15 Best Things to do in Hong Kong
The second largest island of the vibrant Hong Kong territory, the landscape of Hong Kong Island is as diverse as its people.
Home to some of the region’s most extraordinary landscapes, contrasting between towering urban skyscrapers and evergreen mountain peaks, travelers can take their pick of everything from shopping malls and amusement parks to historical landmarks and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Whether you’re looking to savor local dim sum, soak up the thrills and spills of Ocean Park, or admire the captivating views of the skyline from the Peak, take a look at these amazing things to do in Hong Kong, each offering a unique take on this delightful island.
1 – Victoria Peak
As the highest point on Hong Kong Island, the Peak is literally top of any Hong Kong bucket list. One of the most desirable neighborhoods since colonial times, it offers incredible views of the island – particularly at sunset when the lights of the city start sparkling to life beneath you.
The vistas stretch across iconic skyscrapers towards Victoria Harbor and onwards to the forested hills of the New Territories. The tour below includes skip the line peak ticket. Or follow our DIY Victoria Peak at night guide.
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2 – Historical Macau
Explore one of Hong Kong’s legendary World Heritage Sites on this guided walking tour of Macau. You’ll learn all about the city’s fascinating history and culture from a local guide, stopping here and there to explore impressive landmarks such as Senado Square, the Na Tcha Temple, and the ruins of St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church.
The tour includes a buffet lunch at 360 Café, Macau’s one and only revolving restaurant, where you’ll be treated to an astonishing view of the city from above. Feeling lucky? You’ll also have a chance to test your luck at Sands Macau, Macau’s first Vegas-style casino!
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3 – Open-Air Tram
Exploring Hong Kong aboard a historic 1920s double-decker tram is one of the best things to do in Hong Kong if you’re looking to learn about the region’s history. Get your camera ready to snap some great shots of the island’s famous landmarks from the open-air upper deck, including the Macau Ferry Pier, Statue Square, and Tai Yau Plaza.
Check out the onboard mini museum dating back 100 years and learn about the history and culture of everyday life in Hong Kong.
Plus, your ticket will get you two more days of unlimited free rides on the hop-on-hop-off tram network to extend your sightseeing!
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4 – Ocean Park
Established over 40 years ago, Ocean Park is an amusement park, a marine park, an aquarium AND a zoo all packed into one exciting venue! With over 915,000 square meters, there are fun family attractions for little ones, rollercoaster rides for daredevils, and shows for all ages.
Divided into two sections – the Waterfront and the Summit – you can get around by cable car or funicular train. Whether you’re looking for hair-raising adventures or a fun family day out, you’ll find everything you need and more at this ocean-themed park. Plus, a portion of your ticket sale goes towards wildlife conservation programs in Asia!
5 – Traditional Junk Boat
Cruising around Hong Kong’s majestic Victoria Harbor on one of the last remaining traditional Chinese junk boats is one of the most authentic things to do in Hong Kong Island.
This 45-minute boat cruise offers captivating views of the city’s skyline from the water when all the iconic skyscrapers are lit. Whether you choose to book this tour as the sun is setting or later when the lights are in full sparkle is completely up to you.
Oh, and did we mention that you’ll also get a complimentary welcome cocktail included? We’re sold!
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6 – Kowloon Night Market
Get your shopping fix and polish those bargaining skills at the Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon. Stretching several blocks from Man Ming Lane in the north to Nanking St in the south, this buzzing bazaar is undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do in Hong Kong at night and certainly one of the best things to do in Kowloon.
Browse the souvenirs and antiques on display, have your fortune told by a traditional fortune teller, and soak up the sights and sounds of this famous hotspot. It’s also one of the best places to get a taste of some traditional Chinese street food, so come hungry!
7 – Buddhism Tour & Ngong Ping Cable Car
Embark on a spiritual journey to learn about Hong Kong’s traditional Buddhist culture. On this two-hour tour, you’ll visit some sacred landmarks, such as the Tian Tan Buddha & Po Lin Monastery, the Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, and the Wisdom Path.
The tour includes a return journey on the Ngong Ping Cable Car, the longest bi-cable ropeway in Asia, and the chance to skip the queue. Take your time appreciating the magnitude of the 34-meter Big Buddha, the most sacred symbol of Buddhism, and walking through the 38 wooden columns that lead along the enchanting Wisdom Path.
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8 – Dragon’s Back Hiking Trail
The evergreen mountains that surround Hong Kong Island are a true hiker’s paradise, and the scenic half-day Dragon’s Back trail is one of the most remarkable things to do in Hong Kong and among the best hikes with a view in Hong Kong. Named Asia’s best urban hike according to Time Magazine, this hillside trek offers sensational views of the 9 Pins Islands, Tai Tam Harbor, and the Red Peninsula.
