Ultimate Guide to Visiting Hong Kong for First-Time Travelers

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

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

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

Time Zone

Hong Kong (GMT+8)

Best Time to Go

The sky might be blue and the weather sunny, but summer in Hong Kong can be overwhelmingly hot and humid. To avoid sweaty afternoons, visit the city between October and December when temperatures are more manageable. Spring may offer similar temperatures; however, this season is short and temperatures can reach the 80s by May.

Things to Know

Currency: Hong Kong Dollar

Languages: Cantonese, English

I don’t speak Chinese: Wǒ bù huì shuō zhōngwén
I’m lost: Wǒ mílèile
I would like…: Wǒ xiǎng…

Calling Code: +852

How to Get Around

Trains / Light Rails / Buses: The city’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) serves urban areas of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories, consisting of trains, light rails, and buses. The services are clean and fast, relying on a fare system that’s easy to use (meet the Octopus card). To start, pick up an Octopus card at the airport. Once you have this card, you can use it throughout your trip, including your journey from the airport. When you need to top up, just visit one of the many Octopus service providers, which include 7-Eleven, McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Circle K.

Taxis: You’ll have no trouble finding a taxi in Hong Kong. Local red taxis operate in urban areas, green taxis serve the New Territories, and blue taxis operate on Lantau Island. Taxi drivers use meters, so you don’t have to worry about being overcharged, and fares are relatively cheap compared to other international cities.

Car service: For a more luxurious entry into the city, consider a luxury car transfer with Hong Kong Car Service. You’ll be met by an English-speaking driver and can enjoy access to all of Hong Kong and the neighboring Chinese province of Guangdong.

Best Hotels

Mandarin Oriental

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

It doesn’t get more iconic than the Mandarin Oriental, a Hong Kong mainstay boasting views of Victoria Harbour and the surrounding city. Guests are treated to opulent rooms, a tranquil spa, and a level of service that has become a standard signature of the Mandarin. Notably, dignitaries like Margaret Thatcher and Henry Kissinger have graced this hotel during their visits.

The OTTO Hotel

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

You don’t need to stay at a five-star hotel to experience comfort in Hong Kong. The boutique OTTO Hotel balances affordability and comfort with its simple, clean interiors and tasteful amenities. Thanks to its prime location in Kowloon’s Tsim Sha Tsui neighborhood, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Hong Kong’s renowned shopping and food scene, just steps from the harbor.

The Peninsula

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

The Peninsula truly raises the bar—providing guests with elegant quarters, five-star service, and a prime location that is hard to surpass. Located on Kowloon Peninsula across the harbor from Hong Kong Island, The Peninsula offers seven restaurants, including the Michelin-starred French dining venue, Gaddi’s, along with a spa featuring stunning water views, and upgraded rooms with spectacular floor-to-ceiling windows.

Hotel Indigo

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

Hotel Indigo’s stunning rooms are complemented by the hotel’s common areas: a bronze dragon made of solar fins wraps the building, and a dramatic, glass-bottomed infinity pool extends over the street. Guests can enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop bar or visit Indicolite Restaurant for a menu of local favorites with a creative twist.

Tai O Heritage Hotel

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

While Hong Kong is known for its modern vibe and high-rise hotels, the Tai O Heritage Hotel offers a different experience. Set in a historic colonial-style building (once a police station) on Lantau Island, guests are perched above the charming Tai O fishing village. With well-appointed rooms and a boutique atmosphere, the hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring the fishing village or visiting the giant Tian Tan Buddha statue.

Best Restaurants

Sun Tung Lok

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

In a city rich in dim sum, sticking to established favorites pays off; establishments like Sun Tung Lok have earned their place among the greats. Since its opening in 1969, this restaurant has earned three Michelin stars and maintains two today. You can order à la carte or opt for the set menu designed by culinary experts. Reservations are recommended.

Sang Kee Congee Shop

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

This humble establishment doesn’t even have a website; however, its loyal customers return for some of the city’s finest congee—a rice porridge frequently enjoyed at breakfast in Hong Kong. While reservations are unnecessary, be prepared for a wait to savor your meal, celebrated for its exquisite texture.

Loaf On

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

To enjoy authentic, traditionally-prepared seafood, Loaf On is a must-visit. This Michelin-starred eatery is quick and casual (reservations are not required), yet diners leave satisfied and happy. Don’t miss out on trying the chili and garlic mantis shrimp.

Gaddi’s

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

For a break from Cantonese cuisine while indulging in high-end dining, Gaddi’s in The Peninsula hotel is the destination. The impeccable service and exquisite dishes make for a remarkable dining experience, especially if you secure a reservation for the coveted chef’s table in the kitchen.

Luk Yu Tea House

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

While exploring the food scene, don’t forget to delve into China’s rich tea history. At Luk Yu Tea House, you can savor Cantonese-style tea amidst your dim sum, surrounded by quaint, classic decor.

CHAAT

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

Hong Kong boasts some of the best food globally, including a modern take on Indian street food at CHAAT. This refined restaurant transforms classics into elegant dishes that promise to transport you. Reservations are recommended, followed by a delightful cup of golden chai masala.

Things to Do

Star Ferry

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

The Star Ferry may seem touristy; however, it’s popular for a reason. Not only does it transport you between the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island, but the trip also offers stunning skyline views—especially at night.

