hong kong travel itinerary 2023

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Home » Asia » China » Hong Kong » Itinerary

HONG KONG Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

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

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

 A Little Bit about this 3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary Overview

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

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

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

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

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

Best Hostel in Hong Kong – Hop Inn on Mody

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

Best Airbnb in Hong Kong – Cozy Studio near Mongkok

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

Best Budget Hotel in Hong Kong – Ovolo Southside

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

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

9:00 AM – Tian Tan Buddha – Big Buddha

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

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

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

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

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

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

12.00 PM – Tai O Fishing Village

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

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

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

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

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

5.00 – Victoria Peak

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

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

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

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

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

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

8.00 PM – The Symphony of Lights

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

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

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

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

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

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

9.00 PM – Drinks at the Old Man

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9.00 AM – 10,000 Buddhas Monastery

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

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

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

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

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

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

12.00 PM – Sham Shui Po

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

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

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

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

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

2.00 PM – Hong Kong History Museum

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

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

4.00 PM – Hong Kong Museum of Art

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

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

6.00 PM – Cocktails in the Sky at Ozone

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

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

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

8.00 PM – Temple Street Night Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

9.00 AM – Breakfast in Sai Kung

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

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

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

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

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

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

10.00 AM – Sai Wan Pavilion – Sai Wan Beach

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

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

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

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

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

12.00 PM – Sheung Luk Stream

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

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

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

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

2.00 PM – Ham Tin and Tai Long Wan Beach

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

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

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

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

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

5.00 PM – Boat to Sai Kung

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

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

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

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

7.00 PM – Rooftop dinner @ Wooloomooloo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ferry over to Lamma Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take a Tai Chi Class

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hollywood Road

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

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

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

Some attractions to look out for:

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

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

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

Dragon’s Back

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tsim Sha Tsui

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Hong Kong

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

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

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

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

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

How many days do you need in Hong Kong?

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

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

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

What is the best month to visit Hong Kong?

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

Where should you stay in Hong Kong?

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

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

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

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5 days Hong Kong itinerary (2023)

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

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

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

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

5 Days in Hong Kong itinerary

Day 1: Explore Mong Kok

Where to stay: Metropark Mongkok

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

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

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

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

Book one of the best guided tours of Kowloon

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

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

Check out Wong Tai Sin Temple

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

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

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

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

Cruise along the Victoria Harbor in Star Ferry

Where to stay: Grand Hyatt

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

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

Best cruises of Victoria Harbor

Where to buy star ferry tickets.

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

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

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

Day 2: Walk around Nan Lian Garden

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

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

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

Grab a bite at one of Kowloon restaurants

Kowloon restaurants boast a variety of food. 

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

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

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

Enjoy some of the best Hong Kong food tours

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

Visit Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

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

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

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

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

Book a guided tour of Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

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

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

THIS PRIVATE TOUR OF HONG KONG IS A PERFECT OPTION

Day 3: Explore Hong Kong Island

Where to stay: Conrad Hong Kong

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

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

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

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

LET ME HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP TO HONG KONG!

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

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

Can’t wait to hear from you! 💛

Climb up Victoria Peak

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

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

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

Visit Old Town Central

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

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

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

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

Step inside Man Mo Temple

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

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

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

Grab a drink at Lan Kwai Fong

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

Day 4: Visit Monster Building

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

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

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

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

Ride a Hong Kong Tram

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

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

You can check routes and schedules  here . 

Take photos in front of the colorful Choi Hung Estate

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

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

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

Check out Lok Wah South Estate

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

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

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

Day 5: Spend a day on Lantau Island

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

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

Best guided tours of Lantau Island from Hong Kong

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit Hong Kong

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

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

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

Where to stay in Hong Kong

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

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

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

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

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

Best Hotels in Hong Kong

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

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

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

5 Days in Hong Kong: FAQ

What’s the currency in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)

What language do they speak in Hong Kong?

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

Is 5 days enough in Hong Kong?

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

How many days to spend in Hong Kong?

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

How to get around Hong Kong?

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

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

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

5 Days in Hong Kong: Final words

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day One: It’s All About Hong Kong Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And then, you walk.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yes, it’s a long escalator.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Two: Exploring Lantau Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pink dolphins?

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: It’s Time to Head to Macau

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And we kick out explorations off with a basketball court.

Yes, really.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you want to participate in the fortune telling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Know Before You Go

Know Where to Stay

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

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

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

Know When to Go

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

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

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

Know How to Get Around

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

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

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

Know Some Tips and Tricks

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

And that was Hong Kong!

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

Lauren Juliff

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

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

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

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

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The Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in Hong Kong (2024)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Looking for the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Hong Kong? Don’t miss this firsthand guide.

Are you planning to spend 3 days in Hong Kong? Get ready to experience a completely unique city with one of the densest population in the world. This incredible concrete jungle is one of those places which will leave you in a state of awe.

Table of Contents

8am – Choi Hung Estate

10am – nan lian garden, 12pm – chi lin nunnery, 2pm – kawloon walled city park, 4pm – hau wong temple, 6pm – avenue of stars, 7pm – mong kok district, 8pm – temple street night market, 8am – ngong ping 360 cable car, 10am – tian tan big buddha, 1pm – monster building, 4pm – victoria peak tram, 5pm – victoria peak viewpoint, 7pm – lugard road viewpoint, 8pm – take a ride in the star ferry and admire the symphony of lights, option 1 – day trip to macau, option 2 – disneyland, walk as much as you can, use public transport, try the local food, where to stay in hong kong, 3 days in hong kong itinerary.

I’ve included in this Hong Kong 3-day guide the most beautiful and surprising tourist attractions around the city. I’ll tell you one secret: you can find some really cool places if you know where to look.

READ MORE – Check out our guide to the best places to visit in Hong Kong

Day 1 – Morning

We’ll start the day with some colourful buildings which will brighten your day instantly. After breakfast, hop on one of the double-decker buses (yes, you can find red buses in Hong Kong, it used to be a British colony after all) and head to the Choi Hung Estate Instagram sensation.

We’ll start our journey here and then continue and visit some other interesting tourist attractions.

Have you ever seen those photos taken at a colourful basketball court surrounded by tall apartment buildings? It’s all over the internet! You can find that famous basketball court at the Choi Hung Estate .

This residential area, in the heart of Hong Kong is visited by hundreds of tourists every day. Everyone wants to have that Insta-perfect picture. My advice would be to arrive here as early as possible since the place tends to get crowded quickly.

Choi Hung Estate is situated on the top of a car park and is not exactly easy to find. If you’re having trouble finding it, make sure to ask a few locals. They would be more than happy to guide you.

After arriving, make sure to respect a few simple rules:

• Don’t interrupt the basketball games
• Don’t make too much noise, people live there

I’ve visited many beautiful gardens in many Asian countries but none was as fascinating as the Nan Lian Garden in Hong Kong. Once you’ll take the first step inside this garden, you’ll feel peaceful and relaxed.

The garden was built during the Tang Dynasty and every tree, stone or pond were arranged according to the Tang style. Although the Nan Lian Garden is not big, it’s perfect to take a walk and escape the chaos of Hong Kong.

This oasis of tranquility also has a souvenir shop (the prices are a bit higher than in the rest of the city), a vegetarian restaurant and a Chinese tea house. I would definitely recommend you to add this place to your 3-day Hong Kong itinerary. Another good part is that there is no entrance fee!

Right across the street from the Nan Lian Garden is the Chi Lin Nunnery, built in 1934. This beautiful temple complex with incredible wooden details and carvings is situated in the Diamond Hill area. If you’re in the area, it would be a shame not to visit it.

The temple hosts some amazing statues made from gold, clay or wood, dedicated to Sakyamuni Buddha and Guanyin.  The Chi Lin Nunnery also has a traditional Tang Dynasty architecture but the most impressive things is that no nails were used to build this temple.

Chin Lin Nunnery holds the record for the biggest hand-made wooden building and is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Hong Kong.

Day 1 – Afternoon

After you grab something to eat, it’s time to head to one of the most intriguing places in Asia. The subject of many documentaries, the Kawloon Walled City Park is one of those places that will give you the chills.

From the Chi Lin Nunnery you can walk for about 1 kilometre or take a direct bus to the park.

Even though there is a mini-museum inside the park, I recommend watching this documentary before visiting. The Kawloon Walled city used to be the densest city in the world. Even though it was situated in the heart of Hong Kong, the Walled City was a place where crime and vice thrived. Even the local police was afraid to get inside this city.

Kawloon had a population of 50,000 residents, all living in an area of 2.6 hectares. In the early 90’s the government decided to entirely demolish the city and a few years later in the exact place where the city was built, a park was opened to the public.

Nowadays, the park is a quiet place, where locals come to relax and where ex-residents of Kawloon Walled City come to remember the old days. There is a small museum in the centre of the park where you can see images and read the history of the Walled City.

Right near the park is the Hau Wong Temple. The temple was built in 1730 and even though it is quite small, this temple is really beautiful. Here you can find important artefacts and beautiful Chinese calligraphy.

Day 1 – Evening

We’re going to spend the evening admiring some of the best views in Hong Kong. After that, it’s time for some shopping in one of the most photogenic markets in the world. Are you ready?

Take the direct bus number 1 from the Hau Wong Temple and head straight to the famous Avenue of Stars. This waterfront promenade offers some of the best views towards Hong Kong’s skyscrapers.

The idea behind the Avenue of Stars is similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This walkway honours the most important celebrities from the Hong Kong’s film industry. If you want some awesome pictures with the Hong Kong skyline, this is the place to be!

It is also a popular spot to watch the daily light show called the Symphony of Lights but for that I have an even better idea (see day 2).

From the Avenue of stars take the double-decker or the subway to Mong Kok, the busiest district in Hong Kong. In Cantonese, “Mong Kong” means “crowded corner” so get ready for a bit of chaos.

With countless shopping malls and convenience stores this place is heaven for shopping addicts. Also, here you can find many street food stalls. If you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend to try the local street food. You will find local dishes such as fish tofu and stinky balls and also international dishes such as pizza.

Don’t forget to keep track where you’re heading! Getting lost is almost inevitable in Mong Kok.

After escaping the crowded Mong Kok, take the bus to the famous Temple Street Night Market. Now it’s time to buy souvenirs for the loved ones back home. Here you will find magnets, clothes, accessories, electronics and pretty much anything you can think of.

The prices are decent but don’t forget to bargain! You can easily save up a few bucks!

As soon as the sun sets, the Temple Street Market opens and welcomes its visitors. Both tourists and locals shop here and it’s a really nice place to feel the vibe of the city.

To get an awesome shot from above the market, head to the parking lot, where the market ends and get your camera ready to catch some colourful photos!

Day 2 – Morning

Our second day in Hong Kong will take us to some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Get ready to see some incredible views and experience first-hand how locals live in this crowded concrete jungle.

Make sure to get up early in the morning, we have a lot to explore today!

Take the subway to Lantau Island and head straight to the Ngong Ping 360Cable Car. The 20-minute ride will take you through Hong Kong’s most beautiful scenery.

If the sights are not enough for you, you can take the Crystal Cabin (it costs a bit more) which has a transparent glass floor. How awesome is that? If you’re afraid of heights, maybe you should take the regular cabin.

The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is a tourist attraction itself and one of the coolest things to do in Hong Kong. Make sure to be there early as the cable car gets pretty crowded. You can also buy a fast pass if you want.

Our next stop is the Tian Tan Big Buddha, situated right next to the cable car. This bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni impresses through its size and beauty.

As you walk towards the statue, you’ll find six smaller bronze statues, known as “The Offering of the Six Devas”. To get to the Big Buddha, you will have to climb no more and no less than 268 steps. I recommend wearing some comfortable shoes.

While you’re in the area, I also recommend visiting the Po Lin Monastery. It’s a really nice way to experience first-hand Hong Kong’s culture.

Day 2 – Afternoon

It’s time to leave the Lantau Island and head to the Hong Kong Island. Here, we’ll visit another Insta-famous location and then see how the sun sets over Hong Kong from some of the best viewpoints around the city.

After being featured in the Transformers – Age of Extinction movie, the Monster Building, as it’s called by locals, has become an internet sensation. To get that perfect picture surrounded by the apartment buildings from the Montane Mansion, you’ll have to queue for a while.

The Monster Building has two courtyards where you can take photos. If the first one is too crowded, try the second one. Apart from photography enthusiasts, here you will also meet many local people who seem to not even notice the tourists searching for the best photo angle. You’ll see them playing Mahjong and drinking tea.

After experiencing first-hand how locals live in Hong Kong, it’s time to head to the Victoria Peak Tram and enjoy one of the most scenic rides in the city.

On your way to the top, you will pass by tall skyscrapers, dense forest and beautiful private villas. It’s a really good way to see the difference between how the rich and medium-class people live in Hong Kong.

Sometimes the Victoria Peak Tram can get pretty crowded. Be prepared to wait about 30 minutes for your turn to get in. The ride will take around 15 minutes so make sure to sit comfortably and relax while admiring the views.

Day 2 – Evening

This evening is all about jaw-dropping views. There is nothing more impressive in Hong Kong than its skyline. Although there are many viewing points around the city, I am going to tell you exactly where to go to experience the best views.

Once you get off the Victoria Peak Tram, head to one of the free viewing platforms. If you want, you can also go to the Sky Terrace 428 although I honestly don’t recommend it.

While the view from the Victoria Peak is beautiful, it’s definitely not the best one. Walk for a few minutes and you will get to a hidden gem, with a wider view and less tourists. I will talk about this place below.

Lugard Road is not actually a road but a path through the forest. From the Victoria Peak follow the path for about 15 minutes and you will get to this incredible viewpoint. Well hidden from tourists and with no entrance fee, this was my favourite place to watch the sunset in Hong Kong.

Take your time to watch how one by one, the skyscrapers light up. Slowly, the sunlight is replaced by neon lights and the night takes over the city. It is a truly wonderful sight. Don’t forget your camera home as you will definitely want to capture these moments.

Head back to the Victoria Peak Tram, get back down and head to the Central Pier No. 7 (Star Ferry Pier) and catch the 8pm ferry (from the Victoria Peak Tram there is a direct bus to the pier).

If you catch this exact ferry you will be one of the few lucky ones who will get to experience the Symphony of Lights from a ferry. Make sure to sit near a window and enjoy the show!

The Symphony of Lights is a daily multimedia show where the buildings in the Victoria Harbour light up on the sound of music. At the end of the show, be prepared to admire the fireworks!

Day 3 – Macau or Disneyland

For your last day in Hong Kong I have prepared two exciting activities. You can either take a day trip to the fascinating Macau or become a child again at Disneyland.  Let’s talk about each of these options in detail.

Take the ferry to Macau and explore another spectacular city. Day trips from Hong Kong to Macau are really popular since the ferries run every 15 minutes.

Make sure to bring your passport with you! Most travellers don’t require a visa to enter Macau but you can check out more about visa requirements here .

To explore the city, I recommend taking the hop on and hop off bus straight from the ferry terminal in Macau. The bus has 16 stops and it covers all the important tourist attractions in the city.

Some of the attractions you can’t miss are: Macau Tower, A-ma Temple and of course, the famous casinos.

READ MORE – Check out our ‘ One Day in Macau ‘ itinerary.

Disneyland Hong Kong is one of the most visited theme parks in Asia and you should definitely visit it if you’re looking for some fun. Make sure to avoid holidays and the weekends since the park gets extremely crowded and you don’t want to spend hours queuing for rides.

To skip the lines, you can use the free fast passes. Near each important ride there is a ticketing machine that will issue a ticket with a “return time”. Make sure to be back at the time indicated on your ticket and enjoy a shorter queue!

Some of the most popular attractions are Big Grizzly Mountain Coaster, Iron Man Experience, Mystic Manor and Tarzan’s Tree House.

Hong Kong 3-Day Itinerary – Tips & Tricks

If you have 3 days in Hong Kong there’s a couple of useful tips I can share to help you make the most of your visit.

Hong Kong is a really beautiful city and there is no better way to experience it than by walking. You will find fascinating hidden alleys and you will have more time to admire the tall, crowded buildings around you.

The public transport in Hong Kong is awesome! The buses and the subway are really reliable, affordable and fast. Yes, taxis might be more comfortable but trust me, you don’t want to be stuck in traffic in Hong Kong.

Tip: When using the double-decker buses, head to the upper floor and sit in the front row. You will have the best view!

Stop at small, local restaurants to grab something to eat or try the street food. The food in Hong Kong might be a bit weird, especially for Westerners but it’s definitely worth a try!

Hong Kong is known to be a crowded city. Therefore, the bigger the hotel room is, the more you’re going to pay. There are accommodation options for each budget. You’ll definitely find something suitable for your needs!

If you feel like splurging, I recommend the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong . This hotel has some dreamy views and an incredible pool. Also, the rooms are incredibly spacious and very comfortable. The Grand Hyatt has all the amenities of a luxury hotel.

If you’re on a budget, I recommend the City Oasis Guesthouse . Situated in a beautiful area on Lantau Island, this place is perfect to relax after a day full of sightseeing.

Aurelia Teslaru

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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38 BEST Places to Visit in Hong Kong (2024 Guide)

Hiking, beaches and free camping in hong kong, related posts, 11 thoughts on “the perfect itinerary for 3 days in hong kong (2024)”.

Amazing article followed by beautiful photos… I really liked reading your post. Thanks for sharing!!

Hi! May I know the name of your hotel? I’m planning to visit HK hopefully in December. And I’m looking for cheap yet clean hotels. Thanks!

Take a Ride in the Star Ferry and Admire the Symphony of Lights – Is this free of charge? If no, how much does it cost? Where can I buy the tickets?

Hi Wilbert, both of these are not free. The price varies between companies. Here is a couple of options you can book a tour through Klook https://www.klook.com/en-US/activity/659-aqualuna-evening-sail-hong-kong/?aid=10694 Get Your Guide https://www.getyourguide.com/hong-kong-l174/victoria-harbour-night-or-symphony-of-lights-cruise-t194297/?partner_id=OA1606Q https://www.getyourguide.com/hong-kong-l174/hong-kong-symphony-of-lights-cruise-tour-t141549/?partner_id=OA1606Q

Have a great trip to Hong Kong

Thanks for the wonderful information

Thanks you very much, was a very useful guide!

Glad it was helpful. Happy travels

Super awesome article.

How much per person for this 3days tour?

This is a suggestion for a 3 day self itinerary not a tour. We are a travel blog not a tour company. There are many companies that do offer tours in Hong Kong. We wish you all the best and hope you have a great trip.

