Hong Kong is calling! From iconic skylines to local neighbourhoods, here are some of the best things to do in +852.
Hong Kong is one of Asia’s most dynamic cities, where Cantonese traditions meet lingering British colonial influences. Known for its dramatic skyline and fast-paced energy, this Special Administrative Region of China offers far more than just skyscrapers. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip to +852, there’s always something new to discover.
Hong Kong Overview
Country: China
Country Code: +852
Continent: Asia (East)
Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
Airport: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Language: Cantonese, Mandarin Chinese, English
Best things to do in Hong Kong
1. Hong Kong Disneyland
A detailed flowerbed in the shape of Mickey Mouse at the Town Square. Photo: Lord Acuña
Relive your childhood with a visit to Disneyland, the happiest place on earth. Hong Kong Disneyland is one of the few Disney parks worldwide, alongside locations in California, Tokyo, Paris, and Shanghai. Some of the key attractions not to miss include World of Frozen, Mystic Point, Grizzly Gulch, and Iron Man Experience. Be sure to stay for the Momentous Nighttime Spectacular, held nightly at the Castle of Magical Dreams around 20:30 – 21:00, except Wednesdays.
Location: Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Opening hours: 10:00 – 21:00
Cost: From HKD 619
2. Avenue of Stars
Michelle Yeoh’s hand prints on display at the Avenue of Stars in Hong Kong. Photo: Lord Acuña
Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s film industry at the Avenue of Stars. This 400-metre promenade runs along Victoria Harbour, offering a stunning waterfront backdrop. As you stroll along, you’ll encounter plaques, handprints, and statues honouring legendary Hong Kong film stars such as Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan.
Location: Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Cost: Free
3. Aqua Luna Cruise
Aqua Luna cruise at night. Photo: Lord Acuña
Set sail aboard Aqua Luna, a traditional red-sail Chinese junk boat, and take in sweeping views of Hong Kong’s skyline. Opt for the cruise at 19:30 or 19:45 to catch the world-famous Symphony of Lights, a 10-minute spectacle along Victoria Harbour. With multiple departure times and piers available, this cruise is easy to fit into your plans.
Departing from: Central or Tsim Sha Tsui
Timings: 11:00 – 21:30
Duration: 45 minutes
4. Victoria Peak
Skyscrapers of Hong Kong, seen from Victoria Peak. Photo: Lord Acuña
Victoria Peak, often simply called The Peak, is the highest hill on Hong Kong Island and offers some of the city’s most iconic views over Victoria Harbour and the surrounding skyline. It’s a short trip from the central business district and easy to reach by bus or taxi.
Or for a more memorable journey, take the historic Peak Tram – Asia’s first funicular railway in operation since 1888. The ride takes about ten minutes to climb the 1.27-kilometre route. To make the most of your visit, consider pairing your round-trip Peak Tram ticket with access to Sky Terrace 428.
Tram operating hours: 07:30 – 23:00
Cost: From HKD 94
5. Tian Tan Buddha
Photo: Ngong Ping 360
The majestic Big Buddha, also known as the Tian Tan Buddha, is a towering outdoor bronze statue perched atop Mount Muk Yue. To reach it, take a bus or the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to Ngong Ping Village, followed by a short walk and a climb up 268 steps to the statue’s base. Entry to the grounds and Po Lin Monastery is free, while a small fee applies if you wish to visit the exhibition halls inside the statue.
Location: Ngong Ping Rd, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Opening hours: 08:00 – 18:00
6. Enjoy Tax-free Shopping
Shopping time at K11 MUSEA in Hong Kong. Photo: Lord Acuña
Good news for shopaholics: Hong Kong does not have VAT (value-added tax) or GST (goods and services tax) on goods and services, making it a great place to snag a deal. Wondering where to go for tax-free shopping? Check out K11 MUSEA located near the Avenue of Stars, an art-driven luxury mall often compared to Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. Other popular shopping spots include IFC Mall, Times Square, PMQ, and Citygate Outlets.
7. Taste the Best Hong Kong Dim Sum
Photo: Yat Tung Heen Facebook
Dim sum is an essential part of Cantonese cuisine. These bite-sized savoury and sweet dishes are typically served in bamboo steamers, often in portions of three or four pieces. Enjoyed with tea, dim sum is best shared with friends or family. So go ahead and grab your chopsticks at some of Hong Kong’s best dim sum spots, including Sheung Hei, Sun Hing, and Yat Tung Heen.
8. Be Mesmerised by Hong Kong’s Neon Lights
Hong Kong’s iconic neon signs first appeared in the 1920s as a bold way for businesses to advertise. Nearly a century later, they’re rapidly disappearing due to stricter safety regulations and the rise of cheaper LED alternatives. Before they fade completely, you can still spot some of these glowing relics in neighbourhoods like Mong Kok and Wan Chai.
9. Sip Cocktails at Ozone Bar
The view from Ozone Bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. Photo: Lord Acuña
Fancy a drink at the world’s highest rooftop bar? Ozone at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong offers jaw-dropping views alongside bespoke cocktails. The menu also features an exotic selection of tapas and Japanese-inspired bites. Expect a great night out – just remember the dress code is smart casual.
Location: Level 118, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road, West Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday – 16:00 – 01:00
Saturday – 14:00 – 01:00
Sunday – 12:00 – 00:00
10. Make a Side Trip to Macau
How does a day trip to another Special Administrative Region sound? Macau (also spelt Macao) is Hong Kong’s sibling and one of the easiest side trips you can make from the city. Simply hop on a ferry or cross via bus, and you’ll be rewarded with another passport stamp. Check out my day trip guide to Macau from Hong Kong next.
With this list, you’re all set to explore and have fun in Hong Kong. Enjoy your trip!
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