Hong Kong Travel Guide for First-Timers: Essential Tips & Must-See Attractions
Hong Kong Travel Guide for First Timers
So, you’re thinking about travelling to Hong Kong and don’t know where to start? Well, this Hong Kong Travel Guide is your one-stop shop for all the info first-time visitors need!
When we found out we were spending a fast-paced two full days in Hong Kong I knew we needed to make the most of our time! So, I spent hours scrolling online to get the best information, tips & tricks!
Because of this, we had a magical two days exploring bustling street markets, unique temples and even world-breaking tourist attractions Hong Kong truly has something for everyone.
In this Hong Kong Travel Guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about travelling to Hong Kong for the first time, including:
👉 best time to visit
👉 top things to do in Hong Kong
👉 where to stay
And more!
So, keep reading if Hong Kong is on your bucket list!
Hong Kong Mini Guide
Hong Kong Travel Guide in bite-sized form to help you plan less and travel more!
Best time to visit
- Peak Tourist Season (October to December)
Where to stay
TOP ATTRACTIONS
MORE On Hong Kong
*prices shown are accurate at the time of writing and, unless otherwise stated are in USD.
Where is Hong Kong
Located on the South Eastern coast of China Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR).
A Map of Hong Kong
As an illustration, I thought adding a map may be helpful here.
So, on this map, you can see every place noted in this blog post (and some extras).
Want to download this map for offline use when you are adventuring Hong Kong? Check it out here!
How to get to Hong Kong
Hong Kong is very easily accessible and is often used as a layover destination between Asia and the rest of the world.
For example, here are the main options for arriving in Hong Kong.
✈️ By Air
Certainly, the most popular way to get to Hong Kong is by air.
Still, Hong Kong Airport is located on a separate island and approximately 35kms from Hong Kong’s main attractions (TST)
When you arrive – you can get a private transfer or taxi from the airport to your hotel. (35-40 minutes | HK 200+)
However, for a more budget-friendly option, consider taking public transport:
Airport Express Train: 45 minutes | HK 100+
Bus: 70 minutes | HK 35
🚄 Overland
Indeed, for those flying into mainland China, it is possible to get the High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Hong Kong.
Book your China High-Speed Rail tickets here!
Of course, for a more budget-friendly option, you can get a bus from mainland China to Hong Kong.
The bus connecting Macao and Hong Kong is approx HK 65-75 and takes less than two hours.
From Macao, it is also possible to catch the ferry to Hong Kong.
The ferry takes less than an hour and costs around HK 75-200.
How to get around Hong Kong:
So, now you know how to get to Hong Kong, let’s go through how to get around Hong Kong.
🚌 Public Transport
Public transport in Hong Kong is up there with some of the best in the world, there’s not many places that offer trains, buses, trams, ferries and funiculars with one card, but Hong Kong does.
💳 Octopus Card
Firstly, you will need to grab yourself an Octopus card to access this transport.
If you’re after a physical card you can get these when you land at a 7-Eleven.
To get an Octopus card, jump into your app store and download the Octopus for Tourists app (download here).
At the present time, it’s a free download and can be topped up in multiples of $50HKD ($6.50USD).
Note: There’s a 50 HKD deposit required however this gets refunded when you close your account.
Another option for those with an iPhone, you can simply add an Octopus for Tourist card to your wallet by:
- Firstly, open your wallet
- Secondly, click the +
- Thirdly, select Transit Car
- Fourthly, choose the Hong Kong Octopus card
- Finally, follow the prompts to load up your first amount.
💡 Bonus Tip: The Octopus for Tourists App can be used at convenience stores, restaurants and more!
FREE Travel Tips sent straight to your inbox! 👇
Join the secret club now 🤫
Best Month to Travel to Hong Kong
No Hong Kong Travel Guide would be complete without reviewing the best time to visit!
We travelled to Hong Kong in November, and it was a total dream come true – perfectly sunny without being too hot.
☀️The peak season is October to December with dry, warm weather. Particularly from November to December the humidity levels begin to drop making it the prime time to visit.