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Hong Kong Itinerary w/ Macau Day Trip: DIY 1-5 Days or More (Travel Guide)

by Aileen Adalid Itineraries , Hong Kong , Macau 203 comments

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Hong Kong is the first place abroad that I have traveled to; but on that particular trip, what I mainly did was just eat and shop as I accompanied a friend of mine back in university. So when I was able to finally come back again to do a more proper ‘tour’ of the city, I did my best to cover as many activities and attractions as possible! And today, I am sharing with you my 5-day Hong Kong itinerary , which also includes a day trip to the nearby city of Macau. Plus, it includes an array of other must-dos that you can consider doing in case you have more days to spare or if you have a different travel style.

But before I go on, I think it’s best that I give you a bit of background about the geographical area of Hong Kong because a lot of people actually have this misconception that there’s not much to do there, or that there’s not much green at all — two things that are absolutely NOT true.

First things first, there’s more to the well-known urbanized center because 2/3 of the country is actually made up of the countryside which is full of countless small mountains and several islands.

What are the top tours to do in Hong Kong?

Check out these activities and tours to do: [ click ]

– – –

» About Hong Kong

As shown below, Hong Kong is made up of  Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, and over 200 offshore or outlying islands  (the largest of which is Lantau Island).

The area that most tourists tend to only explore is that of the center: Kowloon Peninsula, and the northern edge of Hong Kong Island.

Rest assured, everything is well-connected by bus and train (MTR – Mass Transit Railway), so going from point A to point B wouldn’t be a big problem at all. If in case you get lost or you get confused about public transportation, Google Maps ‘ directions feature is your best friend — this nifty piece of technology has helped me numerous times whenever I’m traveling to foreign countries.

RELATED READ: Best Travel Apps for Travelers

…Now, with all that said and done, let me present to you the things to do in Hong Kong when you’re traveling there for 5 days (or even more!)

Top photo by: Shutterstock

Table of Contents

Hong Kong Travel Guide

» quick travel planning.

• Top tours & experiences
• Find flights to HK
• Visa requirements
• Best places to stay
• Travel insurance (5% discount)
• Stay connected

» Best Time to Visit

It is said that the best time to visit Hong Kong is around late September to late December due to better weather conditions.

• Spring:  This is usually referred to as the ‘low season’ primarily because of unpredictable weather in which the city gets a bit warm and humid with fog — with chances of significant rain. Nevertheless, there are some key celebrations such as the Hong Kong International Film Festival.
• Summer: It can get very hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 26 to 32°C.
• ★ Autumn: This is the best time to visit with more ideal temperatures and plenty of sunshine that doesn’t bring too much humidity. You can also participate in the Mid-Autumn Festival which is the second biggest Chinese holiday next to the Chinese New Year.
• Winter:  Next to autumn, this is also a great time to visit as the temperature dips between 14 to 19°C. There’s no snow but it can get quite chilly, so make sure to pack a jacket. With Chinese New Year celebrations on the way, you’ll even be rewarded with spectacular fireworks and parades too — but of course, this also means that there will be more crowds.
• WINTER: Dec to Feb
• SPRING: March to May
• SUMMER: June to Aug
• AUTUMN: Sept to Nov

» Getting in to Hong Kong

Hong Kong International Airport (IATA: HKG) is Hong Kong’s main airport — from there, you can ride an  airport shuttle bus  that has key drop-off locations in the city (see details  here ). Otherwise, you can ride the Airport Express train and you can buy discounted tickets for this  online .

If however you are coming with a group of people and want a more hassle-free experience, you can save on transportation costs by simply booking a  private transfer .

To get to these points, I recommend browsing through  Skyscanner  to find the best flight deals from your point of origin. If you’re from the Philippines like me, Skyscanner also scans through the budget airlines such as Air Asia and Cebu Pacific in order to find which of the 2 has the cheapest rate on the dates you choose.

» Visa for Hong Kong

If you’re NOT a citizen of any of Hong Kong’s  exempted countries , you are then required to avail of a visa beforehand. (If you’re from the Philippines, you don’t need to apply for a visa if it’s a stay of no more than 14 days.)

• Check full visa requirements here as per your nationality.

» Where to Stay (Hongkong Accommodations)

To search for the best hotel accommodation in Hong Kong at the best prices, I suggest cross-checking hotel prices between  Agoda  and  Booking.com . But if you’re rather interested in renting comfortable houses or apartments, you should search through AirBnB .

For a more comprehensive list, see this post of the top ‘ Best Hotels in Hong Kong ‘ or ‘ Best Hotels in Macau ‘.

» Hong Kong Currency

Hong Kong Dollar (HKD / HK$) wherein HK$8 is equal to about USD $1~ / €0.85~ / Php 52~ (this is as of June 2022). In the event that you want to exchange your money for HKD, I highly advise that you do NOT exchange your money at the airport since the rates there are not competitive.

• How to best exchange your currency? Either exchange it at a bank or at a money exchanger in your home country or in HK’s city center. Better yet, just withdraw from an ATM with your debit/credit card — however, you must do one big withdrawal to minimize fees with your bank. Speaking of cards, a lot of Hong Kong’s establishments accept credit cards but it’s always advisable to have cash on hand because a lot of smaller shops do not accept international credit cards.

» Cost of Travel in Hong Kong

To give you an idea, you should expect to travel to HK with an average daily cost of about USD $55~ per person on a budget, or at least $130~ if you want to experience more comfort in activities, tours, hotels, and more. (Values below show low budget to medium budget ranges).

• Hotels: $25 to $60 USD / day
• Food: $11 to $25 USD / day
• Fun: $25 to $70 USD / day
• Transport: $20 on average per day

» How to Get Around Hong Kong

It’s always best to avail yourself an  Octopus Card  — a prepaid contactless debit card that can be used to pay for all kinds of public transport  (except taxis and some red minibusses; and if I may add, this can even be used to pay at convenience stores, supermarkets, restaurants, museums, and more) . After all, Hong Kong is best explored by train (MTR) as it is the fastest mode of transportation (not to mention the efficient Airport Express train).

The only time that I can recommend using a taxi is if you’re in a hurry, if you get lost, or if you have 3 other people with you to share the cost (the meter starts at HKD $22) .

NOTE : Another alternative is to buy an  MTR Tourist Day Pass .

To better navigate yourself within Hong Kong, use  Google Maps ‘  directions  feature (signified by a blue icon with an arrow inside it) — I really find it a very helpful tool if I want to reach a certain place from a particular location. However, Google Maps doesn’t work offline if you want routes or transportation schedules, so I recommend that you get a  pocket WiFi  or a  SIM card  to stay connected; or better yet, get an eSIM for a hassle-free experience (use code AILEEN684 to get $3 off) .

You can avail an Octopus Card  online , at the airport or at any MTR station, and it can also be reloaded at any MTR station or merchant stores that accept Octopus (7-Eleven, McDonalds, etc.). A basic Octopus Card costs HKD $150 in which $100 can be used as credit and the remaining $50 serves as refundable deposit. You can load it to a maximum of HKD $1,000 but you can only refund remaining credit if it’s less than $500. . It stays valid for 1,000 days after your last top-up or ‘load’ and can be reactivated anytime afterwards. Rest assured, your card can go negative (for as low as HKD $-35 but this isn’t really negative since your $50 deposit secures it). However, it can only go negative once and you can only use the card again after you reload.

» Staying Connected in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has one of the fastest internet connections in the world so you’re assured of great connections wherever you go. Hotels and most shops (even convenience stores) offer FREE WiFi connections — but in order to stay connected online at all times during your Hongkong trip, I recommend getting your own  pocket WiFi  or a  SIM Card ; or better yet, get an eSIM for a hassle-free experience (use code AILEEN684 to get $3 off)

» Safety in Hong Kong

Hongkong is one of the densest cities in the world and serious crimes are rare — but petty crimes like pickpocketing can still occur. As such, it helps to stay street smart at all times. Rest assured, it’s one of the safest countries to travel in even as a solo traveler ; just stay vigilant and you’ll be fine.

• HOW TO: Find the right travel insurance for you

» Helpful Cantonese Phrases

• RELATED READ: Best translation apps for travel

Hello:  Néih hóu Thank you:  M̀h’gōi Please:  Chíng Goodbye:  Joigin

Excuse me (to get attention):  M̀h’hóu yisi I’m sorry:  Deui-m̀h-jyuh How much:  Géidō chín a? Is there someone here who speaks English?:  nī douh yáuh móuh yàhn sīk góng Yīngmán a? Help!:  Gau mehng ā! Cheers!:  Yámbūi!

Other F.A.Q.

To date, Hong Kong is not particularly conscious of tipping, and there is even NO obligation to tip. Though if you’re feeling generous, you can extend a 10% tip if there is no service charge (but most HK hotels and restaurants already set a 10% service charge on your bill).

Hongkong typically uses two plug types: type D (three round pins in a triangular pattern) and type G (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern). The country operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.

 Please check their  latest travel advisories  page, or visit the  Hong Kong Government COVID-19 thematic website  for more details.

All visitors to Hong Kong must have a passport that is valid for at least 1 month after the period of their intended stay in Hong Kong.

In general, no. All goods, apart from alcohol and tobacco, are tax-free.

Hong Kong Itinerary Guide

Before I begin with the itinerary guide, if in case you’re more of a visual person, you can already watch my video below to get a ‘peek’ into the adventures that I did during my recent trip to Hong Kong and Macau!

Take note that the 5-day Hong Kong itinerary (with a stopover to Macau) below does not take into account your arrival day in Hong Kong.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

• The following Hong Kong itinerary section is in a tabbed format; so, in order to see the next day’s contents, just click the headings below.
• if you’re staying longer in the city, you can make use of the last tab called ‘ Extra Days ‘ to see the other activities or trips you can do for filling up the rest of your vacation days both in Hong Kong and Macau.

Explore Tsim Sha Tsui area in Kowloon

During my stay, I got a hotel in Hong Kong Island — but you can also opt to get your accommodation in Kowloon as it is more in the ‘middle’ of everything.

That being said, you might find it odd that I explored the Kowloon area during my first day instead of Hong Kong Island itself… well, the thing is, I wanted to see the harbor during the day as well, so it made more sense to sail to Kowloon and explore it and then sail back at night to see the evening cityscape too.

To add, it was a Wednesday when I arrived, and it was timely that the Symphony of Lights had English narration for that day.

RELATED READ: – Top Fun Things to Do in Hong Kong

Photo by: Shutterstock

• TIP : Reserve your spot on Star Ferry by booking online .
• Walk around Kowloon Park. (Nearest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui Station) This is a large public park smacked in the middle of the bustling area of Tsim Sha Tsui but it offers tranquility for its guests what with its Chinese garden, lotus ponds, aviaries, and more. If you come here on a Sunday from around 2PM to 5PM, you can even witness a kung fu and lion dance performance. .
• TIP : For more food options, book online and score special deals! .

Wanna see a complete list of the top Hong Kong food and drinks that you MUST try? — Check out this blog post to find out: Top 20 Hong Kong Food Dishes to Try

• Head to Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade . If you’ve got time, the promenade is a charming place to stroll in. Around this area you can find the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the Hong Kong Space Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Avenue of Stars where you can see exhibits dedicated to film stars like Bruce Lee, etc. .
• Live narration in English is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (the rest of the days are in Mandarin and Cantonese) — it starts at 8PM daily and lasts for about 13 minutes.
• TIP : You can also ride a cruise while you watch this show of lights! .
• Temple Street Night Market : This is basically a flea market bazaar where you can find tons of affordable trinkets, souvenirs, electronics, jade, antiques, etc. Officially, it is open from 2PM until midnight each day between Jordan Road and Kansu street; but most stalls usually open at 4PM, and its lively atmosphere starts at about 9PM.
• MRT: board the train going to Tsuen Wan and get off at Mongkok Station, exiting at Bank Centre signed E ad then E2.
• Mongkok Computer Centre : For all the techies, this is where you must head off for all your computer-related needs; after all, it houses more than 70 computer shops! .
• Or if you want to ride a more iconic Hong Kong boat while viewing the Symphony of Lights, check out Aqualuna sampan boats .

◘◘ Substitute Activities

• TIP: Book online to get the best rate .
• Visit the Hong Kong Museum of Histor y. Come here for your Hong Kong Itinerary if you want to learn more about the country’s historical and cultural heritage. There are audio guides for HKD $10 and you can get in for free if you come on a Wednesday (a majority of Hong Kong’s museums have FREE admittance on Wednesdays actually). .
• TIP: Book online to get the best rate

Explore Hong Kong Island

• Take the Hong Kong Tramway (Dingding) . (As low as HKD $2.30, payable with Octopus Card) This 1920s-style tram is the best way to discover Hong Kong Island. Just head over to this site to decipher the route you want to take and to map out your stops. If you rather want a planned route prepared for you, well then for only HKD $95, you can already be a part of their signature 1-hour TramOramic tour. .
• I highly recommend going there late in the afternoon for your Hong Kong Itinerary so that you can see both the HK skyline during daylight and nighttime (NOTE: Madame Tussauds is located in the same building as Sky Terrace).
• TIP: Book online because not only is it cheaper than the normal price, but it also helped me steer clear of the long line at the ticket counter for the Peak Tram (it’s Fast Track). .

• TIP: Book online to reserve a spot .
• TIP: To book a spot, go here . .
• Shop around Causeway Bay . (Nearest MTR: Causeway Bay Station) If you’re up for a high-end shopping spree during your Hong Kong Itinerary, go to the big shopping malls like Time Square, IFC, and Landmark among others. For gadgets and computers, there’s the Wan Chai Computer Centre.

Visit Disneyland Hongkong

(MRT: Disneyland Resort Station) This is perfect for families, or simply for those who are kids-at-heart!

Starts from HKD $500~ for adults – You can purchase day tickets online for Disneyland through Klook given that it’s cheaper than buying from the official website and also cheaper than paying the walk-in price.

Since I already visited OceanPark before, I opted to put Disneyland on my 5-day Hong Kong Itinerary and it was fun!

Naturally, there are various attractions and themed areas here for you to choose from — furthermore, there are even parades and stage shows that happen daily. My favorites are the ‘ Festival of the Lion King ‘ at Adventureland and ‘ Mickey and the Wondrous Book ‘ at Fantasyland. You can go to this link for an accurate schedule of activities during your day of visit.

Be sure not to miss out on the 4D attraction that they have, as well as the 8PM fireworks display!

TIP : Grab discounted Disneyland meal coupons in advance here !

…or go to OceanPark . (Starts from HKD $370) Disneyland is best explored if you just want some ‘calm fun’ for your Hong Kong Itinerary; hence, if you want crazier rides, I suggest going to OceanPark instead!

They have varied attractions that let you take a closer look at marine life. To purchase tickets, you can buy them online here which is set at a cheaper price

(Transportation: Ride the Citybus’s Ocean Park Express bus service Route 629 located just outside the Star Ferry Terminal on Hong Kong Island side or from Admiralty West Bus Terminal outside Admiralty MTR station)

Explore the New Territories

It’s time to explore the other top areas outside of Hong Kong’s city center!

Do you rather want to do a guided tour?

You can join a New Territories guided day tour if you want a more hassle-free experience. To reserve your spot, go here .

It helps to note that NOT everything listed below for both can be done in a day. Therefore, what I suggest is that you do half a day per area as you pick just one or a few activities for each (or just explore one area that you like best for the whole day).

• Go through a heritage trail. There are two of these that you can choose from: the  Ping Shan Heritage Trail links up a number of traditional Chinese buildings that are within walking distance to one another as it gives you the chance to learn more about the traditional life in the New Territories. Meanwhile,  Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail  will take you through the history of the Tang clan, one of the 5 largest clans in the New Territories. .
• Go hiking . Hiking is slowly becoming a favorite pastime of the people in Hong Kong and with the vast green terrain that surrounds the country, there are surely various hiking trails that you can choose from (such as Lion Rock Peak Hill among many others).   This website perfectly sums up all of those places and they’re even labeled accordingly with difficulty, time, etc. .
• Chi Lin Nunnery :  (Nearest MTR: Diamond Hill Station) A large temple complex that has been established as a retreat for Buddhist nuns. You can find here statues of the Sakyamuni Buddha, Guanyin, and other bodhisattvas made from gold, clay, wood, and stone.
• Che Kung Temple : (Nearest MTR: Tai Wai Station) This honors Che Kung, a military commander of the Southern Song dynasty. Naturally, you will find a giant statue of Che Kung at the main worship hall’s altar.
• Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery : (Nearest MTR: Sha Tin Station) There are actually no resident monks in this Buddhist temple as it is now managed by laypersons. However, the beauty of this place’s temples, pavilions, and pagodas are not to be missed; plus, the journey up to this monastery is an attraction itself due to the golden Buddhas that line up the path. .

Explore Lantau Island

• TIP: Purchase your tickets online here . .
• See the Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) . Po Lin Monastery is one of Hong Kong’s most important Buddhist places and has been called the ‘Buddhist World in the South’. Opposite this is the famous bronze Big Buddha statue that sits 34 meters high and faces north to look towards Mainland China (it is open from 10AM to 5:30PM). .
• Go around Ngong Ping Village . This is a 1.5-hectare place where you can find an array of shops and eateries. If you have HKD $40 to spare, you can also watch the multimedia show ‘Walking with Buddha’. .
• TIP: You can do a guided tour here by booking online .

Explore Macau

Macau is just a 1-hour boat ride away, so why not take this opportunity to come and visit as part of your Hong Kong Itinerary? Besides, your main expenses here will only be for food and the boat tickets (unless of course, you want to do shopping here too and some casino playing). I say this because once you’re inside the city, you wouldn’t need to pay for transportation at all due to the number of FREE casino shuttle buses that go all over. It can even be used by literally anyone; you really don’t have to be a casino guest to use it.

CURRENCY : Macau has its own called Macanese Patacas (MOP). But don’t worry about exchanging your HKD to MOP because HKD is already widely accepted in Macau. . Otherwise, if you want to stay in the city for some few nights, you can check out these top hotels in Macau . .

Do you rather want to do a guided tour in Macau?

Reserve your spot on a day tour of Macau so you don’t miss out on anything! It even includes lunch at a 4-star hotel. To book, go here .