On this 4.5-hour walking tour, you’ll get to trek unusual pathways leading through bamboo groves and along open hilltops, ride a traditional tram, and visit the Shau Kei Wan wet market, accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. German-speaking guides are available on request.
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9 – Eat Dim Sum!
If discovering Hong Kong’s best street food spots is not your thing, then Taste your way through the best Michelin-star rated dim sum in Hong Kong Island on this exciting 2.5-hour foodie and sightseeing tour. Safe on-board a glamorous double-decker bus festooned with over 100,000 Swarovski crystals, you’ll pass over 20 famous Hong Kong hotspots, including 1881 Heritage and Olympian City.
Tuck into some of the island’s best spring rolls, dumplings, and mouth-watering desserts from a Michelin set menu of Cantonese cuisine as you travel from Kowloon to the New Territories.
Take your pick of either an afternoon or evening tour, with recorded audio commentary available in five different languages.
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10 – Dinner Cruise & Symphony of Lights Show
With its impressive array of towering skyscrapers and wonderful waterside landmarks, Hong Kong is absolutely breath-taking when viewed from the water at night. Hop on board a traditional-style boat cruise and witness the famous Symphony of Lights Show as you cruise along Hong Kong’s glittering shoreline. Pack your camera – the photo opportunities are endless!
Departing from your choice of the North Point or Hung Hong, this two-hour boat tour is the perfect way to watch the celebrated laser show from the boat’s 360-degree open deck. Plus, your ticket includes an international buffet spread and live music.
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11 – Hop-On, Hop-Off Harbor Tour
Jump on board Hong Kong’s only hop-on-hop-off harbor tour and discover a range of attractions, including the Golden Bauhinia, the Maritime Museum, and the lively Hung Hom neighborhood. Departing in the afternoon, this five-hour tour includes unlimited pick-ups and drop-offs every hour at Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Wanchai, and Hung Hom piers.
If you’re a shopaholic, this tour is for you! Tsim Sha Tsui is a shopper’s paradise, home to luxury stores such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel, while Hung Hom is the perfect spot to indulge in a little retail therapy.
Make sure you work up a thirst as the tour includes a complimentary soft drink!
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12 – Central District Walking Tour
Stroll the bustling streets of the Central District on this dynamic three-hour walking tour. You’ll be able to appreciate the contrast between Hong Kong’s historical buildings and its impressive new-age skyscrapers.
Admire the creations of Statue Square and stare up at The Legislative Council, one of Hong Kong’s few remaining colonial buildings. HSBC is a fine example of the elements of Feng Shui, while St. John’s Anglican Cathedral remains the oldest surviving Western ecclesiastical building in Hong Kong and the oldest Anglican church of its kind in the Far East. The tour includes an English-speaking guide. German-speaking guides are available on request.
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13 – Hong Kong Nightlife
Looking to immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s lively party scene? Don’t miss out on the famous Thursday night pub crawl that descends on Hong Kong’s best bars and clubs every week. Over the course of approximately six hours, you’ll visit three bars and one nightclub, accompanied by a guide and a photographer to record all those hilarious moments.
The best part? At each bar and club, you will enjoy free entry, a free welcome shot, and exclusive drink specials just for you. As drinks in Hong Kong can get pretty expensive, this is one of the most affordable things to do in Hong Kong at night.
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14 – Central Mid-Levels Escalators
You might not have originally put an escalator at the top of your things to do in Hong Kong list, but these energy-saving escalators are world-famous. Covering 800 meters and reaching up to 135 meters from Des Voux Road Central up to Conduit Road in the Mid-Levels, this escalator is the longest outdoor, covered escalator system in the world!
Interestingly, it’s not made up of one continuous escalator, but rather a series of 20 escalators and three moving walkways connected by pedestrian bridges. Running alongside shops, restaurants, and bars, it’s a great way to get up and down the steep hills of the Central District.
15 – Bird Watch at Hong Kong Park
In a concrete jungle like Hong Kong, the greenery of public parks offers a welcome respite. Set within the bustling Central District, Hong Kong Park is home to the island’s largest aviary and a greenhouse that houses all sorts of plants – making it one of the best things to do in Hong Kong for nature lovers.
Take a stroll through the green space dotted with fountains, lily ponds, streams, and waterfalls, and admire the contrasting view of the surrounding skyscrapers.
For those interested, the aviary is home to over 80 species of birds. Free guided bird watching walks are held on Wednesday mornings.
From sightseeing to shopping, there are plenty of fun and affordable things to do in Hong Kong. Have fun!
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