🌦️ A good second option is January to April. These months still boast pleasant warm and dry weather, however, the risk of changing conditions and fog is higher.
🌀 Typhoon season is from May until early November!
So, now you know when to go to Hong Kong, it’s time to figure out how long you want to stay!
How long do you need in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong has so many things to do, to experience the city we recommend and absolute minimum of 2 full days.
If you want to sneak in a trip to Disneyland – add an extra day.
If you wish to head on a day trip to Macao – add an extra day.
As a result, my perfect amount of time in Hong Kong would be a total of 4 days.
There are lots of people who use Hong Kong as a stopover city when travelling on Cathay Pacific if you do have to transit through, it’s a great opportunity to extend for a few days and get exploring!
Hong Kong Travel Tips
So, we’ve gone over some basics and you have your Octopus card ready to go.
Now, let’s go through some other Hong Kong Travel Tips to keep in mind for your holiday!
eSIM for Hong Kong
It’s no secret that eSIM cards are a game changer!
❌ No longer waiting in those long lines at the airport
❌ overpaying for a sim card with hardly any data
❌ carrying around that silly silver thing that I always end up losing!
✅ We have an entire page dedicated to the latest eSIM deals & discounts – you can check it out here!
Being connected to your plan before you even clear customs – GAME CHANGER!
Do I Need a Visa for Hong Kong?
Given that visa requirements are subject to chance constantly, we find the most up-to-date visa information on the Sherpa Travel Website.
Where to Stay in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is split into lots of different land masses. However, there are two main tourist areas which are the Kawloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island.
It’s no secret that accommodation in Hong Kong can be pricey – if you want to keep costs down why not check out Trusted Housesitters?
Where to stay in Kawloon Peninsula
Undoubtedly, TST is easily the most popular and recommended place to stay on the Kowloon Peninsula.
Being that, it is no surprise that Tsim Sha Tsui (or TST) is centrally located, close to a lot of attractions and filled with awesome bars and restaurants to check out.
We stayed at the Modena by Fraser Hong Kong – the rooms are spacious and clean and the location is second to none!
🤑 Budget: Hotel Hart
✨ Mid-range: Mondrain Hong Kong
🥂 Luxury: The Peninsula Hong Kong
Where to Stay Hong Kong Island
Here, you will be in the thick of the tourist attractions with the mid-level escalators, Victoria prison, central markets and more!
🤑 Budget: Wifi Boutique Hotel
✨ Mid-range: Hafa Villa
🥂 Luxury: The Murray
Where to stay near Disneyland
Do you want to head to Disneyland while you’re in Hong Kong?
Disneys Hollywood Hotel
Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel
Disney Explorers Lodge
Where to stay in Macao
Are you heading overnight to Macao?
One of my regrets from our Hong Kong trip was not building in at least 1 day to head out and explore unique Macao!
Don’t make the same mistake, add it to your Hong Kong travel itinerary now!
🤑 Budget: Belive&More
✨ Mid-range: Grand Coloane Beach Resort
🥂 Luxury: The Venetian Macao
Why Visit Hong Kong – Epic Things to Do!
Given its size, Hong Kong is PACKED with epic things to do!
For this section, I am going to briefly list the best things to do in Hong Kong.
I will break this up to the Kowloon Peninsula, Hong Kong Island and others.
If you want a more detailed blog post about the best things to do in Hong Kong read it here.
One of the fun things to do in Hong Kong is actually get between the two main landmasses (Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula).
⛴️ Catch the Star Ferry for less than a dollar and get epic views of the Hong Kong skyline on your commute to and from your activities!
Want more detail? Check out this blog post about 15 Epic Things To Do in Hong Kong
Things to do at Kowloon Peninsula
✨Avenue of the Stars
Think of this as Hong Kong’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
A beautiful walkway lined with stars handprints, signatures and statues.
🥋Bruce Lee Statue
Named the star of the century there is an epic statue of Bruce Lee on the Avenue of the Stars.
This has become a hot spot for those interested in martial arts to stop and pose for a photo!