• It helps to note that this is the one that lands in Macau Outer Harbour and NOT Macau Taipa. Also, the ferry operates every 15 minutes between 7AM to 12PM, and every 30 or 120 minutes between 12:30AM to 6:30AM. .
• Senado Square : This is a paved town center of Macau and it is part of the UNESCO Historic Centre of the Macau World Heritage Site. As per history, this used to be a meeting place for the Chinese and Portuguese people. Many large events were also hosted here and it still continues up to today.
• St. Dominic’s Church : Located near the Leal Senado Building, this Baroque-style church is noted for its mixture of European and Macanese design features.
• Ruins of St. Paul’s : This was originally the St. Paul’s College and the Church of St. Paul; today, however, what remains of it after a fire back in 1835 is only that of the southern stone facade and some other parts of the ruins that are now turned into a museum.
• Monte Forte (Fortaleza do Monte) : This is the historical military center of Macau, located just beside the Ruins of St. Paul’s. Originally, this was built to protect the properties of Jesuits from pirates, but later on, seized by the governor for defending the city. .
• SkyJump with Entry Ticket
• Bungee Jump with Entry Ticket Tower Climb with Entry Ticket
• SkyWalk with Entry Ticket .
• City of Dreams : Bring your kids here to Kids’ City, or party at Club Cubic — better yet, come witness the world’s largest breathtaking water show that is directed by Franco Dragone (known for his work with Cirque du Soleil): the House of Dancing Water ! (Ticket starts at about HKD $480~ or Php 3,250 for adults).
• Galaxy Macau : Smacked right in the main lobby of Galaxy Macau is the Fortune Diamond which is a huge 3-meter gem that serves as a backdrop for a waterfall. You can also watch a movie here in their big 10-screen 3D cineplex or just shop at The Promenade.
• Venetian : Apart from the luxury shopping experience, a sight to be seen here is their Venice-inspired interiors. You will see here an actual network of canals and you can even rent a gondola in order to be serenaded by a gondolier. One of Lord Stow’s Bakery’s food stalls can also be found here, so make sure you buy yourself some of those famous egg tarts!
• Studio City : Apart from witnessing its amazing architecture, it’s a MUST to ride the Golden Reel Ferris Wheel to capture breathtaking views of Macau from 130 meters up in the air and to also get the amazing chance of riding the world’s highest 8-figure Ferris wheel! The ticket is priced at HKD $80 or Php 535; you can purchase your tickets online . Otherwise, for those who want some fun, come and experience the 4D ride: Batman Dark Flight .
• Sands : Come here to watch the world’s largest indoor stage performance: Monkey King! You will definitely experience a high-class show here; after all, the performance team spent 8 years mastering this exquisite show!
• Wynn Casino : If you’ve got some time, pass by Wynn casino to watch their spectacular water show. It happens every 15 minutes and runs until midnight. .

TIP : Book these Macau restaurants online to score special meal deals!

• Walk over to Taipa Village Old Taipa Houses . This complex contains 5 houses that depict the old colonial residences that used to be owned by well-off Portuguese families in Macau. .
• Rua do Cunha . This is a narrow but well-lit street in Vila di Taipa that’s known for its restaurants and shops. Some of the well-known stores here where you can buy great Chinese fares to take back home and give away as gifts (or eat for yourself, of course)  are Choi Heong Yuen and Koi Kei. .
• Ride a shuttle bus and ogle at the casinos’ colorful facades . Macau becomes even more of a beauty at night and if you’re pressed on time but still want to see the rest of the casinos in Taipa that you can’t easily reach by foot, just ride any of the free shuttle buses that pass by the casinos you want to see, and then stay there until it reaches its starting point again. (Personally, I love the ostentatious buildings of Studio City, Galaxy, and the Parisian.) .
• TIP : It’s best to purchase your tickets online . .

• Club & Bar Hopping . Book online to party like a boss in Macau whilst a fancy van or stretch limo takes you to the best clubs and bars in town! .
• Mandarin’s House . This residential complex depicts the typical characteristics of traditional residences and also used to be the home of late Qing theoretician, Zheng Guanying. .
• Guia Fortress . This is a military fort, chapel, and lighthouse complex that is also part of the historic center of Macau. .
• A-Ma Temple (Ma Kok Miu) . One of the oldest Taoist temples in the country and it is said that the name ‘Macau’ was derived from the name of this temple when natives replied to Portuguese sailors with “A-Ma-Gau” (when asked what the name of the place was).

Other Hong Kong Activities

TIP : For a complete list of amazing tours and activities to do for your Hong Kong itinerary, see here !

◘◘ Family Fun

Hong Kong Disneyland Discover the magical world of Disney.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Theme park and a zoo.

Noah’s Ark World’s first full-size Ark replica!

Madame Tussauds Meet the world’s most famous faces.

Princess Transformation Dress your kids as Disney princesses.

◘◘ City Activities

Hop-On Hop-Off See Hong Kong’s main sights from your seat.

Crystal Bus Tour See landmarks from a double decker luxury bus!

Sightseeing Tour Perfect for the shopaholics!

Sky100 See spectacular 360° views of the Victoria Harbor.

AquaLuna Evening Sail See the city in traditional junk boats.

Symphony Lights Cruise The iconic light and sound show.

Star Ferry Harbour Tour Sail along Victoria Harbour.

Helicopter Tours See famous sights from up high.

Guided Walking Tour Discover Hong Kong in 3 hours with a guide.

Central and Victoria Peak Tour Explore and experience Hong Kong culture.

Street Art Tour See famous sights from up high.

Qipao Rental & Photoshoot Wear a traditional Qipao outfit.

Taichi with a Master Learn entry-level Taichi and Qigong.

Chinese Painting Class Discover the traditions of Chinese painting.

Pub Crawl Party it up at HK’s best nightspots!

◘◘ Day Trips

Cliff Ziplining & Abseiling Experience Hong Kong in a whole different way!

Dragon’s Back Trail Adventurous hiking on Hong Kong Island.

Rock Climbing Try your hand at rock climbing at Black Crag.

Biking and Kayaking Explore Hong Kong’s natural reserves in Sai Kung.

Tai Mo Shan Waterfalls Hike Hike to waterfalls and secluded villages.

Pink Dolphin Sighting Hike to waterfalls and secluded villages.

Lantau Heritage Tour Full tour of Lantau Island’s most famous attractions.

Ngong Ping 360 Crystal Cabin 360 crystal views all around!

◘◘ Food & Restaurants

Tai Cheong Bakery Enjoy traditional Hong Kong baked goods.

Emack & Bolio’s A specialty ice cream shop.

Ding Dim 1968 Holding 50 years of history

Victoria Harbour Restaurant Indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine.

Jumbo Kingdom Famous seafood r estaurant .

Nam Kee Noodles Enjoy a steaming hot bowl of noodles.

Under Bridge Spicy Crab HK’s famous crab restaurant!

Wing Wah Cake Shop A must-try Hong Kong cake.

Hee Wan Roasted Kitchen Local delicacy.

Block 18 Doggie’s Noodle Try popular street snacks since 1950s!

Chinese Pastry Baking Learn to make sweet Chinese treats.

Dumpling Yuan Tasty Northern China dumplings.

Other Macau Activities

Batman Dark Flight 4D adventure with Gotham’s hero.

Warner Bros. Fun Zone Let kids loose in Warner Bros.

Macau Science Center A day of hands-on science!

Planet J Role Play World’s 1st live-action role-play theme park.

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom See whale sharks and manta rays up close.

Open Top Bus Tour hop-on-hop-off sightseeing pass.

Sightseeing Day Tour Get the best of Macau in a day!

Gondola Ride A romantic serenade.

Golden Reel Ferris Wheel The world’s first figure 8 ferris wheel.

QiPao Rental & Photoshoot Wear traditional Chinese clothing.

Luxury TRIA Spa Package The 1st Macau spa to utilize sound therapy.

◘◘ Up High Fun

Macau Tower Skywalk X Walk around the outer rim of Macau Tower.

Macau Tower Climb Scale the 338 meters to the top.

Macau Tower Skyjump Descend feet-first from a height of 233m!

Macau Tower Bungy Jump Plunge from a height of 233m!

Macau Eiffel Tower Observation Deck Feel like you’re in Paris at Macau’s newest landmark.

The House of Dancing Water World’s largest water extravaganza show.

ELEKRON Show Parkour, wild pyrotechnics and more!

Zhuhai Chimelong Circus Visit Zhuhai’s theater, theme park & aquarium!

Walking Food Tour Enjoy the best of Macau’s delicacies.

Putajanai in San Ma Lo First Baumkuchen cake shop in Macau.

JW Marriott Macau Buffet ‘Macau’s Best Restaurant’!

Lunch Buffet at Macau Tower View-gazing and dining 223m up!

Chinese Restaurant Enjoy sophisticated Chinese cuisine.

Dim Sum Set Lunch Traditional and modern Chinese Dim Sum.

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

The Best Tours in Hong Kong?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in Hong Kong which features the best activities and tours to do!

Hong Kong may be a small destination, but it has more than enough activities and attractions to keep you occupied.

I tried my very best to be as detailed as I could with this guide so that you won’t be missing any of Hong Kong’s (and Macau’s) highlights! That being said, feel free to tweak this itinerary as well as my suggestions to make your trip shorter or longer and better fitting for your travel style. Enjoy and do let me know how your trip goes!

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Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission?  To show you how it is absolutely possible to  create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

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How to start a successful blog, 203 comments.

I was looking for some useful information and fortunately landed on your content and I found it highly useful. Learnt a lot. Thank you so much. Nicely written and correctly presented. Best of luck

What a great blog! Hongkong is such a great country to visit. It’s really a wonderful place for visiting and shopping. The view on the peak is very wonderful. HK history museum is a must! Such a nice museum it is. Can’t wait to visit again after pandemic!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Hong Kong Itinerary: Day 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some recommended companies that offer affordable boat tours:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip to Hong Kong: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

• The Mahjong

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

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

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

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

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

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The Best 4-Day Hong Kong Itinerary: Explore the City’s Highlights

Hong Kong is a vibrant and dynamic city on the southern coast of China. As a Special Administrative Region (SAR), it has a high degree of autonomy and a diverse population. Known as a shopper’s paradise and the “Pearl of the Orient,” Hong Kong boasts a bright skyline, modern architecture, and a blend of traditional Chinese customs with modern Western influences.

I visited Hong Kong in August 2023 and was amazed by the high-rise buildings and unique cultures. The city’s culinary scene is renowned, offering everything from traditional dim sum to international cuisines. Major attractions include Victoria Peak, Victoria Harbour, Disneyland, Ocean Park, and bustling shopping districts like Causeway Bay and Mong Kok. Cantonese and English are the official languages, with English widely used in business and government.

However, I found Hong Kong quite expensive, especially when it came to accommodation. The small hotel rooms were costly, a stark contrast to the more spacious and affordable options in Malaysia.

Explore the best of Hong Kong in 4 days with this updated itinerary. From delicious street food to breathtaking views, get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Planning a Trip to Hong Kong: Preparations

Planning a trip to Hong Kong can be an exciting experience! Here are some essential reparations to make before your journey:

• Visa Requirements: Hong Kong has a relaxed visa policy, allowing most visitors to enter without a visa in advance. However, the rules can vary based on your nationality and intended length of stay. Typically, visitors are granted a stay of 7 to 90 days upon arrival. If you plan to stay longer, it’s advisable to apply for a visa beforehand. Always verify the requirements with the Hong Kong Immigration Department or your local consulate before traveling.
• Travel Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your departure date. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa, so check requirements early.
• Flight and Accommodation: Book your flights and accommodations in advance, considering locations convenient to your planned activities.
• Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.
• Currency Exchange: Hong Kong uses the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). Consider getting an Octopus payment card for cashless transactions, especially for transportation. Some credit cards also offer benefits, albeit with extra fees.
• Language: English is widely spoken, but learning basic Cantonese phrases or using translation apps can be helpful.
• Weather and Packing: Check the weather forecast and pack, accordingly, including rain gear if needed.
• Adapters and Power Plugs: Hong Kong uses a three-prong power plug (220V). Bring suitable adapters and transformers for your devices.
• Local Customs: Respect local customs, especially when visiting cultural sites.
• Health Precautions: Check if vaccinations or health precautions are necessary and carry essential medications.
• Research Attractions: Plan your itinerary with a mix of cultural landmarks, markets, and outdoor activities.
• Public Transportation: Familiarize yourself with Hong Kong’s public transport, including the MTR and buses. Consider getting an Octopus Card for convenience.
• Safety: Hong Kong is generally safe, but use common sense and keep belongings secure.

When is The Best Time to Visit Hong Kong?

Being a sub-tropical region, Hong Kong enjoys four main seasons that make the destination suitable to visit all-round the year. Each season offers different aspects of the city. Autumn (September to November) is generally considered the best time to visit Hong Kong.

The temperature is around 19 to 28 degrees Celsius and perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s landmarks. For those who like Winter the temperature in Hong Kong doesn’t go below 12 degrees. Hence, you can opt to visit the city in Winter and Spring. Try to avoid the Summer, as it’s hot, humid and not suitable for sightseeing and is often accompanied with rain.

4 Days in Hong Kong Itinerary

We’ll start the day with some colorful buildings which will brighten your day instantly. After breakfast, hop on one of the double-decker buses and head to the Choi Hung Estate Instagram sensation. We’ll start our journey here and then continue and visit some other interesting tourist attractions.

Hong Kong Day 1:

On your first day in Hong Kong, you’ll likely arrive at Hong Kong International Airport. From there, you can take a train, bus, or the iconic red taxis to reach your pre-booked hotel or accommodation. Once you’ve settled in, it’s time to start exploring the places listed in this itinerary.

Choi Hung Estate:

This residential area, in the heart of Hong Kong is visited by hundreds of tourists every day. Everyone wants to have that Insta-perfect picture. My advice would be to arrive here as early as possible since the place tends to get crowded quickly.

Choi Hung Estate is situated on the top of a car park and is not exactly easy to find. If you’re having trouble finding it, make sure to ask a few locals. They would be more than happy to guide you. After arriving, make sure to respect a few simple rules:

• Don’t interrupt the basketball games.
• Don’t make too much noise, people live there.

Nan Lian Garden:

There are many beautiful gardens in many Asian countries, but none are as fascinating as the Nan Lian Garden in Hong Kong. Once you take the first step inside this garden, you’ll feel peaceful and relaxed. The garden was built during the Tang Dynasty and every tree, stone or pond is arranged according to the Tang style.

Although the Nan Lian Garden is not big, it’s perfect to take a walk and escape the chaos of Hong Kong. This oasis of tranquility also has a souvenir shop (the prices are a bit higher than in the rest of the city), a vegetarian restaurant and a Chinese tea house. I would definitely recommend you add this place to your 4-day Hong Kong itinerary. Another good part is that there is no entrance fee!

Chi Lin Nunnery:

Right across the street from the Nan Lian Garden is the Chi Lin Nunnery , built in 1934. This beautiful temple complex with incredible wooden details and carvings is situated in the Diamond Hill area. If you’re in the area, it would be a shame not to visit it.

The temple hosts some amazing statues made from gold, clay or wood, dedicated to Sakyamuni Buddha and Guanyin.  The Chi Lin Nunnery also has a traditional Tang Dynasty architecture, but the most impressive thing is that no nails were used to build this temple. Chi Lin Nunnery holds the record for the biggest hand-made wooden building and is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Hong Kong.

Kowloon Walled City Park:

Even though there is a mini museum inside the park, I recommend watching this documentary before visiting. The Kowloon Walled City Park  used to be the densest city in the world. Even though it was situated in the heart of Hong Kong, the Walled City was a place where crime and vice thrived. Even the local police were afraid to get inside this city.

Kowloon had a population of 50,000 residents, all living in an area of 2.6 hectares. In the early 90’s the government decided to entirely demolish the city and a few years later in the exact place where the city was built, a park was opened to the public. Nowadays, the park is a quiet place, where locals come to relax and where ex-residents of Kowloon Walled City come to remember the old days.

There is a small museum in the center of the park where you can see images and read the history of the Walled City.

Hau Wong Temple:  Right near the park is the Hau Wong Temple. The temple was built in 1730 and even though it is quite small, this temple is really beautiful. Here you can find important artifacts and beautiful Chinese calligraphy.

Avenue of Stars :

Take the direct bus number 1 from the Hau Wong Temple and head straight to the famous Avenue of Stars . This waterfront promenade offers some of the best views towards Hong Kong’s skyscrapers. The idea behind the Avenue of Stars is similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This walkway honors the most important celebrities from Hong Kong’s film industry.

If you want some awesome pictures with the Hong Kong skyline, this is the place to be! It is also a popular spot to watch the daily light show called the Symphony of Lights but for that I have an even better idea.

Mong Kok District:

From the Avenue of stars take the double-decker or the subway to Mong Kok, the busiest district in Hong Kong. In Cantonese, “Mong Kong” means “crowded corner” so get ready for a bit of chaos. With countless shopping malls and convenience stores this place is heaven for shopping addicts.

Also, here you can find many street food stalls. If you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend you try the local street food. You will find local dishes such as fish tofu and stinky balls and also international dishes such as pizza.

Temple Street Night Market:

After escaping the crowded Mong Kok, take the bus to the famous Temple Street Night Market . Now it’s time to buy souvenirs for the loved ones back home. Here you will find magnets, clothes, accessories, electronics and pretty much anything you can think of! The prices are decent but don’t forget to bargain!

You can easily save up a few bucks! As soon as the sun sets, the Temple Street Market opens and welcomes its visitors. Both tourists and locals shop here and it’s a really nice place to feel the vibe of the city. To get an awesome shot from above the market, head to the parking lot, where the market ends and get your camera ready to catch some colorful photos!

Hong Kong Day 2:

Ngong ping 360 cable car:.

Take the subway to Lantau Island and head straight to the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car . The 20-minute ride will take you through Hong Kong’s most beautiful scenery. If the sights are not enough for you, you can take the Crystal Cabin (it costs a bit more) which has a transparent glass floor. The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is a tourist attraction itself and one of the coolest things to do in Hong Kong.

Tian Tan Big Buddha:

Our next stop is the Tian Tan Big Buddha , situated right next to the cable car. This bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni impresses through its size and beauty. As you walk towards the statue, you’ll find six smaller bronze statues, known as “The Offering of the Six Devas”.

To get to the Big Buddha, you will have to climb no more and no less than 268 steps. I recommend wearing some comfortable shoes. While you’re in the area, I also recommend visiting the Po Lin Monastery. It’s a really nice way to experience first-hand Hong Kong’s culture.

Monster Building:

After being featured in the Transformers – Age of Extinction movie, the Monster Building , as it’s called by locals, has become an internet sensation. To get that perfect picture surrounded by the apartment buildings from the Montane Mansion, you’ll have to queue for a while.

The Monster Building has two courtyards where you can take photos. If the first one is too crowded, try the second one. Apart from photography enthusiasts, here you will also meet many local people who seem to not even notice the tourists searching for the best photo angle. You’ll see them playing Mahjong and drinking tea.

