The Essential Guide to Hong Kong

It’s hard to imagine a place more international and metropolitan than Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is a vibrant hub that sees millions of travelers every day. It’s also one of the most significant financial centers in the world, and home to one of the most important commercial ports—a fact that has caused this little slice of the South China Sea to change hands between major world powers a few times in recent history. But all that change and cultural melting pot action has led to one of the most diverse, complex, and vibrant cities that you’ll find in East Asia.

A trip to Hong Kong is very much a choose-your-own adventure. You could eat noodles at a hawker stall or tuck into Michelin-starred dining. You could get lost in the hustle and bustle of city life or spend a quiet beach day on the outer islands.

“Hong Kong holds a special place in my heart,” says Virginia Chan, owner of Humid with a Chance of Fishballs, a tour operator offering guided tours of the city. “The vibrant energy is palpable. The best thing is the synergy between the East and the West, and how perfectly the old and the new marry together. Many might not realize that just 20 minutes away from the concrete jungle lies a natural oasis with beautiful hiking trails.”

Here’s what you need to know before planning a trip to Hong Kong.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Rosewood Hong Kong

The Rosewood Hong Kong has large luxurious rooms, amazing views of the harbor, incredible design and artwork, as well as 11 different bars and restaurants, including one of the city’s best afternoon teas at the Butterfly Room. Or you could load up on curry, samosas, or chicken tikka at the Michelin-starred Indian restaurant Chaat. 

The Peninsula

The Peninsula is arguably one of the most well-known and historic hotels in Hong Kong. On Christmas Day in 1941, British officials surrendered to Imperial Japanese forces in the Peninsula, ushering in four years of Japanese occupation in Hong Kong. Major historical events aside, the Peninsula is known for its distinct, East-meets-West style of luxury (if you couldn’t tell by the massive stone lions and bellhops in white tunics). For those looking for a sumptuous stay in the city, there’s no better place than the Peninsula, according to Chan.

“Should one wish for a real treat, they can choose to take a helicopter ride for panoramic views of the city, starting at the helipad located on the top of the Peninsula,” she says. “Also, The Peninsula boasts the largest fleet of Rolls-Royce cars owned by a hotel, so Rolls-Royce airport transfers are fair game!”

Mandarin Oriental

For those looking for a luxe option on Hong Kong Island, look no further than Mandarin Oriental. Since it opened in 1963, this hotel has been a favorite among the rich and famous, and has welcomed guests such as Eartha Kitt, Christian Dior, and, more recently, Michelle Yeoh. It’s just steps away from Hong Kong’s SoHo district, making it a convenient home base to explore all the shops, restaurants, and bars that the one of the city’s liveliest neighborhoods has to offer.

Regent Hong Kong

This iconic hotel recently underwent a major two-year renovation and reopened in 2023 to rave reviews. In fact, it was voted the best in the city by Travel + Leisure readers in 2024. “Regent Hong Kong’s location makes it a great place to post up,” said T+L editor Susmita Baral. “The Victoria Harbour waterfront means you have stunning views, easy access to museums, and can get around the city through public transit or ferries. But my biggest takeaway is that it feels like a private oasis in the bustling city.”

Best Things to Do

Victoria Peak Tram

A fun fact: Hong Kong has the most skyscrapers in the world. There are many ways to admire the skyline, but taking the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak is the best way to see Hong Kong’s iconic skyline. In fact, it’s one of Chan’s favorite tourist attractions. She recommends buying a ticket beforehand or using an Octopus Card to skip the line. “Take a leisurely stroll to Lugard Road Lookout Point for a magnificent 180-degree view of the city,” Chan says.

Tian Tan Buddha

Visiting Tian Tan Buddha (aka the Big Buddha) is truly one of those things where the act of getting there is just as exciting as reaching the destination. The 3.5-mile gondola ride not only has great views of Hong Kong’s densely packed cityscape, but you’ll also get to see the lush jungle landscapes that hug it. Spend some extra time exploring the surrounding village, the Po Lin Monastery, where you can even enjoy a lunch cooked by the local monks. Chan recommends making it a full-day trip to see the old stilt houses of nearby Tai O, a historic fishing village.

Tai Kwun

This massive complex was originally constructed in the early 1860s and served as the Central Police Station until the 2000s. Over the years, new additions were added to the original building, and it would eventually also have a dormitory and a prison. These days, however, it’s now used as a retail and entertainment complex, after a massive revitalization project transformed the building. Visitors can now dine, shop, and even go to the movies at Tai Kwun. Don’t skip the museum, which focuses on the building’s history and even has some display prison cells.

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

This promenade runs along the harbor on Kowloon and has incredible views of Hong Kong. Here, you’ll find the Avenue of the Stars, which pays tribute to famous Hong Kong film stars such as Jackie Chan, who was born in the city. You can also shop till you drop at the massive luxury malls, watch (or catch) the ferries and the junk boats along the water, and watch the twinkling lights of the skyline at night. 

Best Shopping

Yuet Tung China Works

For a unique souvenir, go treasure hunting in Hong Kong’s first and last hand-painted porcelain factory. As you wander the stacked aisles, you can see employees painting new inventory. But be aware that not everything is painted on-site, so Chan suggests checking the bottom of the pieces that you’re interested in to confirm its origin.

Visit a street market.

No matter what you may be looking for, there’s probably a street market in Hong Kong that sells it. From Goldfish Street to Flower Market, there truly is something for everyone in the city. Temple Street Night Market is a favorite for trinkets and souvenirs. If you’re looking for bags or dupes in general, head to Ladies Night Market. Chan suggests Cat Street (also known as Antiques Street) for unique finds, like charms that will match your Chinese Zodiac sign. Also, don’t let the “Night Market” label fool you—most of the markets are open in the afternoon.