🍜 Cup Noodle Museum
HK 60+ | Closed Wednesdays | 11:15 am – 7:15 pm
A fun and interactive museum dedicated to the invention and proliferation of Cup Noodles!
You can even create your own Cup Noodle flavour in the factory.
🚦Symphony of the Lights
Free | Daily | 8 pm
A nightly show of the Hong Kong skyline!
The best viewing locations are along the TST waterfront (Avenue of the Stars)
🦩 Kowloon Park
Free | 5 am-12 am
Akin to Central Park in New York, Kowloon Park is a sprawling parkland set in the Kowloon Peninsula.
You’ll even find some flamingos hidden within the park!
⛵️Dukling Cruise
HK 150-290 | Pre-sales only 30 days prior
Unquestionably, my favourite thing we did in Hong Kong – watching the sunset from Victoria Harbour was super romantic!
There are other options but Dukling offers a historical flare that the others don’t!
Best things to do on Hong Kong Island
🕯️Man Mo Temple
Free | Daily | 8 am-6 pm
This is a very unique and interesting small temple. The rooms are thick with incense and the open flame gives Man Mo a stunning aesthetic!
⛰️Victoria Peak
Easily the best spot to capture the epic Hong Kong skyline.
🛒Central Market
Daily | 10 am -10 pm
Previously, one of Hong Kong’s wet markets was originally built in 1842! Now a place full of shopping and dining, and a perfect stop for a coffee or bite to eat.
👣Mid-Level Escalators
6 am-12 am | Going uphill from 10 am
Made up of 18 separate sections this is the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system.
🚔 Victoria Prison
11 am – 7 pm | Daily
Victoria Prison compound is now home to museums, cafes & restaurants making it a great place to escape the city for some calm.
🍃Hong Kong Park
Free | Daily | 6 am-11 pm
Yet another garden oasis in this densely populated city. Hong Kong Park makes for the perfect picnic spot surrounded by nature.
🐒 Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Park
Free | Daily | 6 am-7 pm
Not only is this a free-to-enter Zoological park but it is also home to Hong Kong’s oldest parklands!
🚃Ding Ding Tram Tour
HK 150 | Duration 1 hour | times differ
Surprisingly, these trams were first installed in the very early 1900s and their some of only a few remaining double-decker trams in the world!
You get a historical tour AND a 2-day unlimited pass with a historical tour on an open-top tram!
🚂 Peak Tram
HK 80-150 | Daily | 7:30 am – 11pm
Undoubtedly one of the most iconic things to do in Hong Kong, this funicular travels up a 48% gradient.
Note: Get there early for shorter lines (we arrived at 7:30 am and had a car to ourselves!)
Lantau Island things to do
🏰 Disneyland
HK 600+ | 10:30 am – 8:30 pm
Do I even need to tell you what this is? The most magical place on earth!
You can add on an early entry pass to gain access to the park 1 hour before everyone else.
🪷Tian Tan Buddha
Daily | 10 am – 5:30 pm
Because you’ll need to climb 268 steps – it’s best to head there early to beat the heat and the crowds!
Day Trips from Hong Kong
🇲🇴Macao
Albeit an odd addition to things to do in Hong Kong.. But, one of the most popular things to do in Hong Kong is to leave it!
With Macao only a short hour ferry or bus journey away – you can be in the Las Vegas of the east!
So why not catch the bus or ferry to Macao for a unique travel experience?
Where to Eat in Hong Kong
Arguably, the best bit about travelling is trying new foods and eating out for every meal so I couldn’t write a Hong Kong Travel Guide without including a few of our favourite spots!
So, I am going to keep this section brief or else this list could go on forever.
In general, what I will say is that we didn’t have a single bad meal in Hong Kong!
Similarly to the last section, I will break this up into sections based on location just to make your planning a little easier.
Note: All of these locations are noted on the map that you can download for offline use here!
Where to Eat Kowloon Peninsula
🧀 Australian Dairy Co.
HK 50-100 | Closed Thursdays | 7.30 am – 10 pm
Arguably one of the most popular and everyone says this is the place to eat while visiting Hong Kong.
