Holiday to Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s unmistakable urban skyline stands before forested mountains. For most, a holiday to Hong Kong includes a visit to the steep Peak Tram on Hong Kong Island for shifting skyscraper views. On a clear day, enjoy unrivalled Victoria Harbour vistas. To return to the city, follow the leafy Central Green Trail.

Victoria Harbour separates Hong Kong’s two main districts, Kowloon and Central. On Kowloon’s waterfront, the city’s famous cinema industry is celebrated on the Avenue of Stars. Across the water in Central, the Hong Kong Observation Wheel is a popular spot. Selfies on the Ocean Terminal Deck near Harbour City are a must while on holiday in Hong Kong.

Despite the city’s urban infrastructure, Hong Kong also offers plenty of nature to explore. Ferry trips to harbourside Sai Kung and outlying islands offer great hiking and sunbathing. If you’re feeling more adventurous, scale the Dragon’s Back mountain ridge trail, a two-hour hike with stunning views. Then there’s Lantau Island, home of the world’s largest seated bronze buddha Tian Tan.

Skyscrapers define Hong Kong Central, but there’s much more to see. Visit the walk-through aviary at the Hong Kong Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Indulge at the modern retail and dining options replacing the former food stalls of Central Market. Central is the best neighbourhood to stay in Hong Kong for dining and nightlife, with many pubs, bars and restaurants lining its Central-Mid-Levels Escalator, the world’s longest covered walkway system.

Good for: Zoo and gardens, shopping, dining

Whether you’re browsing brand-name boutiques in the Harbour City mall or searching for bargains at Granville Road’s thrift stores, the versatile Tsim Sha Tsui is undoubtedly the best area to stay in Hong Kong for shopaholics. All shopped out? Sample fine dining with harbour views or stretch those Hong Kong dollars further around Carnarvon Road, where the locals eat.

Good for: Shopping, good value, food

If Causeway Bay feels familiar, you may recognise it from movies like ‘Rush Hour 2’. Enjoy eating and haggling your way around street markets like Jardine’s Crescent, but be sure to save time for the real highlight, the rooftop lounges. This is also where to stay in Hong Kong for local experiences like pre-coffee tai chi sessions in Victoria Park and live sports at Hong Kong Stadium.

Good for: Nightlife, local life, entertainment 

Whether browsing boutiques along Causeway Bay's Fashion Walk, finding international brands in Harbour City, or just enjoying the atmosphere (and souvenirs) at Stanley Market, shopping in Hong Kong is always an adventure. To firmly feel like a local, test your bargaining skills at the Jade Market.

Hong Kong packs a hefty cultural punch into its small footprint – not least from its 156 years under British rule. Rotating exhibitions at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum touch on this, plus topics like ancient culture and Bruce Lee movies. Perhaps the most unusual museum in Hong Kong is the interactive CUPNOODLES MUSEUM Hong Kong, which celebrates the story of ramen.

With sky bars, street markets and back-alley pubs, nightlife in Hong Kong appeals to most tastes. Enjoy sunset views at rooftop venues like Sugar or Ozone, before descending to the energetic markets on Temple Street, if that’s your thing. For something different, immerse yourself in the local rock music scene at The Aftermath.

The restaurants in Hong Kong bolster the territory's status as a global food hub. Dim sum is the order of the day on many menus, while street markets offer classic street food dishes like fish balls and sweet soup. Then there are Michelin-starred spots like Luk Yu Tea House and local favourites including Dim Dim Sum in Mong Kok. You’re spoiled for choice. 

You’ll find free things to do in Hong Kong on trails, in unsuspecting alleys and around the harbour. Journey up Violet Hill and Twin Peaks for coastal views over the South China Sea. Practise tai chi or learn to play mahjong in the public parks. Roam the ever-changing graffiti-filled lanes of Sheung Wan. In truth though, it’s all about the sunsets, so find a hill, a beach or a rooftop bar to settle in before dusk. Be sure to bring a camera.

It’s not all skyscrapers and lively street markets here – Hong Kong is also surrounded by natural splendour. From the city’s longest beach Cheung Sha to surfers’ paradise Big Wave Bay, escaping the city’s balmy weather in search of coastal solitude on beaches in Hong Kong is easier than you think.