of transportation from the airport to the city center, such as taxis, buses and trains, and limo services. While hassle-free, the airport taxis can be confusing as there are 3 types of taxis for different regions - Urban taxis (red), New Territories taxis (green), and Lantau taxis (blue). The ride from the airport to the city center will vary by destination and traffic conditions, but typically it costs HK$280-300 to Causeway Bay, about HK$225 to Mong Kok, and HK$250 to Tsim Sha Tsui.

Trains (the Airport Express) are the quickest mode of transport. The 35 km (22 miles) journey takes about 24 minutes. The train tickets will cost you HK$100 to Kowloon station and HK$115 to Hong Kong station. Tickets can be purchased at any Airport Express Customer Service Centre or made by online purchase. The next one is a bus ride which is also the cheapest option. It will take about 45 minutes to Central, and only 30 minutes to Kowloon.

Hong Kong is a large metropolitan city with one of the best public transport systems in the world. Whether it’s by MRT, bus, tram or ferry, it can satisfy all the needs of visiting tourists. First things first, for anyone planning to use public transit, an Octopus card is an essential purchase. This top-up card allows you to travel cash-free and can be easily purchased at convenience stores.

MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is the most popular mode of transport in HK. With its 10 lines and over 160 stations, the MRT covers all major districts in the territory, including stops at the boundary with Mainland China. The sign for the MTR is a red circle with a Chinese symbol. Fare starts from HK$3.5 and depends on the final route. If using Octopus Card, you can enjoy a discounted fare. Tourists can also opt for MTR Day Pass, Child Day Pass, Cross-boundary Travel Pass, and Airport Express Travel Pass.

There is an extensive bus system in Hong Kong with over 700 routes. For tourists, it is particularly useful for traveling to the southern side of Hong Kong Island (Ocean Park, Repulse Bay, and Stanley Market), because the MTR covers only the northern side. Tickets are paid by cash or Octopus Card when you get on the bus. Fares can range from HK$8-80. Alternatively, tourists can choose the Hop on Hop Off sightseeing bus to explore the city. There are 3 day routes and 1 night route, each with pre-recorded commentary in English and several other languages.

Why not take a ride on the symbol of Hong Kong? The century-old Star Ferry is still one of the most scenic ways to transport people between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Two routes are operated between Wanchai and Tsim Sha Tsui, and Tsim Sha Tsui and Central. Fares starting at HK$2 one way.

Hong Kong has a monsoon-influenced subtropical climate which means it is warm and humid all year round, but its coastal location means the weather can be changeable, including sudden thunderstorms and possible typhoons (late-May to mid-September). The coldest months are December to February, when the temperature may fall to 10 °C (50 °F). Summer is long, hot, and rainy, with temperatures averaging between 26-32 °C (79-90 °F). On top of that, visitors can expect frequent showers as it is also the rainy season. Weather in Spring is often pleasant but changeable, so it is considered Shoulder Season with fewer crowds. So the most recommended time to visit Hong Kong is from October to early December.

Though Hong Kong is an all-year destination, the Peak Season for tourism is October-December, as well as Chinese New Year (late January or early February). There are many religious festivals and events (trade fairs) in the city, so crowds will increase dramatically. If high humidity doesn’t bother you, the cheapest time to visit Hong Kong is in May and June. This is the best time to look for deals on flights and hotels. Conversely, in the peak months of September to December, flights and accommodations are at their most expensive.

Hong Kong is truly a world-class city with world-class attractions. It is a shopper’s paradise, a foodie’s dream, and for sightseers, the city offers impressive skyscrapers to ancient temples and everything in between.

You simply can’t visit Hong Kong without seeing the spectacular views of Victoria Harbor and the city below from Victoria Peak (or The Peak). Visitors can catch the famous Peak Tram at the tram station near the entrance to Hong Kong Park by the Murray building. Beware that queuing times at the ticket office can often reach an hour or so. Try to come during not-busy hours if possible, such as in the morning before 10 am. Once you’re on top of the Peak, enjoy the breathtaking views from the observation deck. Visitors will also find the Peak Tower, Peak Galleria, and many shops and restaurants.

When in Kowloon, marvel at the iconic Victoria Harbor and Hong Kong skyline. Head to the Kowloon waterfront, visitors have the option to take the famous Star Ferry across to Hong Kong Island, stroll along the Avenue of Stars, or visit historic buildings like the Clock Tower and 1881 Heritage. Remember to return in the evening, as the promenade is a prime spot to watch the Symphony of Lights, which takes place every night at 8 pm, and lasts around 15 minutes.

Hong Kong is also a world of fun and adventure for the whole family. Kids of all ages will love a trip to the magic kingdom – Hong Kong Disneyland, on Lantau Island. The Disney magic starts the moment you step off the MTR (Sunny Bay Station) when you switch to the Mickey-themed train (Disneyland Resort Line). The park has seven main areas, including Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch, and Mystic Point. There’s so much to do and see, 2-Day Pass is a very popular choice.

💙 Read More:

Best View Of Hong Kong Skyline From Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak is the tallest point on the island of Hong Kong and gives visitors a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. Victoria Peak was a popular place for the British administrators to live since due to its altitude. At 1800 feet above seawater, the peak provides weather that is not humid and a chance to escape the mosquitoes buzzing at sea level. The area was so coveted that until 1947 only European residents could live there. Victoria Peak continues to be an exclusive neighbourhood with only the elite calling it home. Mansions here can go into the millions of dollars, which means that the area has not been overdeveloped. There is a lot of greenery that one can enjoy here while taking in the spectacular views.

Known for its “World’s food fair" reputation, visitors can practically taste the globe in Hong Kong. While the local cuisine is predominantly Cantonese or Yue, but due to the city’s colonial past and influences from being an international trading port, European, local indigenous, Japanese, and Southeast Asian cuisines are also part of the local culinary culture.

What is the number one local good eats? Dim sums, of course. These delicate pastry dishes which can be sweet or savory are a must-try in Hong Kong. Enjoy favorite dishes include braised chicken feet, pork shumai, and shrimp dumplings. Top restaurants for these delicious morsels include Lin Heung Teahouse, Dragon King, and Tim Ho Wan.

Another famous dish is the richly flavorful Roast Goose. Marinated in a blend of over 20 different spices and aromatics, the goose is roasted until golden crispy perfection. Succulent and crispy, locals are obsessed with this delicacy. You can savor this dish at Yat Lok and Yung Kee.

If you like BBQ, then give Cantonese barbecue / Char Siu a try. Out of all the BBQ meats, pork is the most popular. Char Siu is a staple item in Hong Kong Cantonese restaurants, e.g. Kwan Yu Roast Meat.

😋 Read More:

Recommended 10 Best Restaurants in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a famous food holy land. There are various kinds of Cantonese food. In addition to classic Cantonese food, there is Hong Kong morning tea, porridge, noodles, rice, seafood and other snacks. Here we recommend 10 most popular Hong Kong style restaurants. Don't Miss Hong Kong!

The Best Places to Try Famous Hong Kong Desserts

Hong Kong has a fair share of traditional desserts, which are even sold in stores across the globe. The following recommended most-popular and time-honored Hong Kong dessert stores are a must for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Hong Kong is world-renowned for being one of the best places to shop till you drop. In this shopper’s paradise of shopping malls, department stores, and street markets, the first place you must visit is the exclusive malls and leisure centers at Central on Hong Kong Island. Inside the luxury mall LANDMARK, visitors can shop to their heart’s content surrounded by top fashion brands of the world. In the nearby International Finance Centre Mall (IFC Mall), shoppers can explore Apple’s flagship store in Hong Kong and other leisure and entertainment options.

If street markets and bargain hunting is more your thing, head to one of Hong Kong's largest shopping areas - Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon (Jordan MTR Station, Exit A). The market stretches over 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) long and is lined with hundreds of street vendors, local shops, and eateries to create a lively and buzzing atmosphere. Elsewhere, other popular markets include Jade Market (Kowloon, MTR Yau Ma Tei Station) and Stanley Market (Hong Kong Island).

While you can pretty much buy everything under the sun in this city, visitors mostly prefer to buy clothes (designer clothes, handbags, and Tailor-make suits), cosmetics, and electronics. For more traditional souvenirs, check out local products like temple charms, shrimp paste, Asiatic houseware, and Gold and other Jewelry.

Top 8 Local Markets in Hong Kong You Must Visit

While retail department stores offer everything most people want, when you’re in Hong kong the markets are a must-visit to get your fix of some shopping therapy and experience some of the most vibrant market places in the world. While also being home to some amazing restaurants, Hong kong’s street market culture is an experience in itself. Cheap electronics, clothes, fashion accessories, unique souvenirs, toys, and even seafood, you name it and you find it.

Hong Kong is considered quite safe for tourists, but some petty crimes like thefts, vandalism, and burglaries can occur, though serious crimes are rare. For emergencies (police, fire, and ambulance) dial 999. If your passport, wallet, or valuables are lost or stolen, please notify your hotel immediately and report the theft to the police.

Hong Kong and mainland China use different currencies. The official currency in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$). In some shops and restaurants that are popular with tourists, Chinese RMB, US Dollars, Euros and Japanese Yen can also be used. While tipping is not required in Hong Kong, hotels and restaurants usually add a 10% service charge.

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5-Day Hong Kong Itinerary: Top Things To Do and See

Planning a trip to or around Asia once it is safe to travel again? This Hong Kong itinerary would be perfect for a 5-day de-stressing trip for you and your friends!

Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Hong Kong is an all-encompassing destination filled with traditional Chinese culture, incredible nightlife, jaw-dropping natural scenery, and much more. Visiting without a thorough itinerary will overwhelm you, as there are just so many things to do there.

This 5 day Hong Kong guide will save you some of that trouble, so you can have the most enjoyable trip!

The Best Time to Visit Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an all-year-round destination, but there are certain seasons that are more preferable when visiting Hong Kong.

Surprisingly, the best time to visit Hong Kong is usually winter, which is when the weather is a lot more tolerable. Because of Hong Kong’s geographic location, the summers in Hong Kong are hell.

Scorching heat combined with high humidity makes enjoying some of the best attractions in Hong Kong impossible. You will sweat like you have never sweated before if you come to Hong Kong in the summer.

If you want to do any hiking in Hong Kong (which you should) in the summer, just be well-prepared and bring a lot of water. It is not uncommon for hikers to get heat strokes and heat exhaustion in the summer. The prices for accommodation in Hong Kong are also (a tad) cheaper in the winter months.

Autumn and spring are decent times to visit Hong Kong. The weather is relatively more pleasant than the summer and you can still go out in a T-shirt and shorts.

Day 1: Head to Instagrammable Spots

Hong Kong is filled with stunning Instagram-worthy locations. This Hong Kong itinerary will start by exploring some of those.

One of the most popular Instagram locations in Hong Kong is unquestionably Choi Hung Estate , a place known for its rainbow-like facades of its soaring residential buildings. Choi Hung in Cantonese means “rainbow” and it is no surprise that their buildings are painted so colorfully.

After Choi Hung Estate, head over to the nearby Ping Shek Estate , which is also conveniently located in Choi Hung. Known for its geometrically stacked condo buildings, Ping Shek Estate is quite a popular spot for photographers.

Lastly, check out the Lok Wah South Estate in Ngau Chi Wan. Though just a common area for locals to hang out, the even-spaced out blue circles create an interesting visual, especially at certain hours of the day when the metal railings connecting them cast their shadows.

After you have visited some of the most beautiful photo spots in Hong Kong, it is time to hike Lion Rock . Earning its iconic name from the rock outcrop that resembles a crouching lion, Lion Rock is one of the best hikes in Hong Kong. Hikers are blessed with stretching views of Kowloon, Victoria Harbour, and even parts of Hong Kong Island (on a good day).

Watching the sunset at Lion Rock is highly recommended if you can afford to spend the extra time there.

Finish off your night in Hong Kong with a visit to the bustling Temple Street Night Market . Sprawling several city blocks, Temple Street Night Market is your typical southeast street market. Cheap clothes, fake watches, street food, accessories, antiques, and streetside stalls inundate these busy streets. Just don’t forget to bargain when you are buying something at the Temple Street Night Market.

Day 2: Hike to Cape D’Aguilar and Enjoy the Hong Kong Nightlife

The second day in your Hong Kong itinerary will be spent exploring some of the hidden gems of Hong Kong, namely its gorgeous natural wonders. No better place epitomizes that than the beautiful Cape D’Aguilar .

Located on the southeastern tip of Hong Kong Island, Cape D’Aguilar is home to the only marine reserve in Hong Kong. Visitors will find dramatic cliffs accompanied by mesmerizing sea views, interesting geological formations, and a serenity that is rare for Hong Kong.

Because of its remote location, visitors will need to hike to Cape D’Aguilar . But worry not, the whole 8-kilometer out-and-back trail is relatively flat and offers stunning visuals along the way.

The turquoise waters and white waves might be tempting, but swimming is strictly prohibited. As a highly protected area, swimming, fishing, diving, and even the collection of any organisms is a crime.

Spend your night at Lan Kwai Fong (commonly known as LKF). With the highest concentration of bars and nightclubs, LKF is undoubtedly the best nightlife spot in Hong Kong.

Just be careful if you are traveling on a budget in Hong Kong as LKF is unreasonably expensive. With a beer costing about US$10 and clubs that charge heavy cover fees, a night out at LKF can easily set you back US$100 or more.

Alternatively, if you are visiting Hong Kong on a Wednesday, you can visit the Happy Valley Racecourse and watch some horse racing. With 156 years of British rule, some British tradition such as horse racing is deeply ingrained in Hong Kong.

The Happy Valley Racecourse is the perfect night out for someone that prefers a more relaxing night out but still enjoys a cheerful crowd. It is also much more affordable than visiting LKF.

Day 3: Explore Kowloon and Hong Kong Island

Hopefully, you are not too tired from your night out because day 3 of this Hong Kong itinerary is action-packed.

Start with visiting the zen Chi Lin Nunnery in Diamond Hill. Built in 1934, this large Buddhist complex follows traditional Tang Dynasty architecture and offers glimpses of Chinese heritage.

Its recent renovation in 1998 takes its construction to a whole new level by not using any nails. Sections of the wood would interlock like a jigsaw puzzle, thereby creating structurally safe buildings. The intent was to show the harmony between people and nature.

Here you will also find many Chines monastery elements such as a Lotus Pond Garden, statues of Chinese deities, and much more.

After a visit to Chi Lin Nunnery, it is time to delve into some authentic Hong Kong cuisine. As a metropolitan city, you will find diverse dining options, but none represents Hong Kong as much as dim sum.

When it comes to good dim sum, the Michelin-starred Tim Ho Wan is the perfect place to go. Considered one of the most affordable Michelin star restaurants in the world, Tim Ho Wan ensures you have a delicious but cheap meal. Don’t forget to try some traditional Hong Kong dishes such as the egg tart or the steamed pork bun (Cha Siu Bao).

Spend your afternoon exploring Mong Kok or Sham Shui Po , two of the oldest and most bustling neighborhoods in Hong Kong. Here you will find a glimpse into the daily lives of local Hong Kongers. It is uncommon for people to live in shared apartments in these neighborhoods, a phenomenon that happens because of the ridiculous housing market in Hong Kong.

These neighborhoods are also home to delicious street food, cheap street vendors, and are great places to people watch.

As the sun sets, make your way to Tsim Sha Tsui (TST). Known for its long-stretching promenade that offers unparalleled views of Victoria Harbour, visiting TST is a must in any Hong Kong itinerary.

At 8 PM every night, the Symphony of Lights light show occurs and the best place to watch it is on the TST promenade. Visitors that would like to indulge in a unique experience can board the Aqua Luna junk boat, an old traditional Chinese red-sail boat that sails around Victoria Harbour.

Guests can lounge in their outdoor deck with a complimentary drink in their hands, enjoying the longest permanent light show in the world!

Day 4: Spend the Day at Lantau Island & The Peak

Now that you have seen most of the attractions in Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, it is time to explore Lantau Island.

Lantau Island is the home to some of the most pristine hikes in Hong Kong, the famous Tai O fishing village, and Ngong Ping village, home of the iconic Big Buddha.

To get to Ngong Ping Village, take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car at Tung Chung to save time. Though buses are also available, they take a considerably longer amount of time and you only have 5 days in Hong Kong.

Ngong Ping village is a 1.5-hectare open-air Chinese village filled with Chinese heritage. Stroll along the busy streets (especially on the weekends) and check out some of the temples, souvenir shops, and museums.

If you are visiting Ngong Ping, you are probably here for the Big Buddha (also known as Tian Tan Buddha). At 26.4 meters tall, it soars into the sky and can be seen on the traditional streets in Ngong Ping Village. That is because it takes a total of 268 steps to reach the bottom of this 250 metric ton landmark.

Don’t forget to check out the Po Lin Monastery and hike Wisdom Path when you visit Ngong Ping.

After exploring the Ngong Ping Village, head to the Tai O Fishing Village, a traditional fishing village in Hong Kong. Known for its stilt houses and delicious and fresh seafood, it is a great way to discover the heritage of Hong Kong and have some amazing food at the same time. Visitors can also take a boat tour to (possibly) see some native pink dolphins.

Finish your day off with a visit to The Peak (also called Victoria Peak ), arguably the best night view of Hong Kong. Take the Peak Tram from Central and it will take you directly to the top.

