You may think about viewing glittering skyscrapers from Victoria Peak, satiating your hunger with local dim-sum, or taking a cable car for big Buddha among the best nature view of the island. Well, lucky for you guys! You only need a passport that's valid for at least one month after your planned stay. Visa is not required.
In case you run into trouble with the traffic of the mega city, here follows a detailed guide on getting to and around Hong Kong.
Getting to Hong Kong
Airport: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), located on Chek Lap Kok Island, is the city’s main gateway. Staying near HKG is convenient for travelers with early flights or layovers. We've carefully prepared three hotels close to HKG with free airport transfer.
For those who prefer not to stay near the airport or have plenty of time to explore the city after landing, they can choose from airport express, bus or taxi.
Airport Express: The Airport Express train is the fastest way to reach the city center, taking about 24 minutes to reach Hong Kong Station. Tickets cost around HK$115 ($15) one-way, and the train offers free Wi-Fi and charging stations.
Buses: A more budget-friendly option is the Cityflyer airport buses, which serve various parts of Hong Kong. Fares range from HK$33–$55 ($4–$7), depending on your destination.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport and cost around HK$300–$400 ($38–$50) to the city center. Be sure to choose the correct color taxi based on your destination: red for urban areas, green for the New Territories, and blue for Lantau Island.
Must-Visit Attractions in Hong Kong
Victoria Peak
For jaw-dropping views of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline? You must not miss this spot! Hop on the Peak Tram for a scenic ride and enjoy the city from Sky Terrace 428. The view is even more magical at sunset! Click here to check hotels near Victoria Peak!
Disneyland Hong Kong
Here, you can experience thrilling rides, encounter beloved Disney characters, and enjoy stunning shows and parades. Prepare to discover everything this enchanting kingdom has to offer, from adrenaline-pumping space journeys to peaceful boat trips on a scenic lake. Click here to check hotels near Disneyland Hong kong!
Lantau Island and the Big Buddha
For those who love getting out and escaping the hustle of the city, Lantau Island is the paradise you've been looking for. The Big Buddha is a massive bronze statue that offers incredible views. You can also go inside the Buddha and walk around the top and outside of it. And don't forget to take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for a thrilling journey. Click here to check hotels near Lantau Island!
Temple Street Night Market
Seeking authentic local flavours? Temple Street is the place to go. A hub for late-night dining, Temple Street offers a wide range of local delicacies and other asian cuisines, from dim sum, clay pot rice to pepper cake and Turkish lamb. It attracts not only local foodies but also visitors from far and wide. Click here to check hotels near Temple Street!
Getting Around Hong Kong
Hong Kong has an efficient public transport system for you to get around smoothly. Here are some popular transport options.
MTR (Mass Transit Railway) Ticket Price: HK$4–$50 ($0.50–$6.50), depending on distance
The MTR is Hong Kong’s backbone, covering almost every corner of the city. It’s fast, clean, and reliable, making it the best way to explore major attractions. You always know where you are because the maps light up on every stop. How about getting an Octopus Card for easy travel and small discounts?
Trams (Ding Ding) Fare: HK$2.60 ($0.33) flat rate
Hop on one of Hong Kong’s iconic double-decker trams for a scenic ride through Hong Kong Island. These “Ding Ding” trams offer a charming and affordable way to explore the beauty of the city.
Star Ferry Fare: HK$2–$3 ($0.25–$0.40)
For breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour, take the Star Ferry between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. This short but scenic ride is a must-try for any visitor.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps
Taxis: Affordable and convenient, Hong Kong’s taxis are color-coded by region. Always request a receipt to avoid disputes.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab is unavailable, but Uber operates in Hong Kong and offers an alternative to traditional taxis.
What to Eat in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a fantastic place to enjoy a mix of traditional and modern dishes. From bustling street markets to cozy dim sum parlors, there is always plenty to satisfy your taste buds. Here's a guide to some must-try dishes and dining experiences in Hong Kong.
Dish/Experience | Description | Where to Find |
Dim Sum | Bite-sized portions of food served in small steamer baskets or on small plates. Common items include dumplings, buns, and rolls. | Traditional dim sum restaurants, tea houses |
Char Siu (BBQ Pork) | Cantonese-style barbecued pork, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce | Local BBQ shops, street stalls |
Wonton Noodles | Egg noodles in a clear broth, topped with shrimp wontons | Noodle shops, local eateries |
Hong Kong-style Milk Tea | Strong black tea with evaporated or condensed milk, served hot or cold | Tea shops, cafes |
Pineapple Bun | Sweet bun with a sugary, crunchy top, often served with a slab of butter inside | Bakeries, cha chaan teng (local diners) |
Stinky Tofu | Fermented tofu with a strong smell, usually deep-fried and served with a sweet and spicy sauce | Street stalls, night markets |
Tips for Eating in Hong Kong
- Street Food: Try street food from busy stalls to ensure freshness and quality.
- Local Markets: Visit places like Temple Street Night Market for a variety of local snacks and dishes.
- Tea Houses: Enjoy a traditional dim sum experience in one of Hong Kong's historic tea houses.
- Seafood: Head to Sai Kung or Lamma Island for the freshest seafood, cooked to your liking.
Better to know before visiting Hong Kong
Category | Details |
Language | The official language is Cantonese. But don't worry, English is commonly used in most parts of Hong Kong. |
Currency | Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) 1 HKD = $0.13 USD |
Best Time to Visit | October to early December; You can enjoy mild weather (59°F to 77°F), clear skies, and low humidity. Very ideal for sightseeing! |
Electricity | 220V, 50Hz, common plug types are G and D |
Is Hong Kong Expensive for Tourists?
Hong Kong can be a moderately expensive destination for tourists, with costs varying significantly depending on your travel style and preferences. Budget travelers can manage on around $110 per day by staying in hostels, eating local food, and using public transport. Mid-range travelers might spend around $157 per day, while those opting for luxury experiences will see higher expenses, particularly in accommodation and dining.
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