Victoria Peak Tram :

After experiencing first-hand how locals live in Hong Kong, it’s time to head to the Victoria Peak Tram and enjoy one of the most scenic rides in the city. On your way to the top, you will pass by tall skyscrapers, dense forest and beautiful private villas.

Victoria Peak Viewpoint:

Victoria Peak Viewpoint: Once you get off the Victoria Peak Tram, head to one of the free viewing platforms. If you want, you can also go to the Sky Terrace 428 although I honestly don’t recommend it. While the view from Victoria Peak is beautiful, it’s definitely not the best one. Walk for a few minutes and you will get to a hidden gem, with a wider view and less tourists.

Lugard Road Viewpoint:

Lugard Road Viewpoint: Lugard Road is not actually a road but a path through the forest. From the Victoria Peak follow the path for about 15 minutes and you will get to this incredible viewpoint. Well hidden from tourists and with no entrance fee, this was my favorite place to watch the sunset in Hong Kong.

Take your time to watch how one by one, the skyscrapers light up. Slowly, the sunlight is replaced by neon lights and the night takes over the city. It is a truly wonderful sight. Don’t forget your camera home as you will definitely want to capture these moments.

Ride in the Star Ferry:

Head back to the Victoria Peak Tram, get back down and head to the Central Pier No. 7 ( Star Ferry Pier ) and catch the 8pm ferry (from the Victoria Peak Tram there is a direct bus to the pier). If you catch this exact ferry, you will be one of the few lucky ones who will get to experience the Symphony of Lights from a ferry.

Make sure to sit near a window and enjoy the show! The Symphony of Lights is a daily multimedia show where the buildings in the Victoria Harbour light up on the sound of music. At the end of the show, be prepared to admire the fireworks!

Hong Kong Day 3: Day Trip to Macau:

Take the ferry to Macau and explore another spectacular city. Day trips from Hong Kong to Macau are really popular since the ferries run every 15 minutes. Make sure to bring your passport with you! Most travelers don’t require a visa to enter Macau, but you can check out more about visa requirements here.

To explore the city, I recommend taking the hop on and hop off bus straight from the ferry terminal in Macau. The bus has 16 stops and it covers all the important tourist attractions in the city. Some of the attractions you can’t miss are: Macau Tower, A-ma Temple and of course, the famous casinos.

Hong Kong Day 4: Day Trip to Hongkong Disneyland:

Disneyland Hong Kong is one of the most visited theme parks in Asia and you should definitely visit it if you’re looking for some fun. Make sure to avoid holidays and the weekend since the park gets extremely crowded and you don’t want to spend hours queuing for rides.

To skip the lines, you can use the free fast passes. Near each important ride there is a ticketing machine that will issue a ticket with a “return time”. Make sure to be back at the time indicated on your ticket and enjoy a shorter queue! Some of the most popular attractions are Big Grizzly Mountain Coaster, Iron Man Experience, Mystic Manor and Tarzan’s Treehouse.

Hong Kong 4-Day Itinerary – Tips & Tricks

If you have 4 days in Hong Kong there’s a couple of useful tips, I can share to help you make the most of your visit. Cram the nearby attractions in central Hong Kong like Peak Tower, Hong Kong Park, Zoo in one day to save time and make the most out of it.

Walk as Much as You Can: Hong Kong is a really beautiful city and there is no better way to experience it than by walking. You will find fascinating hidden alleys and you will have more time to admire the tall, crowded buildings around you.

Use Public Transport: The public transport in Hong Kong is awesome! The buses and the subway are really reliable, affordable and fast. Yes, taxis might be more comfortable but trust me, you don’t want to be stuck in traffic in Hong Kong. Tip: When using the double-decker buses, head to the upper floor and sit in the front row. You will have the best view!

Try the Local Food: Stop at small, local restaurants to grab something to eat or try the street food. The food in Hong Kong might be a bit weird, especially for Westerners but it’s definitely worth a try!

Wear Comfortable Clothing: Throughout the year, Hong Kong’s weather is pleasant and on the hotter side. Hence, pack comfortable clothing and shoes for staying cool throughout the day. If you choose to visit the city’s attraction by public transport, wear comfortable shoes for walking and wear shades and always carry sunscreen for reapplication.

Where to Stay in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is known to be a crowded city. Therefore, the bigger the hotel room is, the more you’re going to pay. There are accommodation options for each budget. You’ll definitely find something suitable for your needs! If you feel like splurging, I recommend the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong .

This hotel has some dreamy views and an incredible pool. Also, the rooms are incredibly spacious and very comfortable. The Grand Hyatt has all the amenities of a luxury hotel. If you’re on a budget, I recommend the City Oasis Guesthouse . Situated in a beautiful area on Lantau Island, this place is perfect to relax after a day full of sightseeing.

What to Eat in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is a palace for foodies! Numerous kinds of food can be found, from local Cantonese cuisine, street snacks, to world famous Michelin star restaurants , to diverse types of international dishes. You will never worry about what to eat in Hong Kong but may be wonder which one(s) to choose for this time.

To try some local flavors of the cafes, like the Hong Kong-style milk tea , pineapple bun with butter , etc.  which are good for a first try. Also, dim sum is not to be missed. Over 1,000 different types of exquisite dim sum , including shrimp dumpling, Sui Mai, etc. are easy to find and will surely tempt you.

Remember to try the egg puffs from the street stalls, which are delicious and interesting. Dundas Street at Mong Kok is really famous for its local street snacks. To try more Hong Kong local food, you can go for the roasted goose, roasted pork, Wonton Noodles, Char Sui, egg tarts, etc. It is really highly recommended to try seafood there as they are really fresh and flavorful. Among all these dishes, Hong Kong style stir-fried crab is a must-order one.

Furthermore, as Hong Kong is an inclusive international city, you can find many dishes from other countries, like French cuisine, Italian cuisine, American cuisine, Indian cuisine, Thai cuisine, Japanese food, etc. Of course, other regional cuisines of China can also be found, like hot pot, Sichuan food, Hunan food, Shanghai food, etc. Prepare your stomach and make all the gourmets to please your taste bud to the utmost!

Budget for Hong Kong 4-Day Itinerary

For 4 days/5 night’s stay at a comfortable 4-star property along with flights, meals, sightseeing and miscellaneous, the budget would be.

Flights (Economy) : It costs around $250 to $400 for a round trip per person from Malaysia. The cost can vary for other countries and for one-stop flights.

Accommodation : You can expect to spend $50 including taxes per person for a budget hotel or hostel . Mid-range: $100 – $200 per night for a standard hotel and Luxury: $200+ per night for upscale hotels or resorts. The rates will vary depending on the locality.

Transportation (Through MTR/ Public Buses/Cabs) : Octopus Card (for public transport): $20 – $50 for initial card and top-ups. Airport transfer: $5 – $30 depending on mode of transport (bus, train, taxi). Daily transportation (MTR, buses, trams): $5 – $10 per day.

Meals (Lunch and Dinner) : Street food and local eateries: $5 – $15 per meal. Mid-range restaurants: $15 – $30 per meal. Fine dining or international cuisine: $30+ per meal.

Activities and Attractions: Victoria Peak Tram: $10 – $20 round trip. Disneyland or Ocean Park: $60 – $100 for admission. Museums and cultural sites: $5 – $20 per entry.

Miscellaneous Shopping : SIM card for data: $10 – $30 depending on data plan. Souvenirs and shopping: $20 – $50 per day. Emergency or contingency fund: $50 – $100 for unexpected expenses.

Based on these estimates, a budget traveler might spend around $100 – $150 per day, while a mid-range traveler could budget $200 – $300 per day. Luxury travelers may budget $400+ per day. Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and actual costs may vary based on personal preferences, exchange rates, and specific choices of accommodation, dining, and activities. It’s always wise to have some extra funds for unexpected expenses or special experiences you might want to indulge in during your trip.

In my experience, a four-day itinerary in Hong Kong offers an unforgettable journey through a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. From the bustling streets of Central to the enchanting magic of Hong Kong Disneyland, the tranquility of Lantau Island’s Big Buddha, and the vibrant neighborhoods of Mong Kok and Causeway Bay, each day presents a unique and enriching experience.

Though limited in time, this itinerary provides a taste of Hong Kong’s diverse culture, history, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Hong Kong has something to offer everyone. As I bid farewell, I carry with me the spirit of this dynamic city and the memories of its captivating charm. Until we meet again, safe travels, and may your next adventure be just as thrilling!

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5-Day Hong Kong Itinerary Under S$700 — Hidden Gems and Local Recommendations

This is not your typical Hong Kong itinerary — skip the touristy spots and bustling crowds, and experience a whole new side to this city!

Don’t get me wrong, I love Cha Chaan Tengs (tea restaurants), dim sum and soaking in Hong Kong’s vibrant atmosphere. But if there’s anything I learnt from my past trips to The Orient, it’s that she only shows herself to those who seek it.

So in this itinerary, we’ll be discovering Hong Kong beyond the usual comforts of the city. From hidden gems like a futuristic Chinese opera theatre to new local favourites like an IG-worthy art mall, here’s how our five days went!

Day 1:   Rich Art Scene  |  Day 2:   Places Away from the Crowds  |  Day 3:   Day Trip Out of the City  |  Day 4:   Shop like a Local  |  Day 5:   New Instagrammable Spots

Day 1: Dive into Hong Kong’s Rich Art Scene

Hk pop culture festival 2023.

Kicking off this itinerary, we visited the first-ever Pop Culture Festival in Hong Kong! Hosted at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum it showcases Hong Kong’s rich pop culture through the years from film screenings to exhibitions of its legendary stars.

The “Miss You Much Leslie” Exhibition is a tribute to the late Leslie Cheung and his immense influence in Hong Kong’s entertainment scene in the 80s and 90s.

The exhibition immediately drew us in with its fully red-lit room, tracing back to his Cantopop album 红 (red). We got to understand how big an icon he was from watching compilations of his screen work to appreciating the extravagant costumes like his white feathered suit and sequinned red heels.

*Pro-tip: If you’re visiting in September, catch his Oscar-nominated film  Farewell My Concubine  on the 30th for a more holistic Leslie Cheung experience. 

Other interesting experiences at the event include film screenings of Hong Kong’s comics-inspired films and an exhibition dedicated to the Hong Kong Film Arts & Costumes — an entrance fee is required for both.

“Miss You Much Leslie” Exhibition Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM Exhibition period: 29 Mar – 9 Oct 2023

Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival Entrance fee: Varies Opening hours: Varies Exhibition period: 29 Mar – 18 Nov 2023 How to get there: 6mins walk from Che Kung Temple Station Exit A

*Note: The festival ran till 18 November 2023 but you can still check out future events and festivals online !

West Kowloon Art District

Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s art scene at one of the world’s largest cultural districts. Occupying 40 hectares of reclaimed land, the West Kowloon Art District is where you’ll find the perfect blend of art, education, open space, retail, dining, and more! Some of our favourites:

M+ Museum features a refreshing spectrum of modern artworks from the 20th to the 21st century by artists all across Asia. The artworks feature a unique range of themes from architecture to responses to colonisation and the famous dot works of Yayoi Kusama !

Fun fact: The ongoing Yayoi Kusama installations — Dots Obsession—Aspiring to Heaven’s Love and Death of Nerves — are new works that were commissioned by M+ as part of the Yayoi Kusama: 1945 to Now Special Exhibition.

Entrance fee: From S$21/pax Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM, closes 10PM on Fri, closed on Mon How to get there: Take a shuttle bus from Austin Station exit D (every 20mins from 9AM – 8:30PM)

Hong Kong Palace Museum [NEW]

Photo credit: West Kowloon Cultural District

Located at the western tip, the Hong Kong Palace Museum is the newest addition to the West Kowloon Cultural District! It features Chinese art and culture, along with unique art and treasures from around the world.

Its main attraction is priceless treasures from the Palace Museum , China’s most prestigious museum. There are over 900 pieces, many on display in Hong Kong for the first time, with some never shown to the public before! Peep 120 pieces from the latest archaeological discoveries of the Sanxingdui ruins in Sichuan province 🤩

Entrance fee: From S$9/pax Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM, closes 8PM on Fri, Sat & PH, closed on Tue How to get there: Take a shuttle bus from Austin Station exit D (every 20mins from 9AM – 8:30PM)

Dinner at Blk 18 Doggie’s Noodle

One of the most comforting and unique street foods is hands down Blk 18 Doggie’s Noodle (HK$31, ~S$5.30). This Michelin Guide street food has been well-loved since the 1950s for its short rice flour noodles in a thick and gooey broth flavoured with dried shrimp.

The dish alone is tasty, but I loved adding in some spicy chye poh (Chinese dried radish) for an extra kick 💯 We also had spicy fish and meat dumplings (HK$12, ~S$2) to complete the entire meal!

Opening hours: 24 hours Address: G/F, 20 D’Aguilar Street, Central (Other outlets: Yau Ma Tei, Tsim Sha Tsui, Un Chau and Tsuen Wan)

Day 2: Appreciate The City Away From The Crowds

Hike pok fu lam.

Hong Kong has an abundant outdoor life as it does city life. Although most epic hikes are out of the city, there is one right on Hong Kong Island that promises both the tranquillity of nature and the best views of the city skyline 🏙

We started our hike at Pok Fu Lam . The 1-hour ascent was steep but well-paved and surrounded by lush forests, reservoirs, and waterfalls!

Once we reached The Peak, we headed left into the windy Lugard Road for another 15 minutes for the best view in town. Satisfied with the city views, we followed the same route back to The Peak and took Minibus 1 from there to Central Station 🚌

But if you’re interested in exploring the area, continue down from the viewpoint to Harlech Road and spot the city’s highest coastal defence battery, Pinewood Battery, before looping back to The Peak!

Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: From Central MTR, take Exit E to Statue Square and take bus 30x to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road

Read also: Hong Kong’s Outdoor: 9 Lesser-Known Sights for the Adventurous

Fuel up at Sister Wah Beef Brisket

“This is the best beef brisket in Hong Kong!” – local sitting next to us at the restaurant

Sister Wah Beef Brisket is a long-standing Michelin-recommended resto (since 2017!) that both tourists and locals often seek.

We ordered the Beef Brisket with Ee Fu noodles (HK$63, ~S$10.70) and the Beef Shank noodles (HK$63, ~S$10.70), and boy, did it live up to our expectations! The broth is clean and not too rich, but if you love a kick, add in chilli oil — the spice enhances the delicious beefy flavours and brings the dish to a whole new level 🔥

Opening hours: 11AM – 10:45PM How to get there: 1min walk from Tin Hau Station Exit A2

Victoria Harbour Night Cruise

One of the most bustling spots at night is Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade . Here, you get great views of Hong Kong Island’s skyline. Not to mention, there’s the nightly Symphony of Lights show at 8PM, which transforms the skyline into a performance of searchlights, lasers and LED screens!

But we wanted to escape the crowds, so we hopped on a luxury yacht instead to get a closer view of the bright lights. The 45-minute sail was the perfect activity to unwind after a long day — we enjoyed unlimited drinks and snacks while soaking in the gorgeous harbour views!

Cost: From S$35/pax Tour timings: 7:35PM, 8:35PM, 9:35PM, 10:35PM Meeting point: Tsim Sha Tsui Public Pier Number 4

Day 3: Day Trip to Tai O Fishing Village

Feeling rather overstimulated by the bustling metropolis, we decided to head out to Lantau Island the next day and visit Tai O Fishing Village !

This fishing settlement was once a trading hub for salt, shrimp paste, and dried seafood in the 16th century. Today, it’s a preserved cultural site, known for its stilt houses and traditional fishing culture.

There are two ways to get here, and both start at Tung Chung. We planned to take a 50-minute ferry, but due to rainy weather, we opted for the bus instead. The hour-long journey took us through winding mountains and stunning sea views along the way!

Once we arrived, we took a scenic boat ride (HK$30, ~S$5.10) to see the traditional stilt houses up close. After which, we sailed out to the open waters in hopes of some pink dolphin sightings 🐬 (spoiler alert: we didn’t see any).

The rest of our adventure was exploring the unique residential areas on foot. From seeing shops that still produce shrimp paste to unconventional metal houses, walking through the streets gave us a glimpse into Tai O’s olden days.

All that walking worked up our appetite, so we bee-lined for Tai O Market Street to get some snacks! We had the famous Tai O Bakery Donut (HK$15, ~S$2.60). Fresh from the fryer, it was sugary and crispy, with a yummy eggy custard centre 💯

Further down, we took a break from walking at Ching Kee . This dessert shop is well-known for its beancurd, and ginger milk pudding. Plus, it has an outdoor seating area overlooking the Tai O channel too!

After a long day of exploration, we finally hopped on a scenic ferry ride (HK$32.50, ~S$5.50) back to Tung Chung.

Ferry timings: First ferry departs Tung Chung at 7:30AM, last ferry leaves Tai O at 6:30PM How to get there: Take bus 11 from Tung Chung Station Bus Terminus, or ferry from Tung Chung New Development Pier

Day 4: Shop As The Locals Do

Photo credit: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Hong Kong has a fun collection of art malls like PMQ and K11 Art Mall , and The Mills is another great spot. This hidden gem is slightly out of the city in Tsuen Wan but popular amongst the younger locals because of its history and unique experiences — not just because it’s so Instagrammable!

Originally a cotton mill in the 1950s, it played a significant role in Hong Kong’s manufacturing industry. Today, this vibrant transformed space is dedicated to preserving the textile heritage. Dive deep into the history of Hong Kong’s textile industry through various exhibitions, talks and workshops here.

Or step into the experiential retail zone, and get to know all the up-and-coming local brands like FM+ and b/major !

Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM How to get there: Take a shuttle bus from Tseung Wan Station Exit A4/D (departs every 20mins)

Kwai Chung Plaza

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

Most shopping trips in Hong Kong usually revolve around Mongkok, specifically Argyle Centre . That was until I discovered Kwai Chung Plaza — it’s bigger with a wider selection of shops and a popular hang-out spot amongst locals.

Be spoilt for choice with four levels of shops selling everything from cosmetics to affordable clothes and accessories! When you’re done scouring through the shops, eat your way through the extensive selection of yummy snacks and desserts here.

Some must-tries include Curry Sauce Takoyaki (HK$29, ~S$5), Deerlicious Pudding and Tung Min Ding’s (東門町) Sichuan hot and sour glass noodles (HK$25, ~S$4.30).

Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM How to get there: 2mins walk from Kwai Fung Station

Day 5: Discover New Instagrammable Spots

Xiqu centre.

When you think of a Chinese Opera house, the looks of Xiqu Centre wouldn’t be the first thing that comes to mind. However, this architectural beauty helps give this traditional art a modern edge.

This space is dedicated to preserving and developing Chinese traditional theatre, and is also an inviting space for the public — we hung out on the atrium’s large seating steps sipping on bubble tea, before exploring the public exhibitions and learning about the history of the arts.