Here you can decide to pay to visit the Sky Terrace 428 Observation Deck or wander around the area and check out the numerous vantage points. If you are traveling to Hong Kong on a budget, though, the Sky Terrace 428 is an unnecessary expense.

Day 5: Day Trip From Hong Kong to Macau

Spend the last day by going on a day trip from Hong Kong to Macau. Unlike Hong Kong which was a British territory, Macau was a Portuguese territory until 1999. However, you will only find a small portion of the population that speaks Portuguese. Mandarin and Cantonese are more dominant in Macau.

The result of the Portuguese rule is a unique mixture of Chinese and Portuguese culture. Visitors will find colonial architecture in Senado Square and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Stroll along the historical streets and you will inevitably stumble upon many colonial churches such as St. Dominic’s Church and the iconic ruins of St. Paul’s Church , the most famous attraction in Macau.

Keep exploring further and you will find Mandarin’s House , the family home of Zheng Guanying and a symbol of Chinese heritage in Macau.

A day trip is usually sufficient enough to see its main historical attractions. However, Macau is also known for its upscale casinos and nightclubs. Even if you are not into gambling, it is worth it to see the lavishness of casinos such as Venetian Macau .

How To Get To Macau From Hong Kong

Getting from Hong Kong to Macau is easy. The most popular and cheapest way is to take a from Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Central to Macau. It is possible to reserve your ticket in advance with one of the ferry operators (TurboJETt or Cotai) online, but the ferries depart so frequently it is not really necessary.

Alternatively, you can take one of the shuttle buses from the airport, Central, or Tsim Sai Tsui across the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge, the longest sea-crossing in the world.

Hopefully, this 5-day Hong Kong itinerary has given you some valuable information on how to plan your trip! Enjoy Hong Kong!

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Thanks for sharing your well-written itinerary for Hong Kong; it is quite useful for those of us who plan to visit the city.

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HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

There’s a hole in my heart that only Hong Kong can fill.

Perhaps it’s because of the fact that it is the first foreign city that I explored on my own for leisure and the first foreign destination I have visited more than once. (Singapore was my first overseas destination, but I was there to attend an awards show.) I had been to Hong Kong four times now, and I’m set to return later this month.

Looking back, having my international travel debut in Hong Kong isn’t a bad idea at all. This “modern and futuristic city” is a great destination for a first out-of-the-country trip. The culture is not too different to be alienating but not too similar to be boring. It is connected by an impressive, expansive systems of transportation — from its world-class airport terminals to its vast train network to its reliable bus system. They have all their major tourist attractions easily accessible. They also make the cities very friendly to kids and elderly, an important criterion for ideal family vacations. All these combined make it one of the best foreign cities for first-time overseas traveler.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING HONG KONG

Although officially a part of China, Hong Kong is worlds apart from the rest of the country culturally, economically and politically because of its unique history. After the British won the Second Battle of Chuenpi, the Qing Empire, who ruled China at the time, admitted defeat. Peace negotiations resulted in the Treaty of Nanjing on 29 August 1842, which formally cedes Hong Kong to Britain and ended the First Opium War.

Since then, Hong Kong was a colony of the then mighty British Empire, except during World War II, when it was occupied by Japan. Britain maintained its rule of the territory until 1997, when it was handed back to China.

Today, Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of China. It is part of China, but it has its own economy, currency, and immigration laws. Hence, even mainland Chinese would need to go through Immigration checks upon entering the region.

Hong Kong is one of the busiest and the most developed metropolitan hubs in Asia in terms of trade, business, and tourism. It consists of the Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, and 200 outlying islands. While these areas are connected by sprawling train and bus networks, it is important to be familiar with its geography.

• Hong Kong Island is where the Central area, the political and economic center, is located. Although intimidating at first, it harbors a number of affordable guesthouses and hostels. It is also home to many tourist attractions including the Victoria Peak.
• Kowloon is where you will find most museums, markets, and the Avenue of Stars. It also has the greatest concentration of cheap guesthouses.
• The New Territories , north of Kowloon, is dotted with wetland parks and temples. Lantau Island, one of the many outlying islands, takes pride in Ngong Ping (Giant Buddha and Po Lin Monastery) and Hong Kong Disneyland.

Here are more bits of info you might want to know to prep for your trip.

• Language : Cantonese and English are the official languages. Almost 95% of the population speaks Cantonese. Almost everything a tourist would need has an English translation, so there isn’t that thick of a language barrier. Mandarin is also starting to flourish as more immigrants from the mainland pour in.
• Currency: Hong Kong dollar (HKD). HKD 100 is around PHP 665, USD 12.75, EUR 11.23, SGD 17.25 (as of February 2019).
• Money Exchange : You’ll find countless money changers around Hong Kong, concentrated in the areas of Tsim Sha Tsui (Chungking Mansions and Hankow Centre) and the Central district. ATMs are also aplenty, with HSBC being the most familiar.
• Modes of payment : Most establishments prefer cash payment, but many of them also accept credit card transactions.
• Electricity Info : 220V, 50Hz. Types G and D are used.

BEST TIME TO VISIT HONG KONG

The months of October to March are a good time to tour Hong Kong. The most ideal is October-December , when the temperature remains comfortably cool and the skies much more sunny than previous months.

That said, it doesn’t mean that it’s like that every day. My first Hong Kong visit was in October and it was slightly raining the entire time. It wasn’t a heavy downpour, more like constant drizzling. My third visit was in November and it was great, albeit a little bit cloudy despite the sunny forecast. It’s hard to predict these days.

January to March sees clear skies too — in fact, January is the driest month — but it can get too cold. I have experienced Hong Kong in January and February and I loved it, mainly because I really enjoy cold and dry winter months.

Avoid August if you can. It is the wettest month, sometimes battered by typhoons brewed by the Pacific. September is pretty damp, too. I have also been to Hong Kong in May and June and it was hot and rainy both times. Not good months to visit.

If you hate big crowds, look away from the days leading to the Chinese New Year, usually in late January or early February.

HOW TO GET TO HONG KONG

Okay, before I discuss flights, let me just say this: If you can, visit Macau, too! Macau is easily accessible from Hong Kong! If possible, book a flight to Hong Kong and then take a return flight from Macau, or vice versa. This way, you get to see and discover both cities.

If there really is no way that you can do a Hong Kong entrance-Macau exit (or vice versa), you can also book a roundtrip ticket to either. That means you’re gonna have to take the 1-hour ferry ride to the other.

MANILA TO HONG KONG

If you’re coming from Manila, the cheapest plane tickets are sold by Cebu Pacific Air and AirAsia. But if low-cost carriers are not your thing, the cheapest legacy airline is Philippine Airlines (PAL). Here are their usual year-round rates:

HONG KONG AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER by Airport Express Train

Here are the rates. Children (below 12 yo) get 50% discount.

BUT if you feel like you’ll be taking the MTR and the bus a lot in the next 3 days (and you will), purchase an Airport Express Travel Pass instead. This pass will allow you 1 or 2 single journeys on the Airport Express and UNLIMITED use of MTR, Light Rail, and MTR Bus (Northwest New Territories) for the next 3 days (72 hours) .

Here are the rates:

• 1 Airport Express Ride + Unlimited MTR Rides for 3 days: HK$250
• 2 Airport Express Rides + Unlimited MTR Rides for 3 days: HK$350

Please note that the “3-day unlimited MTR rides” refers to MTR only. If your trip is longer than 3 days, you can still use your Airport Express rides even after the Unlimited MTR access has expired. For example, if your trip is 5 days and you purchase the HK$350 package, you can use the Airport Express Ride on Day 1, use unlimited MTR rides on Days 2-4, and then the remaining Airport Express ride on your way back to the airport on Day 5.

You can also top up the card after 3 days.

You can purchase an Airport Express Travel Pass from Klook as early as now. Check out the link below:

But here’s the thing: you will need 2 transfers to get to Tsim Sha Tsui. And if you’re carrying gargantuan luggage or traveling with kids, it can be a challenging first day for you, which is why I recommend the other option…

HONG KONG AIRPORT TO TSIM SHA TSUI By Bus

It’s cheaper and more comfortable. And you don’t need to switch vehicles!

But if you’re taking the bus, I recommend that you get an Octopus Card. which you can use when riding the MTR and buses. The Octopus Card isn’t necessary — you can do away with it and just pay cash each time instead — but since you will be using the bus and MTR most of the time, you might as well just get one. It’s convenient after all. You won’t need to get a ticket every time you’re taking the train or the bus.

The standard Octopus Card costs HK$100 for adults and HK$50 for kids plus HK$50 deposit. The deposit for both standard and children’s cards is refundable when you surrender the card.

Once you have the card, here’s how to take the bus to Tsim Sha Tsui:

• At the airport, look for signs to the BUS terminal. It’s right in front of the airport building, you’ll see it immediately after the exit.
• Board the A21 Cityflyer Bus . Look for the A21 sign and queue. Pay using Octopus Card. If you don’t have this card, you can pay in cash but you must have the exact amount.
• Alight at Stop 13 (Cameron Road corner Nathan Road) or Stop 14 (Middle Road corner Nathan Road), depending on what’s closer to your booked hotel.
• Walk to your hotel.

That’s about it! Before your trip, contact your hotel and ask for the closest bus stop so you know where exactly to get off.

MACAU TO HONG KONG by Ferry

Hong Kong is easily accessible from Macau. All it takes is a one-hour ferry ride. From Macau, you can board a ferry at either of these two terminals:

• Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal , located in Macau Peninsula. This is closer to the city center.
• Taipa Terminal , sometimes called Cotai Terminal, just a short walk from Macau International Airport.

These ferries sail to any of these two terminals in Hong Kong,

• Hong Kong MACAU Ferry Terminal along Connaught Road Central, Sheung Wan area in Hong Kong Island.
• Hong Kong CHINA Ferry Terminal along Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon.

These are separate terminals so make sure you get to the right one!

If your hotel is in Tsim Sha Tsui, choose the one in Kowloon so you will just have to walk. If your hotel is in the Central district, board a ferry bound for Sheung Wan.

MACAU TO HONG KONG by Bus (Sea Bridge)

You can also travel to Hong Kong from Macau by bus, via the newly opened Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge (HZMB).

Normally, you can catch a bus at the HZMB. More info here . But if you book with Klook, you can be picked up at any of the following hotels or casinos in Macau:

• Grand Lisboa Macau
• Starworld Hotel
• The Venetian Macao
• Galaxy Macao
• Sands Macao

The bus can take you directly to either Prince Edward in Mong Kok or Kowloon Elements in Tsim Sha Tsui. Note that you will also have to go through Immigration and Customs inspections.

Bus Fare: HK$ 158 to 160.

You can reserve a bus below.

How to Get Around Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s MTR system is your best friend in the city. It’s extensive, tourist-friendly, and relatively inexpensive. However, this intricate network can be confusing for first-timers.

I recommend that you download the MTR Mobile app , which is available for FREE.

The app is equipped with maps and other information you need about the MTR system. To use it when navigating Hong Kong’s underworld, just enter the stations of origin and destination and it will show you a suggested route, complete with the necessary transfers, fares, and travel time.

Once you choose a route, it’s time to start the journey. If you have an Octopus Card, you just need to hover the card above the sensor at the gates and enter. Otherwise, you will need to purchase single-journey tickets. Here’s how to get one.

How to Use the Hong Kong MTR

• At the train station, approach one of the ticket machines. Each machine has a screen and a route map.
• Touch the destination on the route map.
• Select ticket type. By default, it is set to ADULT.
• Insert coins or bills.
• Get the ticket and change.

But again, you can make your life easier by getting an Octopus Card.

Octopus Card

The Octopus Card is a prepaid stored-value card that you can use when riding the MTR and buses. When you have the card, you don’t need to buy a ticket each time you travel. Just hover the card above the reader by the entrance and you’re good to go.

Fares are also slightly lower with an Octopus Card. Although the discount per ride isn’t much, it can mean big savings when they rack up.

If you don’t think you’d be able to return the card (thereby letting go of your deposit), you can buy an Octopus TOURIST Card via Klook instead. The Octopus Tourist Card is preloaded with HK$50 and you can take home the card as souvenir. You can buy one below.

Pocket Wifi and Data SIM Card in Hong Kong

You can purchase a 4G/3G SIM Card or rent a 4G mobile wifi. Either way, you can pick it up at Hong Kong airport, for your convenience.

You can reserve one via Klook below:

Places to Visit: Hong Kong Tourist Spots

Here are some places you don’t want to miss! Below the pics are more info about the place including the nearest MTR Station and some useful links!

But before that, you might want to avail of the iVenture Pass !

iVenture Card

This card which will grant you DISCOUNTS for numerous restaurants and FREE entry to many attractions in Hong Kong and Macau including but not limited to the following:

• Ocean Park Hong Kong
• Ngong Ping 360 (Hong Kong)
• The Peak Tram (Victoria Peak, Hong Kong)
• Hong Kong Watertours Pre-Dinner Sunset Cruise
• Macau Tower

There are more attractions and establishments covered!

Disneyland Hong Kong

Theme parks are not only made for kids but also for the young at heart. Disneyland has been a household name when it comes to theme parks and family-friendly places. How can you go wrong with “the happiest place on earth”?

Officially opened in September 2005, the theme park is located inside Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, on a reclaimed land in Penny’s Bay on Lantau Island. It is the largest theme park in Hong Kong with seven themed areas — Main Street, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch, and Mystic Point. Each area is constructed and set up in a way where all of the five senses are treated to a theater-like environment that is unique per theme.

Aside from the rides, you can interact with notable Disney characters like the Disney princesses in meet-and-greet sessions, sing along while enjoying The Lion King performance, and watch the parades where you can see various Disney characters strutting and dancing to the lively music.

Nearest MTR Station : Disneyland Resort

You can skip the lines if you buy your ticket via Klook.

Ngong Ping and Tian Tan Big Buddha

Also located on Lantau Island is Ngong Ping. The cable car ride, Ngong Ping 360, links it to Tung Chung on the northwestern part of the island. Ngong Ping is the home of Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. These attractions have drawn tourists, especially Buddhist pilgrims, making Ngong Ping a popular tourist destination in Hong Kong.

Tian Tan Buddha, also known as Big Buddha, is probably the most notable attraction in Ngong Ping. It is said to be one of the world’s largest bronze statues of Buddha, towering at 34 meters. It is visible from Ngong Ping Village. To reach the statue, visitors have to climb over 200 steps or take the winding road that is accessible to vehicles. The latter option is specially made for elderly visitors and those who are physically challenged or handicapped.

Also in the area are Ngong Ping Village, Ngong Ping Tea House, and Walking with the Buddha attractions. A hostel near the monastery has opened its doors to travelers who want to stay longer.

Nearest MTR Station : Tung Chung. From here, you can take Bus 23. However, the most scenic way of getting there is by cable car, Ngong Ping 360. You can purchase a ticket below.

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak, also called Mount Austin or simply The Peak for the locals, is the highest point on Hong Kong Island, blessing you with the beautiful spectacle of the Central’s cityscape, the Victoria Harbour, and other surrounding islands, especially at nighttime. With millions of visitors every year, it is undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions in Hong Kong.

The actual summit of Mount Austin is closed to the public, but the public parks and the expensive residential estates are what the term “The Peak” refers to. Victoria Peak’s popularity led to the establishment of the Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria, offering visitors a wide variety of dining options. The Peak Tower is the site of the Peak Tram’s upper terminal. Located beside the Peak Tower is the Peak Galleria. It houses the bus terminal for the public buses and the green minibuses.

Nearest MTR Station : Central. Use EXIT J2. Upon exiting the terminal, cross the Chater Garden and look for the Bank of China Building (picture on the left). Just keep an eye on this tall building because this is your main landmark. Walk uphill along Garden Road and you’ll see the Peak Tram Terminus on your left hand side.

The queues to the tram are notoriously crazy long! We tried falling in line and wasted a lot of time. But you can actually skip it if you book a ticket! Peak Tram Passes are often packaged with other attractions at The Peak including Madame Tussauds, Sky Terrace 428, and Trick Eye Museum. You can book below.

Avenue of Stars & Symphony of Lights

The Avenue of Stars was officially launched in April 2004, along the Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront Promenade. It showcases the prominent personalities of the Hong Kong film industry, having their names, signature, and handprints etched on the stars scattered throughout the promenade’s floor. One of the most celebrated attractions along the promenade is the bronze statue of Bruce Lee, Hong Kong’s martial arts legend.

Avenue of Stars is also one of the best sites to watch the Symphony of Lights, a nightly spectacle of synchronized lights display with musical accompaniment, featuring 44 of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers — both in Kowloon and Hong Kong sides of Victoria Harbour. However, the Avenue of Stars is currently closed to the public for renovation. The target relaunching is in the first quarter of 2019.

Nearest MTR Station : East Tsim Sha Tsui. Use Exit J. From here, it is only a 3-minute walk. It should be on your left. If coming from Nathan Road or Tsim Sha Tsui Station, you can walk through the pedestrian subway to EAST Tsim Sha Tsui Station. Just follow the signs that lead to Exit J and you’ll be fine.

Hong Kong is also a favorite destination for those who love to shop. As a shopping mecca, Hong Kong boasts an extensive selection of shopping destinations, offering a different experience per location. It has something to offer for various types of shoppers — luxury boutiques, outlet stores, wholesale shops, street markets, and night markets. The options seem inexhaustible.

