Top 5 Exciting Day Trips from Hong Kong

Day trips from Hong Kong are a great chance to see more of the real China – it’s just across the border. Shenzhen and Guangzhou are the most popular destinations thanks to their proximity, while Zhuhai is gaining an increasing number of fans. The easiest day trip from Hong Kong is a short hop across the water to Macau where you’ll find a combination of Las Vegas casinos and Lisboa architecture less than an hour away.

Explore our top five day trips below for a selection of the best trips just a few hours from Hong Kong. Alternatively, if you’re looking for somewhere more off the beaten track, consider hidden China trips where you can visit Ming era temples and enjoy mountain retreats.

Macau: Best for Relaxing

Address: Macau Island, Macao

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Macau is hands down the best day trip from Hong Kong, just an hour away by ferry. It offers a wonderful combination of quaint Portuguese charm and the bright lights of its casino strip – the biggest gambling center on Earth. Ferries operate around the clock, making it an easy trip. Don’t forget to indulge in some Macanese cuisine, a delicious fusion of Portuguese spices and Cantonese flavors.

Need visa? No
Travel time: 1hr by ferry

Guangzhou: Best for a Slice of China

Address: Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China

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Guangzhou is often overlooked when travelers choose a Chinese city to visit. However, it embodies modern China with its sleek skyscrapers and bustling malls. The elegant architecture of Shaiman Island and its colonial history creates a fascinating backdrop for visitors. Enjoy exploring this dynamic city that showcases China’s rapid economic growth.

Need visa? Yes, Chinese Visa or Guangdong visa
Travel time: 2hrs by train

Shenzhen: Best for Location

Address: Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China

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Shenzhen represents the merger of Hong Kong and mainland China. Located just across the border, it is less than an hour away via the Hong Kong MTR. While the city is primarily known for shopping, it also offers a glimpse into modern Chinese life. Some nationalities may enjoy the benefits of the special Shenzhen Economic Zone visa, reducing paperwork for entry.

Need Visa? Yes, Shenzhen Economic Zone visa or Chinese visa
Travel time: 45mins by train

Zhuhai: Best Off the Beaten Track

Address: Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, China

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Zhuhai may be smaller compared to other cities in China, but it still has over a million residents. This city offers a less developed alternative to Shenzhen and Guangzhou and features a picturesque coastline and beautiful islands. Popular among Hong Kong residents, Zhuhai has a growing number of restaurants and bars along its beaches and boardwalks. Ferries from Hong Kong take just over an hour to reach this laid-back destination.

Need visa? Yes, Chinese visa
Travel time: 1hr 20min by ferry

Beijing: Best for Splashing Out

Address: Beijing, China

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If you truly want to experience China, then it is essential to fly to Beijing. Although it is a long journey, the best flights leave Hong Kong around 8:00 am, arriving in Beijing just after 11 am. You’ll have approximately six hours to explore iconic sites like the Forbidden City and Ming Tombs before heading back on the 21:00 flight to Hong Kong.

Need visa? Yes, Chinese visa
Travel time: 3hr 30min by plane