For a more immersive experience, catch award-winning Chinese Opera performances at the Tea House Theatre — it imitates the atmosphere of a traditional tea house like how it was in the past!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 10:30PM How to get there: Austin Station Exit E

Arte M @ K11 Atelier

For a more vibrant backdrop, step into the world of Arte M . Opened in October 2022, this multi-sensory media art exhibition has seven rooms with breathtaking LED projections of nature. The moment we stepped in, we felt like we were transported into another world with each mirrored room bursting with colours from floor to ceiling!

Photo credit: @artem_hong kong via Instagram

From whales made of ocean waves to luminescent rainforests, you’ll be struggling to choose which photo as your next display pic 📸

Entrance fee: From S$15/pax Opening hours: 11AM – 7PM, opens 10AM on weekends, last admission 6PM How to get there: 2mins walk from Quarry Bay Station Exit C

根Root Cafe [NEW]

Nothing screams IG-worthy more than a cafe with an entire tree trunk at its centre.

Just as its name suggests, Root Cafe is inspired by wood. And you can be sure we were seated right by its 5.5m-tall local eucalyptus tree!

The food here tastes as great as it looks too — specifically the Signature Grilled Chicken (HK$168, ~S$29) and the adorably delicious Cactus Chocolate Tart (HK$68, ~S$12) 💯 The chicken was extremely juicy and well seasoned, while the chocolate tart was the perfect dessert to end off the meal — not too sweet or heavy!

Opening hours: 12PM – 9PM, closed between 4PM – 5:15PM How to get there: 7mins walk from Kai Tak Station Exit D

Experiencing the Most Out of Hong Kong

I wasn’t sure what to expect returning to Hong Kong after all these years. But after a few days here, I’m reminded there’s so much more to this concrete jungle.

With such a great mix of urban and outdoor experiences, I’m captivated by the rich arts culture, the ever-growing list of yummy foods , and hidden gems worth escaping the city for.

Budget Breakdown 4N Accommodation: S$361.74 Transport: S$17.30 (excl. flights) Activities: S$84.54 Food & Misc: S$$224.90 (incl. insurance) Total: $688.48

( detailed breakdown for one pax here )

Trip Essentials

To get around Hong Kong you need an Octopus card. We got ours from Klook — it was preloaded with HK$150 (~S$25.50) and came with an 8-day SIM card!

Don’t miss out on some special Hong Kong Goodies too! If you’re visiting for 90 days or less, simply register to choose from either one welcome drink from their local bars, a HK$100 (~S$17) cash voucher or a gift from an attraction or museum 🎁

Where to Stay in Hong Kong

We stayed at Royal Plaza Hotel in Mongkok during our trip. This hotel was everything we could’ve asked for — clean, convenient, and comfortable! Our room was extremely spacious and the hotel was well-connected to more than one MTR station (Mongkok East Station and Mongkok Station).

Cost: From S$180/night (for 2 pax) Address: 193 Prince Edward Road West, Kowloon

See what else we got up to in our All-in Hong Kong Guide — Everything to Eat, See and Do :

What other hidden gems should we add to our Hong Kong itinerary? Drop a comment below!

This article was brought to you by Hong Kong Tourism Board .

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Instagram ,  YouTube ,  Facebook  and  Telegram !

@thetravelintern This is a sign for you fo work remotely #traveltiktok #remotework #bangkok ♬ มองนานๆ – FLI:P

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The Ultimate Hong Kong Itinerary 5 Days

By: Author Charles

Posted on October 25, 2023

While many people visit Hong Kong for just a couple days, having 5 days there will give you plenty of time to explore.

This Hong Kong 5 day itinerary route will go over a whole bunch of different sights and attractions that you will be able to see and do during a trip to the region.

From incredible viewpoints of the Hong Kong skyline to the big Buddha of Lantau to the casinos of Macau, this itinerary will walk you through it all.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

Hong Kong Itinerary Intro

Spending 5 days in Hong Kong gives you plenty of time to see the top sights & attractions, while not needing to rush through it all.

You will be able to take full advantage of your days & nights in Hong Kong, and have the flexibility to move things around as you see fit.

With 5 days, you can not only focus on the immediate city center, but also on some top spots on the outskirts of the city. In addition, this itinerary will include a day trip to the region of Macau, just a short boat ride away.

At a high level, here is what this Hong Kong itinerary will look like:

• Day 1 : City Center
• Day 2 : Theme Park Option
• Day 3 : Lantau Island
• Day 4 : Macau
• Day 5 : Repulse Bay & Stanley

The rest of this guide will go into some more detail about these 5 days and what they will entail. Hope you enjoy!

Hong Kong Itinerary 5 Days Map View

Take a look at the map below which shows you where each attraction that is part of this itinerary is located throughout Hong Kong.

Given that you probably will be situated in one place the whole trip, you can move around the individual days of the itinerary as you see fit.

A Detailed Hong Kong Itinerary 5 Days

​ Now let’s get on to the actual trip! The following is a detailed breakout of the daily attractions and activities on this 5 day itinerary.

Feel free to scroll through and also click on any more in depth posts along the way.

Where to Stay

In Hong Kong, there are two main areas to consider situating yourself in – Hong Kong Island (southern side of the water) and Kowloon (northern side of the water).

Connecting the two are bridges, the MTR train network, and ferries. This makes it very easy getting from one area to the other. Due to this, there is no need to split up your time between hotels. Simply choose one for your stay and you should be good to go.

I would recommend that you do not situate yourself too far away from the Victoria Harbour area. Most of the restaurants and nightlife options are around that vicinity. Staying close by will just make things easier.

On the Hong Kong Island side, the Central and Wan Chai area are great walkable spots that are easily accessible to the MTR. On the Kowloon side, by staying closer to the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade you cannot go wrong.

Kowloon Hotels

• New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel
• Harbour Grand Kowloon
• Hyatt Regency Hong Kong Tsim Sha Tsui

Hong Kong Island Hotels

• Grand Hyatt Hong Kong
• The Fleming Hong Kong
• Harbour Grand Hong Kong

Day 1 – Views, Exploring & Markets

​ Hong Kong is full of lively streets, markets and views. The first stop on your trip will take you to the top of the city – Victoria Peak – where you will be able to have an incredible view of the entire city from up above.

You can opt for the bus, cab, cable car, or hike up to the top of the peak. Once up top, you can walk around to the various viewpoints, check out Sky Terrace 428 at Peak Tower, and make your way over to Lion’s Pavilion.

Take a look at the guide below that will go over each of these transportation options and what to expect up top.

Learn More: This Complete Guide to Victoria Peak will give you more insight about this amazing experience

Before or after the peak, you can take a stroll around Hong Kong Park , which is also right next to where the base of the tram is. It is a great little oasis within the city full of greenery, ponds, and walking paths.

After spending some time on the Hong Kong Island side, hop on the MTR and get yourself to the Kowloon side of the city.

Once there stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and the Avenue of the Stars . Here you will be able to see the skyline of the Hong Kong Island side during the day and pass by statues of all the famous movie celebrities that came from the region.

By this time it is probably time for lunch and you can find any place around the area for some food. Depending on what interests you there are a bunch of museums around as well.

The museums include the Hong Kong Museum of History, the Hong Kong Science Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, and the Hong Kong Space Museum among others.

All of these are walking distance from one another so if you want to spend an hour or two checking one out now is the time.

Later on in the evening you can check out some markets, and there are plenty to choose from. As usual in Asia, these markets have a little bit of everything so get your bargaining hat on and start browsing around.

A bit north of the promenade you will find the Ladies Market , which is one of the largest and most well known markets in Hong Kong.

Once you have made it through the Ladies Market feel free to head down to the Temple Street Night Market .

Side note : a few minutes walk from the Ladies Market you can find the Goldfish Market. Now you probably aren’t in the market to buy a goldfish but it is an interesting site to see. Also close by are the Bird and Flower markets, if those are of interest to you too.

Day 2 – Ocean Park or Disneyland

This one is up to you. There are two main theme parks in Hong Kong – Ocean Park which has a bunch of different types of rides, shows and animals to see, and Disneyland which is basically just the Hong Kong version of one you would see in the US.

You can’t go wrong with either one and both will probably be a full day activity.

If you would like a few more details on both of the parks that can help you decide which one to go to check out the  comparison between the two parks .

Disneyland Ticket : if heading to Disneyland, feel free to purchase your ticket ahead of time to get you all set for the park

After a day at the park, it is time for a night of fun. One of the highlights of Hong Kong nightlife experience is heading to the Happy Valley Racecourse .

Each week, on Wednesdays there are 10 or so races starting around 7:00PM. It is a great time to have some fun, bet on horses and then cheer them on. Even if you are not into horse racing whatsoever, it is easy to get involved and enjoy the evening.

Note : even though Happy Valley is mentioned here, there is a good chance day 2 will not be a Wednesday for you. Feel free to go the racecourse on any night of the itinerary when it happens to be a Wednesday. Check the schedule  before heading out there.

After a night on the racecourse, head on over to Wan Chai or Lan Kwai Fong for a night on the town.

Day 3 – Lantau Island

On your third day in Hong Kong, make your way to Lantau Island to see the Big Buddha, take part of some hiking opportunities, and see a fishing village.

It is super simple to do a day trip to the island as one of the metro lines will take you right there. Once on the island you will be able to do any and all activities. A day out on Lantau can include:

• Ngong Ping Cable Car
• Ngong Ping Village
• Tian Tan Big Buddha
• Po Lin Monastery
• Wisdom Path
• Lantau Peak Hiking Option
• Tai O Fishing Village

Lantau Island Resources Below are a few additional resources to better help your day trip out to Lantau Island: Learn More: Complete Guide to Lantau Island Tickets: Ngong Ping Cable Car Tour: Lantau Island, Tai O, NP360, Big Buddha Heritage Tour

Later at night it is time to head back to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade Promenade. Every night at 8PM there is a light show put on by the buildings on the riverbank.

It is a unique thing to see, as you don’t usually get to see all these buildings in one area putting on a show in unison.

Make sure you get a nice spot to enjoy the 15 minute display before grabbing some food and calling it a night (Ozone Bar at the top of the Ritz Carlton is another option if you want to see the show from up top).

Day 4 – Macau

After spending a few days in Hong Kong its time to head out to the Las Vegas of Asia – Macau.

Even if you are not into the whole gambling scene, there are other things to see around Macau for the day so don’t write it off just because you don’t enjoy the blackjack table.

Luckily Macau is an easy ~1 hour or so boat ride from Hong Kong.

There are two ferry terminals that will take you there – one on the Kowloon side (China Ferry Terminal) and one on the Hong Kong Island side (Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal – Sheung Wan). You can ferry over either to the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal or the Macau Taipa Terminal.

Ferries run around the clock so you should not have any trouble picking a time and getting tickets. You can check the Turbojet schedule who runs many of the routes. Expect to pay $20 – $25 one way.

You can start off your time in Macau at the Historic Centre of Macau. As a UNESCO World Heritage site there are numerous buildings, churches, and squares to roam around in.

Check out the  map of the area to give you some context of what you can see. Spend the next couple hours walking around the area and taking in that Chinese / Portuguese feel.

Once you have had enough time roaming the city, you can grab lunch and spend some time wandering the casinos as you gamble, eat and enjoy the entertainment.

There are plenty of casinos to choose from – both within walking distance of the historic centre and some farther south. Once your day/night is complete you can hop back on a ferry to Hong Kong.

Day 5 – Repulse Bay & Stanley Market

​ It is time to see a different side of Hong Kong so head down south to Repulse Bay and Stanley Market.

The easiest and most cost effective way to get to these places is by bus at the Exchange Square Central Bus Terminus.

You can choose from a few options – 6, 6A, 6X, 66, 260. Those busses should stop at both Repulse Bay and then onwards to Stanley.

It is a pretty windy road as you make it down south. If you choose to sit on the upper level of the bus you will be able to take in some great views of the surrounding areas and curvy roads ahead.

Repulse Bay is on the more high-end side of what you will see in Hong Kong. It is also home to one of the nicer beaches in the area. Spend the morning relaxing by the beach, taking a swim, and eating by an ocean side restaurant.

Once you had enough time in the sun hop on another quick bus or cab and head to Stanley Market , which is just about 10 minutes further along the route.

You may be over the markets already from all the opportunities on your previous days, but another market can never hurt anyone! Get some shopping done before heading back up north and ending your day.

Best Hong Kong Tours

While the itinerary above will be a fun filled and action packed 5 days in the city, there is the option to take part of some tours as well.

If you would like to swap some things around, and head on some more specific tours during your time there, that will certainly be possible.

Here are some of the top rated tours to choose from in Hong Kong:

• Hong Kong: Private Walking City Tour with a Local Guide
• Hong Kong: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour (Optional Peak Tram)
• Victoria Harbour Night or Symphony of Lights Cruise
• Hong Kong Walking Tour: Food, History & Culture Introduction

Getting Around Hong Kong

When it comes to getting around Hong Kong, the public transport system has you set. Throughout Hong Kong you will find 10 different MTR (Mass Transit Railway) lines connecting nearly 100 stations.

The MTR is a fast, reliable, and inexpensive way to get from point A to point B. Below you can find a map of the MTR network and the various train lines.

As you make your way to your next destination, you should easily be able to leverage a navigation app like Google Maps that will lay out the route for you to take.

When going about paying for MTR rides, the Octopus Card is the way to go.

This is basically a re-loadable card that you will tap at the turnstiles. So, instead of paying for individual tickets each time, the Octopus Card will make your journey that much simpler.

The card is not only used for the MTR either. You can use it for other forms of public transport like the busses, ferries, and light rail. You will also find convenience stores that accept it as a form of payment.

Throughout Hong Kong, you can reload your Octopus Card at MTR stations and other service providers. Note that once you finish your trip, you can return the card to retrieve your funds for a small fee (and get back the HK$50 deposit).

Note that the MTR does stop running around 1:00AM. So, if you happen to be out late at night, you will need to hop in a taxi. Outside of rush hour, taxis are relatively affordable so it shouldn’t be too much of an expense.

​ Airport MTR : Getting to and from the airport can also be easy using the Airport Express. Trains leave frequently and can get you to Hong Kong Island or Kowloon in less than 25 minutes. You can use your Octopus Card as well on the Airport Express Line.

Best Time to Visit Hong Kong

When it comes to the best time to visit Hong Kong, you will want need to consider the two main seasons.

From May to September the weather in Hong Kong can be hot, humid, and wet. While from October to April, the weather will be cooler and dry.

The screenshots below courtesy of holiday-weather shows the average temperatures and rainfall charts throughout the year.

If I had to choose the best time to visit Hong Kong, I would have to go with the early Spring and Fall time periods. During these times, temperatures will comfortable and rainfall will be near its lows.

The nice thing about Hong Kong though is that it really can be visited year-round. The Winter months don’t get too cold and while the summer months can be wet, the rain usually doesn’t last too long.

Weather Tip #1 : if visiting in the summer months, bring along an umbrella/poncho when heading out for the day. The rain can start and stop throughout so its best to be prepared. Weather Tip #2 : be aware of low lying clouds when visiting places like Victoria Peak and Lantau Island. If you see a less than ideal weather forecast (or live webcam), it may be best to try and move around your itinerary.

How Many Day is Enough for Hong Kong?

Although Hong Kong isn’t the largest place out there, I would still recommend spending at least 3-5 days exploring it all. As you can tell with this itinerary, there is plenty to do to keep you busy.

Whether that is exploring markets, walking the waterside, taking part of some hikes, enjoying the views, or going on some day trips – there is much to do all throughout Hong Kong.

Anything less than three days and you are at risk of just rushing through or missing out on top attractions and activities. By giving yourself more time, you will be able to see Hong Kong at a comfortable pace. This will also give you the flexibility factor of moving things around when you see fit.

If you do have less than 5 days, feel free to check out the 3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary up on the site.

That about does it for 5 days in Hong Kong. Check out some more Hong Kong itineraries and guides , and feel free to comment below with any questions.

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Matea Michelle Madrid

Tuesday 16th of January 2024

Can you give me quote 5 days tour in hongkong inculding macau, 9 persons on april 11 to 15, 2024.

Hoping to hear from you. Thanks.

Sincerely yours, Matea Michelle Madrid

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The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023

• unicornfloof

If you’ve scored one of those 12,500 free Cathay Pacific tickets, here’s a 7D6N Hong Kong itinerary ranging from must-see sights to mouth-watering eats to help you plan your next trip to the Fragrant Harbour!

Hong Kong — a city that never sleeps. It’s vibrant, it’s full of surprises and it’s calling your name! You might have heard that Cathay Pacific recently gave away 12,500 free tickets to Hong Kong (and that they were all gone within 40 minutes!). Yup, you heard right — 40 minutes!!! The only catch is that you’ll have to make the most of your time there as the tickets are only valid for a two to seven-day trip . But fear not, because we’re here to help you craft an unforgettable itinerary for your Hong Kong adventure.

We’ll show you the hidden gems of this city, the best local eats, and the most exciting experiences to have during your short stay. Get ready to hop on a rollercoaster of flavours, sights, and sounds, as we take you on a journey through the unique and diverse culture of Hong Kong!

💜 Stay Up To Date: –  Causeway Travel And The Best Times To Cross It 2023 –  Your S$1 Flights Destinations Guide –  Back By Popular Demand: S$1 Flights Are Bigger & Better Than Ever

Start Your Trip Off With Stunning Views From Victoria Peak

Image credits: Hotels.com Australia

Known as Mount Austin, Victoria Peak is the highest point on Hong Kong Island which offers iconic views of skyscraper-flanked Victoria Harbour, the Kowloon peninsula, and ragged mountain peaks. Take the historic Peak Tram to the very top and soak in the stunning panoramic view of the city beneath your feet! It’s worth every penny.

Opening Hours: 7 AM – 12 AM

Address: Central and Western District, Hong Kong Island

Cost: HKD 45 for a single trip, HKD 100 for a round trip

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Victoria Peak here

Lunch At Mak’s Noodles In The Peak

Image credits: JayMoyLovesFood

After an Instagrammable session at Victoria Peak, head to Mak’s Noodles to try Hong Kong’s famous Wanton Noodles! Using the same recipe for the past century, they serve el dante noodles in rich, flavourful sticky broth. Coupled with plump, smooth wonton filled with prawns, this dish makes for a satisfying soup experience. Ranked as the ‘Best Wanton Noodle Eatery’ in Hong Kong, Mak’s will undoubtedly make you fall in love with local Chinese delicacies. 

