Hong Kong is an enigmatic city where traditional Chinese culture and modern Western values blend harmoniously.
There’s so much to see and do in this bustling city — from towering skyscrapers to mountain-top hikes to historic temples.
Whether you’re here to eat the world’s best food, admiring this impressive skyline, or relaxing on a beach, Hong Kong is a destination that truly has it all.
You’ll find everything you need here to explore this destination.
Top Attractions in Hong Kong
1. Victoria Peak
A trip to The Peak (as the locals call it) is a must for any stay in Hong Kong.
The sweeping views of the skyline, the harbor, and the nearby islands make the trip more than worthwhile.
You can ride the Peak Tram to the top or, if you’re up for a challenge, hike up The Peak.
Travel Tip: Come at around sunset so you can watch the city go from day to night and see the skyline lit up at night. It’s stunning!
2. Star Ferry
The Star Ferry is over one hundred years old and is a classic Hong Kong experience. Take a little trip across the iconic Victoria Harbour, and enjoy the best skyline views of the city by water.
Take the ferry at sunset for mesmerizing golden-hour views of the city.
3. Temple Street Night Market
If you want to experience a little local Hong Kong culture, visit the Temple Street Night Market.
Whether it’s street food, clothing, knick-knacks, fortune tellers, or other items, the market is guaranteed to provide an engaging experience after dark.
Travel Tip: Carry some cash, practice your haggling, and never take the first offer!
4. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
Enjoy a peaceful walk on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade promenade while admiring Hong Kong’s incredible skyline.
Here you’ll also find the Avenue of Stars (akin to the Hollywood Walk of Fame) and can catch a performance at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre.
Get there before 8pm to grab a good spot for the Symphony of Lights.
5. Lantau Island & Tian Tan Buddha
Lantau Island, where the iconic Tian Tan Buddha (the Big Buddha) is located, is a great escape from the bustling city of Hong Kong.
You go on a cable car journey and visit Ngong Ping village, home to the Buddha.
Travel Tip: The Ngong Ping 360 cable car offers a picturesque and memorable way to travel to the Buddha.
6. Hong Kong Museum of History
For those who love history, the Hong Kong Museum of History offers a comprehensive overview of Hong Kong, including exhibits on its prehistoric times up until current (modern-day) times.
It’s a great way to learn about the city’s culture and history.
Make sure you have at least two hours here to enjoy all the exhibits.
7. Mong Kok
Mong Kok is one of my favorite areas in Hong Kong.
It’s definitely the busiest part of the city, filled with shopping streets and neon lights where you can find inexpensive fashion and electronics, local foods, and more.
Travel Tip: Come back at night to experience Mong Kok’s roudy atmosphere and neon lights in full.
8. Victoria Harbour
Featuring one of the most famous (and iconic) skylines in the world, Victoria Harbour is the epicenter of Hong Kong.
The harbor and city are even more impressive when you see them from a boat during the Symphony of Lights at night.
Be sure to take a harbor cruise for a cool, different, and relaxing look at the skyline.
Must-Try Food in Hong Kong
1. Dim Sum
The essence of Cantonese cuisine, dim sum consists of bite-sized dishes such as dumplings, buns, and rice rolls, which are usually steamed in bamboo baskets.
Experiencing dim sum is experiencing the culinary soul of Hong Kong.
Where to Try It?
Tim Ho Wan (Sham Shui Po) – Famous for its Michelin-starred, affordable dim sum.
Maxim’s Palace (Central) – Offers traditional dim sum in a grand setting with pushcarts.
Lin Heung Tea House (Sheung Wan) – A classic, old-school tea house experience.
2. Roast Goose
Another one of Hong Kong’s most popular dishes is roast goose. When cooked perfectly, it has crispy skin, tender and flavorful flesh, and rich umami-filled flavors. Sometimes it’s served with plum sauce.
Where to Try It?
Yat Lok (Central) - This Michelin-starred restaurant is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Kam’s Roast Goose (Wan Chai) - This restaurant also has a Michelin-star and is famous for its roast goose.
Joy Hing (Wan Chai) - The affordableand authentickey here has been flavorful, flavorful, flavorful.
3. Egg Tarts
Egg tarts are a popular Hong Kong-style dessert and consist of a flaky pastry filled with an egg custard that is slightly caramelized on top.
They make for a nice sweet treat or post-dinner dessert.
Where to Try It?
Tai Cheong Bakery (Central) – Famous for its buttery and silky-smooth egg tarts.
Honolulu Coffee Shop (Wan Chai) – Offers egg tarts with a signature flaky crust.
LKK Bakery (Mong Kok) – A local place to get cheap, fresh egg tarts.
Practical Tips for Travelers
1. Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hong Kong is in the autumn (September to November), when there are the most pleasant temperatures and the fewest rainy days.
Spring (March to May) is another good season, but it is more humid.
2. Getting Around
Hong Kong’s subway system, the MTR, is easy to navigate as are the buses and trams.
Get the Octopus card, which will allow you to pay for journeys as well as convenience stores.
3. Language
The official language is Cantonese, but English is widely spoken in the areas and restaurants and hotels that cater to tourists.
4. Currency
The national currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). ATMs aren’t hard to find and credit cards widely accepted.
5. Weather
Hong Kong’s weather can be pretty humid in the summer, so make sure you wear light, breathable clothing. Winters are mild, but temperatures can drop, so bring a light jacket.
FAQ
1. Do I need a visa for Hong Kong?
Visitors of many nationalities, such as the US, UK, and Canada, do not need a visa to visit Hong Kong for a stay of 90 days or less. Always check visa requirements for your specific nationality prior to travel.
2. Is Hong Kong expensive to visit?
Hong Kong isn’t cheap, and accommodation and dining out at ritzy restaurants can be quite expensive. But there are a ton of deals around at local eateries and budget hotels.
3. Is Hong Kong safe for tourists?
Yes, for the most part, Hong Kong is safe for travelers. That said, like anywhere, it’s never a bad idea to take common-sense safety precautions like keeping an eye on your surroundings.
4. Is Wi-Fi easy to find in Hong Kong?
Yes, you can find free Wi-Fi in most public places, such as shopping centres, cafes, and restaurants.
Conclusion
Hong Kong is a non-stop city that has the thing that’s best, some nature, and some culture.
Whether you like walking around giant cities amid towering skyscrapers or you want to eat all the food, there’s something here for you.
Spend a few days or a week here and you’re guarantee to make memories that last a lifetime.