Hong Kong is a city with so much energy that it never seems to sleep. Between the neon lights and the crowds on the streets, there’s a lot to discover. Whether it’s your first time in Hong Kong or you’ve been here before, you’ll always find fun and interesting things to do.
I recently spent 5 days in this amazing city, and in this article I’m sharing my favorite things to do in Hong Kong — plus some practical information about each site to help you prepare. It’s quite a list, so I’ve divided it into four sections. First, the iconic (touristy) sights with spectacular views, followed by my favorite Hong Kong hotspots, then some great spots for nature and relaxation right in the city, and finally must-see places that tell you more about Hong Kong’s culture and history. Enjoy!
Iconic Hong Kong sights with a view
Let’s start with that famous, jaw-dropping skyline and the best spots to admire it.
1. Victoria Peak: Hong Kong at its best
Victoria Peak—also known simply as ‘The Peak’—is a must on your first visit to Hong Kong. And honestly, I’d go again next time. I was there in the morning, but I’ve heard sunset is also absolutely magical. The view from the top—above the skyscrapers, overlooking Victoria Harbour, with Kowloon in the distance—is the most iconic image of Hong Kong. Seeing it in person is pretty special.
The literal high point of Victoria Peak is the Sky Terrace 428 (named after its height in meters above sea level), located on top of the Peak Tower. From here, you’ll have a 360-degree panoramic view of Hong Kong. Once you’re done enjoying the view, there are some nice walking paths and cafés nearby.
Practical info
- Sky Terrace 428 opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (from 8:00 AM on weekends)
- Entrance: HK$75 for adults. You can also get a combo ticket with the Peak Tram.
- Check the weather: Since it’s so high up, you won’t see much if it’s foggy—so check the weather forecast first.
2. The Peak Tram: the steepest (and most fun) way to the best view
You can reach Victoria Peak by taxi, bus or even on foot, but the Peak Tram is a classic—and way more fun. The ride takes about six minutes and pulls you steeply up the mountain past skyscrapers that look like they’re leaning. Try to sit at the front on the right-hand side for the best view on the way up.
The Peak Tram can get really crowded, but I went on a weekday at 9 AM and practically had the tram to myself. So go on a weekday, preferably before 10 AM or around sunset. It’s best to avoid weekends if you can.
Practical info
- Starting point: Garden Road Lower Terminus, near Hong Kong Park.
- Duration: Around 6 minutes, departs every 15 minutes
- Hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Tickets: Choose between just the tram or a combo ticket including the Sky Terrace. During peak hours, a skip-the-line (Ruby Pass) ticket is a good idea.
Looking for more practical Hong Kong tips? Check out my 10 useful travel tips.
3. Avenue of Stars: Hollywood vibes by the water
If you’ve seen a photo of the Hong Kong skyline from the water, chances are it was taken from the Avenue of Stars. This promenade along Victoria Harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui is where the city pays tribute to its movie legends—a bit like Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. You’ll find statues (including Bruce Lee), handprints from film stars, and an epic view.
It’s very touristy, but especially around sunset it’s one of the most beautiful spots to watch the Hong Kong Island skyline light up. Every night you can also catch the Symphony of Lights—a free light show that starts at 8 PM (more on that next).
Practical info
- Location: Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
- How to get there: MTR Tsim Sha Tsui Station, exit E—follow the signs to the harbour
- Hours: Always open, but best at sunset
- Entrance: Free
4. Symphony of Lights: Hong Kong’s magical light show
A walk along the Avenue of Stars should definitely end with the Symphony of Lights. Every night at 8 PM, the Hong Kong skyline becomes a colorful show of lights and music (one of the largest light and sound productions in the world)—and the best part: it’s free.
For 13 minutes, 44 iconic buildings in Hong Kong Island and Kowloon sync light beams and animations to music played through speakers.
Want to make the experience even more special? Book an evening cruise on the Aqua Luna (a traditional Chinese junk boat) during the Symphony of Lights.
Practical info
- Start time: Every night at 8:00 PM (arrive a bit early to get a good spot)
- Duration: 13 minutes
- Location: Watch from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, or other spots around Victoria Harbour
- Entrance: Free
5. Star Ferry: the cheapest boat ride with a million-dollar view
One of the most classic things to do in Hong Kong is taking the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. It’s iconic, cheap, photogenic—and practical too.
The Star Ferry has been sailing since 1888 and is probably the most charming form of transportation in the city. While modern metro trains zoom beneath the harbour and skyscrapers rise all around, you’re gently floating along on a retro green-and-white ferry. The ride only takes 8–10 minutes, but it’s a really fun experience. And it only costs less than a euro, giving you a fantastic view (sit on the upper deck!) and a quick ride to the other side.