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 10:30 PM

Address: The Peak Galleria, Shop 12-13, Level 1, 118 Peak Road

Cost: ~ HKD 36/pax

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Mak’s Noodles here

Stroll Along Central District

Image credits: Big Bus Tours

The Central District in Hong Kong is home to many amazing skyscrapers including the Bank of China Tower and the HSBC Building. As well as shopping malls and shopping arcades adorned with marble. Let your food digest as you visit designer boutiques and major brands in The Landmark, Prince’s Building, The Galleria and more!

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: For the best Central District landmarks click here

Dine With Style At Lee-Lo Mei

Image credits: South China Morning Post

Head to the iconic “Lan Kwai Fong” area known for its nightlife and bustling atmosphere and indulge in local food culture at Lee-Lo Mei ! A well-known restaurant, Lee-Lo Mei gives classic Hong Kong food a high-end makeover. The interior’s inspired by traditional Hong Kong eateries and the food is infused with locally-grown fresh ingredients making it all the more delicious. Don’t miss out on giving the Taro Dumplings with Duck Confit (HKD $88), Steamed Cheung Fan stuffed with Foie Gras and Black Truffle (HKD $138), and Claypot Rice Bowls with Canadian Spot Prawns and Squid Ink (HKD $238), a try! 

Opening Hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 12 PM – 12 AM. Fridays to Saturdays, 12 PM – 2 AM

Address: G/F & 1/F, 8 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong

Cost: ~ HKD 300/pax

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: For more on Lee-Lo Mei click here

Day 2: Lantau Island

View the tian tan buddha.

Image credits: Time Out

A large bronze statue of Buddha on Lantau Island, The Big Buddha symbolises the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith. At 34 metres tall, the statue is one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world and is made of 202 bronze pieces on a three-storey platform. Visitors can either take a cable car ride from Tung Chung or climb 268 flights of stairs to the top for a magnificent view of Lantau Island and the magnificent Buddha. 

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM

Address: Ngong Ping Road, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Cost: HKD 235 (Adults), HKD 110 (Children) for round-trip cable car ride

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Book your Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car tickets here

Fill Your Bellies At The Po Lin Monastery

Image credits: Trevallog

Founded by three monks in 1906, the Po Lin Monastery has more than a century’s worth of history behind it. The name Po Lin means beautiful lotus — a fitting name for its breathtaking grounds. Explore the monastery’s grand temple, and take a look around monks’ homes and shops selling incense! There’s also a vegetarian restaurant serving authentic monastery meals. There, you can enjoy a deluxe meal of warm vegetable soup, lemon beancurd sheets, spring rolls, and mushroom dishes in a private room.

Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Address: Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island

Cost: HKD 60 (regular meal), HKD 100 (deluxe meal)

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Po Lin Monastery here

End Your Day With Pink Dolphins At Tai O Fishing Village!

Image credits: TripSavvy

After lunch, head down to Tai O Fishing Village on the western side of Lantau Island. Nicknamed the “Venice of Hong Kong”, Tai O is known for its stilt houses and pink dolphin sightings. Its friendly inhabitants, the Tanka, is a community of fishermen who love the sea and everything related to it.

Upon arrival, take a boat ride for a pink dolphin tour as you speed through the village and out to the China Sea in hopes of seeing the adorable creatures. While every tour does not guarantee a sighting, most visitors have claimed a high success rate of seeing pairs of dolphins jumping out of the water. Finally, end your day with dinner at Tai O Market Street, a treasure trove of local street foods, ceremony and temple paraphernalia, and seafood must-eats.

Opening Hours: 11 AM – 6 PM

Cost: Varies depending on vendor

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Tai O Fishing Village here

Day 3/4: Head To The Happiest Place On Earth — Disneyland

What’s the point of travelling to Hong Kong if you’re not going to visit the most magical place on Earth? Hong Kong Disneyland is the largest theme park in the country and is filled with endless fun for kids and adults alike. From meeting your favourite Disney characters to hopping on thrilling rides and witnessing the spectacular fireworks displays at night, there’s something for everyone here! Beat the queues with Fastpasses, enjoy a 10% discount on merchandise before 1 PM, and munch on yummy halal food (yes, Hong Kong Disneyland is the only Disney resort in the world with halal food) as you spend a day or two with your loved ones. Letting the inner child in you be the happiest kid around. 

Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM

Address: Sunny Bay, Lantau Island

Cost: HKD 639 for 1-Day admission, HKD 904 for 2-Day admission

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: For more information on Hong Kong Disneyland click here

Day 5: Macau

Located on the western side of the Pearl River Delta, Macau is known as the Las Vegas of Asia for its luxurious casinos, hotels, and family-friendly attractions. Tip: Taking the ferry to the island makes for an interesting day trip option as the islands are just 60km apart. 

While there are two ferry operators — TurboJet and Cotai Water Jet — located at the major terminal in Sheung Wan, both operators run daily ferries at a similar price to different destinations. TurboJet docks at Macau’s Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, which is closer to the city centre. While Cotai Water Jet docks at Taipa Ferry Terminal, which is closer to the casinos and hotels. For this itinerary, we recommend going with TurboJet to visit the more scenic places in Macau away from the glitz and glamour. 

Opening Hours: Ferries depart every 15 minutes

Cost: HKD 308 for a round-trip on weekdays

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023 : Find out what else you can do in Macau here

Visit The Famous Ruins Of St. Paul’s

Image credits: China Highlights

Arguably Macau’s most famous landmark, the Ruins of St. Paul’s continues to captivate tourists centuries from when it was originally constructed. While you only see the remains of a beautiful old church today, the ruins serve as a key reminder of Macau’s unique roots. The site was used to house St. Paul’s College and the Church of St. Paul — the largest church in Asia at the time.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can climb up a steel stairway to the top of the facade from the rear to get a closer look at the stone carvings, and visit the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt at the bottom of the ruins. The museum holds many religious artefacts including Sino-Portugese crucifixes and a 17th-century painting of St. Michael the Archangel — the only surviving work from the original college.

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM

Address: 地下B座, Edificio Cheong Van, 46號 R. da Tercena, Macao

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: For more information on the Ruins of St. Pau’s click here

Chow Down At Mariazinha

To get the most out of Macau’s Portuguese culture, head to Mariazinha — the best place to enjoy an authentic Portuguese meal near the Ruins of St. Paul’s. The conveniently-located Mediterranean European restaurant is a family-owned business that brings locals and tourists food prepared with the best ingredients. Enjoy some of Mariazinha’s most loved dishes: The Suckling Pig, Grilled Octopus, Seafood Acorda, Grilled Codfish with Cornbread, and Northern Portugal’s popular Francesinha! If you love to enjoy a glass of champagne or two, head down during dinner service (from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM) to enjoy free-flow champagne with your meal.

Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 3 PM, 6:30 PM – 10 PM

Address: MacaoR. de Santa Filomena, 10號MO MacauR. do Monte, 8號Tak Fat Building 2

Cost: ~ HKD 128 – 385/pax

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Mariazinha here

Sightsee Around Senado Square

Image Credits: Top China Travel

One of the four largest squares in Macau, Senado Square was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as it forms part of the Historic Centre of Macau. A popular spot for cultural activities, public events, and celebrations, Senado Square is well-known for its iconic fountain. Located in the centre of the square, this celestial globe symbolises Portugal’s maritime expedition.

Littered with countless shops and souvenir stores, the square is a busy commercial area with western-style buildings for tourists to visit. Check out the Rosary Church, Holy House of Mercy, and Leal Senado to experience how modem local lifestyles manage to live in harmonious coexistence, crystallising the oneness of Chinese and western cultures. Want else is there to explore? Head to the east for the Macau Cathedral, the north for the Lou Kau Mansion, or the south for the Casino Lisboa — a famous casino in Macau.

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Largo do Senado here

End Your Day At Macau Tower

Image Credits: China Dragon Tours

In the evening, head to the famous Macau Tower where you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the vibrant city. Hop on to its glass-fronted elevator and soar to a whopping height of 338 meters in 60 seconds. Have your top-of-the-world moment on the observation deck as you get a sweeping unobstructed view of the Macau islands, all the way to Hengqin, Zhuhai and neighbouring mainland China. Let life take a backseat as you soak in the mesmerising view of the Pearl River Delta. 

For dinner, the Tower offer a few amazing dining options. Enjoy an international buffet at 360 Cafe if you’re feeling fancy. Check out Trombi Rija for another great twist on Portuguese cuisine. And for our Chinese-loving tourists, head to Lua Azul for the best Chinese cuisine Macau has to offer!

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM (Weekdays), 11 AM – 8 PM (Weekends and Public Holidays)

Cost: HKD 195 (Adults), HKD 115 (Children and Senior Citizens) 

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about the Macau Tower here

Day 6: Shenzhen

Image credits: Executive Traveller

If you thought Macau is the only neighbouring island you could visit from Hong Kong, then you’re truly mistaken. Take a day trip to the nearby city of Shenzhen in mainland China!

Seek Your Next Thrill At The Window Of The World Theme Park

Image credits: Alexis Jetsets

A well-known theme park in Shenzhen, the Window of the World park provides tourists with a view of the world through its miniatures of famous landmarks including the Thai Royal Palace from Thailand, the Taj Mahal from India, the Sydney Opera House from Australia, and even the Eiffel Tower from Paris. With three major rides, visitors can choose to take a classic flume ride through impressive American National Park-themed mountain scenery, ride a bobsled through the jungle, or take an indoor rollercoaster through Atlantis. 

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 11 PM

Address: No.9037, Shen Nan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province (深圳市南山区深南大道9037号)

Cost: RMB 100 – 220

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Shenzhen Window of the World here

Cool Off At Alps Bingxue Shijie

Image credits: 去哪儿旅行

Within the same district as Window of the World, visitors can head to Alps Bingxue Shijie for a chilly escape from the hot and humid weather. Inside, you can skate through a gigantic ice rink and even try skiing and sledging down one of the slopes at a temperature of 10 degrees! While this place is not well-known to foreigners, it’s a much better bet than ice skating at the Holiday Inn next door.

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 10:30 PM

Address: Windows of the World, Huaqiao Town, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518053 China

Cost: RMB 50-60/pax

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Alps Bingxue Shijie here

Satisfy Your Street Food Cravings At Dongmen Pedestrian Street

Image credits: Pngtree

Dongmen Pedestrian Street is a rather popular street known for its bustling atmosphere. It offers a variety of authentic local food options, including street food, traditional Chinese cuisine, and international cuisine. While most might know Dongmen for its labyrinth of shops and sales, it transforms into a massive food market at night — with mobile street food carts serving everything from fruit to fish. Hidden from the world, you can enjoy the freshest seafood, barbeque, Taiwanese pancakes, baozi (buns), soup, fruit, and deep-fried bread. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Dongmen has it. 

Address: Dongmen Middle Road, Shenzhen 518000 China

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Dong Men Pedestrian Street here

Day 7: Hong Kong

Brunch at yee shun milk company with the ultimate comfort food.

Image Credits: FoodieFC

Known for its double-skin steamed milk pudding, Yee Shun Milk Company is a popular breakfast or dessert shop for locals. The milk pudding is made from buffalo milk and steamed using a special technique, producing a cloud-like pudding with a thin skin of milk on the top. Incredibly rich and creamy, the milk pudding is best enjoyed hot or cold. Don’t miss out on ordering their scrambled egg sandwich — perfectly creamy eggs served between slices of soft untoasted white bread. Together with the milk pudding, this dish combo is sure to give you a fresh start to your day!

Opening Hours: 12 PM – 11 PM

Address: 506 Lockhart Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

Cost: HKD 60/pax

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about Yee Shun Milk Company here

End Your Trip With A Scenic Ride On The Star Ferry

Image Credits: My WoWo

Named by National Geographic as one of the 50 things you should do in your life, Hong Kong’s Star Ferry is not only a mode of transportation but a superstar icon, having appeared in many TV and blockbuster movies. While the short harbour tour offers you some stunning views of the city’s skyline (be it in the day or night), it also gives you a glimpse of the everyday life of locals as well. Connecting Kowloon and Hong Kong Island up until the 1970s, the Star Ferry has been a staple of the local transportation scene. Sailing from Victoria Harbour, you can travel to either Central Hong Kong, Wan Chai, or Hong Kong Disneyland. For a more comprehensive experience, several vendors do offer harbour tours with the Star Ferry as it sails around the islands to give you the most picturesque scenes of this gorgeous bustling city. 

Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:30 PM

Address: Hong Kong, 中環民光街中環7號渡輪碼頭

Cost: HKD 3.20 (Adults), HKD 1.90 (Children)

The Ultimate 7D6N Hong Kong Itinerary 2023: Find out more about the Star Ferry here

The Fragrant Harbour Awaits!

If you’ve scored one of those 12,500 free Cathay Pacific tickets to Hong Kong, congratulations! You now have a 7D6N Hong Kong itinerary prepped and ready. And while you’re slurping up Wanton Noodles or running wild at Disneyland, remember to use your YouTrip card to cash in on our sweet wholesale exchange rates !

As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with < YTBLOG5 > and get FREE S$5 in your account! Then, head over to our YouTrip Perks page for exclusive offers and promotions — we promise you won’t regret it. For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.  

And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad ? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! 💜

Stay safe and happy camping!

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at Don Quijote Japan!

Up to 10% tax free + 5% additional discount

• Valid till 01 Oct 2024
• Flash the discount coupon at the payment counter & pay with YouTrip during checkout in store (Click discount coupon)
• Enjoy additional 5% discount with min 10,000 yen (JPY) spent excluding tax
• We want to help you get your discount! 1. Ensure that you t ap the " Discount C oupon"  banner below to go to the barcode screen. 2. Present the coupon screen to the cashier staff at the time of payment. 3. Lastly, tap the "Use Coupon" button.
• Valid until 01 October 2024.
• [Japanese temporary returnees] who purchased tax-free goods are eligible for the coupon.
• Foreign diplomat(s) are not eligible for tax exemption.
• Eligible Stores: Don Quijote, APITA, and PIAGO Stores in Japan (Excluding some stores)
• Tap the coupon banner below to go to the barcode screen.
• Present the coupon screen to the cashier staff at the time of payment.
• Last, tap the “Use Coupon” button.
• This coupon is valid only once for tax-free transactions of 10,000 yen (excluding tax) or more.
• Please note that the following items are not included & eligible for the discount: Alcohol, cigarettes, POSA cards, game consoles, products costing more than 100,000 yen (excluding tax), and products with price restrictions, etc.
• Please be sure to present the coupon at the time of payment.
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• Please note that the coupon is unaccessible from mobile screenshots.
• This coupon cannot be used with other discounts, services, or majica cards.
• Any outstanding balance after deducting the face value of the coupon must be paid in full using YouTrip Card.
• The offer is subject to terms and conditions of Don Quijote. In case of dispute, the decision of Don Quijote and YouTrip shall be final.

Up to 9% cashback at Charles & Keith!

9% cashback (New Charles & Keith users)

• Valid till 31 December 2023
• Pay with YouTrip during checkout
• Receive cashback within 45 days after checkout

3% cashback (Existing Charles & Keith users)

• Valid from 31 December 2023
• We want to help you get your cashback! 1. Ensure that you follow through with your purchase once you click on “Redeem Deal” on YouTrip Perks. 2. If you jump out of the check-out process (even if to check on a message or just happen to close your browser), click through YouTrip Perks again to re-purchase to get your cashback.
• Only purchases made through the Charles & Keith affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Charles & Keith whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Purchase must be made within the same window.
• Cookies must be enabled on your browser for cashback to be tracked.
• Cashback will not be awarded for cancelled or refunded orders.
• Cashback will be awarded after 45 days from the date of purchase.
• Cashback rate will be subjected to the merchant’s discretion and the eligibility of selected products.
• Cashback rate for Charles & Keith varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Purchases made via the Charles & Keith mobile app will not be eligible for cashback.

8% off at SGPomades!

$8 off min S$50 spend

• Valid till 31 December 2021
• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'YOUTRIP8' during checkout
• Enjoy 8% off min S$50 spend upon checkout
• Promo code only applicable when using your YouTrip Mastercard upon checkout.
• 1 redemption per customer only
• Promo codes are not exchangeable for cash.
• Valid only for original price items.
• Not stackable with existing promotions.
• Exclusions Apply.

3% cashback at Dyson!

3% cashback

• Only purchases made through the Dyson affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Dyson whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Dyson accessories will not be eligible for cashback.

4% cashback at UNIQLO!

4% cashback

• Only purchases made through the UNIQLO affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to UNIQLO whenever you are making a new transaction.

Up to 11% cashback at Trip.com!

Up to 11% cashback

• Receive cashback 45 days after checkout
• Only purchases made through the Trip.com affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Cashback up to 11% for Hotels and 3% for Flights from 2 June 2024 to 7 June 2024, after which cashback will revert back to 6% (Hotels) & 2% (Flights)
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Trip.com whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate will be subjected to the merchant’s discretion and the eligibility of selected activities.
• Cashback rate for Trip.com varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Please refer to the table below for full cashback rates.

25% off at HOUZE!

25% off min $60 spend

• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'YOUTRIP25' during checkout
• Enjoy 25% off min $60 spend upon checkout
• Only 1 promo code may be used at a time.

25% off at Table Matters!

Up to $260 cashback and KrisShop e-Vouchers at Singapore Airlines!

$20 cashback with min $500 spend

• Valid till 26 November 2021
• Pay using YouTrip at checkout
• Register through YouTrip's campaign registration form
• Enjoy up to 4x cashback rewards per booking
• Receive cashback by 31 December 2021
• Limited to the first 1,000 redemptions
• Only bookings made via the SIA website, Mobile App or selected list of SIA appointed travel agents within the campaign period and redemption limit will be eligible for cashback.
• For full T&Cs, please visit https://www.you.co/sg/youtrip-singapore-airlines-cashback-tnc/

$30 KrisShop e-Voucher with min $500 spend

• Enjoy up to 6x KrisShop e-Vouchers per booking
• Limited to the first 4,000 redemptions
• Only bookings made via the SIA website, Mobile App or selected list of SIA appointed travel agents within the campaign period and redemption limit will be eligible for KrisShop e-Voucher rewards
• Offer is strictly applicable to flights to and from the following destinations only: Frankfurt, Munich, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Copenhagen, London, Los Angeles, Milan, New York, PAris, Rome, San Francisco, Seattle or Vancouver
• For full T&Cs, please visit https://www.you.co/sg/youtrip-singapore-airlines-krisshop-tnc/

Up to 10% off at Expedia!