One of the shopping destinations in Hong Kong is Mong Kok. The streets are always bustling with activities, especially at night. Old shops and restaurants blend in with the modern ones, giving it a unique characteristic that is so unlike the rest of Hong Kong. Being in Mong Kok is a feast for all the senses. It houses a great number of shops and markets, selling various kinds of items — from clothes to jewelry to cosmetics to electronics to construction materials to sports equipment to food. And the list goes on.

Nearest MTR Station : Mong Kok. Take the B2 or B3 exit.

Unique Hong Kong Tours

If you have more budget, you can enjoy these tours to maximize your stay in Hong Kong! Links so you can book these tours in advance or reserve slots are provided below!

Macau Day Tour

You can easily go to Macau from Hong Kong! You just need to buy a ticket from the terminal, board a ferry, and you’ll be there in 55 minutes.

FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS, BOOK BELLOW

Please take note of the date and time of your trip because rates of sailing on weekends and at night are higher. Just click on any of the following links:

Once in Macau, you can take advantage of the free shuttle rides provided by hotels and then just explore on foot! It’s super easy.

More info here: DIY MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE .

But if you want to be more comfortable, there are day tours being offered in Hong Kong. They will take care of everything, from ferry tickets to your sightseeing in Macau to a sumptuous lunch at a 4-star hotel. If you’re interested in that, you can book below.

AquaLuna Symphony of Lights Cruise

Although you can also enjoy the Symphony of Lights from the Avenue of Stars, you can level up your Hong Kong experience by admiring it from a traditional junk boat as you cruise around Victoria Harbour! It comes with DINNER too!

360 Lantau Island Sky-Land-Sea Day Pass

This one isn’t really a tour but a day pass that would take you around and over Lantau Island and enjoy the following:

• a round trip cable car ride
• a boat excursion
• unlimited use of the bus system
• Big Buddha Statue visit
• Tai O Fishing Village visit
• HK$20 voucher for the Ngong Ping 360 Souvenir shop

Hong Kong Food Tour

This tour is recommended by the Hong Kong Tourism Board! Eat your way through one of Hong Kong’s old districts, Sham Shui Po. You’ll get a total of 10 tastings as you learn more about the culture and history of Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Walking Tour – Day

This tour is a great way to be familiar with Hong Kong’s history and culture. It will take you around Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon and then aboard Star Ferry to the Central area in Hong Kong Island. This tour will allow you to see tourist spots not just as structures but as an important part of the Hong Kong life today and back in the day.

Kowloon Evening Walking Tour

This tour will take you across Hong Kong’s Jordan and Yau Ma Tei neighborhoods to visit the following:

• a century-old fruit market
• a local art deco-style restaurant
• an old-school singing parlour
• Temple Street market
• fortune tellers

Where to Stay in Hong Kong

Finding cheap accommodations in Hong Kong is easy. The Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, and Central areas are littered with guesthouses and hostels offering affordable rooms. They are also consistently cheap throughout the year, ranging from HK300-HK500 for a double room.

I personally love staying in the Tsim Sha Tsui area whenever I’m in Hong Kong because it’s close to almost everything I want to see. You can walk to the Avenue of Stars. Hong Kong Island can be easily reached by ferry or MTR. Mong Kok is also just a few stations away. There are a lot of money changers and ATMs around. And like I said, when it comes to accommodations, you have a lot of options here.

Anyway, here are top budget guesthouses and hostels in Hong Kong as rated by Agoda users as of March 2019.

• SLEEEP . Hong Kong. Check Rates and Availability .
• YIU FAI GUEST HOUSE, . Hong Kong. Check Rates and Availability .
• Travellers Pack Hostel, . Tsim Sha Tsui. Check Rates and Availability .
• Hop Inn on Mody . Tsim Sha Tsui. Check Rates and Availability .
• L’etoile de Mer TST . Hong Kong. Check Rates and Availability .
• Toms Guesthouse . Tsim Sha Tsui. Check Rates & Availability .

Search for more: Hong Kong Hotels

Sample hong kong itinerary.

Below are two sample itineraries. The first covers Hong Kong only, while the other will take you to both Hong Kong and Macau. Both itineraries assume the following:

• You’re a group of 2 , splitting much of the expenses.
• You have a budget of HKD 70 per meal (lunch/dinner). You’ll find meals much lower than this, but better to overestimate than under.
• You’re skipping breakfast . It’s overrated, according to intermittent fasters. And healthy too. Haha.
• You’re staying in a budget inn in Tsim Sha Tsui for HKD300 per night . As mentioned, Tsim Sha Tsui is an ideal base because it’s close to many attractions.

Just make the necessary adjustments to match your flights and other preferences.

Itinerary #1: Hong Kong Only

Duration : 3 days, 2 nights

Day 3: NGONG PING, DEPARTURE 08:00 am – Check out 09:00 am – Take MTR to Tung Chung Station, HKD19.5 10:00 am – Leave luggage at CityGate lockers, HKD60 10:30 pm – Brunch, HKD70 11:00 am – Take bus to Ngong Ping, HKD17.5 12:00 pm – See Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery 02:10 pm – Bus back to Tung Chung 03:20 am – MTR to Airport, HKD15.5 03:50 pm – Check in at airport 06:40 pm – Flight out

If you spend only HKD 300 per night on accommodations (divided by 2 pax), this itinerary will set you back around HKD1520 (USD195, EUR172, SGD267, PHP10,200 ) per person, excluding airfare and travel tax.

Itinerary #2: Hong Kong + Macau Day Tour

Duration : 4 days, 3 nights

To better understand the MACAU leg of this itinerary, read this first: MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE

Day 4: NGONG PING, DEPARTURE 08:00 am – Check out 09:00 am – Take MTR to Tung Chung Station, HKD19.5 10:00 am – Leave luggage at CityGate lockers, HKD60 10:30 pm – Brunch, HKD70 11:00 am – Take bus to Ngong Ping, HKD17.5 12:00 pm – See Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery 02:10 pm – Bus back to Tung Chung 03:20 am – MTR to Airport, HKD15.5 03:50 pm – Check in at airport 06:40 pm – Flight out

For this Hong Kong itinerary, you will have to shell out HKD2150 (USD275, EUR243, SGD378, PHP14,420 ) per person, excluding airfare and travel tax. If you choose to try the rides or watch the shows at a hotel in Macau, that would incur additional fees, which are not covered by this estimate. Much of the expenses were for the entrance fees, with Disneyland taking the bulk.

NOTE : For both itineraries above, I used the fares charged for single-journey users. If you have an Octopus Card, the actual fares are a bit lower because of the discounts. I just used the regular rates just to add some padding. Again, better overestimate than under.

I have to warn you, though, that these itineraries can get extremely exhausting because they involve a lot of walking. Disneyland and Mongkok in one day is no joke and can be physically demanding. You might want to adjust this if you have kids or elderly with you.

More Hong Kong Travel Tips

• I recommend that you download the MTR Mobile app , which is available for FREE. The app is equipped with maps and other information you need about the MTR system. To use it, just tap on Train Trip Planner and enter the stations of origin and destination and it will show you a suggested route, complete with the necessary transfers, fares, and travel time.
• In Macau, the currency is the Macanese pataca . But the Hong Kong dollar is widely accepted at 1:1 rate.
• Take advantage of the FREE hotel shuttles in Macau. You don’t need to have a reservation to board their buses. They’re FREE and you can find them at the ferry terminals and other key spots in the city.
• If you’re traveling on a really tight budget, there are a lot of things you can do in Hong Kong and Macau for FREE . Here are some suggestions: 10 FREE Things to Do in Macau , 7 FREE Things to Do in Hong Kong
• For more information about Macau, read: MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE

Our Hong Kong Slam Book

• Best thing about Hong Kong: In many aspects, Hong Kong sits in a gray area. On face value, it looks very modern and futuristic, but as you walk deeper into smaller alleys, you’ll find plenty of its heritage intact. From a Pinoy standpoint, it is also not too familiar to be boring but not too different to be alienating. It’s also undoubtedly Asian but has a lot of western bits scattered around the city.
• Something about Hong Kong that you don’t like: Summer rain. I’ve been to Hong Kong in summer, autumn, and winter, and I really dislike summer there. I have experienced Hong Kong summer three times now and it was hot and wet each time, so it was difficult to go around. I enjoyed winter the most! Dry and cool!
• Most unforgettable moment: Oh gosh, I have a lot of unforgettable moments in Hong Kong! But these are the top two. First, on my second visit, Vins and I went to Victoria Peak. It was February, middle of winter. But since I have a high cold tolerance, I was confident that I could handle it in just a shirt and jeans. But I did not take into consideration that part of our Hong Kong itinerary was Victoria Peak, and the temperature up there is much lower than on sea level. I was shaking so bad the whole time. It didn’t help that the tram line to go down was so long, extending to the outside of the building. I even had to buy a cup of coffee for relief. My second unforgettable moment was in my third Hong Kong visit, which coincided with another close friend’s trip. We were both staying in Tsim Sha Tsui. We decided to meet in Mong Kok to buy pasalubong. After shopping around while talking about everything in life, it was time to go home. We had an idea: Since we enjoyed our conversation so much and we still had a lot to catch up on, we decided to walk from Mong Kok to our hotel. It was past midnight. So yeah, we did. Haha. We had to stop at a 7-Eleven halfway to our hotel because we got hungry.
• Favorite meal. This wasn’t my most delicious meal, but certainly my most unforgettable. In the basement of our guesthouse was a dimsum restaurant. I wasn’t able to catch the name, but it was along Nathan Road. It was my second day in Hong Kong so I have not tried the restaurants yet. You know, before that day, my experience with dimsum was limited to fast food and street carts in the Philippines. This was my first non-fast-food dimsum in my life. I remember that first bite. Aaaaaaah. I got so used to mass-produced siomai, I could not believe it when I actually felt and tasted the shrimp and meat in my mouth. Dimsum was never the same for me. Haha.
• Favorite spot. Avenue of Stars. I always try to set foot in this area every time I’m in Hong Kong. I simply enjoy the view and the lights.
• Biggest surprise. How friendly it is travel newbies. Before my first trip, the Hong Kong that I painted in my head was so different to reality. I was expecting that language barrier would be a major problem and that I would get lost most of the time. But it was easy to navigate around Hong Kong. Not only are there English translations everywhere, the transportation system didn’t require a long learning curve.
• Biggest disappointment. This isn’t Hong Kong’s fault, but I still hasn’t dived into Hong Kong’s street food scene. I’ve tried some animal entrails in Mong Kok, but that’s about it. It’s something that I always tell myself that I would do next time but it just won’t happen yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hong kong safe.

Yes, Hong Kong is very safe even at night, even if you’re alone. At least, the areas that tourists frequent are. Always use common sense when exploring, follow the rules, and don’t leave your things unattended.

However, there are things you need to watch out for if you plan on shopping in Hong Kong. There are a number of scams in Hong Kong targeting foreign shoppers. Some shops sell fake products. Some electronics stores have brand new, genuine gadgets on display, but after paying, they’ll hand you units that are either used or of an older model. If you’re interested to purchase gadgets, choose a reputable shop and not some random store along Nathan Road.

What is tipping policy in Hong Kong?

In restaurants, tipping is not obligatory. A 10% service charge is usually added to the bill, so you don’t really have to leave a tip. However, if you really enjoyed the service, you can leave a few notes — HKD 10 to 20 per person — to make sure the waiter gets it.

In hotels, tipping is expected. Tip the bellhop or maid HKD 10 to 20 for their service.

Taxi drivers don’t expect to be tipped. But you can always round up the bill to show appreciation.

Where to exchange money in Hong Kong?

There are a lot of money changers in Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui and Central areas. Out of all of them, Berlin Company Exchange and Ngau Kee Money Changer have the best reputation in Central. In Tsim Sha Tsui, Pacific Exchange at Chungking Mansions is known for having the best rates, too.

I’ve never tried any of them though. I usually just withdraw from ATM.

What is the power socket used in Hong Kong?

220V, 50Hz. Types G and D are used.

Do I need a visa to visit Hong Kong?

Nationals of over 145 countries can visit Hong Kong without a visa. This includes the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and the European Union states. What differs is the number of days allowed.

If you’re carrying a Philippine passport , no need for a visa if you’ll be staying for up to 14 days. But to avoid being denied entry, it’s best to have the following documents with you:

• Return or onward ticket
• Hotel booking
• Tour itinerary or bookings (e.g. Klook vouchers)
• Enough pocket money

If you have an ATM card or credit card, bring those too.

How to avoid being offloaded from my Hong Kong flight?

Hong Kong is a hotspot for Filipino illegal workers. Hence, both the Philippine and Hong Kong Immigration bureaus can be stricter to Pinoys traveling to Hong Kong. It’s also one of their measures to avoid human trafficking.

If you’re worried about getting offloaded or if it’s your first time to travel abroad, read this: HOW TO AVOID GETTING OFFLOADED .

Is it possible to enter Macau and exit Hong Kong?

YES, if what you mean is your outgoing flight is to Macau and your return or onward flight is from Hong Kong, and you’re crossing the border legally.

Technically speaking, what you will be doing is not “enter Macau-exit Hong Kong”. You will actually enter Macau then exit Macau, cross the border, then enter Hong Kong then exit Hong Kong, because you’ll be clearing Immigration checks on both sides.

Is it possible to enter Hong Kong and exit Macau?

YES, if what you mean is your outgoing flight is to Hong Kong and your return/onward flight is from Macau, and you’re crossing the border legally.

Technically speaking, what you will be doing is not “enter Hong Kong-exit Macau”. You will actually be entering Macau then exiting Macau, crossing the border, then entering Hong Kong then exiting Hong Kong, because you’ll be clearing Immigration checks on both sides.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 3️⃣ • 1️⃣8️⃣ (updated) 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 6️⃣ • 7️⃣ (first up)

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where did you get your disneyland ticket? its only 589hkd. please let me know i will be there end of july. it’s my first out of the country trip too. im on a tight budget. can you share also where to get cheaper ocean park ticket?

Hi Joan! Here: https://affiliate.klook.com/jump/activity/39-hong-kong-disneyland-resort-hong-kong/?adid=5248&af_wid=825

Hong Kong is a great place to visit. Thanks for useful information. Well written about places and budget information.

Informative and comprehensive! Thank you for all the info!

thank you for this itinerary. now i have an idea on the budget. i’ll definitely use this as a guide.

Very informative and detailed. Thank you so much. I’ll be traveling to hkg on October 10-14, is 30k enough to sustain my stay? Where can I buy cheap Disneyland ticket? Many thanks

We have booked a package for 4d/3n stay next month. We arrive late on a Sunday, 8pm. There’s a compulsary city/disney (halfday) tour on Mon. We’re free for the next two days. I plan to stay in HK Disneyland overnight Mon-Tues. Then reserve Tue night and the whole of Wed for some activities. What do you think of our plan? What would you suggest we do Tues night and Wed?

P.S. I have a 5yr old boy with me so the Disney stay is a non-negotiable.

Where did you stay in HK? Can you recommend any places?

What food did you have during your stay? It seems you only spent around 1k in HK. :)

Just want to ask, if I purchase an Airport Express Ride + Unlimited MTR Rides for 3 days would I be able to use it going to Ngong Ping via Bus?

Hi, May I ask what is the ideal time to visit Macau and Hongkong? And also, what season did you went there with this itinerary?

Hi Athena, I’ve done the HK-Macau itinerary in October, November, and February. (Iba-iba kasi kasama ko each time so paulit-ulit.) Our October visit was a bit rainy (more like gentle showers, though). November is great but hotels in Macau tend to shoot up because of Macau Grand Prix. If day tour lang naman sa Macau, pwede na rin. Very comfortable temperatures.

I personally prefer January/February because it’s generally dry, but that’s also because I love the cold. :)

Hi! May I ask kung saang hotel kayo nagstay? Yung exact name talaga nang hotel sa Tsim Sha Tsui. I really hope that you can reply to this message :) Thank you

Guest house lang. Sa TAI SAN GUEST HOUSE. :)

More info: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2012/11/where-to-stay-in-hong-kong-cheap-hostels-and-guesthouses/

Hi! Already have airfare tix for June, 6days, 5nights. Our tour group consists of 3 adults, 1 child and 1 infant. Since we have small kiddos, we wanted convenience as much as possible. Can you recommend a travel agency whom we may approach to handle our hotel and trips? Probably with the cheapest price? I know there are a lot of agencies out there but most of them charged exorbitant rates. Appreciate any help pls! Thank you very much!

thanks a lot for all detailed information, it would be of great help in planning a good trip to HONGKONG. I specially like your comment “SPEND WHEN YOU CAN. ENJOY YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY “. I am going to do exactly that. keep posting more helpful information.

Enjoy Hong Kong!

Hi, ask ko lang where did you redeem your peak tram tickets? is it easier to redeem sa traveleasy (Shop 316, 3/F, World Wide Centre, 19 Des Voeux Road Central, Central) kasi mas malapit sya sa peak tram itself?

or mas convenient sya sa holiday world tours (Room 1021, 10/F, Peninsula Centre, 67 Mody Road, Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon)? kaso idk how to go this one kapag from chunking mansion (where I’ll be staying in one of the hostels).