Victoria Peak

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

If you seek breathtaking views of the city, a trip to Victoria Peak is essential. Access this pinnacle by bus or taxi; however, nothing compares to the views from the Peak Tram or the scenic trail between the MTR Central Station and The Peak Tower. Regardless of your transportation method, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the skyscrapers and the sea.

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

Address: 128 Peak Rd., Hong Kong

One of the best ways to orient yourself in the city is to stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. This walkway extends from the colonial-era Clock Tower to Hung Hom. While you can enjoy ferry views and the illustrious Hong Kong skyline during the day, the promenade comes alive at night with a dazzling sound-and-light show projected onto the skyscrapers across the harbor.

Tian Tan Buddha

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

It’s hard (perhaps impossible?) to miss the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island—this giant, bronze Buddha statue stands at a towering height of 111 feet. The hike to the statue and the surrounding area is worth your time, along with a visit to the Po Lin Monastery located at the foot of the statue. Arriving via cable car offers an extra treat with stunning aerial views of both the island and the Buddha.

Big Wave Bay

Address: Shek O, Southern District, Hong Kong

Upon first glance, Hong Kong seems predominantly urban; however, traveling to the southern side of Hong Kong Island reveals its natural, subtropical allure. Therefore, a trip to Big Wave Bay—a popular surfing and beach hangout near Shek O—is worthwhile. Here, you can hike, surf, or people-watch while enjoying easy access to nearby restaurants and surfboard rentals.

Nan Lian Garden

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

Escaping the fast pace of modern-day Hong Kong is as simple as entering the serene Nan Lian Garden. Modeled after the Tang Dynasty style, this Kowloon park features well-maintained pathways, lotus and koi ponds, and beautiful traditional Chinese architecture. It serves as a perfect spot to unwind, enjoy a snack, and momentarily retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Best Shopping

Times Square

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

The Causeway Bay area is famed for its shopping, yet no center rivals Times Square, a mall featuring over 200 stores that offer everything from electronics and toys to high-end accessories and apparel.

Temple Street Night Market

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

While you can shop at Hong Kong’s upscale boutiques, a visit to the city’s iconic night market is essential. Temple Street is famous for its street food, inexpensive clothing, and trinkets. The items may not be noteworthy, but the ambiance is vibrant. This bustling market in Kowloon comes alive at night—just be prepared with enough energy to absorb it all, as the captivating atmosphere can be both invigorating and exhausting.

Island Beverley

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

While you can find global brands like Chanel in Causeway Bay, for a truly unique shopping experience, visit the four-floor Island Beverley shopping center. Here, local designers and independent retailers showcase their unique, often handmade, offerings to eager shoppers.

IFC Mall

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

Positioned next to the Four Seasons and close to the harbor, the IFC Mall is a convenient stop for shopping enthusiasts. High-end fashion from renowned brands like Gucci, Chloé, and Valentino, alongside luxury accessories from Bulgari, Rolex, and Tiffany & Co., await you.

Fashion Walk

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

This chic open-air shopping center features an array of high-end products and cutting-edge labels. It’s incredibly easy to fill your arms with bags from retailers like Max Mara, Adidas, and Zadig & Voltaire.

Neighborhoods to Know

Causeway Bay: Don’t come to Causeway Bay searching for tranquility. Comparable to Tokyo’s Shinjuku, this vibrant neighborhood is nearly always crowded with shoppers looking to enjoy the numerous malls and boutiques.

Wan Chai: A glimpse of old-world Hong Kong remains in Wan Chai, a commercial district filled with casual eateries and bars, along with colonial-era architecture that reflects the island’s rich history.

Central: West of Wan Chai lies the Central neighborhood, often regarded as the heart of Hong Kong Island, home to luxurious hotels and upscale malls within dense skyscrapers. Nevertheless, Central also features some of the city’s exceptional nightlife, delicious dining options, and picturesque waterfront vistas.

Tsim Sha Tsui: It’s nearly impossible to explore the Kowloon Peninsula without encountering Tsim Sha Tsui, where you’ll find the harbor, skyscrapers, shopping malls, and eateries that range from Michelin-star fine dining to charming family-owned noodle shops. Sheung Wan: West of Central is Sheung Wan, a lively area with a creative vibe, featuring trendy boutiques, relaxed eateries, and the Western Market known for its handicrafts and textiles.

Weather

Spring: Spring in Hong Kong is brief, typically falling in March and April, presenting mild temperatures averaging between the mid-60s and early 70s, with rainfall beginning to rise after the traditionally drier winter.

Summer: During summer, heavy rainfall is common in June, accompanied by hot, humid weather peaking in July and August, during which typhoon likelihood increases (usually from June to October).

Fall: In autumn, temperatures gradually decline, with November marking the transition to average temperatures falling below 70 degrees. Rainfall also decreases during this period, creating a brief, pleasant window perfect for tourists eager to explore the city.

Winter: Despite being classified as subtropical, even in the heart of winter, temperatures in Hong Kong rarely drop below 60 degrees, coupled with lower precipitation levels during these months.

Apps to Download

MTR: Public transportation map and route planning
iOs | Android

Uber: Ride-hailing app
iOs | Android

Google Translate: Language translation with offline capabilities
iOs | Android

OpenRice: Searching for local restaurants, ordering takeout, and making reservations
iOs | Android