Up to 10% off

• Valid till 30 Jun 2023
• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'MASTER10' during checkout
• Enjoy 10% off (Capped at S$70) upon checkout
• Booking period Now till 30 Jun 2023
• Stay period: Now till 31 September 2023
• Participating “Expedia Rate” hotels refer to hotels labelled “Expedia Rate” and are not on the exclusion list available at the booking page.
• Up to 10% discount coupon on hotel bookings at thousands of participating properties globally. 10% savings with promo code MASTER10 – Singapore: Discount value capped at SGD70 per transaction
• No minimum stay requirement.
• Coupon only applies to first room in the booking.

Up to 6% cashback at JD Sports!

6% cashback (Regular-priced items)

2% cashback (Sale Items)

• Only purchases made through the JD Sports affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to JD Sports whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate for JD Sports varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.

Up to 5% cashback at ASOS

Up to 5% cashback (New ASOS users)

3% cashback (Existing ASOS users purchases via Web)

2% cashback (Existing ASOS users purchases via App)

• Only purchases made through the ASOS affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to ASOS whenever you are making a new transaction.

10% off at SweatSpot!

10% off all packages

• Valid till 12 April 2022
• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'YOUTRIP' upon checkout
• Enjoy 10% off upon checkout

10% cashback at Taobao!

10% cashback with min S$50 spend

• Valid till 31 January 2022
• Register and spend a minimum of $50 and pay with YouTrip during checkout
• Register for promotion here
• For first 750 users only
• 10% cashback with minimum spend of $50.
• Limited to the first 750 users on a first come, first served basis. 
• Payment must be charged to a YouTrip Mastercard. 
• The required minimum spend must be in a single transaction before any other promo codes, vouchers or coupons. Minimum spend excludes all taxes and fees, including but not limited to shipping and handling, unless otherwise stated.
• All purchases made in conjunction with the Offer are subject to prevailing taxes and service charges where applicable. 
• YouTrip makes no warranty or representation as to the quality, merchantability or fitness for purpose of any goods or services purchased from the merchant. Any dispute about the same must be resolved directly with the merchant. 
• YouTrip shall not be responsible for any loss, injury, claim, damage or expense arising from the redemption of the Offer or the use of the goods and services purchased from a merchant.
• YouTrip is not an agent of Taobao or any merchant, or vice versa.
• All information is correct at time of print. YouTrip will not be responsible for any changes which occur after print.
• YouTrip reserves the right to vary the terms and conditions of the Offer or withdraw or discontinue the Offer by providing written notice to the other party at least 7 days in advance and indemnify the direct economic loss of the other party caused by YouTrip’s behavior under the clause.

Up to 10% cashback at Shopee!

Up to 10% cashback (New Shopee users)

3% cashback (Existing Shopee users)

• All cashback will be capped at S$5.00
• Only purchases made through the Shopee affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Shopee whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate for Shopee varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Please refer to the table below for product cashback rates

Up to 7% cashback at Sephora!

7% cashback (New Sephora users)

2.5% cashback (Existing Sephora users)

• Only purchases made through the Sephora affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Sephora whenever you are making a new transaction.

$20 cashback at Circles.Life!

$20 cashback (For new Circles.Life customers)

• Only purchases made through the Circles.Life affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Circles.Life whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Not applicable for purchases made via the Circles.Life mobile application

Up to 12% cashback at AirAsia Food

12% cashback (New AirAsia Food Customers)

• Valid till 31 December 2022

6% cashback (Existing AirAsia Food Customers)

• Only purchases made through the AirAsia Food affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to AirAsia Food whenever you are making a new transaction.

at Trip.com!

• Valid till 30 September 2025
• Receive cashback within 60 days after completion of activity/stay/flight
• Cashback will be awarded after 60 days from the completion of activity/stay/flight.
• Cashback will be calculated based on the final online booking checkout price, excluding taxes, fees, service charges, children/infant tickets, insurance and any payments to be made at the hotel.
• Promo or voucher codes that are not recognised by YouTrip will be ineligible for Trip.com cashback.
• Cashback does not include Trip coins, store credits or voucher/coupon codes.

3% cashback at 24S!

• Only purchases made through the 24S affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to 24S whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Celine, Louis Vuitton and Dior products are not eligible for cashback.

10% cashback (New Lazada users)

• Valid till 31 December 2024
• Receive cashback within 45 working days after checkout

3% cashback (Existing Lazada users)

• Pay with YouTrip on Lazada (LazMall excluded) during checkout
• Only purchases made through the Lazada affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Lazada whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback will be awarded after 45 working days from the date of purchase.
• Cashback rate for Lazada varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Products not eligible for cashback: Sports shoes and clothing, Electronics Accessories, Groceries.
• Cashback capped at $10

15% off at iShopChangi

15% off with no min. spend (For traveller purchases only)

• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'YOUTRIP15' during checkout
• Enjoy 15% off with no min. spend
• Valid for traveller purchases only.
• Payment must be made with YOUTRIP Mastercard.
• Only one Promo Code may be used at a time.
• Promotion is valid until 31 December 2023.
• Promotion is not exchangeable for cash, prizes, products or other vouchers.
• Promotion is not valid in conjunction with privilege holder discounts.
• Chanel and Dior are excluded from this promotion.
• The Shilla Duty Free reserves the right to amend or withdraw any terms & conditions without any prior notice.

S$15 off at The Shilla!

S$15 off min S$150 spend in store

• Flash this at the counter and pay with YouTrip during checkout in store
• Enjoy S$15 off min S$150 nett spend
• Valid until 31 December 2022.
• Limited to one redemption per customer.
• Any outstanding balance after deducting the face value of the voucher must be paid in full using YouTrip Card
• The promotion must be fully utilised and any unutilised amount will be forfeited.
• Not exchangeable for cash, prizes, products or other vouchers.
• Not valid in conjunction with privilege holder discounts.

5% cashback at Chemist Warehouse!

5% cashback

• Only purchases made through the Chemist Warehouse affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Chemist Warehouse whenever you are making a new transaction.

Up to 10% off at Qatar Airways!

Up to 10% off 

• Click through to Qatar via YouTrip Perks, apply code 'YTQR23' & Pay with YouTrip during checkout
• Enjoy up to 10% off upon checkout
• Sales period: 8 May 2023 – 31 December 2023
• Travel period: 8 May 2023 – 31 March 2024
• Booking must be made using promo code YTQR23 to avail of the discount
• Full payment must be made with a YouTrip Card
• Save 10% on Business Class Comfort fares
• Save 10% on Economy Class Convenience fares
• Save 7% on Economy Class and Business Class Classic fares
• Valid only on Qatar Airways flights from Singapore
• Valid to the following destinations: Abu Dhabi, Almaty, Amsterdam, Ankara, Athens, Atlanta, Baku, Barcelona, Belgrade, Berlin, Boston, Brussels, Bucharest, Budapest, Cape Town, Casablanca, Chennai, Chicago, Copenhagen, Dallas, Dar Es Salaam, Doha, Dubai, Dublin, Durban, Edinburgh, Frankfurt, Geneva, Harare, Helsinki, Houston, Islamabad, Johannesburg, Kilimanjaro, Larnaca, London, Los Angeles, Lusaka, Luxor, Madrid, Malabo, Manchester, Medina, Miami, Milan, Mombasa, Montreal, Moscow, Mumbai, Munich, Nairobi, New York City, Oslo, Paris, Philadelphia, Pisa, Prague, Rome, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Seattle, Seychelles, Sharjah, Sofia, St Petersburg, Stockholm, Tbilisi, Venice, Vienna, Warsaw, Washington, Windhoek, Yerevan, Zagreb, Zanzibar, Zurich
• All-in fares include all taxes, fees, and surcharges which are subject to currency fluctuation
• Blackout dates and surcharges may apply. Please refer to the fare rules for details at the time of booking.
• Blackout Periods: 18 Nov – 20 Dec 2022 (Doha and Middle Eastern Countries), 1 Jan – 10 Jan 2023 (All destinations)
• Peak period surcharges may apply
• Fares are subject to change without prior notice
• Discount applies to return base fare only of selected fare classes
• Discount does not apply to taxes and all other surcharges
• Seats are limited and are subject to availability of the relevant booking class
• Minimum and maximum stay as well as advance purchase rules apply dependent on the booking class
• Please refer to the fare rules at the time of booking for changes, cancellations and no-show conditions
• Any change or cancellation less than 3 hours prior to the stated time of departure will be considered as no-show
• For travel involving multiple booking classes, the most restrictive fare rules apply to the entire itinerary
• Standard child/infant discount apply
• Please note that market-specific promotional fares may be available for selected dates and destinations, and may not be eligible for the discounts under this offer. All available options, together with the applicable terms & conditions for each fare will be displayed at time of booking for you to make your selection
• Qatar Airway’s terms and conditions will also apply to your booking, please review these at the time of booking
• Other terms and conditions apply. Please review at the time of booking

2.1% cashback at Watsons!

2.1% cashback

• Only purchases made through the Watsons affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Watsons whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate for Watsons varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Cashback will be calculated based on the final checkout price, excluding taxes, delivery fees, any additional fees, service charges.

10% cashback at Puma!

10% cashback

• Valid till 30 Dec 2023
• Only purchases made through the Puma affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Puma whenever you are making a new transaction.

5% cashback at AirAsia Grocer!

• Only purchases made through the AirAsia affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to AirAsia whenever you are making a new transaction.

8% cashback at On The List!

8% cashback

• Only purchases made through the On The List affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to On The List whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Purchases made via the On The List mobile site or app are not eligible for cashback.

Up to $12 off at FairPrice Online!

$10 off min $135 spend

• Valid till 22 December 2021
• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'MCXMAS21' during checkout
• Enjoy $10 off min $135 spend
• First 2,500 redemptions only

$12 off min $150 spend

• Enjoy $12 off min $150 spend
• Redemption of promo code is applicable only for purchases made on FairPrice online at www.fairprice.com.sg and FairPrice Mobile App upon login, and for home delivery only.  
• Only one promo code can be used for each transaction. FairPrice reserves the right to reject any order that has violated this.
• Promo code is to be used for one-time redemption only.
• Promo code cannot be used for the purchase of certain restricted products, for example, certain infant milk formulas. Please visit FairPrice online for more details.
• Qualifying spend refers to a nett spend of at least S$135.00 (excluding delivery fee, service fee, and any other surcharge) in a single transaction at NTUC FairPrice online during the promotional period.
• Using a promo code in conjunction with other free gift promotions, may alter the minimum amount for delivery.
• Additional charges, service fees and minimum nett purchase amount for free home delivery may be required and may differ for promotional periods and will be in accordance to that stated on FairPrice online.
• It is advisable to have at least S$5 nett purchase amount in cart after application of promo code in order to be able to checkout.
• Promo codes are not exchangeable or refundable for cash or other goods and services.
• FairPrice reserves the rights to vary/amend the privileges or terms and conditions of this promotion without prior notice. 
• Other terms and conditions on FairPrice online (https://help.fairprice.com.sg/hc/en us/categories/360001184571-FairPrice-Online) apply.
• Mastercard does not assume any responsibility for the products and services offered under this promotion. The products are sold and services are provided solely by the relevant vendors, under such terms and conditions as determined by such vendors, and Mastercard accepts no liability whatsoever in connection with such products and services. The products and services have not been certified by Mastercard and under no circumstances shall the inclusion of any product or service in this promotion be construed as an endorsement or recommendation of such product or service by Mastercard

2% cashback at Razer!

2% cashback

• Only purchases made through the Razer affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Razer whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate for Razer varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.

20% off at Zoey!

20% off supplements

• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'ZOEYYT' during checkout
• Enjoy 20% off supplements upon checkout

20% off at noah!

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The Awkward Traveller

The Perfect 4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary for First Timers

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

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

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

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

4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary Overview

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

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

Top Sights in Hong Kong

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

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

Hong Kong Park

• Silvermine Bay

Victoria Harbour

Victoria peak, itinerary summary.

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

1 Day Hong Kong Itinerary :

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

2 Day Hong Kong Itinerary :

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

3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary :

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

4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary :

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

Hong Kong FAQ

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

Getting to Hong Kong

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

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

Octopus Card

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

Best Time to Visit Hong Kong

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

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

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

What’s Hong Kong like for Black Travelers

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

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

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

1 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

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

Recommended Time: 1 hour

Nearest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui

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

Journey Time: 10 minutes

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

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

Recommended Time: 2 to 4 hours

Nearest MTR: Admiralty

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

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

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

Kowloon Markets & Street Food

Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours

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

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

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

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

Soho and the Mid Levels

Recommended Time: 2 hours +

Nearest MTR: Admiralty & Hong Kong

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

2 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

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

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

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

Repulse Bay

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

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

Stanley Village

Recommended Time: 2 to 4 hours +

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

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

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

The Eye Bar

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

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

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

3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

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

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

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

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

Hong Kong Disneyland

Recommended time: 3+ hours

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

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

I loved it!

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

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

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

Recommended time: 1-2 hours

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

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

Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery

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

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

4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

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

Sai Kung Country Park

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

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

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

Hong Kong Budget Tips

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

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

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

Conclusion: 4 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yess all amazing spots!

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

I LOVED the markets!!

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Hong kong itinerary 3 days — the fullest guide for what to do in hong kong for 3 days.

Let’s go to explore the attractions in Hong Kong on a different aspect of the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days. Now, let’s discover Hong Kong itinerary 3 days (3 days in Hong Kong, Hong Kong 3 days 2 nights itinerary, three days in Hong Kong itinerary) — The fullest guide for what to do in Hong Kong for 3 days with Living Nomads below.

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Some notes before leaving

Preparing for yourself available Octopus Card which saves money as well as using it on the bus, train and even in convenience stores anymore (you have to recharge before). This card will help you save a lot more time in the queue and exchange money.

Using the ship MTR – has a useful MRT map at each stop, giving you more details of areas around the station. You make sure that you come out the correct entrance to save time because there are many far ways.

You also go by taxi if you think necessary. Hong Kong sometimes is very hot that can make suffocate, but has the affordable price, faster and most important is air-condition. If you need to cross the port by taxi, you should call a taxi by using his arm under undulating waves. You should also know that having some taxis do not want to run pass the port.

If you need to cross the port by taxi, you should call a taxi by using his arm under undulating waves. You should also know that having some taxis do not want to run pass the port.

There are three tunnels connecting Hong Kong Island to Kowloon. Centre Tunnel (Central) is the cheapest but also the most numerous vehicles, tunnel in the West and East (Eastern / Western) are more expensive but faster and take less time also.

When traveling escalator, go up / down on the left side and stood on the right side, if not, the people in around areas will be extremely upset with you (because you’re obstructing their path)

Usually, you do not pay gratuities. Most restaurants automatically add a 10% service charge into your bill. So you do not have to pay extra for anything else.

If you want to eat in a “luxury” restaurant but worry about the price, try to eat at lunchtime, a lot of restaurants have set lunch with more affordable price.

The 7-11 stores are located everywhere, is a quite reasonable option to buy drinks. In the local restaurants, you ask carefully restrictions on food and check carefully with the staff before ordering. Often even vegetable dishes are also cooked with animal’s oil. Here are the details guides for Hong Kong itinerary 3 days.

Hong Kong 3 day itinerary — Day 1: The first day

Mong Kok is one of the region’s which have density population but not downhearted. This is a paradise for those who love shopping. This district has all things what you want to buy, from the shoes to items in the house, to all Western brands and luxury and more expensive goods.

An interesting feature of this area, all the roads here looks like to sell a specific kind of good. The Beautiful and most interesting place is the flower market, golden fish street, and birds. Here has Ladies Market also – Market for the girls. Market Street is filled with the electronics stores and other types of souvenirs. Even if you do not intend to buy anything, Mong Kok is also a great area to explore and experience, is a typical part of bustling urban life.

Focus on the Dundas is a large number of food shops with many kinds of street foods. Before buying any expensive item such as electronic, shoes, make sure that you checked the cost of nearly other shops, it is very useful for getting a reasonable price. For going out of those shops, finding items which you bought carefully in order to ensure for your money spending

The expected time: From 1 to 2 hours

The flower market road

Located in Mongkok, The flower market road is the itinerary to Hong Kong you can’t miss. The local people often come here to buy flowers and other trees. It is especially crowded on holidays when many types of traditional trees are sold to bring luck and symbolize wealth and fortune.

Here also has the beautiful orchid trees, the flowers and the trees are bending with all kinds of sizes and shapes. Although there is not anything to do much here, this is a great place for you to take pictures and soak in the atmosphere characterized Hong Kong.

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: Hong Lok Street, Yuen Long District, Kowloon, Hong Kong Opening hours: Daily From 7 am to 7 pm

Hong Kong Museum of History

This museum does its main job is very excellent as- recording the entire history of Hong Kong. From the prehistoric periods to the ancient Chinese dynasties, throughout from the moment, the city was born until today. Museum utilizes deep-range pictures, documents, and short data, along with a variety of medias so that visitors can participate in as well as communicate with everything, bring a fresh feeling and keep people to be entertained also.

Admission fee is very reasonable here, but also get free admission every Wednesday, too. But this museum doesn’t open on Tuesdays.

Expected time: From 2 to 3 hours Location: 100 S Chatham Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong Opening hours: Monday from 10 am to 6 pm, Wednesday to Friday: from 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday and Sunday: from 10 am to 7 pm

Kowloon West Promenade

This is an alternative method for “Avenue of the Stars” (Avenue of the Stars) in Tsim Sha Tsui. This quiet place provides to you Hong Kong harbor scene but not has the noisy crowd, as well as the car to take passengers. You can go for a stroll, enjoy the sunset while looking at the lights at the port is turned on also. Or if the weather permits, you also buy some food from the Elements shopping mall nearby, then come here for camping on the lawn and enjoy the beautiful urban landscape.

Elements shopping mall has a ThreeSixty grocery store as well as many choices for other foods to bring which you can ready to go camping. This is also a good place for you to watch the laser show “A Symphony of Lights” at the port, starting at 8 pm each day.

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: Russia Cheung Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Ozone bar in Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Ozone – Ritz Carlton is located on the 118 floor of the International Commerce Center (ICC), and currently, holds the position as the highest bar in the world. From here, you spoiled for viewing the panoramic view of harbor Hong Kong and Kow Loon peninsula anymore.

This place is extremely crowded on weekends. So you should call firstly to ask if there is a waiting list or not. If you want to book a table, you have to take a few minutes; depending on that day is which day. But this bar is quite expensive; drinks have the cost from 100 dollars.