Practical info
- Route: Central or Wan Chai (Hong Kong Island) ↔︎ Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon)
- Duration: About 8–10 minutes
- Frequency: Every few minutes, from early morning till around midnight
- Cost: HK$5 on weekdays, HK$6.50 on weekends
- Payment: Octopus Card, or at a ticket machine
Hong Kong hotspots and hidden gems
As much as I love visiting the city’s famous landmarks, what really makes me fall for a place are the original hotspots and creative new spaces where the locals like to hang out.
6. Tai Kwun: From prison to cultural landmark
Right in the middle of Central’s hustle and bustle, you’ll find one of Hong Kong’s most surprising places: Tai Kwun. A beautifully restored complex of colonial buildings that once served as the city’s police headquarters, courthouse, and prison. Where prisoners once spent their days, you’ll now find art, culture, design stores, and cozy cafés. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend hours.
I absolutely loved it here! Try to visit in the late afternoon so you can grab a cocktail at 001 (opens at 5pm), Hong Kong’s very first speakeasy, hidden inside the former prison (C Hall, building 13). It’s a bit of a treasure hunt to find it, but you can make a reservation.
Practical info
- Location: 10 Hollywood Road, Central
- Opening hours: Daily from 8 AM – 11 PM
- Entrance: Free access to the complex
7. PMQ: Design, creativity, and a hint of history
Another must-see in Central is PMQ: short for ‘Police Married Quarters’. It used to house young police officers and their families. These days, the old apartments have been turned into a hub for local design and creativity, with studios, pop-ups, boutiques, and galleries. A kind of hidden creative campus in the middle of the city.
Behind every door you’ll discover something completely different: a studio, a design shop, an architectural firm, or a jewelry maker. It’s a great place to get lost among Hong Kong’s most creative minds—and to pick up an original souvenir. In summer, there’s often live music or a night market with food stalls in the courtyard.
Practical info
- Location: 35 Aberdeen Street, Central
- Opening hours: Daily from 9 AM – 11 PM (some stores may close earlier)
- Entrance: Free
8. Art Lane: Street art between concrete towers
Hidden among the grey apartment blocks and narrow streets of Sai Ying Pun—a less touristy neighborhood—you’ll find a surprisingly colorful and creative part of the city: Art Lane. What used to be ordinary alleys has now transformed into an open-air gallery full of incredible street art.
You’ll pass giant murals by both local and international artists, with themes ranging from nature and portraits to abstract and pop art. Around every corner there’s something new to discover. The vibe is relaxed too—perfect for grabbing a coffee with locals while surrounded by art.
Practical info
- Location: Around Chung Ching Street, Ki Ling Lane & Shek Chan Lane, Sai Ying Pun
- Opening hours: Open 24/7 — it’s a public space
- Entrance: Free
9. Central Market: From traditional market to creative hub
Central Market is an interesting mix of old and new: an art deco building from 1939 that’s been beautifully renovated and turned into a creative destination.
Once a traditional wet market, it’s now a bright, modern space filled with local concept stores, design shops, rotating exhibitions, and food and drink spots. But it still has the original architecture—tile floors, steel staircases, and open courtyards.
It’s a great place for a coffee break, a bit of browsing, and discovering local designers.
Practical info
- Location: 93 Queen’s Road Central, Central
- Opening hours: Daily from 10 AM – 10 PM (hours may vary by store)
- Entrance: Free
Need recommendations for places to eat? Here are my 10 favorite restaurants in Hong Kong.
Tips for relaxation and nature in Hong Kong
As much as I enjoy the energy of a busy metropolis, it’s also nice to mix the tourist spots with the more peaceful corners of Hong Kong—places where you can escape the city crowds for a bit.
10. Hong Kong Park: Tropical calm among the skyscrapers
Hong Kong Park is a place where the city suddenly reveals its surprisingly tranquil side. Surrounded by the tallest buildings, all you’ll hear are birds chirping and water gently flowing. It’s a great spot to unwind.
I passed through quite quickly on my way to the Peak Tram, which departs from a corner of the park. But there’s actually a lot more to discover. Like the Edward Youde Aviary where tropical birds fly freely around you, the Forsgate Conservatory filled with cacti, palms, and exotic flowers, and the Museum of Tea Ware in a beautiful colonial building.
Practical info
- Opening hours: Daily from 6 AM – 11 PM (aviary and conservatory close around 5 PM)
- Entrance: Free
11. Kowloon Walled City Park: From chaos to calm
Kowloon Walled City Park is a place with a truly fascinating history. It used to be one of the most densely populated areas in the world—completely unregulated and full of narrow alleyways and illegal buildings. But today, it’s a beautifully landscaped garden with ponds, pavilions, and lots of greenery.
You’ll still find a few traces of its past, like parts of the original city wall, ancient gates, and informative displays showing what life was like in the Walled City. A lovely (and scenic) spot to slow down and take a break.
