Best things to do in Hong Kong
Find out more about those top places in Hong Kong
Hong Kong: Where Tradition Meets Skyscrapers and Wild Nature Awaits
Welcome to Hong Kong—a city that’s as comfortable in its high-rise luxury malls as it is in its peaceful, untouched nature reserves. Officially known as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region since its transition from British colony to Chinese governance in 1997, Hong Kong is a place of contrasts. It's a financial powerhouse, home to some of Asia's tallest skyscrapers, but it also boasts centuries-old traditions and natural landscapes you wouldn’t expect in such a bustling metropolis. This travel guide will take you through some of the top attractions and things to do, from epic views to unexpected wilderness adventures, making it clear why Hong Kong is one of the most exciting places to visit.
Top Attractions: The City That Never Sleeps (But Also Loves Nature)
1. Victoria Peak: The View to End All Views
If you’ve Googled Hong Kong before, you’ve probably seen the stunning skyline that stretches out beneath the towering Victoria Peak. Trust us, this is one of those places that will make you actually stop and stare. The Peak offers 360-degree views of the city, the glittering harbor, and the surrounding hills. Pro tip: take the Peak Tram to the top for a ride that feels like it’s about to make your stomach do flip-flops. Whether you visit in the dazzling daylight or the neon glow of nighttime, Victoria Peak is an absolute must for your sightseeing checklist.
2. Hong Kong Harbor: Iconic Ferry Ride
No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a ride on the famous Star Ferry. These charming ferries shuttle visitors across the Victoria Harbour, offering one of the most iconic views of the city. Feel the breeze on your face as you float past jungle-clad hills and catch sight of the neon lights and towering skyscrapers. It’s a peaceful break from the city’s constant hustle and bustle, yet still allows you to soak in the magic of the skyline. It’s the perfect way to appreciate how a place can feel both ultra-modern and utterly tranquil all at once.
3. Man Mo Temple: A Step Back in Time
While you’re here to enjoy the glitzy side of Hong Kong, don’t forget to take a breather in its spiritual heart. Man Mo Temple is one of the oldest and most fascinating temples in the city, dedicated to the God of Literature (Man) and the God of War (Mo). You’ll be greeted by the scent of incense and the hum of old-world charm as you step inside. It’s a far cry from the modern skyscrapers, offering a peaceful, meditative experience right in the heart of the city.
4. Hong Kong’s 70% Wilderness: Nature Right Outside the City
Here’s a little-known secret: Hong Kong isn’t all neon lights and shopping malls. About 70% of this region is actually pristine wilderness. This means you can hike, explore, and experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Asia without ever leaving the city. Tai Mo Shan, the highest peak in Hong Kong, offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside. And for those who want a more laid-back experience, Sai Kung is perfect for water sports, beach vibes, and fresh seafood. Who knew that Hong Kong, a city known for its urban jungle, could have so many natural wonders right at its doorstep?
5. Song Dynasty Villages: A Glimpse into the Past
Looking for a taste of Hong Kong’s more traditional side? Hop on the MTR (public transport that will take you anywhere) and make your way to ancient Song Dynasty villages like Kat Hing Wai and Shui Tau Tseun. Here, time feels like it’s stood still, with old walled villages and centuries-old architecture. It’s like stepping into a history book, but without the pesky homework.
6. Temple Street Night Market: The After-Dark Adventure
For those who love to shop (or even just window-shop), Temple Street Night Market is a must-see. This bustling market opens in the evening, offering everything from quirky souvenirs to authentic street food. You’ll also find tons of fortune tellers and street performers here, so it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture while hunting for the perfect trinket (or bargaining for a discount). Warning: The food is just as spicy as the bargains, so be ready for a flavor-packed adventure!
Things to Do in Hong Kong: Beyond the Skyscrapers
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Hiking: With so much natural beauty surrounding the city, hiking is one of the best things to do in Hong Kong. From Dragon’s Back (a trail with sweeping views of the coastline) to the scenic Lantau Island, there’s a hike for every level. And after all that hiking, you can reward yourself with some well-deserved dim sum.