I hope you see this huhu first time traveler here. thank you and more power :-)

Dammit, i already purchase ticket to hong kong on august .. i should hv read this article first.. i want to cry..

Hi Ying. That’s okay. August is one of the wettest months but it doesn’t mean that it’s going to rain every single day. You can still have a good time if luck is on your side.

hi, we are travelling as family(4) with one 9yo and elderly is it necessary to book 4 octupos card for us”?

Hi Nina, yep, mas madali if may kanya-kanya kayo. :) May Octopus na pambata and meron ding pang-elderly, discounted un pareho.

Hi! meron po bang motels malapit sa tsim sha tsui? Less than P1000/ night for two person? Thank you so much!

Hi meron po bang motels near tsim sha tsui?? Less than ₱2000 2person npo then 3 night stay na ? Okay na po kahit saan bsta pwede matulugan.

We’re travelling to HK the first week of October this year, and our flight comes arrives in HK around 11:30 PM. That means we don’t have the option to use their MTR. I want to know if you could inform me about the possible prices for some car rentals that’s cheap or if they have UBER in HK.

Thanks for your help!

Hi Marie, I haven’t tried taking Uber or car rental in HK. But that might be something we can look into next time we’re there.

hi. salamat sa iyong informative blog. plano po namin jan. 2019 pumunta,2 adults and a 6 yr old child.ano po ba magandang kunin n card para sa pag commute? san po mas makamura? ang pupuntahan namin is airport -disney-tsim sha tsui,2nd day tsim sha tsui to china ferry-macau and back,day 3 tsim sha tsui to airport. ano po ok n sakyan?san po makatipid?salamat.

Hi Michelle, kahit Octopus card lang, okay na since di ganun kadami yung pupuntahan nyo. :)

Pwede b yung sa ferry? Mas makasave pa if advance kukuha sa klook?pati dusneey tiiicket?

Yep, slightly mas mura sa Klook.

I just love your travel guides! It’s great how much effort you put in to give us everything we need on a platter! That too in a structured way!

Thanks, Sinjana!

We are planning to cover your Sample Itinerary 2, however we also like to cover for Ocean Park. What day do you suggest it? Do we need to have 1 whole day for the theme park and also where is it near? (Kowloon side, Hong Kong side…)

Plus the octopus card, if we buy it on Klook, can we top up the value. and where can we do so? Thanks so much!!!

There are “Add Value” machines at many MTR Stations.

Regarding Ocean Park, we’re not big fans, haha, but to answer your question, if you arrive in Hong Kong early, do it on your first day. It’s on Hong Kong Island, near Victoria Peak, so you can visit these sites on the same day.

Then on your Disneyland Day, since there’s no more fireworks display, you can just visit the Avenue of Stars after Disneyland. Just arrive at Disneyland early to maximize your stay and leave before everyone else does.

Hi Yoshke! Apart from DSWD Travel Clearance, did you present any docs in HK immigration/airport upon arrival/departure? I will bring my niece with me.

On the HK side, other than the usual (passport, return ticket, etc), nothing else.

Hi, What is the easiest way to travel from Tsim Sha Tsui hotel to Hong Kong International Airport? I am planning my itinerary for the last day of our trip and I find it confusing. The way going to the hotel is different on way back. I searched google and suggesting to use A22 bus. I need to travel by bus because of our big luggage and need less walking for my 60 year old mother and 7 year old kid.

Thank you in advance ^_^

Hi Megan, which part of Tsim Sha Tsui?

I usually take A21 bus, the same bus that I take from the airport, just the other way around.

If you’re staying on the same side of the main road as Chungking Mansions, you just need to cross the street and wait for a bus on the other side.

Hi, we’ll go to HKG this November. We might pattern our tour with your 4D3N w/ Macau, just want to confirm the ferry from Taipa is really until night? We will not have a hard time going back to Tsim Tsa Tsui if ever? Also, about leaving our luggages at City Gate..it doesn’t matter what size the luggage is and they are really open at 7 AM?

Thank you in advance.

Hi Clarize, I rechecked yung website ng ferries and it looks like hanggang 7:45pm na lang yung diretsong Tsim Sha Tsui from Taipa. May nakalagay na night sailings sa legend pero walang sked. Naconfuse na rin ako.

Anyway, mukhang most sailings sa gabi ay papuntang Hong Kong (Sheung Wan) so we updated na rin the sample itinerary to reflect that.

Im going to visit HK this oct 27-Nov2. Will be arriving around 8pm. We can still buy the octopus card at the Airport? Until What time? Because our acomodation is at TST.

Hi Millette, ang alam ko bukas pa rin naman yun pero di ko sure. :(

Hello!! May i ask if octopus card can be used by 1 person only???

ang alam ko, only 1 person per card.

Sir ung mga prices na namention nyo po ba pareho din hanggang ngayon? :-) Lahat po ng mga bayarin or ung expenses po :)

Yung MTR fares, yep. Yung tours and entrance fees, double check mo na lang sa Klook links, kasi minsan may discounts or baka nagtaas na. :)

Hi , just want to ask po if where ka makakabili ng adaptor for hongkong? Nasa province po kasi ako and cant find adaptor here, available po kaya sa hongkong airport? and

Hi Leslie, di ko alam if meron sa HK Airport. Pero check mo 7-Eleven sa HK Airport, baka meron.

With regard to this statement:

“Please note that the “3-day unlimited MTR rides” refers to MTR only. If your trip is longer than 3 days, you can still use your Airport Express rides even after the Unlimited MTR access has expired. For example, if your trip is 5 days and you purchase the HK$350 package, you can use the Airport Express Ride on Day 1, use unlimited MTR rides on Days 2-4, and then the remaining Airport Express ride on your way back to the airport on Day 5.”

Is it possible to use the unlimited MTR rides on non-consecutive days? I mean, if I use it say on Day 1 but not on Day 2, will I still be able to avail it on Day 4? Thanks a lot in advance!

HI Elle, as far as I know, the days have to be consecutive.

Thanks a lot!

Ask ko lang po if merong area sa Macau with luggage storage same sa Hongkong? Kasi we are planning to visit macau on our last day of tour. Bale Phil-HK and macau-phil flight. Thank you in advance..

April Dabao

Alam ko sa 2nd floor ng Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, may luggage storage hanggang midnight.

Another idea is i-store mo sya sa casino. For example, ang alam ko, The Venetian accepts luggage deposit for a fee, mga 10 MOP per piece. Iwan mo sa kanila tapos balikan mo na lang. Okay yan kasi usually may buses rin from ferry terminal papuntang casino, so sakay ka ng bus tapos iwan mo luggage sa kanila. :)

Hi! First-time kong mag ta travel out of the country and before on facebook, I saw some girls who were denied of entering HongKong. Some said on the comment that there were some documents they were not able to provide? What documents do we need to bring?

In general, if you’re visiting a friend or relative, it’s best to have an invitation letter and proof of relationship to that person. If you’re there as a tourist, you must have a return ticket and hotel booking, and itinerary for good measure.

More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2013/03/philippines-first-timer-international-flight-travel-guide-abroad/

Thank you Yoshke for sharing your tips on when is the best months to travel to Hongkong. It is so much helpful in planning future trips.

Hi, Thanks for your very informative blog and tips on Hong Kong and Macau. Had visited Hong Kong and stayed 3 days but not toured Macau so plan to do it this time. However, there’s supposed to be a Star Cruise (Virgo), I think that sails from Hongkong to Macau and since you’ve been onboard, was wondering if it’s worth it. Also I’m not able to find a site to book this cruise directly. Can you help please?

Hi! I’m not sure if Superstar Virgo has Hong Kong-Macau sailing. I tried searching online but can’t find it either. All I see is Manila-Hong Kong this season.

But assuming there is, Star Cruises is known for affordable rates. If you’re traveling with family, especially seniors, it’s worth it. It’s not the most topnotch ship there is today, but for its price, I’m willing to sail with them again. If you’ve tried newer ships before, it can underwhelm. But if it’s your first time, go for it.

Hello, Yoshke! We’ll be traveling to Hongkong this January. Is the budget for Itinerary #2 inclusive of expenses for accommodation? Thanks in advance for the response (tho we’ve already booked rooms for the said trip?).

Yep, kasama na. :)

I really appreciate that you took time to share this. Very helpful. Were from Canada and its our first time visit to Hong Kong this coming July 2019.

Thanks, Jim! Enjoy planning your HK trip!

You are amazing!!

This is sooooooooooo helpful.

Thanks a lot for all the time and effort put in this. You’re helping lots and lots of people out there xxx

Love to you! Lunathayoga

You’re welcome!

I’m glad I found this page, very informative. I’m sure this will help us in our future trip this summer. Thank you very much. I’ll go over this to familiarize. More power and God bless.

Thanks, Luisa!

Question, Pupunta kasi kami ng family ko sa HK, wala work si mother ko dito sa pinas or source of income. posible paba na maharang sya sa immigration? since kasama naman ako at ako naman gagastos para sakanya, baka kasi may hingiin pa na docs. para sakanya at wala sya ma present only passport lang ang meron sya. thanks sa reply. sobrang appreciate ko.

Hi AL, usually, ang hihingin lang ay roundtrip ticket and hotel reservation since kasama ka naman nya. Pero syempre di mo rin masabi, depende kasi yan sa immigration officer na matatapat and paano kayo sumagot.

Thank you for the information here in your blog. It’s very informative and will help us save time and money for this trip. We are travelling for the first time to Hong Kong on June with my kids , mom, sisters, nephews and nieces. We would like to go to Disney, Ocean Part, Victoria Peak and Macau and other tourist spots is it doable if we are staying for 4days and 3 nights? Will you be able to send me an itinerary from Day 1 to Day 4? Our arrival on Day 1 is at 9:30 am and our departure from Hongkong Day 4 is 10pm. I was thinking of the itinerary below is that feasible? Day 1 – Victoria Peak Avenue of the stars Day 2 – Macau Day 3 – Disney Day 4 – Ocean Park Also if we will purchase IVenture will it be cheaper since it includes Ocean Park and Macau.

Your suggestions is highly appreciated. Hope to hear from you soon.

Best regards,

Yes, your itinerary is feasible. Although it makes more sense to have Disneyland on the last day since it is closer to the airport.

It’s me again, got one concern about our luggage on the last day. kase check out is at 12noon, Where can we leave our luggage in HK if our last tour will be Disneyland. And how much.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Thank you and best regards.

There are lockers at Disneyland. More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/05/hong-kong-disneyland-ticket-lockers/#Are_there_lockers_in_Hong_Kong_Disneyland

Thank you for your response so generous of you. It helps us a lot in planning our HK trip.

If we will buy the IVenture card will it be cheaper since it includes Ocean Park and Macau Tower.

What’s the best places to go to in Macau?

Your response is highly appreciate. Thank you and best regards,

iVenture only makes sense if you’re visiting multiple attractions a day.

All our Macau tips are here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/04/macau-hotel-tour-itinerary/

Ideally how much should be the load of my Octopus card for a 3day HK tour? Were planning to go to Disneyland, Victoria Peak and Visit Ngong Ping and travel to macau on the 4th day. We will be staying in TST. Or will you recommend Hong Kong Airport Express & 72-hour Unlimited MTR Travel Pass which is available in Klook?

Hi Enih, what I always do is get the standard card with initial HKD100 load. Then I just top up or buy single journey tickets when it runs out.

Hi, I and my friend will be traveling to HK in August. It will be our first time to travel abroad. Part of our Itinerary is to visit my sister. Is it okay if I’ll not divulge to IOs that I have a sister working there? They might ask for additional docs kasi. She will not be sponsoring our trip though. We have our Hotel Booking, Round Trip Ticket, and Tour Vouchers…Thank youuu..

If they don’t ask, don’t volunteer the info.

Thank You :)

Just love reading your blog, you are really a pro, Anyway I prefer itinerary 2 because I really want to see Macau. May I know the estimated expenses if that includes an accommodation or only the travel fee expense in Hong Kong/ Macau tour?

The sample itineraries already include a HKD300 budget for accommodations.

Hi Yoshke Dimen, good day to you. We will will stay at TST area during our 5 days stay in Hongkong this coming June. But we will visit Macau 1 day tour on our own. My reference is your sample itinerary but I can see that Macau tower is not included in your list. Is it possible that we can include this one, how we can reach there? Is it far from other attractions mentioned. Thanks and more power.

Hi Luisa, it’s a little bit detached from everything else. But you can still visit. Andito ung info how to get there: https://www.macautower.com.mo/plan-your-visit/how-to-get-here/

Hi, I’m basing my iti on yours. May I ask what are the exact stations of MTR if I’m coming from Tung Chung going to the airport? Including interchange? Is there a bus from Tung Chung to Airport? Thanks :)

The station names are: Tung Chung Station and Airport Station.

There is a transfer at Tsing Yi. Please download the MTR Mobile App for the instructions and complete route.

hello Yoshke! Can you help/suggest us what we gonna do, its is about our luggage on the last day kase check out is at 12noon and our flight will be 10pm and we’re planning to go to macau on that day, but were thinking about the luggages. Thanks for response.

Hi Josheiy, yung exit nyo ay Macau airport or HK airport?

Hi! I’m a frequent traveler but never had been questioned until recently when i flew to Bali which traumatized me because I was traveling alone and thought they weren’t gonna let me leave. I had my company ID, proof of stay, return ticket and the IO still went through my phone in front of me and doubted my work. I never experienced this and in the past year I flew to HK, SG, Japan, Taiwan and Korea already and always had a smooth flow. She eventually let me pass after I showed proof that I work for the big company by showing email proof and visual proof on my phone, but I dont think it had to go to that point.

Anyway, Im going back to HK in a few months and that recent traumatizing experience scared me. The thing is, I’m traveling with a girl friend and our flights weren’t booked by us. It was a free flight by our guy friend because he has a lot of miles and he wanted to celebrate his birthday in HK with us. (I met him in HK while he was traveling back in 2018 and he’s from america , he also traveled in PH. The accommodation will be by him for we’ll all stay in a huge airbnb – it’s purely a platonic relationship). I believe the IO has issues with young adults traveling and the possibility of sex trafficking but I’ve been a traveler for as long as i can remember with active visas in both US and AUS.

Will they question the source of payment for these bookings? Or as long as the bookings exist and i’m traveling w my friend that’s a girl, will it be less of a problem? I just dont want that experience to happen again. I really hated that IO and my main point is to have fun and enjoy the HK night life again.

Hi KC, so sorry to hear about what happened to you. The IO who questioned you is the IO in PH or IO in Bali?

Anyway, to answer your question if the IO will question the source of payment for your bookings… —– That’s hard to predict because things like that happen quite randomly. Your Airbnb booking is under your other friend’s name, right? If the IO is in the mood to ask a lot of questions, that could be a problem because it’s under a foreigner’s name. But there is a big chance they won’t ask questions because you’re a frequent traveler.

Is your girlfriend a frequent traveler too?

What is the nationality of the friend who paid for your flight/accommodations?

Hi! I just booked a one way tix from Ceb to HK for this Dec. I’m planning to exit in Macau, do you know the average price for MFM to Cebu flight? Is MOP 1K too pricey? I really have no idea po. Thank you.

Hi Venice, I’m not that familiar with the usual prices for international flights from Cebu. :(

But you may use comparison websites like SkyScanner or Traveloka to somehow get an idea. :D

Would you have any recommendations for affordable child friendly hotel/hostel? Thanks!

Question lang. Iba iba ba talaga ang check in time sa hotelin HK? Possible kaya to ask the hotel that we will do an early check in?

Hi Vida, yep, kanya-kanyang rules ang mga hotel. Yung early check-in, usually depende yan kung may available room na (e.g. may nagcheck out nang maaga or may vacant na room talaga). If di pwede mag check in, usually pumapayag naman ang mga hotels na iwan ung bags sa kanila muna while mag-explore kayo sa labas.

Do you have any idea if it is safe to visit Hong Kong this July? like the early week of July as we’ve seen reports about protests happening there?

very informative

I’ll be travelling this October with my 10 year old daughter and would like to ask your opinion/recommendation regarding our itinerary. Our ETA is 8:45 am and ETD is 8:10 pm

Day 1 Ngong Ping Hotel Check In (still undecided between Cosmo, Dorsett Tsuen Wan, and Metropark Kowloon) Victoria Peak and Madamme Tussaud Avenue of the Stars and Symphony of Lights

Day 2 Ocean Park Aqualuna cruise

Day 3 Disneyland

Day 4 Macau

Day 5 Sky100 last minute shopping

Do you this is feasible or too siksik yung Day 1? Should I move Ngong Ping to Day 5? Logic begind wanting to have a lax day 5 is that for sure pagod si bagets sa previous days, so wanted to let her rest and sleep in sa last day.

Hi Isabel, I think your itinerary is great and nicely paced. :)

Thanks so much for the quick reply!

Have another question, can I buy Octopus card sa airport? I’ve checked Klool kasi and I don’t think they have one for kids. Also, given our itinerary, do you think we should avail the Hong Kong Pass or Iventure card or better to just buy tickets individually?

Thanks so much!

Hi Isabel, yes you can buy an Octopus Card at the airport too.

Great! Thanks so much! You’re blog is super helpful talaga and thanks so much for taking the time to answer our questions!