Expected time: From 1 to 2 hours Location: 118 / F, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Lan Kwai Fong

With a large number of the crowd and a lively atmosphere (especially on Friday and Saturday), Lan Kwai Fong is the center of nightlife in Hong Kong. Originally, it just a small square, bars and restaurants has now reached outside. You will be able to find a pretty amazing mix of foreigners living in Hong Kong, tourists and students in the crowd who are having the party but also depends on the bar that you will come again. There are many bars and restaurants having a special night with free drinks for women (usually on Thursday night)

Expected time: From 2 to 3 hours (or more time if you love the night entertainment activities)

Another choice

You can also spend the first day to visit one of the largest parks in Hong Kong: Disneyland or Ocean Park.

Hong Kong 3 day itinerary — Day 2: The second day

The tian tan buddha (big buddha).

Until 34 meters high, this is one of the largest bronze Buddha statues located outdoors in the world, attracting Buddhists from many different places in Asia. You can come here by other ways. The quickest and also the most wonderful way for the panoramic viewing, moving by Ngong Ping 360 cable car (it takes about 20 minutes one way).

You can also travel by bus and taxi (approximately 45 minutes), and the riskiest choice that is climbing up on the top (approximately 4 hours). However, this way is not recommended in the summer months, because the hot and humid temperature will make this experience becomes more toilsome and hardship.

If you take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, you can reserve your time for going to save time and not have to wait in line. Be sure to check the cable car operate well or not before climbing. If you’re saving the cost, go by bus No. 23 on the outside of the MTR Tung Chung Station. It is located next to the escalators to go up the cable car Ngong Pin spot 360. Be prepared your spirit to be there on the weekend is a long line of people waiting there.

Please avoid going to visit this place on the Chinese holidays, because the queue is extremely long, the bus and the cable cars are.

Expected time: From 1 to 2 hours Opening hours: From 10 am to 05:30 pm

Po Lin Monastery (Buu Lien Monastery)

Polin Monastery is located opposite with the Big Buddha Statue is still active until today, is an important home for the Buddhist monks. Here, visitors can immerse you in the scenery of the beautiful temples, statues as well as Buddhist architectures, all thanks to a restoration project on a large scale, making it become a place can not miss when visiting Hong Kong.

If you plan to eat at a vegetarian restaurant in this town, buy available tickets and menu. You will have more people in your group, the more to enjoy different types of cuisine. Please stop for a longer time and enjoy vegetarian food at this restaurant.

Expected time: 1 to 2 hours Opening hours: From 7:30 am to 06 pm

Tai O tradition fishing village which has the history extends 3 centuries ago. In Tai O, a peaceful traditional lifestyle and attraction of the village still are hold. Here has the picturesque scenery of the ocean floor and old houses, is also the attraction of Tai O. You can take great photos here from every angle and in every corner. You go and get a bonus with slows time exploring this beautiful area.

You can take a boat to see the pink dolphins, although is also very rare. Anyway, the price is also cheaper but this boat trip earned countless of beauty view. You also try the waffle traditional egg made by an old man with decent charcoal oven. People often also crowded queues.

Please avoid the following weekend. To get to Tai O, you can go by bus No. 11 from Tung Chung MTR station (approximately 45 minutes), or the car no. 21 from Big Buddha (approximately 15 minutes).

Expected time: From 2 to 3 hours

Tai O Heritage Hotel

Located on a hill in the west of Tai O, this building was a police station was built in 1902 to prevent smuggling and piracy. Later, it was converted into a hotel and it also becomes a heritage site.

You can walk to the Tai O Heritage Hotel to take a few pictures of the fishing village panorama, as well as at the bottom of the ocean. Then you can say that you have to go to the west of Hong Kong already.

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: Shek Tsai Po Street, Tai O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

You can find, check rates, reviews & availability for this hotel on Booking.com .

This is a beautiful beach located on Lan Tau Island (Chinese name can be translated as sea shells). Pui O, no crowded bustle, even gives for your great scenery and clear blue water anymore. It really is an ideal place to escape from a hustle and bustle city. When the wave become diving, you can comfortably dug shells. Some local people are picking up snails to take home for baking.

You should try to eat in restaurants of Ooh La La’sbeach, they serve food is very tasty. You can also camp here, Ooh La La restaurant also renting tents and some equipment for camping, too.

You can go to Pui O by bus from Mui Wo or Tung Chung (bus number 4).

Expected time: From 1 to 2 hours

Hong Kong 3 day itinerary — Day 3: The third day

Cheung chau island.

Located about 30 minutes CBD boat, Cheung Chau Island (“Long Island”) is a fishing place with beautiful scenery and food shop, from the temples to the street foods, there was a pirate’s cave also. You let yourself lost in the narrow alleys, drop along the bike path next to the coast, as well as enjoy a leisurely life here.

The best way to discover this small island is by renting a bike from any of the stores along the main road when you’ve just stepped out of the boat. You take a boat from the port number 5, close to Hong Kong Central MTR station about 15 minutes for walking. This boat trip takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you go by fast boat or vessel normally.

Expected time: over 3 hours Location: southwest of Hong Kong Island

Until the 1970s, the Star Ferry is still the main transportation between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Victoria Harbour boat trip along the extended 10 minutes will bring you the more stunning spectacle of the horizon.

You should aim to stay on board until 8 pm on direction from Tsim Sha Tsui on Hong Kong Island to enjoy the light show “A Symphony of Lights” decent place daily. There are also regular trains travel between Tsim Sha Tsui and WanChai downtown.

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: Kowloon Point, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Mido Coffee Shop

First opened in 1950, Mido Café is the time machine which brings you come back in the old days of Hong Kong. When stepping inside the restaurant, it seems nothing has changed. You can sit on upstair and enjoy the scenery of the street markets and temples, as well as Tin Hau Temple also. While the food and drink here is nothing too special, Mido Café is an ideal place to stop to eat or drink something and soak in the scenery and history.

Sandwich bread of Hong Kong is a good dessert and look like with French bread. You can also see “Yin Yang” (yin and yang), is a drink native of Hong Kong, half tea and half coffee with milk and sugar.

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: G / F, No. 63 Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong Opening hours: From 8:30 am to 09:45 pm

Temple Street Night Market

Temple Street come alive at night when the bars and merchant stalls at the market start operating and fill together, bringing the delicious local dishes and anything else you can think. Be adventurous with your choices and buy any items you want. This is also a good opportunity to buy some small gifts, so you should practice your skills to bargain.

Expected time: From 2 to 3 hours Location: Street and Jordan Road KANSU, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Above are suggestions of Living Nomads for what to do in Hong Kong for 3 days so you can explore the fullest Hong Kong with full of attractions can not miss, restaurants and other special places. If you have been going to this island, please share your journey with your team.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Hong Kong you can refer to

• Private MPV Hong Kong International Airport Transfers (HKG) for Hong Kong (Group of 6)
• Shared Coach Transfers from HKG Airport to Hong Kong Hotels
• Private Hong Kong International Airport Tesla Transfers (HKG) for Hong Kong (Group of 3)
• Shared Shuttle Bus Transfers between Hong Kong International Airport and Hong Kong Island & Kowloon
• [Buy 2 Get 1] Outlet Shopping and Sightseeing Day Tour
• Macau Sightseeing Day Tour (Hong Kong/Macau Departure)
• iVenture Hong Kong and Macau Attractions Pass
• Hong Kong Big Bus Unlimited Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours
• Hong Kong Disneyland Park 1-Day Ticket and Meal Coupon Combo
• Hong Kong Airport Express & 72-hour Unlimited MTR Travel Pass
• MTR Tourist Day Pass
• [SALE] Peak Tram Fast-Track Combo
• Hong Kong TramOramic Tour
• [QR Code Direct Entry] Peak Tram Sky Pass (Peak Tram + Sky Terrace 428)
• Hong Kong Octopus Card (HK Airport Pick Up)
• 3G/4G Prepaid SIM Card (HK Airports Pick Up) for Hong Kong
• [Unlimited Data for 5 Days] 4G SIM Card for Hong Kong from YSIM(HK Airport Pick Up)
• [Unlimited Data] 4G Portable WiFi for Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau from Uroaming
• [Unlimited Data] 4G WiFi for Hong Kong/Macau/Mainland China from Song WiFi (HK Airport 24 Hours Pick Up)

Are you looking for more Hong Kong travel guide and top things to do in Hong Kong: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Hong Kong unique experiences — Top 10 unusual places & unique things to do in Hong Kong and  Hong Kong itinerary 3 days — The fullest guide for what to do in Hong Kong for 3 days and Hong Kong 1 day itinerary — How to spend 24 hours in Hong Kong & What to do in Hong Kong in a day perfectly?

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Things To Do In Hong Kong for 3 Days, a Perfect Itinerary

Hong Kong, an autonomous territory on China’s southeastern coast, is a vibrant, bustling city with a unique heritage, rich history, and a glamourous East meets West vibe. From the densely packed Kowloon neighborhoods to the tranquil fishing villages on Lamma Island, and with a population of 7.4 million, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most populated regions.

There’s plenty to do here, and three days in Hong Kong is perfect for an introduction to the former British colony. There are also many Hong Kong tours available that will help you explore more in-depth this city. Visitors often stay in Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island in Central. With an impressive and efficient public transportation system, as well as the prevalence of English signs, it’s easy to get anywhere in Hong Kong.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission. It costs nothing extra to you but helps keep my site running. Thank you for supporting me in this way.

Table of Contents

How to Spend 3 Days in Hong Kong, Detailed Itinerary

How to get from and to hong kong airport.

There are three options for getting to/from Hong Kong Airport to the city center and it depends on your time and budget which option you choose.

Train : Taking the train is the quickest option for getting from Hong Kong Airport to the city center.  The journey only takes 24 minutes and with six Airport Express trains per hour, this is a safe, quick, hassle-free option. Finding the train is easy as it is located within the terminal building, just 50m from the arrivals’ hall. Look out for Airport Express counters or ticket machines to buy your train pass before boarding. Even though the train only takes 24 minutes the service provides free WiFi, TV, and power charging sockets! Once you arrive in central Hong Kong, you will want to connect to the free MTR shuttle bus to reach your final destination. Time: 24 minutes Cost: 12.50 EUR (115 HK)

Bus : Taking the bus into Hong Kong is the cheapest way to get from the airport to downtown but it is also the longest option. The A11 bus is the most popular option, with services departing the airport every 20 minutes. This route takes you directly to downtown stopping at convenient stops like Hong Kong’s City Hall and Connaught Road Central. Tickets can be purchased from a counter at the Airport Ground Transportation Centre or from the driver on the bus. The A11 bus runs from 06:10 am to 00:30 am. If you arrive after this time you will need to take the night buses, N11, which runs from 00:50 am to 04:50 am. The bus also offers free WiFi. Time: 1.15 minutes Cost: 4.40 EUR (40 HK)

Taxis : Taxis from Hong Kong Airport to the city center are done on a metered basis and should cost around 40 EUR (370 HK), depending on the travel distance required. If you are traveling to the Urban area of Hong Kong (most likely) you will need to take the designated Urban Taxis which are red with yellow lights on top. Please note: there may be additional costs for large luggage and toll roads. As Hong Kong is such a busy airport there is likely to be a queue when you arrive so you will need to wait in line in order to take an airport taxi into Hong Kong. Time: approx. 30 minutes

Private Airport Transfer with Welcome Pick-Ups : If you would rather have the convenience and security of knowing you have a pre-booked taxi from the airport, you can book a transfer through Welcome Pick-Ups . Welcome drivers are chosen for their customer service and level of English and also monitor your flight to ensure they are there for you in arrivals at whatever time you get in. The Welcome taxi service is likely to cost a bit more than a regular taxi (around 56 EUR) but you will have the security of having a pick-up driver waiting for you on arrival who will take you straight to your hotel with no hidden fees or waiting around.

Click here for more information and book your private transfer.

Map for your 3-day Hong Kong Itinerary

3 Days in Hong Kong: Day One

Your first day in Hong Kong ought to be spent exploring the history and culture of the territory. Hong Kong’s history stretches back to the Neolithic era, and until the mid 17th century was a territory of mostly fishing and farming villages. The British took control following the opium wars, in the mid-1800s, and only returned the land to the Chinese when their 99-year lease expired in 1997.

Walking Tour of Kowloon

Today, Hong Kong is a financial powerhouse and one of the world’s most significant banking centers. There are a variety of tours that highlight the heritage of Hong Kong as well as the growth of the city into one of the world’s foremost financial centers. One of the best Hong Kong tours that touch on both the history and the growth of the city is a half-day walking tour of Kowloon and Central.

For a powerful introduction to Hong Kong, visit the Peak. Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, is one of the most popular visitor attractions in the city. Most people arrive by the Peak Tram, which departs from St. John’s Cathedral in Central, but it is also accessible by private car or taxi along a winding road. Ambitious travelers might wish to walk up via the steep Old Peak Road, but factor in a few hours for this adventure. The nearest MTR station is Central.

You’ll find two shopping centers, a large viewing platform, plenty of restaurants, and several walking trails. In addition to being a popular tourist spot, the Peak is also the pinnacle of housing in Hong Kong and is home to numerous government officials and public figures.

Click here to book a private evening hike to Victoria Peak.

Tsim Sha Tsui

Tsim Sha Tsui is a popular culture and nightlife district located in Kowloon. It boasts a variety of activities and attractions along with Nathan and Canton Roads. The Avenue of Stars, along the Victoria Harbour waterfront, is where you can spot statues of your favorite film characters. The promenade pays tribute to the enviable list of Hong Kong stars – Jackie Chan, Bruce Lee, and more. It’s a popular spot to hang out to watch the evening light show.

You might also be interested in this promenade walking tour.

The Science, Space, Art, and History museums are all within walking distance of each other in Tsim Sha Tsui, making them a perfect rainy day activity.

Symphony of Lights

Every evening at 8 pm, the city lights up with a 15-minute light show. Considered one of the world’s best multimedia shows, the skyscrapers on either side of Victoria Harbour light up and dazzle viewers as orchestral music plays. You can listen to the music at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui or at the Golden Bauhinia in Wan Chai, or you can download an app and listen to the music while enjoying the show from anywhere. One of the best places to view the show is from the harbor, so several popular Hong Kong tours offer an evening on a local junk boat to watch the spectacle.

3 Days in Hong Kong: Day Two

On day two in Hong Kong, take a day to visit the world’s most famous mouse. Hong Kong Disneyland, located on Lantau Island, is a popular day trip for visitors from all over the world. Hong Kong Disneyland is very easy to get to, either by the MTR public transit or by car, although the metro is much easier. Disneyland has its own line and station, and signs are clearly marked in English.

While Hong Kong Disneyland is much smaller than the Florida resort complex, it still has the charm and flair of the two original Disney parks. Don’t miss Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland, three of the original regions in the Disney parks.

Tip: You can purchase Hong Kong Disneyland tickets in advance , through a tour operator. If you want to purchase Hong Kong Disneyland tickets when you get there, expect to stand in line.

3 Days in Hong Kong: Day Three

Take a day trip to one of the outer-lying areas of Hong Kong, or take the ferry to Macau, on the Chinese mainland. These are all popular Hong Kong tours but are also very easy to do on your own.

Lantau Island

As Hong Kong’s largest outlying island, Lantau is definitely worth a day trip from Hong Kong central. Attractions on Lantau Island include the Tian Tin Big Buddha at Ngong Ping monastery, the 360 cable car (which is also the best way to get to the monastery), Po Lin monastery, and Tai O fishing village.

Lantau Island: Book Boat and NP360 Cable Car tickets or Tai O Day Pass

Lamma Island

Lamma Island, just 20 minutes from downtown Hong Kong, feels like a world away. Its multicultural, laid-back hippie vibe is at odds with the high-powered hustle of the city, yet it complements it in so many ways. Head to Lamma to explore off-the-grid hiking trails, great seafood restaurants, and rustic fishing villages.

Highlights of Lamma include the World War II-era kamikaze tunnels – located along one of the hiking trails – and the Tin Hau Temple. The island doesn’t allow cars, so enjoy the relaxed pace on Lamma before heading back to the frenzy of Hong Kong.

For a unique day trip from Hong Kong, jump on one of the high-speed ferries and cross to Macau, another one of China’s autonomous territories at the Pearl River Delta. Macau, known as the Las Vegas of Asia, is a glittering jewel filled with casinos and shopping malls. It also has a rich Portuguese heritage though, and so, like Hong Kong, it is a juxtaposition of old and new. It takes about one hour to get between the two countries, and you will need to take your passport.

There’s plenty to do in Hong Kong, from exploring the unique cultural heritage to embracing your inner child at Hong Kong Disneyland. This three-days in Hong Kong itinerary covers all the major highlights and allows you the freedom to explore some of the most popular Hong Kong tours.

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Hong kong tourism board, 2024 hong kong lotus festival.

Po Lin Monastery’s 2024 Hong Kong Lotus Festival features more than 400 varieties and 6,000 pots of lotus and water lilies. Exciting programmes include flower offerings and lantern passing ceremonies, ikebana art, tea ceremony, singing bowls, guzheng performance, photography workshops, hanfu sketching, and more.

Event details

22 June – 2 July 2024

Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island

Category(-ies)

Museums / Galleries / Public Spaces

Free Admission

phone-handset +852 2985 5248

www.stheadline.com/sup/polinmonastery

Institute of Horticulture (Hong Kong) Po Lin Monastery Sing Tao News Corporation

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Press release, bangkok airways soars to new heights: wins 2024 skytrax world airline awards for “world’s best regional airline” and “best regional airline in asia” for 8th year running, london, uk / 25 june 2024 – bangkok airways public company limited has been awarded the titles of the world’s best regional airline and best regional airline in asia for 2024 at the skytrax world airline awards. this marks the eighth consecutive year that bangkok airways has received these prestigious awards, reflecting its commitment to delivering exceptional service and excellence recognized in the global aviation industry. in addition, bangkok airways is also ranked 27th in the top 100 world's best airlines category. the skytrax world airline awards, often referred to as the "oscars of the aviation industry," are a global benchmark of airline excellence. these awards are based on passenger satisfaction surveys, evaluating over 350 airlines worldwide across various performance indicators. mr. puttipong prasarttong-osoth, president of bangkok airways public company limited, expressed his gratitude during the award ceremony in london, saying, “we are immensely proud to receive these prestigious awards for the eighth consecutive year. being named the world’s best regional airline and best regional airline in asia is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our management and staff who continually strive to enhance service quality and provide exceptional travel experiences to our passengers. i extend my heartfelt thanks to our passengers for their unwavering support and trust, which motivate us to deliver the best service possible.” bangkok airways has been honored with the world’s best regional airline award a total of eight times (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024) and asia’s best regional airline award twelve times (2004, 2005, 2008, 2009, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024). additionally, the airline was recognized as southeast asia’s best regional airline in 2006 and 2007.  , 25 june 2024.