Hong Kong may have earned itself a reputation as one of Asia’s dullest corporate hubs, but there is much more to this captivating city than meets the eye.
In order to help you make the most of your time in Hong Kong, we have compiled some of our top travel tips. These will ensure that you take in all that this vibrant city has to offer while maintaining safety at the same time. Also, take advantage of Cathay Pacific flights to Hong Kong as an extra free tip.
1. Stay in a guesthouse
One of the best ways to save money on accommodation in Hong Kong is staying in a guesthouse. These hotels tend to be smaller and more intimate than regular hotels, motels, resorts, or inns – perfect for families, solo travellers, and groups.
Guesthouses are an economical alternative, as well as being close to many of the city’s main attractions. These places make for great walking tours without breaking your budget, making them a great choice if you want to see everything the city has to offer without breaking the bank.
Hong Kong offers a variety of guesthouses to fit every need and budget. However, the most important tip is making sure the establishment you stay at is licensed by the Home Affairs Department; check their website for a comprehensive list of licensed guesthouses within your travel region.
When traveling with children in Hong Kong, there are a few things to remember. Most hotels limit the number of guests allowed per room so if you have multiple children, it may be necessary to book more than one room.
Second, be sure to book your accommodation ahead of time. Doing so gives you the best chance at finding a room that meets both your requirements and budget.
Third, select a hotel with an excellent security system for added peace of mind while traveling in Hong Kong. This will make you feel safe during your stay.
If you’re on a tight budget, Hong Kong’s hostel scene has seen incredible progress over the last five years. Now there are tons of insta-worthy hostels throughout the city that provide both 5-star service and an eye-catching experience.
2. Budget hotels
Hong Kong can be an expensive city to visit, but if you want to stay within budget, there are many budget-friendly hotels here that you can choose from. Plus, some of these establishments have consistently good rates all year round so keep an eye out for deals when booking your stay in Hong Kong.
Most budget hotels in Hong Kong can be found in Kowloon, particularly Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok – two popular tourist spots. But there are also budget hotels located elsewhere in the city such as Causeway Bay or Wan Chai that provide a more budget friendly alternative than staying in more upscale areas.
Another option for finding a cheap hotel in Hong Kong is staying at a quarantine hotel, which are hostels that allow visitors to stay for short periods without paying full-fledged rooms. While this can be ideal for those on a budget, be aware that these establishments often lack the most comfortable accommodations.
For the best quarantine hotels in Hong Kong, Tsuen Wan is usually your best bet; it’s only a ten-minute bus ride away from the airport. While these may not be the cheapest options available, they’re clean and provide a comfortable place to rest.
If you’re planning to stay in this area, look for a hotel with free Wi-Fi and a pool. This will give you the chance to unwind after an active day exploring the city. Many of these establishments are even close to an MTR station so getting around town will be effortless.
3. Go hiking at Victoria Peak
Victoria Peak is one of Hong Kong’s most beloved tourist attractions, providing an iconic view of the city. A must-visit for any visitors to Hong Kong!
Hiking at Victoria Peak is an ideal way to get some exercise while admiring stunning views of the city. It’s also suitable for families with children or elderly individuals.
For an accessible hike, the Victoria Peak Circle Walk loop begins from the base of the mountain and winds its way around in a circle. This trail is flat and paved, making it suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
Another option is the Lugard Road Lookout, situated near Peak Galleria on Lugard Road and offering stunning panoramic views of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and other nearby islands. It’s an idyllic spot to take a break and capture photos with these breathtaking cityscapes.
If you’re seeking something more challenging, the Old Peak Trail is worth considering. This moderately difficult hike begins just above Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens.
Climb the 1.65 mile, 1175 foot mountain in one smooth motion and experience the thrill of reaching the summit!
While hiking in Hong Kong, there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the views. Don’t miss out on Lion Pavilion and Peak Tower’s open garden for an alternate perspective of Hong Kong’s skyline.
You can enjoy a picnic while admiring Hong Kong’s skyline at night. This is also an ideal time to witness its vibrant symphony of lights.
4. Eat street food
If you’re in search of authentic Cantonese snacks as well as modern delicacies, Hong Kong is the perfect destination. With over 10,000 restaurants and an array of culinary experiences around town, visitors are sure to find what they’re after here.
Street food is an exciting way to explore Hong Kong’s culinary culture. You’ll find a diverse range of dishes available, and there are plenty of budget-friendly and on-the-go options that won’t break your budget.
Tea eggs are a beloved street food in Hong Kong, which are boiled in herbal tea or Chinese herbal medicine and sold by many street vendors and herbal tea shops. Not only are these delicious and filling snacks, but they’re also quite healthy!
Zhejiang’s signature dark brown marbled eggs boast an aromatic taste that is reminiscent of herbs and soy sauce. Perfect for winter months, they provide great convenience when eaten on-the-go.
Tea eggs can be found throughout the city, but Mong Kok is especially famous for them. There are several places that sell them, and it’s wise to sample different ones since each has their own distinct flavor profile.
Another popular street snack in Hong Kong is fried pig intestines. This dish is highly sought-after by locals and considered a delicacy.
This dish is not often seen in Western restaurants, so it’s definitely worth trying while visiting Hong Kong. Unfortunately, it requires a considerable amount of labor to prepare as you need to clean the intestines first and then fry them.
5. Take a ferry ride
When visiting Hong Kong, taking a ferry ride is one of the best ways to see the city. Not only are they faster and cheaper than buses, but they provide amazing photo opps as well.
Tickets for the Star Ferry can be bought at Tsim Sha Tsui Pier or any of the other terminals; just remember to bring some cash with you. Alternatively, you may pay with your Octopus card – a tap-and-go transport pass that allows you to use all public transit in Singapore.
Ferries run every 5-10 minutes and cost HK$3 for the lower deck or HK$3.70 on the upper deck, depending on where you’re headed. For better views of both Hong Kong and its harbour, opt for the upper deck.
A ferry trip is an ideal way to unwind and take in the scenery, especially during sunsets. It’s also an enjoyable activity for families and couples.
Don’t miss the stunning Symphony of Lights show that illuminates the harbour every night at 8 p.m. It truly is an unforgettable experience.
Ferries are an excellent way to get between Kowloon and Central. You can even catch one from Tsim Sha Tsui to Sheung Wan, providing plenty of exciting activities on the other side of the island as well.
Hong Kong boasts an extensive public transportation system with trains, buses and ferries to choose from. Octopus cards are the ideal solution for city residents as they allow you to access all these services as well as pay for shopping at the same time. You can get your Octopus card when arriving at the airport and top it up as needed.