The city where East meets West.
Shaped by over 150 years of British rule before its return to China in 1997, Hong Kong still feels like it has a foot in both camps. Double-decker trams run past neon-lit Chinese shopfronts, dim sum sits alongside afternoon tea, and glass skyscrapers rise behind traditional temples.
It’s intense, vertical and fast-moving — but also surprisingly easy to navigate. For many travellers, Hong Kong is a transit stop rather than a destination in itself. Two to three days is ideal to explore the highlights, although you could easily stay longer if you enjoy food, hiking and urban energy.
Why Visit Hong Kong?
- Iconic skyline and harbour views
- A unique blend of British and Chinese influence
- World-class food scene
- Efficient and easy public transport
- Vibrant street life and markets
- Easy access to islands and hiking trails
- Perfect gateway to Asia
It’s compact, dramatic and constantly moving — perfect for a 48–72 hour stopover.
Getting There
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is one of Asia’s major aviation hubs, with direct flights across the globe.
The Airport Express train connects the airport to Central in around 25 minutes and is clean, fast and simple to use.
Hong Kong also connects by high-speed rail to mainland China, including Shenzhen and Guangzhou.
Once in the city, transport is exceptionally efficient. The MTR (metro) is modern, affordable and easy to understand, and taxis are plentiful.
Where to Stay
Hong Kong offers the full range of accommodation — from basic guesthouses to some of the most luxurious hotels in Asia.
Be aware that rooms can be small and prices high, particularly on Hong Kong Island. The main areas to consider:
- Central / Admiralty – Convenient and close to the action, but expensive.
- Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) – Excellent harbour views and slightly better value.
- Wan Chai – Lively and well connected.
- Causeway Bay – Busy shopping and dining district.
It can be an expensive city, especially for accommodation, but the quality is generally high.
What to See & Do
Victoria Peak
The best place to get the classic Hong Kong view. Take the historic Peak Tram to the top for sweeping views over Victoria Harbour and the skyline. It gets extremely busy, particularly at weekends and around sunset. Arriving early in the morning is advised if you want to avoid queues.
If aiming for sunset, factor in waiting time — both going up and coming down.
Star Ferry
A simple but essential experience, the short ferry ride between Central (Hong Kong Island) and Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) costs very little and offers some of the best skyline views in the world. Go at night for maximum impact.
Hong Kong Island
Hong Kong Island is the heart of the city’s financial and historical centre.
Ride the iconic double-decker trams, which run east to west across the island. They accept contactless payment, charge a flat fare, and you pay when you get off.
Walk through Central and take the Mid-Levels Escalator — the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system.
Further south, Aberdeen offers a glimpse of traditional fishing harbour life, though it feels more modern than many expect.
Kowloon
Kowloon offers a slightly grittier, busier feel.
The Avenue of the Stars along the waterfront provides excellent harbour views, particularly in the evening when the skyline lights up. The nightly Symphony of Lights show is popular, though expectations should be measured — the skyline itself is often more impressive than the show.
Temple Street Night Market is worth a wander for atmosphere.
Lantau Island
Home to Hong Kong Disneyland and the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha).
Disneyland is smaller than its US counterparts but well run and easy to navigate. It makes sense if travelling with children or as a relaxed contrast to the intensity of the city.
The Ngong Ping cable car to the Big Buddha offers impressive views, weather permitting.
Outlying Islands
If you want a break from skyscrapers, islands such as Lamma Island offer seafood restaurants, hiking trails and a slower pace of life — all within easy reach by ferry.
Practical Information
- Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
- Language: Cantonese and English widely spoken
- Payment: Octopus card or contactless works almost everywhere; cash is still widely used in markets, taxis and smaller shops
- Getting around: MTR is highly efficient; ferries, buses and trams fill the gaps and highly walkable
- Safety: Generally very safe
Best Time to Visit Hong Kong
- Summers (June–September) are hot, humid and often wet. Typhoon season runs during this period, although modern forecasting means the city is well prepared and generally safe — disruptions are more inconvenient than dangerous.
- Autumn (October–December) is widely considered the best time to visit, with clearer skies and more comfortable temperatures.
Food & Drink in Hong Kong
Food is one of Hong Kong’s greatest strengths and is shaped by its blended history.
Things to try:
- Dim sum – Best enjoyed in a traditional tea house
- Roast goose – A local favourite
- Char siu (barbecue pork)
- Egg tarts – A legacy of British influence
- Milk tea – Strong and sweet
From street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, the range is enormous. You could spend days eating your way around the city.
48–72 Hours in Hong Kong: The Perfect Itinerary
Day 1: Water & Culture
Morning
- Arrive and explore the city centre
- Canal or harbour boat tour
Lunch
- Seafood near the harbour or Speicherstadt
Afternoon
- Visit Miniatur Wunderland
- Walk through Speicherstadt and HafenCity
- Visit the Elbphilharmonie viewing platform
Evening
- Dinner in St Pauli or Sternschanze
- Optional drinks around the Reeperbahn
Day 2: Neighbourhoods & Views
Morning
- Coffee and stroll around Sternschanze or Ottensen
Late Morning
- Visit a museum or harbour walk
- Explore local shops and markets
Lunch
- Casual café or waterfront restaurant
Afternoon
- Final sightseeing or relaxed shopping
- Easy trip back to the airport or onward by train
Day 1: Skyline & Harbour
Morning
- Take the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak
- Explore Central and the Mid-Levels Escalators
Afternoon
- Ride the Star Ferry
- Avenue of the Stars
- Harbour views and skyline at night
Day 2: Culture & Contrast
Morning
- Visit a temple or explore local markets
- Ride the trams across Hong Kong Island
Afternoon
- Ferry to Lamma Island or visit Aberdeen
- Temple Street Night Market
Optional Day 3
Visit Lantau Island
- Ngong Ping cable car and Big Buddha
- Or Hong Kong Disneyland
Final Thoughts
Hong Kong is intense, efficient and visually spectacular. It may not have the relaxed charm of other Asian cities, but it offers a unique cultural blend and one of the world’s great skylines.
Two to three days is enough to see the highlights, but the food alone could justify staying longer. As a stopover or short standalone break, it delivers energy, contrast and a sense of place that few cities can match.
Holiday Nerd 