No prob! Enjoy your trip!

Hi, is it possible for me to stay in hongkong for 5 days? Im planning to stay for 2days in hotel then cheap hostel for three days so I can save a lil and use it for food and shopping instead. Will it be question by IO in NAIA? Thank you. looking forward for your reply. :)

Hi Yaz, that’s okay. Staying at multiple lodging places is perfectly normal. :)

Thank you, Yosh for your reply. It’s very kind and generous of you :). That would be my first time travelling abroad as my ultimate goal and gift for myself. So, I’m kinda skeptic and worry at the same time because I read a lot somewhere and in your blog as well about OFFLOAD thing issue. I never had thought about such thing until I read it. So, I’ll make sure to bring with me my company ID, VL certificate and COE as well. Thank you so much for all the info and tips. :)

Pero ako, when I’m staying at multiple hotels, I just write yung first hotel kung saan ako mag-stay. Di rin kasi kasya sa form.

Good luck and have a great first international trip! :)

Yow mate Me and my family will be travelling to HK this end of november..i just have 1 question regarding the MTR or rather can you give me an advice so i could get a big value of my money Will be there on nov 28 to dec 2 so basically 4 nights 5 days What type of transport ticket would be the best for us?? I got a 15 year old and 5 year old Please help

Hi Jeffrey, naku, mahirap po sagutin yung question nyo kasi depende po yan kasi sa specific itinerary nyo and saan kayo nagse-stay.

Pero if hindi naman ganun ka-hectic yung itinerary, Octopus ay better choice kasi hindi naman yun pass. Stored value ticket lang sya so okay sya if konti lang ung sakay.

If feel nyo maraming kayong MTR rides na gagawin, get the Airport Express Travel Pass but make sure you do all your MTR-heavy visits within 3 days.

Good job. Thanks for sharing.

Have a wonderful day.

My family plans to travel from Cebu to Hongkong, Macau to Cebu our exit point, will be planning to stay in Hongkong for 3 days and 2 days in Macau this coming May 2020. I just have doubts if we could exit in Macau?

Hi Manuel, yes, you can. That’s perfectly normal. Technically, you’re entering HK, exiting HK, then entering Macau, exiting Macau. That’s totally fine. Just make sure you have a copy of your exit ticket and hotel booking when you enter Macau. :)

Thanks for the info..and quick response Yoshke.

You have elaborated about hong kong very well!! I got good information from your post.

I will certainly inform you if nay travel plan happens for hong kong!

Keep sharing good posts.

Such a great, helpful and excellent travel guide article for hong kong. I really appreciate your hard work sir… Thanks for sharing… love form India

Hi! Sample reply! Test

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE OCTUPUS CARD & AIRPORTEXPRESS TRAVEL PASS? WHICH AMONG THE TWO IS BETTER BUDGET WISE?

Hi The Poor Traveler,

Hoping na mag release kayo ng podcast about your HK tripssss! Yung focused lang talaga sa HK.

Hi Aldrin! Sa September pa yung HK trip namin, so mga October kami release ng new batch of updated Hong Kong content. :D

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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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2022 HONG KONG AND MACAU DIY GUIDE: BUDGET & ITINERARY

Hong Kong and Macau are one of the top visited destinations in Asia together with Singapore, Taiwan and Indonesia. Tourists have been coming to visit Hong Kong and making it a point to do side-trip in Macau since you can tour this place in a single day. If you’re having an upcoming trip to these destinations, this Hong Kong and Macau DIY complete guide contains everything you’ll need to know.

There is more to Hong Kong than just the famous Disneyland and Ocean Park. Hong Kong has everything you need from the busy shopping district in Mongkok to the bird’s eye view of the whole city of Hong Kong at Victoria Peak. Not to mention cruising on a sunset while enjoying yourself a bottle of beer. Macau haven’t joined the fun yet, enjoy a number of high-end casinos in Taipa, Macau and fascinating structural buildings while trying out their famous beef jerkey and Portuguese egg tart. No doubt why Macau is dubbed as the “Las Vegas of Asia”. If you’re not yet convinced to visit these 2 beautiful regions, continue reading!

Table of Contents

Pre Travel Guide (Hong Kong and Macau DIY)

Before packing up your bags or booking your flight, take into consideration to read a few important reminders before your trip. Below is a pre-travel guide (Hong Kong and Macau DIY) that I created so you will be guided on your upcoming trip to Hong Kong and Macau!

Getting to know Hong Kong and Macau

Before anything else, let’s clear things up in this travel guide that Hong Kong and Macau are not countries. Both destinations are a special administrative region (SAR) in China that have their own governing rules apart from the rules in the mainland of China. The best way to describe it is the “1 country 2 systems” policy. However, this contradicts the current situation happening in Hong Kong and China right now wherein Pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong would like the region to remain different from other Chinese cities. As of this date November 2019, the rally is still on-going and it may be necessary to suggest to take extra precautions before visiting Hong Kong. For recent updates, click here.

Language Spoken in Hong Kong and Macau

Hong Kong and Macau both has a mix of cultural influences. Macau was a former Portuguese territory until 1999 which explains some establishments and properties like the airport and ferry terminal signs are in Portuguese language. Most locals can speak Portuguese than english too. While in Hong Kong, english is widely spoken so you will not have a problem on communicating for directions and instructions.

Currency Used

USD is widely accepted in most establishments in Hong Kong and Macau. You don’t need to worry about changing your money to HKD or MOP because USD is accepted as a form of payment.

Best Money Changer Branch

Chungking Mansions in Tsim Sha Tsui

The best money changer I’ve seen in Hong Kong is located in Tsim sha Tsui at Chungking Mansions. There are lots of money changer stalls inside the Chungking Mansions, you just have to go around the whole place and look for the best exchange rate. Word of advice, there are lots of indian sales agents outside Chungking Mansions so just ignore them when they offer you a discounted room. Don’t worry because there are lots of Filipinos inside the Chungking Mansions so you can ask around too.

Address: 36–44 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong How to get there: Hop on to the nearest MTR to you and get to the red line (Tsuen Wan Line) then drop off at Tsim Sha Tsui station and take Exit D. From tsim Sha Tsui station Exit D, Chungking Mansions is just 1 block away for 1-2 minutes walk. Refer to the MTR map here.

Franki Exchange, World Wide Central

Another money changer is located in World Wide Central which is the Franki Exchange. Some of my friends and followers on Facebook said that it’s the best place to exchange your money because they have better rates.

Address: 19 Des Voeux Rd Central, Central, Hong Kong How to get there: Hop on to the nearest MTR station and go to Central station either by Red line (Tsuen Wan Line), Blue line (Island Line), Green line (Airport Express Line) or Orange line (Tung Chung Line) then take Exit B. Refer to the MTR map here.

Best time to visit

Although Hong Kong and Macau is a year-round destination, the best time to go there is during October – December where the weather is not too dry and not too cold either. The wettest season falls in the months of April – June where it is highly suggested that you should avoid traveling to these months. After all, it’s no fun roaming around the Disneyland park with umbrellas and wet shoes on, right?

January is the coldest month in Hong Kong. It is also advisable to travel to Hong Kong during January to February as it is the colorful month of vibrant festivals like the Lantern Festival and events like the Chinese New Year .

How to get around Hong Kong and Macau DIY

Getting around hong kong.

Hong Kong is more likely Singapore when it comes to transportaion. The secret to get around is through their MTR stations and using an octopus card. If you need to get to a place, the only thing you have to know is search for the nearest MTR in the location you’re going to and hop on a train. Then that’s just it. Easy peasy lemon squeezy! Below are the only 2 things you need to get around Hong Kong:

• Download the MTR map here
• Buy your Octopus Card with Klook below

Question: What is an Octopus card?

An octopus card is a top-on reloadable card that you can use for your public transportaions (MTR, taxi, bus) and you can also use it to purchase food on fast-food chains and other establishments that accepts it like 7-eleven and other convenient stores.

Hong Kong International Airport to Tsim Sha Tsui

From HKG airport, there are 3 ways to go to the main city and that is by taxi, airport express or by bus. The cheapest way to get there is by bus and it willl take 30-40 minutes to get there. Outside the airport there are a lot of bus and the bus that you need to look for is A21 . It passes by Nathan Rd. in Tsim Sha Tsui. Drop at 36-44 Nathan Rd. and walk towards the accommodation you booked in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Getting around Macau

Macau, on the other hand, is a different story. Now there are no MTRs in Macau like Hong Kong and Singapore. So you have to use the primary mode of transportation which is the public bus and/or taxis. Mind you, there are lots of public bus in Macau since it’s the primary mode of transportation which is why the buses are organized in number codings. Each number codings have their own specific routes.

Useful link: Full list of Bus Routes

Interesting fact: Hotel buses are for FREE regardless if you’re a guest or not. The trick to get around Taipa and the other side of the island is to download the route map and schedule of the hotel bus’ near you. These buses will take you to and from Taipa without even having to spend a single MOP out of your pocket.

Did you know? If you ride a public bus you have to pay for the exact amount of fare or you will not get any change. Yeap! Horrible as it is but that’s how it is in Macau. However, there’s a top-on card that you can buy for your Macau transportation but I don’t recommend it if you’re only staying in Macau for less than 3 days since Macau is a very small province. You can honestly tour it in a single day. But if you’re gonna stay there for long, you can purchase MacauPass (MacauPass is a pre-paid travel and payment card – which you can pick up in 7-11s among other places – you need to buy them pre-loaded with a certain amount).

Important note: the octopus card in Hong Kong doesn’t work here.

Where to Eat – Recommended Restaurants (Hong Kong and Macau DIY)

I have a tried a few good restaurants in Hong Kong and I highly recommend these restaurants. For authentic hot pot Cantonese food, try The Drunken Pot at the Causeway Bay. They have the best dumplings and egg noodles in Hong Kong! I highly recommend that you try their Angus beef and Deep-Fried Homemade Beancurd and Seaweed Rolls. There are 2 branches of The Drunken Pot in Hong Kong, one is in Tsim Sha Tsui and the other one is in Causeway Bay. Noel and I have tried the branch in Causeway Bay and it has an incredible view from the 27th floor. I bet the branch in Tsim Sha Tsui has a stunning view of the harbour cruise too. Here’s a full review of my experience here: The Drunket Pot at Causeway Bay

Address: (1) 8 Observatory Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong; and (2) 27th floor, 18 Tang Lung St, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Nearest MTR: (1) Tsim Sha Tsui station red line (Tsuen Wan line); and (2) Causeway bay station blue line (Island line)

Another must try is the Dim Sum Icon in Tsim Sha Tsui. If you find yourself in Tsim Sha Tsui or if you’re accommodation is near there, I suggest that you try Dim Sum Icon. It’s a cardcaptor sakura inspired restaurant and cafe. Every food and beverage are too cute to not post on instagram! Here’s my full review: Dim Sum Icon in Tsim Sha Tsui

Address: Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui, Nathan Rd, Shop L308, Level 3, The ONE Nearest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui station red line (Tsuen Wan line)

Where to Stay (Hong Kong and Macau DIY)

Where to stay in hong kong.

For budget travelers who are looking for a place to stay with air-condition and a private comfort room, I suggest the rooms in Chungking Mansions . It’s the best place to stay for backpackers. But before you book your room there, let me just remind you that this is not the typical type of rooms you may normally expect. The rooms here are cheap but it’s good enough for me. As long as it’s airconditioned and it has its own comfort room and wifi I’m good with it. You can book your rooms with Agoda .

Tsim Sha Tsui is a good location to book your accommodation since it’s close to the Mongkok night market, Cultural Center, Victoria Harbour Cruise, Clock tower and the Dim Sum Icon. Most importantly, I’ve mentioned above that the best exchange rates are in Chungking Mansions as well.

How to get to Chungking Mansions form the airport? Ride an A21 bus outside the airport and drop off at 36-44 Nathan Road then walk towards Chungking Mansions.

Where to stay in Macau?

We stayed at Home of Macau and we booked it through Agoda. It’s walking distance to Ruins of St. Paul and other tourist destinations. There are Filipino food stalls outside and it’s a good place to get an accommodation.

Where to Book Cheap Tours/Tickets – Klook (Hong Kong and Macau DIY)

If you’re looking for the best way to tour Hong Kong and Macau without having to spend so much money, the answer to your problem is iVenture card from Klook! Don’t worry because Klook got you! Read here for the complete guide on how to use the iVenture Card.

An iVenture Card is a popular attraction pass card from Klook that contains more than 20 attractions you can visit just by presenting your card upon entering the destination. It offers the most popular destinations in Hong Kong & Macau like the Ocean Park, Peak Tram, Victoria Harbour Cruise, Ngong Ping Village, Sky100, and many more! Plus it gives you an incredible discount for Disneyland tickets.

Why purchase an iVenture Card?

• Save up to 45% on all tours and tickets just by purchasing iVenture card!
• Get to plan your own itinerary

READ HERE: HOW TO USE THE iVENTURE CARD

You can avail the card with 3 different options: (a) 2 days (b) 3 days and (c) 5 days. It’s more expensive with the more days added so I suggest that if you will only use it with the least number of days, plan your itinerary well to maximize the card.

Things to do in Hong Kong and Macau DIY

What to do in hong kong.

• Watch the Symphony of Lights everyday at 8PM while cruising with Victoria Harbour Cruise
• Visit theme parks in Hong Kong like Disneyland, Ocean Park and Noah’s Ark
• Try authentic Cantonese dish at The Drunken Pot in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Watch the sunset at Victoria Peak
• Visit free entrance tourist spots like The Cultural Center, Clock Tower and the colorful bulding apartments in Lai Tak Tsuen

What to do in Macau?

• Try the Portuguese egg tart and beef jerkey in Macau
• Visit the famous grand canal in The Venetial Hotel
• Check out the mini eiffel tower in The Parisian Hotel
• Do casino-hopping and mall-hoppings
• Visit temples like Na Tcha and A-MA Temple

Places to visit in Hong Kong

Disneyland park.

The theme park that most Filipinos and tourists would love to go to is the the Disneyland Park and one out of 6 Disneyland parks in the world is in Hong Kong. It fits with all ages whether you are a kid or an adult, you will surely enjoy this beautiful place! Celebrate a magical day with vibrant parades, costumes, shows, colorful streetdance, rides, castles, fireworks, and with your favorite Disney characters. Know more about the adventures of Moana or fly in a magic carpet ride with Aladin! This is definitely a dream come true especially to kids who grew up with Disney channel.

Address: Lantau Island Hong Kong Nearest Station: Disneyland line (Pink Line)

The Ocean Park in Hong Kong is one of the best parks in the world. It is incredibly huge in space and you will surely enjoy the rides and the animals you will see here. This is definitely one of the places you shouldn’t be skipping out when in Hong Kong. From cable cars, exhilarating rides, overlooking view, old Hong Kong theme places, amazing sea creatures, underwater shows and many more!

Address: Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Island Nearest Station: South Island line (yellow green line)

Victoria Peak

If you want a full view of Hong Kong, Victoria Peak is the place for you. Located up in the mountains and accessible by bus, Victoria Peak offers a breathtaking view you will surely enjoy. Get a glimpse of that stunning city view!

The Cultural Center and The Clock Tower

One of the FREE things you can do in Hong Kong is to visit this magnificent Cultural Center. It’s free access and the structural building is quite impressive! The Clock Tower is just stone’s throw away from the Cltural Center.

Insider tip: the Symphony of Lights is a night show that happens every 8PM and you can watch it from the Cultural Center or the Clock Tower.

Address: Tsim Sha Tsui Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsui Station (red line)

Ngong Ping Village

One of my most favorite place in Hong Kong that I truly enjoyed is the Ngong Ping Village. The atmosphere here is like that of Tagaytay and the place is so chill that you can really relax while just strolling. There are lots of stores and shops from the sidewalk and at the end part of the village you will see the gigantic buddha. You have a choice to climb it if you have a lot of time to spare.

Address: Lantau Island Nearest Station: Tung Chung station (orange line)

The Art of Chocolate

A museum where everything inside the room is made out of chocolate! Experience decorating and painting a chocolate that you can keep for remembrance too. Also, there will be chocolate tasting and you’ll get to taste a very expensive chocolate that can only be found in one store in the world and that is The Art of Chocolate museum. It’s just located inside the Ngong Ping Village so I highly suggest that you drop by and visit the sweetest store in the world!

Address: Ngong Ping Village Nearest Station: Tung Chung station (orange line)

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck

Another way to see the city of hong Kong in a bird’s eye view is through the Sky100. It’s a 360-degree indoor observation deck on the 100th floor. The deck offers views of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour, the Kowloon Peninsula and Tai Mo Shan in the background.

Address: International Commerce Centre, West Kowloon, Hong Kong Nearest Station: Kowloon station (orange or green line)

Waterfront Victoria Harbour Cruise

After a tiring day strolling around the city or riding crazy roller coasters in Ocean Park, one way to end your day is to cruise on a sunset with Victoria Harbour Cruise. They offer an unlimited drinks and you can also watch the Symphony of Lights if you will add extra dollars for the fee. You’ll get a view of the Tsim Sha Tsui ferry terminal including the Clock Tower and the Cultural Center.

Address: Hong Kong Central Nearest Station: Central Station (red line or blue line)

Noah’s Ark Theme Park

Join a tour of rediscovery at Noah’s Ark theme park. Get to know the animals aboard the famous Noah’s Ark! This is highly recommended for children and young adults.

