Hong Kong is a bustling city that attracts visitors from all over the world. In recent years it has also consolidated its position as a financial center. Hong Kong offers a unique experience with skyscrapers and shopping mixed with a different and exciting culture.
There are lots of things to do in Hong Kong, both in the city and the nearby area. It’s an incredible experience that I hope everyone gets the chance to experience at some point.
As there are so many attractions and things to do, I have made a big list of my favorites. In this article, I share some of Hong Kong’s best attractions, day trips and the top things to do as a tourist.
Mong Kok
One of the coolest areas in Hong Kong is the area called, Mong Kok. The Guiness World of Records describes the area as one of the world’s most densely populated and congested areas. Here people live in a few single square meters and it is full of shops and restaurants everywhere.
Strolling around in Mong Kok is clearly an unforgettable experience. I stayed in the middle of Mong Kok for a week, and it’s for sure hectic, but there is so much to see and do!
Disneyland
If you bring your kids to Hong Kong, it’s a great activity that the kids will love, just like everywhere else there’s a Disneyland. Unlike theme parks in the US and Paris; the queues here are smaller, and the entrance fee is cheaper.
Lantau Island and Tian Tian Buddha
A day trip to Lantau Island offers fresh air, greenery, remote beaches and traditional villages. Besides that you can also admire the majestic statue Tian Tian Buddha, which measures a full 34 meters in height. Disneyland is located on Lantau Island, which is a popular tourist attraction in Hong Kong.
It’s easy to get to Lantau Island, and both trains and buses departs at regular intervals.
Foto: Shutterstock
Victoria Peak
Do you like beautiful views? Then Victoria Peak is for you. From the top you can admire the Hong Kong skyline with all the skyscrapers. This is the highest point on the island at 522 meters. To go to Victoria Peak is one of the most popular things to do in Hong Kong, and one that I highly recommend.
To get to the top you can go up through the classic old tram which is more than 125 years old. The ride takes about eight minutes and give you lovely views along the way.
Stroll around the local markets
Hong Kong is full of lively markets, and for those who are looking for bargains and have time to go around, there are many bargains to be found. Many of them are specialized and offer specific products. A famous market is the Sneaker Street where you will find sneakers in huge quantities.
Other markets: Temple Street, Ladies Market, Cat Street, Stanley Market, Wan Chai Street market and Costume market.
Eat local delicacies
Dim Sum is a local Specialty that shouldn’t be missed. One could also enjoy egg tarts, egg waffels, pineapple buns and a Hong Kong variety of tea with milk.
Hiking along the Dragon’s Back
Like to hike? Then the hiking trail called Dragon’s back is for you. Here Await beautiful views and lush scenery. The trail is part of the Hong Kong Trail, which stretches over 8 trails from Victoria Peak to Big Wave Bay.
Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck
Want some more beautiful views? On Sky100 you get one of the best views in all of Hong Kong. From here one can enjoy a 360 degree view of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline. If you book a ticket online in advance it costs 151 HKD per adult.
Tsim Sha Tsui
To walk along the Tsim Sha Tsui is something that is very popular among tourists. The area offers a lot of shopping and extends between the colonial clock tower all the way to Hung Hom. Along the promenade also lies the Hong Kong Space Museum and Cultural Center.
From here you get great views of the city skyline as well.
Other attractions and things to do in Hong Kong
Go on a cruise with a “junk boat”
A “junk boat” is a historic sailboat originating from China. Its characteristic sail is a charming and beautiful detail along with the other parts of the ship. A ride with these traditional boats is not something you do every day, so take the opportunity when you visit Hong Kong.
Foto: Shutterstock
Hong Kong Beaches
Beaches are perhaps not the first thing you think of when Hong Kong comes to mind, but the fact is that there are a lot of nice beaches nearby. For those who yearn for sun and sea, there are plenty good choices.
Here are some of my favorites: Shek O Village Beach, Big Wave Bay Beach, Tai Long Wan Beach, Cheung Sha Beach
Madame Tussauds
I have not been inside at Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong myself, but it is a favorite stop for many where you get the chance to “meet” all the celebrities – in the form of wax dolls. A fun thing that suits all ages.
Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery
A green oasis in an otherwise hectic big city with concrete and skyscrapers. Here’s a classical Chinese garden that can be fun to check out and walk through. Do not miss the Chi Lin Nunnery, which is a large Buddhist center with bougainvilleas, lotus flowers and bonsai trees
Hong Kong Museum of History
A vast and fascinating museum that is definitely worth a visit. At least if you are interested in learning more about Hong Kong’s culture and history. The museum is well planned and when you walk around you can see the different epochs that have shaped Hong Kong and its people.
Day trips from Hong Kong
Macau
Gambling Paradise Macau is best known for its casinos, but even if you do not like to gamble, there are other things to discover. Macau is a former Portuguese colony, which has made its mark in terms of culture and architecture. Do not miss the cobble stoned village Coloane.
Sai Kung
Sai Kung has become known as Hong Kong’s backyard, and rightly so. Sai Kung is a green oasis that offers no less than four paradise beaches mixed with hiking trails and small fishing villages. The beaches are accessible only by boat, or 20-90 minute hike.
The farther you walk, the better beaches.
Cheung Chau
A 40-minute boat ride away is the tiny island of Cheung Chau which offers a more “local” experience. Here awaits a glimps of the past, restaurants serving fresh fish & seafood. On Cheung Chau once could also check out the ancient temples and the beach called Kwun Yam Wan.
The best of all is that it is entirely free from cars and that you can get around on foot without any problems.
Shenzen
An often forgotten is the day trip that takes you to the Chinese mainland, more specifically Shenzen. Here live 10 million people and it is a rapidly growing city. Once there, you can indulge in luxurious spa facilities at budget prices or shop.
At the amusement park – Windows on the World, you can check out 130 of the world’s most famous landmarks in miniature form.
Sapna Parmar
Wednesday 19th of July 2017
This post makes me miss my time in Hong Kong! The food scene is vibrant and lovely. All of these are must-try indeed, especially the night market. They are one of my favorites when visiting Asia, not just Hong Kong!