Practical info
- Location: Tung Tsing Road, Kowloon City
- Opening hours: Daily from 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Entrance: Free
12. Morning Trail: An active escape with a view
Prefer to relax while staying active? Then walking the Morning Trail is a great option. This paved trail winds gently uphill from the edge of the city toward Victoria Peak. You’re surrounded by trees, birds singing, and fresh air, and you’ll pass a few locals out for their morning walk. And when you look to the side, you’ll catch glimpses of the Hong Kong skyline through the trees.
The Morning Trail is a great alternative to taking the Peak Tram if you’re planning to visit Victoria Peak. I took the tram up and walked the Morning Trail back down—but doing it the other way around works just as well. It’s very doable, but be prepared for a steady climb (or descent). There’s a distance marker every 100 meters, so it’s impossible to get lost.
Keep in mind that the starting point isn’t super accessible by public transport. You’ll either need to walk a bit or take a taxi to the trailhead.
Practical info
- Starting point: Hatton Road
- End point: Victoria Peak (near the Peak Tower)
- Distance: Approx. 2.8 km
13. Nan Lian Garden: A hidden oasis of calm
I always love the surprise of finding a bit of nature and calm in the middle of a busy city. Nan Lian Garden is a place you wouldn’t expect to find in the hustle of Kowloon. As you walk through this beautifully designed classical Chinese garden, you’ll see exotic plants, elegant ponds, and a stunning view of the mountains in the background. It has a truly meditative vibe.
Practical info
- Location: 60 Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill, Kowloon
- Getting there: MTR Diamond Hill, Exit C2
- Opening hours: Daily from 7 AM – 9 PM
- Entrance: Free
Cultural and historic things to do in Hong Kong
A city truly comes to life once you start learning more about its culture and history. And when it comes to Hong Kong, there’s so much to discover. These cultural highlights are must-sees, especially if it’s your first time visiting.
14. Chi Lin Nunnery: A Buddhist monastery amid the skyscrapers
From Nan Lian Garden, you can walk straight into Chi Lin Nunnery. This Buddhist nunnery was founded in 1934 and rebuilt in 1998 according to original Tang Dynasty architecture – made entirely of wood, without a single nail. The complex features beautifully restored wooden structures, elegant courtyards, bonsai trees, and golden Buddha statues. All of this right in the middle of Kowloon, surrounded by towering apartment blocks.
Photography is only allowed in the first part of the monastery, but trust me—the rest is just as photogenic.
Practical info
- Location: 5 Chi Lin Drive, Diamond Hill, Kowloon
- Getting there: MTR Diamond Hill Station, Exit C2
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Entrance: Free (donations welcome)
15. Big Buddha: 268 steps to the largest seated Buddha
Visiting the Big Buddha (or Tian Tan Buddha) on Lantau Island was one of the highlights of my trip to Hong Kong. Literally and figuratively, because to reach this impressive Buddha statue, you first have to climb a long staircase with 268 steps.
You can spot it from afar: a giant bronze Buddha towering above the trees on Lantau Island. At 34 meters high, it’s the largest outdoor seated Buddha in the world—making it one of the most iconic places in Hong Kong.
And the journey to get there is just as spectacular. You take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, floating above mountains, forests, and the sea for about half an hour. For the brave, there’s the option of a fully glass ‘Crystal Cabin’ with a transparent floor.
Practical info
- Location: Ngong Ping, Lantau Island
- Getting there: MTR to Tung Chung Station (about one hour from Hong Kong Island), then the Ngong Ping 360 cable car (about 25 minutes)
- Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Cost: The Buddha and monastery are free; the cable car requires a paid ticket
16. Po Lin Monastery: A spiritual sanctuary on Lantau Island
After visiting the iconic Big Buddha, the Po Lin Monastery is the perfect next stop. It’s one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Hong Kong and is sometimes called the largest temple of Hong Kong. You can easily walk there from the Big Buddha.
The complex is impressive, with traditional Chinese architecture and golden statues. As soon as you step through the temple gates, the city’s hustle and bustle feels worlds away.
If you’re feeling hungry afterward, head to the Po Lin Monastery Vegetarian Kitchen. This simple outdoor restaurant is a great spot to try some local vegetarian dishes and snacks.
Practical info
- Location: Ngong Ping, Lantau Island
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entrance: Free
17. Man Mo Temple: One of Hong Kong’s oldest temples
Tucked between trendy coffee shops and design stores in Sheung Wan, you’ll find one of Hong Kong’s oldest temples: Man Mo Temple. Built between 1847 and 1862, it’s dedicated to Man, the god of literature, and Mo, the god of war. During exam season, it’s a popular place for students to pray for good results.