Address: 33 Pak Yan Rd, Ma Wan, Hong Kong

Places to visit in Macau

Macau is a very small province that you can actually get aroud the whole province in one day!

The Ruins of St. Paul

The Ruins of St. Paul is probably the most popular tourist spot in Macau aside from the luxurious casinos and hotels. It is actually the ruins of a 17th-century Portuguese church dedicated to Saint Paul the Apostle.

Did you know? The famous beef jerkey and Portuguese egg tart are sold outside the Ruins of St. Paul? There are lots of stores selling jerkey and souvenir shops too.

The Venetian Hotel

Macau’s version of Italy’s grand canal made it to one of the top tourist spots in Macau. The venetian hotel offers a mall inside the casino-hotel establishment and the theme is based on the grand canal in Italy. It’s just like the normal shopping malls with a classy theme of the grand canal. Honestly, it also looks exactly the same as Manila’s version of Venice Grand Canal mall.

Other sights in the Venetian Hotel aside form the duplicate copy of the grand canal is the huge clock tower and buildings that are the same as the ones in Venice, Italy. It’s literally like roaming around the streets in Venice.

The Parisian Macao

After a visit to Venice, Italy in The Venetian Hotel, beside it is The Parisian Hotel where the theme is obviously based on Paris, France. Take a quick tour with the huge duplicate of eiffel tower as the centerpiece.

Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center

The Macau Tower is located near the bridge going to Taipa and is hard to miss with its tower measures 338 meters in height from ground level to the highest point. Its observation deck features views, restaurants, theaters, shopping malls and the Skywalk X, a walking tour around the outer rim.

Grand Lisboa

The Grand Lisboa has a very fascinating building structure. It’s like a huge vase made out of gold and can be seen afar from the Ruins of St. Paul. Grand Lisboa is a Macau original. Before the Las Vegas imports arrived, the Grand Lisboa was the biggest deal in town. Yet, the Grand Lisboa still remains most attractive because the casino offers less glitz and more gambling

Suggested Itinerary with iVenture Card from Klook (Hong Kong and Macau DIY)

You can follow my itinerary below for my Hong Kong and Macau trip for 5 days. Note that I only purchased the 3-day iVenture card from Klook. There are 3 options you can choose from: 2 days, 3 days and 5 days.

Related Article: Click here to know how to use the iVenture card from Klook

Useful link: Click here to see all the attractions included and the activities with advance booking required.

Day 0: Arrive in Hong Kong

• MNL – HKG airport
• Pick up iVenture card, octopus card, 4g sim card and disneyland ticket at counter A13. Read more here .
• Ride an A21 bus to Tsim Sha Tsui
• Check in at Chungking Mansions, dinner, stroll the streets in Tsim Sha Tsui

Day 1: Hong Kong Disneyland

• 7AM Breakfast
• 8AM Proceed to Hong Kong Disneyland Park (MRT Disneyland line: pink line)
• 10AM-8PM Hong Kong Disneyland
• 10PM Lights out

Day 2: Hong Kong

Activity availed using 3-day iVenture Card: – Ngong Ping 360 – The Art of Chocolae – Hong Kong Watertours Pre-Dinner Sunset Cruise  – Sky 100 Observation Deck – Sky 100 VR experience ticket

Reminders: – Victoria Harbour cruise: Central Pier No. 9 – cruise departing 6.30 pm. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. – Sky 100: 10am – 8.30 pm (Last entry 8pm)

• 8AM Proceed to Lantau Island (MRT Tung Chung line: orange line)
• 10AM Cable car to Ngong Ping Village
• 11:30AM The Art of Chocolate
• 12:30PM Lunch
• 2PM Proceed to Sky 100
• 4PM Sky 100 Observation Deck and VR experience
• 5:30PM Proceed to Hong Kong Central for VIctoria Harbour cruise
• 6:30PM VIctoria Harbour cruise (unlimited free drinks plus sunset)
• 9PM Mongkok Night Market

Day 3: Hong Kong

Activities availed using 3-day iVenture card: – Ocean Park – Noah’s Ark Hong Kong – Peak Tram; or – Hong Kong Night Tour – Cotai Water Jet

Reminders: – Ocean Park Tour: Includes 1 day admission ticket and free single transfer; email [email protected] at least 24 hours in advance in order to avail free single transfer. Pick up location: K11 Art Mall on Mody Road Entrance at 8:30AM daily. – Peak Tram: collect ticket at Traveleasy Ltd or Holiday World Tours Ltd – Hong Kong Macau Night Tour: email [email protected] at least 24 hours before. Starts at 5PM, please arrive 15 minutes earlier. – Cotai Water Jet: Please show your iVenture Card or iPass at the Beng Seng Travel counter in the Sheung Wan Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal to collect your ticket for your chosen schedule. Operated 8:30AM-12AM.

• 7AM Breakfast and check out from hotel, leave baggage in the reception
• 8AM ETA in K11 for free single transfer to Ocean Park
• 10AM-12:30PM Ocean Park (lunch at the park)
• 12:30PM Proceed to Noah’s Ark
• 3PM Noah’s Ark
• 5PM Peak Tram and/or Hong Kong Night Tour
• 7PM Dinner and pick up baggage from hotel
• 8PM Proceed to ferry terminal and ride a ferry to Macau using availed Cotai Water Jet from Klook
• 10PM Check-in in Macau accommodation (Suggested accommodation: Home of Macau booked through Agoda)

Day 4: Macau

Activity Availed using 3-day iVenture crad: – Tour TKW Macau – Macau Tower – Broadway Macau

Places to visit: – Ruins of St Paul – The Na Tcha Temple – Mount Fortress – Leal Senado Square – A-Ma Temple – Nam Van Lake – Macau Tower – Grand Lisboa casino

Reminders: – Macau Tour TKW: email reservation [email protected] at least 24 hours prior. Pick up location: Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal” at TKW Macau tour counter on arrival hall at 10am. – Broadway Macau: Receive one free set meal (HKD70 Value) from any of these eight authentic restaurants and eateries at Broadway Macau: Broadway Kitchen, Seng Kei Congee, Ngau Ngau, Lei Ka Choi, Ba Shan Spicy Noodles, Ving Kei Noodle, Hung’s Delicacies, Happy Square.

• 8AM Breakfast
• 9AM Proceed to Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal for the Macau Tour
• 10AM-4PM Start of Macau Tour TKW
• 1PM Fre lunch included
• 7PM Dinner at Broadway Macau

Day 5: Macau Free Time

Places to visit: – The Venetian Hotel and Casino – The Parisian Hotel and Casino

• 9AM Breakfast
• 10AM-2PM Visit The Parisian and The Venetian Casinos
• 3PM Check out from hostel and proceed to airport
• 6PM fliht back to Manila (MFM-MNL)

Travel Hacks and Tips from Joan’s Footprints (Hong Kong and Macau DIY)

Hong kong travel hacks.

• The ultimate secret is to buy your iVenture card from Klook to get the best discounted tickets for all your tours.
• For backpackers, book your accommodation an Chungking Mansions so you’ll have quick access to the best money changers in Hong Kong.
• Buy an octopus card instead of ourchasing MTR tickets for transportation. It will not only save a lot of money but it will also save time and effort.
• Disneyland doesn’t have to be very expensive! You can actually bring your own mickey mouse ears instead of buying mickey mouse ears worth PHP1,000.00 in the park.
• Visit destinations with free entrance like The Cultural Center, Clock Tower and the symphony of lights.

Macau Travel Hacks

• If you’re planning to stay longer in Macau, I suggest you purchase the —- card for your transportation. The buses in Macau doesn’t return changes. You will have to pay the exact amount of fare because they don’t give back fare changes.
• There are free shuttle bus of hotels in Taipa and —-. You can get a free transportation even though you’re not a guest in those hotels. All you have to do is to download the route map of those buses. Below are the bus schedules you can use.
• Venice Hotel Bus Route Map
• Parisian Bus Route Map

RELATED ARTICLES:

• HOW TO USE iVENTURE CARD FROM KLOOK
• BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT IN HONG KONG
• CARD CAPTOR SAKURA RESTAURANT IN HONG KONG

Hong Kong & Macau iVenture Card with Klook – How to use

• How to Use Taipei Fun Pass on Klook + Sample 3 Days Itinerary: Everything You Need to Know
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Joana Paola Gutierrez

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4 thoughts on “ 2022 hong kong and macau diy guide: budget & itinerary ”.

Hi, does the free cotai jet can be scheduled the next day in case you want to stay for 2 days in macau? Thank you

Yes. As long as there is an available ferry schedule on the day for your return trip to HK from Macau.

Hi! How much is your budget in this trip? Thank you!

Hello Cha! My budget was 20,000 per person for this trip. 😉

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Passing Thru Travel

Exploring Hong Kong: 11 Must-See Attractions for an Unforgettable Journey

Posted: March 4, 2024 | Last updated: March 4, 2024

Hong Kong, a bustling metropolis known for its skyline, vibrant street life, and rich cultural tapestry, offers an exhilarating blend of tradition and modernity. This guide explores the multifaceted experiences of Hong Kong, from its towering skyscrapers and bustling markets to tranquil temples and lush green spaces.

1. Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak, the highest point in Hong Kong, offers an unparalleled view of the city’s skyline. This sight is as breathtaking by day as it is glittering by night. The journey to the peak is an experience, with the Peak Tram providing a steep and picturesque ascent. Once at the summit, the Peak Circle Walk, a leisurely path around the peak, offers various vantage points to view the sprawling metropolis below.

The Peak Galleria, a shopping and dining complex at the top, provides a range of options for refreshment and leisure, making it a perfect spot to relax after a walk. The blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication at Victoria Peak encapsulates the essence of Hong Kong, offering a moment of tranquility above the city’s hustle and bustle.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset and witness the city lights come alive at dusk.

How To Get There: Take the Peak Tram from its Garden Road terminus in Central, or bus 15 from Exchange Square bus terminus.

Best Time To Travel: The views are best on clear days, typically from October to December.

2. Temple Street Night Market

The Temple Street Night Market, located in the heart of Kowloon, is a vibrant showcase of Hong Kong’s lively street culture. As the sun sets, the market streets come alive with vendors selling an array of goods, from traditional Chinese medicine and jade to electronics and souvenirs. The market is a vibrant cultural experience.

Here, you can savor local street food specialties, enjoy impromptu opera performances, and even have your fortune told. The bustling atmosphere, with its mix of locals and tourists, creates a lively environment that is quintessentially Hong Kong. A stroll through the Temple Street Night Market offers a glimpse into the city’s everyday life and its rich, multifaceted culture.

Insider’s Tip: Try some local street food delicacies like egg tarts or fish balls from the market’s numerous food stalls.

How To Get There: The market is easily accessible via the MTR, alighting at Jordan Station.

Best Time To Travel: The market operates daily from 4 PM, but the best atmosphere builds up after 7 PM.

3. The Star Ferry

The Star Ferry, a historic mode of transport between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, is a symbol of the city’s heritage. The ferry ride offers a unique perspective of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline, set against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour.

The experience of crossing the harbor on the Star Ferry is both humbling and awe-inspiring, as one witnesses the grandeur of the city from a vantage point that has remained unchanged for over a century. The gentle rhythm of the ferry’s journey and its panoramic views make it a must-do for anyone seeking to experience the essence of Hong Kong.

Insider’s Tip: Take a ride at night to see the Symphony of Lights, a spectacular light and sound show featuring more than 40 buildings on both sides of the harbor.

How To Get There: Ferries depart from Central Pier on Hong Kong Island and Tsim Sha Tsui Pier in Kowloon.

Best Time To Travel: Evening rides offer the most dramatic views of the city’s illuminated skyline.

4. Lantau Island and the Tian Tan Buddha

Lantau Island, the largest of Hong Kong’s islands, starkly contrasts the city’s urban landscape. The island is home to the Tian Tan Buddha, a majestic 34-meter-high bronze statue atop 268 steps. This serene and spiritual site offers a panoramic view of the island’s lush mountains and the South China Sea.

The nearby Po Lin Monastery and Ngong Ping Village provide a cultural and spiritual exploration, with opportunities to enjoy vegetarian meals prepared by the monks. Lantau Island’s tranquil environment, with its natural beauty and spiritual landmarks, offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s frenetic pace, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a different aspect of Hong Kong’s diverse character.

Insider’s Tip: Take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for a scenic journey to the Buddha statue, with breathtaking views of the island.

How To Get There: Take the MTR to Tung Chung Station, then the Ngong Ping 360 cable car.

Best Time To Travel: Weekdays to avoid crowds, with clear skies for the best views from the cable car and at the Buddha.

5. Hong Kong Park

Hong Kong Park, nestled among the skyscrapers of Central Hong Kong, highlights the city’s ability to blend urban development with natural beauty. This tranquil park, with its aviary, artificial lake, and lush greenery, provides a peaceful escape from the urban jungle. The park’s design seamlessly integrates natural landscapes with modern facilities, including sports courts and playgrounds.

The Edward Youde Aviary, one of the park’s highlights, is home to a variety of exotic birds, offering a chance to connect with nature amidst the city. The Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, located within the park, adds a cultural dimension, showcasing the art and history of Chinese tea.

Hong Kong Park is a green space and a symbol of the city’s harmonious coexistence with nature and its commitment to providing breathing spaces for its residents and visitors.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Edward Youde Aviary early in the morning to see various birds in a more tranquil setting.

How To Get There: The park is centrally located in Admiralty and is easily accessible on foot or by MTR.

Best Time To Travel: The park is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

6. Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo

Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo, two of Hong Kong’s most popular nightlife districts, offer a pulsating mix of bars, restaurants, and clubs. These areas are the epicenter of the city’s after-dark activities, buzzing with energy and excitement. With its steep, narrow lanes, Lan Kwai Fong is known for its vibrant bar scene, attracting a lively crowd of locals and expats.

SoHo, short for “South of Hollywood Road,” offers a more diverse experience with an array of international cuisines, art galleries, and boutique shops. The Mid-Levels Escalator, the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system, connects these two areas, making them easily accessible.

The dynamic atmosphere of Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo, with their blend of culinary delights, artistic expressions, and nocturnal revelry, captures the cosmopolitan spirit of Hong Kong.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the side streets and hidden alleys for unique bars and eateries away from the main crowds.

How To Get There: Both areas are within walking distance from the Central MTR station.

Best Time To Travel: Evenings, especially on weekends, when the areas are most lively.

7. The Hong Kong Museum of History

The Hong Kong Museum of History presents a comprehensive narrative of the city’s rich and complex heritage. Spanning millions of years, from its geological formation and prehistoric times to the modern metropolis it is today, the museum offers a deep dive into Hong Kong’s multifaceted past.

The exhibits are meticulously curated, featuring detailed dioramas, authentic artifacts, and interactive displays. Key highlights include the recreation of old Hong Kong streets, giving visitors a sense of walking through history. This museum is not just a place to observe; it’s an educational journey that brings the story of Hong Kong and its people to life.

Insider’s Tip: Allocate several hours to fully appreciate the extensive exhibits, which comprehensively understand Hong Kong’s history.

How To Get There: The museum is located in Tsim Sha Tsui, accessible via the MTR.

Best Time To Travel: Weekday mornings are less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.

8. The Dragon’s Back Hike

The Dragon’s Back hike, renowned for its breathtaking coastal views, is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Hong Kong. Named for its undulating ridges that resemble a dragon’s spine, this trail offers stunning vistas of the South China Sea and the lush Shek O Country Park. The hike culminates at Shek O Peak, where the panoramic views are unparalleled.

The trail then descends to Big Wave Bay, a perfect spot to relax and unwind after the trek. The Dragon’s Back hike emphasizes Hong Kong’s natural beauty, showcasing a side of the city that contrasts sharply with its urban landscape.

Insider’s Tip: Continue the hike to Big Wave Bay and relax on the beach after your trek.

How To Get There: Take bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR Station to the trail’s starting point.

Best Time To Travel: Autumn and spring offer the best weather for hiking, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.

9. Wong Tai Sin Temple

Wong Tai Sin Temple, a revered Taoist temple, is a colorful and vibrant place of worship known for its practice of Kau Cim, a method of fortune-telling. The temple’s ornate traditional Chinese architecture, with its red pillars, golden roof, and intricate carvings, is a visual feast.

The temple grounds also feature a beautifully landscaped garden, adding to the serene atmosphere. Visitors come here not only to seek spiritual guidance but also to experience a peaceful and contemplative environment. Wong Tai Sin Temple is a cultural landmark that offers a glimpse into the spiritual practices and beliefs of Hong Kong’s people.

Insider’s Tip: Participate in the Kau Cim fortune-telling ritual for a unique cultural experience.

How To Get There: The temple is easily accessible by MTR, alighting at Wong Tai Sin Station.

Best Time To Travel: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds on weekends and religious holidays.

10. Aberdeen Harbor and Jumbo Kingdom

Aberdeen Harbor, once a quiet fishing village, is now a vibrant waterfront area reflecting Hong Kong’s maritime heritage. The harbor is home to the famous Jumbo Kingdom, one of the world’s largest floating restaurants, known for its lavish decoration and fine dining.