PMQ

This massive compound used to be a dormitory for married police officers, but it’s now an artist residence, full of studios and shops. “[There are] lots of unique and very cool one-off stores in here and great souvenirs as well,” Chan says. 

Gods of Desire

Your typical souvenir shop, this is not. Gods of Desire focuses on modern, design-forward and modern gifts and has everything from locally designed clothing to Hong Kong-themed games.

Nightlife

Ozone

Located on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, this is the tallest rooftop bar in the world. While it’s a great place to sip cocktails and enjoy small plates atop the city any day, a visit here feels particularly special on New Year’s Eve, when the night sky is peppered with fireworks.

Lan Kwai Fong

If you’re ready to get the party started, then head to Lan Kwai Fong, one of the city’s most popular nightlife hot spots. The streets of LKF (as the locals call it) are lined with live music venues, cocktail bars, and clubs, but you’ll also spot young people simply partying it up in the street.

SoHo

If you’re looking for a more sophisticated cocktail experience, Chan suggests heading to SoHo, a neighborhood located next to LKF. This small area is packed with award-winning bars that have creative menus and excellent service. Chen especially recommends the Mexican-inspired Coa, Bar Leone, or the Savory Project. “You’ll never have to sober up or have an empty drink in hand before your next,” Chan says. 

Best Restaurants

Duddell’s

Eating at this Michelin-starred restaurant is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Expect elevated takes on Cantonese classics using the finest of luxury ingredients. Menu highlights include items like braised abalone, honey-glazed barbecue pork, and stuffed crab shells.

Ho Lee Fook

Ho Lee Fook, owned by the Black Sheep hospitality group, describes itself as “a Chinese restaurant with a Hong Kong heart.” Here, you’ll find an elegantly decorated space (think boldly patterned wallpaper, a wall of golden maneki neko, and an open kitchen), and solid Cantonese dishes. “The flavors are more bold and cater to those who like punchier flavors,” she says. “[There’s also] great cocktails and a great interior to match.”

Louise

You’ll have no problem finding Chinese food in Hong Kong, so if you’re craving something different, try Louise. This Michelin-starred French restaurant is tucked away in a heritage building and serves seasonally inspired dishes in a cozy ambiance. 

Chaat

Indian food in Hong Kong might not sound like a must-do experience, but this restaurant located in the Rosewood Hong Kong serves truly unforgettable meals. Dishes like lobster curry and burrata palak will have you nearly licking the plate. 

Best Time to Visit

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate, meaning the summer season brings heat and humidity—and sometimes even typhoons. You’ll experience the best weather if you visit between October and December, and Hong Kong rarely gets colder than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Summers can be hot and rainy, but Chan points out that it’s actually a great time to find deals on flights and accommodations.

The city also plays host to several huge events throughout the year, the biggest holiday naturally being Lunar New Year, which brings parades, fireworks, and Hong Kong’s famous flower markets. Art Basel Hong Kong, one of the largest art shows in Asia, usually takes place in March. There are also a number of smaller, quirky festivals. Chan says her two favorites are the Cheung Chau Bun Scrambling Competition, where racers try to climb up a 46-foot-tall tower of buns, and the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance, which takes place during the Mid-Autumn Festival. As part of the celebration, a 220-foot-tall dragon is constructed out of 12,000 sticks of incense.

Neighborhoods and Islands to Visit

Central

Hong Kong’s Central neighborhood is the heart of the city and is filled with skyscrapers, intertwining malls, and bustling streets. It’s also home to some of the city’s most popular nightlife spots as well as major attractions like the Victoria Peak Tram.

SoHo

This trendy neighborhood has several award-winning bars, including Bar Leone, which holds the title of the best bar in Asia and the second-best in the world. You’ll also find a ton of unique Australian coffee shops and fun eateries in the area.

Wan Chai

If you want a peek into Hong Kong’s past, there’s no better place to visit than Wan Chai, which seamlessly blends the past and present. In between independent boutiques and cool cafes, you’ll find cultural landmarks like the Blue House, the oldest prewar tenement building in the city, and wet markets.

Tai O

This little village on Lantau Island was once a bustling fishing community, but is now one of the more unique destinations in the Hong Kong area. “Tai O is called the Venice of the Orient for good reason,” Chan says. “You can go on a boat ride through the stilt houses and, if you’re lucky, you’ll get a glimpse of the pink dolphins that are found in Hong Kong’s waters.” She also suggests trying the Chinese-style donuts at Tai O Bakery.

How to Get There

Hong Kong International Airport (HGK) is located on the island of Chek Lap Kok, about 21 miles from the heart of the city. As a major travel hub, the airport receives multiple direct flights every day from all around the world, including places like Seattle, New York, and even Dallas, thanks to a recently added Cathay Pacific route. Cathay Pacific even has a stopover program that lets passengers explore Hong Kong for a couple of days before heading to their final destination.

How to Get Around

One of the best things about Hong Kong is its robust public transportation system. The expansive Mass Transit Railway system includes metro lines, buses, and even old-school trams. I also recommend taking the ferries, which give you incredible skyline views for less than a U.S. dollar.  

The best way to pay for any mode of transportation in Hong Kong is to opt for an Octopus Card. The Octopus Card is also accepted at some stores and restaurants, making it the most convenient way to pay for almost anything in Hong Kong. These can be purchased (and topped up) at the airport or convenience stores like 7-Eleven.

Taxis (which are red in Hong Kong) are abundant and easy to use—but keep in mind that they’re metered and cash-only. Uber is available in Hong Kong, but operates in a legal gray area.