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Dim Sum and Street Food: When in Hong Kong, the only question that really matters is: How many dumplings can I eat in one sitting? Be sure to sample dim sum (steamed buns, dumplings, and more) at a traditional teahouse like Maxim’s Palace or DimDimSum. For a quick snack, grab some egg tarts or fried squid from a local street vendor. Warning: You might find yourself addicted to the flavors of Hong Kong long after you leave.
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Sky100: If you’ve already seen the view from Victoria Peak and want more, check out the Sky100, an indoor observation deck that gives you panoramic views from the 360-degree glass-walled floor. It’s perfect for those who want a different perspective of the city. The night views are especially magical!
Why Visit Hong Kong?
In a nutshell, Hong Kong is the ultimate travel destination for those looking to explore a city that mixes ultra-modern with rich traditions. With top attractions like Victoria Peak, a world-famous harbor, ancient villages, and some of the best food you’ll ever eat, it’s a place where the future and the past collide in the most spectacular way. Whether you’re a city slicker, a nature lover, or a history buff, Hong Kong has something for everyone. So pack your bags (and stretchy pants for all the dim sum) because this is a city you won’t want to miss!
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Victoria Peak
Rising to nearly 600 meters, the jungle-clad Victoria Peak is the highest point in Hong Kong. It also offers one of the most spectacular vistas in all of China with panoramic views of the innumerable skyscrapers that huddle around the harbor area. What is more, there is no need to hike to the summit as a Victorian funicular has been running since 1888 that whisks you from downtown to mountaintop in less than 10 minutes.
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Harbor Cruise
There is no more quintessential a Hong Kong experience that cruising the vast harbor. For the best experience, either arrange a guided boat tour of the harbor with one of the many operators or simply hop on a Star Ferry, which shuttle locals backwards and forwards throughout the day. For the most evocative experience, take the ride at night when the skyscrapers are illuminated by dazzling neon advertisements.
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Temple Street Market
Temple Street comes alive in the evenings when a gaudy profusion of neon-lit food stalls set up shop forming Hong Kong’s most vibrant market. Tours of this mouth-watering attraction are available that let you sample some of East Asia’s freshest seafood, delicious hotpots and spit roasted meats.
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High Island Reservoir East Dam
As the most easily accessible area of Hong Kong Global Geopark from the city itself, the monumental High Island Reservoir East Dam makes an ideal getaway from the buzz of the city. Once there you can marvel at the futuristic design of the dam, which repels the crashing waves of the South China Sea, and the geometric rock formations that are the result of cooled lava.
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Big Buddha
Part of the Po Lin Monastery complex, Hong Kong’s iconic Big Buddha is a dazzling vision in gold. For the best experience take a guided tour of the monastery complex, which is one of the territory’s most popular attractions, that will reveal the secrets as to how such a gargantuan statue was made.
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Tai Kwun
This recent addition to Hong Kong’s impressive selection of museums and galleries is one of the city’s buzziest institutions. Housed in the colonial-era former Central Police Station, Tai Kwun is a multi-purpose arts and exhibition space with something to please everyone: cutting-edge art can be found at JC Contemporary Gallery; the Barrack Block uncovers the site’s dark history as a dungeon-like jail; and Block 12 houses exhibitions on daily life in colonial Hong Kong.
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Man Mo Temple
Part Taoist temple and part arbitration court used to settle disputes between the Chinese inhabitants of Hong Kong and colonialists, the Man Mo Temple is one of the city’s most historic locations. Guided tours of this remarkable complex are available throughout the day and offer an insight into Taoism and life in the city following the Opium Wars.
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Happy Valley Races
There are few experiences as quintessentially Hong Kong than a trip to the ever-thrilling Happy Valley Races. The races that take place every Wednesday evening are one of the city’s most raucous experiences with the stands packed with thousands of men cheering on their favored horse. For the best experience, take a guided tour that will let you get to grips with the betting system, which can be confusing for the uninitiated.