A sampan ride around the harbor offers a unique perspective of the traditional lifestyle of the Tanka people, who have lived on boats in the harbor for generations. Aberdeen combines the old and the new, showcasing Hong Kong’s evolution while preserving its maritime traditions.

Insider’s Tip: Take a sampan ride around the harbor for an up-close view of the local fishermen’s way of life.

How To Get There: Aberdeen is accessible by bus or taxi from Central or by taking a sampan from the Aberdeen Promenade.

Best Time To Travel: Late afternoon or evening to enjoy the harbor lights and a dinner on the water.

11. The Markets of Mong Kok

Mong Kok, characterized by its high population density and vibrant street life, is home to some of Hong Kong’s most famous markets. The Ladies’ Market, Flower Market, and Bird Market each offer a unique shopping and cultural experience.

The Ladies Market is known for its clothing, accessories, and souvenirs, while the Flower Market is a colorful array of fresh flowers and plants. The Bird Market is a fascinating place where songbirds are sold in intricate bamboo cages.

Exploring these markets provides a sensory and cultural adventure, showcasing the lively and bustling nature of Hong Kong’s street commerce.

Insider’s Tip: Haggle to get the best prices, as bargaining is common in these markets.

How To Get There: Mong Kok is easily accessible by MTR, with each market within walking distance of the station.

Best Time To Travel: The markets are most vibrant in the late afternoon or early evening .

The Bottom Line

Hong Kong is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions coexist with modern dynamism. As you explore its bustling streets, tranquil parks, and scenic trails, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and discover the unique experiences that make Hong Kong truly captivating. Remember, Hong Kong is much more than a destination; it’s a journey through diverse experiences and endless discoveries.

To fully experience the essence of Hong Kong, venture beyond the tourist spots. Explore the local neighborhoods, try the street food, and engage with the locals. This approach will enrich your understanding of the city and provide a more authentic and memorable experience.

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The post Exploring Hong Kong: 11 Must-See Attractions for an Unforgettable Journey republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Perfect Lazybones.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Forbes Travel Guide Stories

Hong Kong’s Hidden Travel Gems By Correspondent Kate Springer

April 8, 2024

A dynamic destination like Hong Kong always has something new to discover. Even if you’ve visited a dozen times, the city will surprise you with its rich cultural experiences, hidden bars and stunning natural scenery. 

If you’ve already explored the usual sights and activities — or simply want to see another side of things — dig deeper on your next visit with seven of Hong Kong’s best-kept secrets. 

Plan a one-of-a-kind dinner date 

In Central, dine like culinary royalty at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star The Krug Room , hidden inside the Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong . It’s the only one outside France, and you’ll need help finding it.

A few minutes before your reservation begins, meet your server at The Chinnery then follow him through a swinging door and down a hallway lined with candles. Turn a corner, and an elegantly designed space that feels like an Old World train carriage appears out of nowhere. Offering a view of the buzzing hotel kitchen, the white marble table has just 12 seats. Book a few spots or the whole room to enjoy 10 to 14 artistic courses by executive chef Robin Zavou paired with Krug champagnes. Each multi-sensory course arrives with dramatic presentations and storytelling to delight your taste buds and spark your imagination.

If you can’t snag a dinner reservation, check out the Krug-tasting sessions on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, with delicious snacks from Zavou.    

View this post on Instagram A post shared by South China Morning Post (@scmpnews)

Travel back in time to Lai Chi Wo 

Originally home to a community of Hakka people, an ethnic group that migrated from northern China, this 350-year-old walled village is one of the oldest and largest settlements in Hong Kong. Inside Lai Chi Wo , you’ll find more than 200 well-preserved houses, temples and ancestral halls, some of which have been remodeled into shops and cafés. 

After admiring the architecture, follow the short Lai Chi Wo Nature Trail to explore the surrounding “fung shui” woods, farmlands and coastal mangrove forests. Fair warning: It’s a trek. The village is accessible via a scenic 10-mile hike or a 1.5-hour ferry service (from Ma Liu Shui Public Pier, about 30 minutes from Central), so plan your day trip in advance.   

Weave in some textile history 

If you’re a culture maven, you’ll undoubtedly have hot spots like Tai Kwun , PMQ and the West Kowloon Cultural District — home to M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum — on your radar. But if you’re keen to venture off the beaten path, head over to The Mills in Tsuen Wan, about 30 minutes on the MTR from Central. At this destination for heritage and innovation, industry giant Nan Fung Textiles Limited transformed its former cotton-spinning mills into a creative revitalization complex devoted to Hong Kong’s fashion and textile industry. 

In addition to exploring fascinating relics, seasonal exhibitions, beautiful murals and architectural details at the textile heritage museum dubbed CHAT ( Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile ), you can partake in hands-on workshops and tours. Afterward, enjoy a meal at one of the artisanal restaurants or shop for eco-conscious lifestyle products and indie fashion on The Mills Shopfloor. One of the boutiques, Fabrica X , features creations from The Mills Fabrica, an accelerator for sustainable fashion technology and agri-food startups.  

Take home a piece of porcelain  

For Hong Kong souvenirs that you’ll treasure forever, find your way to Yuet Tung China Works. Concealed in a commercial building in Kowloon Bay, this treasure trove of hand-painted ceramics overflows with racks of high-quality porcelain, from decorative tableware to vases, lamp bases and even children’s cups and bowls. 

Specializing in guang cai (a style of overglaze decoration dating to the Qing Dynasty), the family-run company was established nearly 100 years ago in 1928 and is one of the last of its kind in Hong Kong. Amid the store’s narrow aisles and jam-packed shelves, you’ll likely see an artist at work, hand-painting tiny flowers and animals onto delicate pieces.  

Catch a delicious pop-up  

Looking for a low-key night out? Don’t miss a chance to experience a pop-up dinner at Test Kitchen . Located in a cool, loft-style warehouse in Sai Ying Pun, a vibrant neighborhood west of Central, this experimental space invites chefs worldwide to showcase their limited-time menus. 

Past experiences have included everything from a Danish pastry journey and Balinese feast to a farm-to-table menu by influential Hong Kong chef Devon Hou , who has worked at Five-Star establishments such as Amber and the Mandarin Grill + Bar . 

Track down killer cocktails 

Whether tucked away in nondescript commercial buildings or hidden behind playful facades, Hong Kong bars are fun to find. The city’s first speakeasy-style lounge, 001 , recently moved from its original location amid the bustling market stalls on Graham Street to an even harder-to-find spot in Tai Kwun. Wander deep into a converted prison and navigate a maze of hallways, stairwells and seemingly identical black prison doors until you spot a discreet vintage doorbell — your ticket inside. Once you’re in, sip on a signature Earl Grey Martini, reminiscent of a gin sour, at this jazzy, jewel-toned cocktail bar.  While the night’s still young, slink over to Five-Star The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong . Head up the stairs and step inside the vintage phone booth at the back of MO Bar . Push any button to enter PDT (Please Don’t Tell) — a collaboration with the famed New York cocktail bar. With just 25 seats, the intimate, wood-clad space feels a world away from the busy streets of Central.

Savor a Benton’s Old Fashion, a locally inspired gourmet hot dog (like the Typhoon Shelter Dog) and “Cheung Fun” tater tots to get the full experience. Alternatively, you can join one of the Sunday School cocktail masterclasses for a spirited day out. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by George (@gruslinhk)

Make a secret splash 

If you love a great hike with sea views, plan a day trip to the Ap Lei Pai tide pool to see another side of Hong Kong. Take the MTR down to the South Side, near Aberdeen, and hop off at Lei Tung station (Exit B) on Ap Lei Chau island. Walk south on Lei Tung Estate Road until you see a McDonald’s on the left. Straight ahead, two yellow booths mark the start of the hidden trailhead. From there, follow the short but challenging 2.2-mile coastal loop. Steep concrete steps will take you up the hill, past a playground and onto a dirt trail over Mount Johnston, then across a narrow sandbar onto Ap Lei Pai island. 

You’ll spot the white Mount Johnson Lighthouse at the island’s southern tip. Continue around the coastline, and you’ll find the tide pool about 350 feet to the right. Clamber down the rocks into the pool, soak up the serene atmosphere, then hire a local sampan boat or hike back to Aberdeen. There’s little shade on this hike, so we’d recommend going on an overcast day or early in the morning. Be sure to pack lots of water, gloves, shoes with good grip and sun protection. 

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2024 hong kong travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, budget, and tips for first-timers.

Traveling to Hong Kong for the first time this 2024? Discover the best of Hong Kong with this comprehensive HK Travel Guide Blog for first-timers with sample DIY itinerary and budget travel tips! From iconic landmarks such as Victoria Peak, Ngong Ping 360 and Tian Tan Buddha to hidden gems and tourist spots, let this help you in planning a wonderful Hong Kong adventure!

Updated first-timer's travel guide blog to hong kong 2024, quick facts about hong kong.

• Official Name - Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, or Hong Kong SAR
• Currency - Hong Kong Dollars (HKD / HK$)
• Language - Cantonese
• Weather - 4 Seasons (Winter/Spring/Summer/Fall)
• Electricity - 220 Volts at 50 Hertz (uses type G socket 3-pin square plugs)
• Time Zone: - UTC+08:00

Visa Requirements

Hong kong travel requirements.

How to get to Hong Kong?

From manila, from cebu, davao or clark, asean cities to hong kong.

• Buy CotaiJet Ferry Discounted Tickets
• Buy TurboJet Ferry Discounted Tickets
• TurboJet Ferry Tickets (Macau - HK Airport)

How to Get Out of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA)?

Airport express train.

BUS OR COACH

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Jan 26, 2018 at 7:57pm PST

How to get around the city?

Hong Kong Weather

When is the best time to visit hong kong, how many days to stay in hong kong, hong kong time zone, useful cantonese phrases.

• Hello - Néih hóu (sounds like ley-ho)
• Thank you - Doh-je (sounds like door-chair)
• Excuse Me/Please - Ng-goi (sounds like mmm-goy)
• Good morning – Jou-sen (sounds like joe-san)
• Good night - Jou-tau (sounds like joe-towe)
• Good bye - Joi-gin (sounds like joy-gee-n)
• How much? - Gei-do-chin (sounds like gay-do-chin)
• Yummy - Hou-hou-sihk (sounds like ho-ho sick)

Where to Get or to Exchange Hong Kong Currency?

How to Stay Connected to the Internet in Hong Kong?

• 4G WiFi (Hong Kong Pick Up) for Hong Kong
• 4G or 3G SIM Card (HK Airport Pick Up) for Hong Kong

Where to Stay in Hong Kong?

Urban Pack Hostel, Hong Kong

Hao's inn, tsim sha tsui, hong kong, hong kong premium guest house, jas guest house, which one is the best, other hotels in hong kong.

• Homy Inn - Check room rates and availability
• Ah Shan Hostel - Check room rates and availability
• Royal Plaza Hotel - Check room rates and availability
• Central 18 Gage St - Check room rates and availability
• Private Apartment Rooms @ Hongkong Island - Check room rates and availability
• The Park Lane Hotel Hong Kong - Check room rates and availability
• Royal Garden Hotel - Check room rates and availability
• Hong Kong Hostel - Check room rates and availability
• Harbour Grand Hong Kong Hotel - Check room rates and availability
• Regal Hong Kong Hotel - Check room rates and availability

For more hotels in Hong Kong....

Top Best Things To Do, Tourist Spots and Attractions in Hong Kong

HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

Ticket prices at hong kong disneyland's website.

• General Admission (Ages 12 – 64) - HK$619 / ₱ 4,161.19
• Child (Ages 3 – 11) - HK$458 / ₱ 3,078.87
• Senior (Ages 65+) - HK$100 / ₱ 672.00
• General Admission (Ages 12 – 64) - HK$799 / ₱ 5,371.22
• Child (Ages 3 – 11) - HK$589 / ₱ 3,959.51
• Senior (Ages 65+) - HK$170 / ₱ 1,142.81

TICKET PRICES AT KLOOK.COM

• 1-Day Adult Ticket - ₱ 3,413
• 2-Day Adult Ticket - ₱ 4,700

So, if you book your tickets at Klook.com, you can save as much as ₱ 748 pesos on standard 1-day adult ticket, and ₱ 671 pesos on standard 2-day adult park ticket.

VICTORIA PEAK

• The Peak Tram - 7:00 am - 12:00 mn (Mon - Sun & Public Holidays)
• Sky Terrace 428 - Monday to Friday: 10:00 am - 11:00 pm; Weekends and Public Holidays: 8:00 am - 11:00 pm

• Adult - HK$ 90 (return) / HK$ 77 (single)
• Child and Senior - HK$ 43 (return) / HK$ 35 (single)
• Adult - HK$ 45 (return) / HK$ 32 (single)
• Child and Senior - HK$ 20 (return) / HK$ 12 (single)
• The Peak Tram Sky Pass (Sky Terrace 428)
• Peak Tram Fast-Track Combo

MADAME TUSSAUDS HONG KONG

NGONG PING 360 CABLE CAR

• Standard Cabin - HKD $210 (adult) / $100 (child) / $140 (senior)
• Crystal Cabin - HKD $290 (adult) / $180 (child) / $220 (senior)
• Standard Cabin - HKD $145 (adult) / $70 (child) / $95 (senior)
• Crystal Cabin - HKD $200 (adult) / $130 (child) / $150 (senior)
• Ngong Ping 360 - Crystal Cabin (One Way / Roundtrip)
• Ngong Ping 360 - One Way Standard Cabin + One Way Crystal Cabin (Roundtrip)
• Ngong Ping 360 - Standard Cabin (One Way / Roundtrip)

TIAN TAN BUDDHA, PO LIN MONASTERY, AND NGONG PING VILLAGE

[ purchase discounted ngong ping cable ride tickets ].

OCEAN PARK HONG KONG

VICTORIA HARBOUR, AVENUE OF STARS, AND SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS

ST. JOHN'S CATHEDRAL

THE ART OF CHOCOLATE MUSEUM

MAN MO TEMPLE

CHI LIN NUNNERY

NAN LIAN GARDEN

CHOI HUNG ESTATE

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Nov 14, 2018 at 11:01pm PST

MONTANE MANSION or MONSTER BUILDING

SKY100 HONG KONG OBSERVATION DECK

Other Popular Experiences in Hong Kong

Central Street Art & "Eat Pray Art" Half Day Tour

Big Bus Tours

AquaLuna Evening Sail

Hong Kong Helicopter Tours

Plaza Inn in Hong Kong Disneyland

Lantau Cultural and Heritage Insight Tour

Sightsee Macau Day Tour

Hong Kong Guided Walking Tour

Central and Victoria Peak Cultural Tour

Sample Hong Kong Itineraries

Sample diy hong kong itinerary 3 days & 2 nights, hong kong travel guide day 1 - ngong ping + victoria peak.

• Depart from Manila
• Arrive at Hong Kong International Airport
• Take Airport Express Train to Kowloon
• GET DISCOUNTED TICKET TO AIRPORT EXPRESS TRAIN
• Take the free shuttle van to Tsim Sha Tsui
• Check-in / leave bags at the hotel or guesthouse in Tsim Sha Tsui
• Take the MTR to Tung Chung station
• Be sure to have an Octopus Card. Get one here (Pre-loaded with $50 HKD Credits) .
• Ngong Ping (Cable car ride, Ngong Ping Village, Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery) [ RESERVE DISCOUNTED NGONG PING CABLE RIDE TICKETS ]
• Go back to Tung Chung station, take MTR to Central Station
• Walk to The Peak Tram Lower Terminus
• Take the tram to Victoria Peak [ GET DISCOUNTED THE PEAK TRAM AND SKY TERRACE TICKETS ]
• Enjoy the sight
• Go down Victoria Peak via the Peak Tram
• Walk towards MTR Central Station
• Take MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station
• Go back to the hotel/guesthouse

HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE DAY 2 - HONG KONG DISNEYLAND + MONG KOK

• Take the MTR to Hong Kong Disneyland
• Don't forget to bring your Octopus Card . For convenience, you may also get a private car transfer to Hong Kong Disneyland. Getting a private transfer is recommended especially if you're traveling with kids and senior citizens.
• Arrive at Hong Kong Disneyland [ AVAIL DISCOUNTED HONG KONG DISNEYLAND TICKETS ]
• Enjoy Hong Kong Disneyland
• Depart for Mong Kok
• Take MTR to Mong Kok Station
• Shop, eat, take photos
• Go back to Tsim Sha Tsui via MTR
• Walk towards Avenue of the Stars
• Enjoy Avenue of the Stars
• Watch the Symphony of lights show

HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE DAY 3 - CENTRAL HONG KONG + SHOPPING

• Take MTR to Central Station
• Explore street arts, Lan Kwai Fong, antique shops, Man Mo Temple
• For convenience, you may also avail a Central Street Art & "Eat Pray Art" Half Day Tour or a Hello Hong Kong Walking Tour .
• Shop for souvenirs and pasalubong
• Go back to the hotel / guesthouse
• Take the MTR to Kowloon Station
• Take the Airport Express Train to Hong Kong International Airport
• GET HERE DISCOUNTED TICKET TO AIRPORT EXPRESS TRAIN
• Depart for Manila

SAMPLE DIY HONG KONG-MACAU ITINERARY 3 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS

Day 1 - macau.