Inside, you’ll see (and smell) giant spirals of incense hanging from the ceiling, burning for days at a time. Combined with the filtered light, the glowing lanterns, and the Chinese architecture, walking through the temple is a unique experience. A striking contrast to the modern Hong Kong just outside.
Practical info
- Location: 124–126 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan
- Getting there: MTR Sheung Wan or Central
- Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entrance: Free (donations welcome)
18. Wong Tai Sin Temple: Spirituality with a touch of spectacle
A visit to the Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple is quite the spectacle. While most temples offer a peaceful atmosphere, this one felt overwhelming to me—and not necessarily in a good way. Everything here is grand, colorful, and intense.
That said, the architecture of this Taoist temple is impressive, and it attracts hundreds of visitors daily who come to make wishes, light incense, or have their fortunes told. The temple is dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, known for granting wishes.
I’m glad I saw it, but I wouldn’t go out of my way for it. However, if you’re in the neighborhood, it’s definitely worth a quick visit.
Practical info
- Location: 2 Chuk Yuen Village, Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon
- Getting there: MTR Wong Tai Sin
- Opening hours: Daily from 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Entrance: Free
19. M+ Museum: Modern art in a stunning setting
Right by the waterfront in the West Kowloon Cultural District—an area that’s rapidly developing—you’ll find the M+ Museum, one of the largest museums for modern and contemporary art in Asia. Whether you consider yourself to be an art lover or not, this place will impress you. The art collection is incredible, but honestly, the building itself (and the panoramic rooftop views) are just as impressive.
For me, it’s one of the most beautiful museums I’ve ever visited. It feels original, international, and yet very Hong Kong. Getting there from Kowloon Station was a bit confusing though, so check my tips below.
Practical info
- Location: 38 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM – 6 PM (closed on Mondays)
- Getting there: MTR Kowloon Station or Austin Station. From Kowloon Station, follow the signs to Exit D and take the escalator into Elements Mall. Stay inside—don’t go outside—or you won’t be able to get there. Inside the mall, follow signs to West Kowloon and head to L2 to cross the footbridge to the other side of the road. From there, it’s an easy walk to the museum.
- Tickets: Free access to the building and public spaces; paid entry for exhibitions
20. Blue House: Local heritage in a bright blue building
Amid the modern skyscrapers of Wan Chai stands a bright blue building you simply can’t miss: Blue House. It’s not a hotel or a museum, but a living piece of Hong Kong’s history. People still live in this 100-year-old traditional Chinese apartment block. On the ground floor, you’ll find the Hong Kong House of Stories, with visitor information about this unique place.
If you want to see more of Wan Chai, I can recommend walking the Wan Chai architectural heritage route in the Hong Kong Lonely Planet guide, which will also take you to the Blue House.
Practical info
- Location: 72 Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai
- Getting there: MTR Wan Chai
- Opening hours: House of Stories is open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed on Wednesdays)
- Entrance: Free
21. Monster Building: Extreme housing density
When you hear the name Monster Building, you probably don’t imagine a beautiful, photogenic spot. And beautiful is definitely not the word I would use to describe this massive complex of five interconnected apartment blocks. But photogenic? Absolutely.
This iconic residential complex in Quarry Bay symbolizes Hong Kong’s extreme urban density. Look up from the courtyard, and you’ll be surrounded by thousands of apartments. All those windows and air conditioners, it’s never-ending. It’s a place where people live, so there’s not much to do, but it certainly leaves an impression.
Practical info
- Location: 1048–1056 King’s Road, Quarry Bay
- Getting there: MTR Tai Koo or hop on a ‘Ding Ding’ tram
- Opening hours: Open 24/7 as a public courtyard
- Entrance: Free
22. Central–Mid-Levels Escalators: Ride the longest escalator in the world
Riding the Central–Mid-Levels Escalators—the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world—is an experience you shouldn’t miss in Hong Kong. Stretching over 800 meters, these escalators connect the lower parts of Central with the hillside Mid-Levels neighborhood. You simply hop on, ride upwards, and watch the city transform as you ascend. Very handy, especially since walking around Hong Kong can sometimes feel like a serious workout.
Practical info
- Starting point: Queen’s Road Central (near Central Market)
- End point: Conduit Road, Mid-Levels
- Length: 800 meters, with 16 escalators and 3 moving walkways
- Operating hours:
- Downwards: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Upwards: 10:20 AM – midnight
23. Olympic bridge: Photogenic footbridge in Causeway Bay
While exploring the busy streets of Causeway Bay, you’ll come across something unexpected: the Olympic Bridge. This footbridge connects Irving Street and Leighton Road and has been transformed into a work of art.
Each step is painted with the name of a city that hosted the Olympic Games, going all the way back to 1896.
Looking for more Hong Kong travel tips & inspiration? Check out my Hong Kong guide.
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