No one does eggs better so order the delicious fluffy scrambled eggs!
🥟Shanghai Pan Fried Dumplings
HK 50-100 | 9 am – 9 pm daily
On our short layover, we ate here twice, and frankly, I think that tells you everything you need to know!
Be careful when you take your first bite as the juices inside are HOT!
Where to Eat Hong Kong Island
🥟 Lin Heung Lau
HK 100-300 | Daily | 6 am – 4 pm | 6 pm – 10 pm
A very famous spot that still operates using old-school trolleys to showcase and deliver the food and delicious dim sum.
Also, a quick rundown on how it works, you’ll be seated (potentially at a shared table), given a piece of paper, take your paper and collect the food you want, the servers will mark what you have ordered.
Finally, take your slip of paper to the checkout and pay!
🍜 Maks Noodles (Wellington)
HK 50-100 | Daily | 11am-9pm
With the original shop on the Kawloon Peninsula, this franchise has been in operation since the 1920s!
Given that it is the signature dish, try the wonton and noddles for a taste of history!
Key Phrases to Learn
In Hong Kong, they speak both English and Chinese.
We had no trouble getting around with just English however, we always have Google Translate downloaded with the local language just in case.
However, one of my favourite things to do whilst travelling is picking up a few of the local words/phrases – here are some basics:
👋 Hello – Ha Lo
🙏 Please – M Goi
🙌 Thank you – Do Je
Hong Kong Budget
At this time, Hong Kong isn’t necessarily a budget-friendly place to travel.
While it is possible to stick to a lower-end budget it is more expensive than its South East Asian counterparts.
All in all, you should budget from around $80-$300 a day for your Hong Kong Travel Budget.
Tips for sticking to a budget in Hong Kong
Out
🚕 Ubers and Taxis
🍜 Restaurants and Bars
☀️ Peak Season
🚂 Peak Tram (round trip)
🏨 Hotels on Hong Kong Island
In
🚌Public Transport
🥟 Local Markets and buffets
🌦️Shoulder Season
🥾Hike Victoria Peak
🏨 Hotels in Mong Kok
Travel Safer & Easier
FAQ – Hong Kong Travel Guide
Do I need cash in Hong Kong?
Not necessarily, we used cards without any issues whilst travelling in Hong Kong.
You can also use the Octopus app to pay at places like restaurants and convenience stores!
However, some smaller markets or street vendors will only accept cash.
How many days in Hong Kong is enough?
Due to how many things there are to do in Hong Kong – I think at a minimum you should spend 48 hours there!
Can you explore easily without a guide?
Hopefully, after reading this Hong Kong Travel Guide blog post you should have all the information you need to travel to Hong Kong solo confidently!
Final Thoughts – Hong Kong Travel Guide
During only a 3-day layover in Hong Kong, it quickly became one of our favourite destinations.
Packed with so many fun things to do and see, it makes for the perfect stopover destination.
Not to mention, Disneyland makes a great family-friendly holiday destination!
I hope that this Hong Kong Travel Guide made planning your trip quicker and easier 🫶
Got any questions? Let us know in the comments!
Thank you for shopping through our links, it helps support us at no extra cost to you.
We truly appreciate your support! ♥️
🏨 Book hotels with Booking.com or Agoda
🎟️ Book Attractions & Tours with Get Your Guide or Klook
🚗 Hire a car with Economy Bookings or Imoova (relocations)
✈️ Book flights with Skyscanner
🚂 Book Trains/Buses/Transfers with 12go
💌 Learn about points & miles with Daily Drop
📲 Get an eSIM with Airlo or Holafly
🐶 House Sit with Trusted Housesitters
When I initially commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox and now each time a comment
is added I get several emails with the same comment.
Is there any way you can remove me from that service?
Cheers!
Hello, I am having trouble seeing where I can edit this on my end.
If you can find a recent email regarding this you should be able to select “manage your subscriptions” or “unsubsribe”
Hopefully this helps – if not, let me know and I will look into it further ☺️