• 07:00 - Ferry ride from Hong Kong to Macau
• 08:00 - Arrival in Macau
• 08:30 - Leave bags in the hotel
• 09:00 - Pick up at either the Macau Hotel or Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal
• 10:00 - Start of TKW Macau Tour (includes buffet lunch)
• Ruins of St. Paul's
• Mount Fortress
• Senado Square
• Na Tcha Temple
• A Ma Temple
• Macau Tower
• From here, you may request the tour guide to leave you at the Macau Tower so you could avail the Macau Tower Observation Ticket.
• 02:00 - Macau Tower Observatory
• 03:00 - Travel to Broadway Macau (ride the free casino shuttle bus)
• 04:00 - Broadway Macau (not available every Tuesday)
• Avail Viva La Broadway Show
• Redeem Broadway Macau set meal using the voucher
• 06:00 - Dinner
• 07:00 - Visit Casinos
• 10:00 - Go back to the hotel, rest.

DAY 2 - HONG KONG PART 1

• 05:00 - Check out from the hotel
• 06:00 - Take the ferry to Hong Kong
• 07:00 - Arrive in Hong Kong
• 08:00 - Leave bags at the hotel
• 08:30 - Pick-up at Holiday Inn Golden Mile on Mody Road, TST, Kowloon for Ocean Park Hong Kong
• 09:30 - Arrive at Ocean Park Hong Kong [ GET DISCOUNTED OCEAN PARK TICKETS ]
• 10:00 - 02:00 PM - Enjoy Ocean Park Hong Kong + Lunch
• 02:30 - Take the MTR to Kowloon (Sky100 is just outside Kowloon MTR Station)
• 03:00 - Go up to Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck + Avail Sky100 VR experience Ticket
• 04:00 - Take the MTR to Noah's Ark Hong Kong
• 05:00 - Go to Victoria Peak, avail roundtrip Peak Tram tickets [ GET DISCOUNTED THE PEAK TRAM AND SKY TERRACE TICKETS ]
• 07:00 - Dinner
• 08:00 - The Art of Chocolate Museum Ticket
• 09:00 - Go back to the hotel

DAY 3 - HONG KONG PART 2

• 09:00 - Travel to Ngong Ping (take the MTR to Tung Chung)
• 10:00 - Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Ride [ AVAIL DISCOUNTED NGONG PING CABLE RIDE TICKETS ]
• 10:30 - Arrival at Ngong Ping
• Ngong Ping Village
• Walking with Buddha
• Ngong Ping Piazza
• Tian Tan Big Buddha
• Po Lin Monastery
• Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas
• Wisdom Path
• 12:00 - Lunch
• 12:30 - Travel back by 360 Cable Car Ride to Tung Chung
• 01:00 - Arrive at Tung Chung MTR Station
• 0200 - 05:00 - Rickshaw Sightseeing Bus Tour
• 06:00 - Watertours Pre-Sunset Cruise
• 09:00 - Dinner
• 10:00 - Go back to the hotel

For sample Hong Kong and Hong Kong-Macau Itineraries for 4 days and 5 days, please visit: Hong Kong Sample Itineraries with Macau Day Tour .

Hong Kong Trip Budget and Expenses

• Airport Express Train to Kowloon - PHP 463.00
• Accommodation (1st night) - PHP 1,500 / 2 = 750 per person
• Ngong Ping 360 roundtrip - PHP 993.00
• Victoria Peak Tram + Sky Terrace 428 - PHP 464.00
• Transportation - PHP 200.00
• Food expenses - 500.00
• TOTAL - PHP 3,370.00
• Accommodation (2nd night) - PHP 1,500 / 2 = 750 per person
• Hong Kong Disneyland - PHP 3,480.00
• Food expenses - PHP 800.00
• TOTAL - PHP 5,230.00
• Airport Express Train to airport - PHP 463.00
• TOTAL - PHP 1,163.00

GRAND TOTAL - PHP 9,763.00

• Round trip airfare Manila-Hong Kong-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Food expense for snacks
• Budget for pasalubong and souvenirs

Hong Kong Travel Tips and Reminders

• For electricity, most establishments use the type G socket 3-pin square plugs with 220 Volts at 50 hertz. Don't forget to bring a universal adapter when traveling to Hong Kong.
• Travel time from/to Hong Kong International Airport from/to Hong Kong City Center depends on which transportation you'll be using. The fastest way to get to/from the airport from/to the city is via the Airport Express Train . Take note of this so you could plan your travel especially going to airport so you will not miss your flight.
• You can bring in Philippine Peso, Euros, or US Dollars in Hong Kong and change it at the money changers at the airport or at the city center. Exchange rate at the airport is terribly low, it's better to change your money at the city center.
• If you're on a budget, don't eat in restaurants. It's best to look for streetside kiosks where you could eat a decent meal or go to fast food chains such as Mc Donald's where you could grab a meal for 25 HKD. Convenience stores such as 7-Eleven are also a good choice for affordable ready to eat meals.
• Hong Kong has summer, winter, spring and fall. Be sure to check the weather before going there so you'll know what kind of clothing you should pack in your bags.
• Hong Kong is a very walkable city. When exploring the city, you will certainly walk a lot. It is best to wear comfortable footwear.
• Free In-town Check-in Service is available for many major airlines at Hong Kong and Kowloon MTR stations. If you've already checked-out of your hotel and you still want to explore Hong Kong without bringing your huge luggage, you can avail this service between 90 minutes and one full day before your flight.
• To save on travel expenses, book discounted tickets at Klook.com , join group tours, take the bus or the MTR, walk if you can, stay in hostels, guest houses, or budget hotels in Hong Kong , and take advantage of flight seat sales and promos .

Hong Kong Travel Blogs

• iVenture Card Hong Kong Review - this is where I explained the benefits of using an iVenture Card, how much will you save, and what are the included attractions when using an iVenture Card on your trip to Hong Kong and Macau.
• Hong Kong Disneyland Cheap Tickets & Travel Guide with Things To Do, Hotels, and More Tips - this is where you'll find detailed information about Disneyland Hong Kong, wehere to buys cheap discounted tickets, top things to do, and more to make your Hong Kong Disneyland adventure truly memorable.
• Sample Hong Kong-Macau Itineraries - this is where I shared some sample DIY itineraries for 3,4,5 days in Hong Kong with Disneyland, Ocean Park and Macau Day Tours.
• Hong Kong to Macau by Bus or Ferry via Sea Bridge - this is where I explained and provided instructions on how to get to Macau from Hong Kong via ferry boat or by bus. Use this as your guide when visiting Macau coming from Hong Kong.
• Cheap and Affordable Hotels in Hong Kong - I shared on this article the budget hotels in Hong Kong that I have personally tried.
• First-hand Experience: Na-hold kami sa Immigration sa Hong Kong - this is where I narrated our experience when the immigration officer in Hong Kong held us for questioning and what we did so we could enter Hong Kong.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Traveling to Hong Kong

Do we need show money to enter hong kong, is disneyland ticket included in the iventure card, upon arrival at kowloon can we leave our baggage at the in-town check in then go straight to sight-seeing, we are 4 in all (me, husband, and 2 kids), should each of us buy the octopus card or can we just buy 1 or 2, i hope this hong kong travel guide blog 2024 for first-timers will help you in planning a memorable hong kong adventure enjoy and have fun.

FOLLOW MY ADVENTURES ON YOUTUBE @PinoyAdventurista

21 comments :.

Hong Kong's official tourism guide includes tourist information on attractions, events, shopping and dining, vacation holiday packages, street maps, virtual tours and travel planning itineraries to experience Hong Kong's unique international living culture. Visit Hong Kong, Asia's top travel destination. If you're planning on including Macau to your itinerary, Kowloon and Hong Kong Island have a ferry terminal each. Hong Kong MACAU Ferry Terminal along Connaught Road Central, Sheung Wan area in Hong Kong Island. Hong Kong CHINA Ferry Terminal along Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. Where to get the best flight deals? My go-to platform for grabbing the best flight deal? Skyscanner! But of course, it's always good practice to research first the budget airlines that exist in the country that you're currently staying in, since they could.

Where to next? Sama ako! Hahahaha

Hi is there any bus station at Tsim Tsa Tsui for Rickshaw Sightseeing? Or I need to go to Central (Star Ferry) for the departure?

Ibinigay ng blog na ito lahat at walang itinira. Thank you for this! More than excellent blog. God bless you!

Hello! I am travelling to HK with my family and this is our first time. Just wondering, we are 4 in all (me, my husband, and 2 kids), should each of us buy the octopus card or can we just buy 1 or 2?

Indeed, with so much to do in Hong Kong, one can scratch one's head about where to start in order get the most out of the trip. This in-depth DIY itinerary that will help you plan and make the most out of your upcoming trip to Hong Kong! Thank you for sharing your HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE blog with sample HONG KONG ITINERARY and HONG KONG-MACAU ITINERARY. Hong Kong is definitely an exciting city. I’m so excited to travel to Hong Kong!

Hi good pm po ano po need ko kasi student po ako at sinusuporthan lng ako ng bf ko at travel ako ngayon june sa hongkong tip nmn po ano need ko e provide na requirements sa img.ty

For first time traveller with 2 kids (& budgeted as well), is it advisable to do diy hkg instead of buying a ready 4d3n complete package from a travel agency

if i buy the iventure card, wala na po ba aq babayaran upon entrance sa mga included tourist attractions?

Our family will be going to HK this November. This is our first out of the country trip. Since Disneyland is the happiest place on earth, I want my 2 boys (12 and 15 years old) to enjoy it fully. Is it advisable to avail of the 2day pass to Disney? Since 4days 3 nights naman kami. Thanks.

why i cant copy the text on your website? im planning to follow your 3 day IT

Is it really necessary na within 6 months validity yung passport? We're going to HK on December 2019 and expiration nung passport is February 2020. Magkaka problem kaya pag ganun? Thank you so much!

Yes, necessary. Common sense na yun at tsaka laging sinasabi yan sa mga websites ng DFA at mga airline companies.

For the free in-town check-in service po ba pwede iwan yung luggage more than 90minutes? Let's say arrival on HK is 8am then iiwan namin yung luggage and pick up na ng 4pm. Thanks in advance!

Can we book tickets for the Airport Express Train at the HK airport already? Thanks!

a little bit confuse with your travel tip po about sa In-town check-in services, as per Klook below " We understand that you want to leave your luggage more than 90 minutes in Airport Express Train, As I check on the activity there is no information that you can leave the luggage, the 90 minutes that you can see on the activity is the time for check in before departure. "

We will arrive at HK International Airport by 11:30pm,is there still a chance na makabili kami ng octopus card? San po kaya?

Firstime ko mka go ng hongkong,dati macau now hongkong tanggap kya nila ako

Pag mag visit ng Hongkong need po ba Rapid Test?

The best HK blog, very informative, detailed, and helpful! Thank you for this!

Need po ba proof of vaccination pagpabalik na Ng pinas?

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Hong Kong Free Press HKFP

Hong Kong news, breaking updates – 100% Independent, impartial, non-profit

Hong Kong struggles to win back long-haul tourists amid fewer flights and travel warnings

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Along Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour on a March weekend, tourists armed with selfie sticks jostled for space as they took photos with the city’s famed skyline as a backdrop. Nearby, tour guides told the stories of Bruce Lee and Tony Leung, two local actors featured in the Avenue of Stars – Hong Kong’s answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Years ago, the chatter would likely have been a symphony of languages, from English to Korean to French and others. But on that Saturday afternoon, little else but Mandarin could be heard.

Since Hong Kong fully reopened to travellers last February after three years of strict pandemic rules, mainland Chinese visitors have largely returned to the city. Data from the Hong Kong Tourism Board shows that the number of mainland tourists in the last quarter of 2023 had recovered to around 80 per cent of the average in the five-year period between 2015 and 2019.

See also: Hong Kong needs more than free flights to bring back long-haul tourists after protests and pandemic

International tourists, however, saw a recovery of just about 60 per cent. Among them, visitors from South and Southeast Asia recorded the fastest growth. Numbers from Europe and the United States lagged behind.

In the fourth quarter of last year, the city recorded 72,035 UK tourists compared to 158,702 in the same period of 2018. The number of US visitors declined from 377,613 to 216,965 in the same period.

Allan Zeman, the chairperson of Lan Kwai Fong Group, said long-haul tourists were not coming back to Hong Kong in the same numbers because airlines had yet to restore the number of Hong Kong-bound flights to pre-pandemic levels.

“Cathay Pacific was very worried about overhead during Covid. Management decided to get rid of half the pilots,” Zeman said, referring to the Hong Kong carrier’s slashing of its workforce as strict Covid-19 rules grounded planes and halted flight routes.

According to the Hong Kong Aircrew Officers Association, Cathay Pacific employed just under 4,000 pilots in 2019. Now, it has around 2,500.

See also: Furious pilots and a lack of trust – Why aircrew at Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific are quitting what was once a dream job

Before the pandemic, Cathay Pacific flew to 119 destinations, according to its 2019 annual report . As of the end of 2023, the airline had only around 80 places on its route map.

The drop in flight availability had driven up air fares to Hong Kong, Zeman added.

“For a UK family of four, it would cost them HK$50,000 to HK$60,000 [round-trip] to come here,” the mogul said. “So they decide go closer to home instead.”

Paul Chan, the co-founder of tour group Walk in Hong Kong, said the blame could not be pinned on Cathay Pacific alone, as long-haul flights to Hong Kong across airlines had not fully recovered in general.

“Insufficient flights and expensive airfares is a problem,” Chan said, speaking in Cantonese to HKFP.

‘Political rhetoric’

Hong Kong authorities have made winning back tourists a key policy goal. During the budget speech in February, the government announced it had allocated HK$1.1 billion to promote “mega events,” host monthly pyrotechnics and drone shows, and partner with influencers to promote Hong Kong.

In its publicity efforts, the government has sought to paint a picture of a city that remains a vibrant place to travel to and conduct business in.

But tourists today are visiting a city vastly different to what it once was. Following large-scale protests in 2019 , Beijing the following year imposed a national security law on Hong Kong, under which civil society groups have disbanded and scores of activists have been jailed.

The city has also revived a colonial-era sedition law, jailing dozens – including ordinary people – for allegedly endangering national security.

The US , Canadian and Australian authorities are among the Western governments that have issued travel advisories for Hong Kong, warning of “broad” and “arbitrary” local laws.

Following the passage of further security legislation in March, the Australian government updated its warning. “The law includes additional national security offences. You could be detained without charge for up to 16 days and denied access to a lawyer for up to 48 hours,” the advisory reads.

Zeman said he had heard of tourists asking whether Hong Kong was “safe.”

See also: Silent night: Hong Kong tourist traps are empty, locals stay home as gov’t drive to revive evening economy begins

“The media says that China is not safe and they think Hong Kong is part of China. They don’t know what One Country, Two Systems is,” he said, referring to the city’s governing framework which is intended to give Hong Kong a certain degree of autonomy.

Talk about Hong Kong “losing its freedoms” was “just political rhetoric,” Zeman said, adding that he did not think Hong Kong’s image in the eyes of international tourists as a whole had changed. But he acknowledged that geopolitics had increasingly come into the picture, and that “some people” might believe the rhetoric.

Chan, the co-founder of Walk in Hong Kong, said politics rarely came up in conversation with tourists.

“I don’t know if they care [about Hong Kong politics], but it’s not what they care the most about,” Chan said. “They are most concerned with physical safety, if it’s comfortable, and if they can do the things they want to do.”

Demand and supply

With fewer flights coming to Hong Kong, the city has seen its status as an aviation hub suffer.

In 2019, the Hong Kong International Airport was ranked 10th on a list of the world’s airport megahubs. The ranking, by data provider Official Airline Guide, took into account destinations served by the airport and scheduled seat capacity.

Last year, the city’s airport was in 37th place, surpassed by those serving other Asian cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and Jakarta.

Shukor Yusof, the founder of aviation consultancy Endau Analytics, said airlines had been “hesitant in their projection” of Hong Kong after the protests in 2019 and Covid-19.

He added that business travellers were a significant customer base for flights to Hong Kong. With fewer major conventions and events, there was less interest in the city, he said.

“I think [Hong Kong] has just lost its lustre,” Yusof said, adding that even without accounting for air fares, the city was an expensive destination.

March, however, proved a strong month for Hong Kong’s “mega events” push. The city hosted ComplexCon, an American pop culture festival, while Art Basel and Art Central also returned to their pre-pandemic scales.

Still, Yusof said there was some way to go. Until there was more demand for flights to Hong Kong, airlines would likely not fully reinstate routes, Yusof said.

“Airlines will fly when there is demand,” he said. “The markets don’t lie.”

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Hillary Leung Senior Reporter

Hillary Leung is a journalist at Hong Kong Free Press, where she reports on local politics and social issues, and assists with editing. Since joining in late 2021, she has covered the Covid-19 pandemic, political court cases including the 47 democrats national security trial, and challenges faced by minority communities.

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Hillary completed her undergraduate degree in journalism and sociology at the University of Hong Kong. She worked at TIME Magazine in 2019, where she wrote about Asia and overnight US news before turning her focus to the protests that began that summer. At Coconuts Hong Kong, she covered general news and wrote features, including about a Black Lives Matter march that drew controversy amid the local pro-democracy movement and two sisters who were born to a domestic worker and lived undocumented for 30 years in Hong Kong.

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