With a rich history as a global hub, Hong Kong offers something for every traveller, including epic shopping, scenic hikes, and world-class food at every turn. Whether you have one day or one week, read on for your ultimate hit list!
WHAT TO DO
THE STAR FERRY AND HARBOUR
Separating the two major islands of Hong Kong, Victoria Harbour is the heart of the city and one of the reasons it was originally founded as a trading port. Today, the iconic skyline is best viewed from a vantage point on the water. Start your evening with a ride on the heritage Star Ferry, before meandering down the Avenue of Stars at Tsim Sha Tsui, for the daily light and sound show.
THE PEAK
Most likely the top attraction in the city, The Peak can be tackled in one of two ways. For the easier option, jump aboard The Peak Tram, which glides past skyscrapers to the summit in 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, if you are looking for a hike, the hour-long walk climbs through lush greenery before rewarding you with expansive views of the iconic skyline. Head on a weekend and you will find many locals and their furry companions tackling the walk, before enjoying a hard-earned coffee at the top.
CHI LIN NUNNERY AND NAN LIAN GARDEN
With a long and layered history, you will uncover many gems when just strolling the streets of Hong Kong. However, a must-visit is the Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden. Built in the Tang dynasty style (618–907), spend your morning strolling the 3.5-hectare grounds and gardens, before stopping into the nearby Chinese tea house.
SHOPPING
If you are looking to shop, then Hong Kong has you covered, from luxury malls to street markets and quality secondhand boutiques. Spend a day wandering Kowloon’s markets, capturing the flower market, sneaker street, ladies' market and jade market. If you are on the hunt for a secondhand steal, then head to Central, where deals can be found on designer handbags, watches and name-brand clothing.
WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK
MAKS NOODLES
A city full of Michelin guide meals, Maks Noodles is one such establishment, specialising in wonton noodle soup, the quintessential Hong Kong lunch. The food is served quickly, loudly and hot here, and in authentic HK style, table sharing occurs most hours of the day.
AUSTRALIA DAIRY COMPANY
Expect to line up for this one, but the wait will be worth it for the Hong Kong-style breakfast spread. Operating since 1940, Australia Dairy Company is an insight into the longstanding breakfast culture of Hong Kong. Efficient and with no fuss, you will enjoy the likes of scrambled eggs, toasts and steamed milk puddings.
HALFWAY COFFEE
One of the best coffee and breakfast pairings in Hong Kong, you could be mistaken for thinking you were back in Australia, until the vintage Hong Kong porcelain cups give it away. Tucked away in Central, Halfway Coffee is where to go if you are looking for your flat white and avocado toast fix.
BAKEHOUSE
Famous for its egg tarts, which are worth the queue, Bakehouse has a few outposts across the city. We recommend stocking up on a box of six tarts, but also recommend saving room for their range of danishes, pastries and breads.
DRAGONFLY
A night-time city, Hong Kong has an abundance of bars to stumble into. However, none are quite as pretty as the art nouveau-designed Dragonfly, which transports you into another realm. We recommend stopping by for a bespoke cocktail and staying to enjoy the laid-back vibes and interior design.
WHERE TO STAY
THE FLEMING
Paying homage to the harbour on which the city is built around, The Fleming's interior design takes inspiration from everything nautical, the Star Ferry included. With character at every turn, the 66 rooms take a modern spin on a ship's cabin, but we imagine with softer beds and comfier pillows.
THREE THINGS TO PACK
Known for hot, humid summers, make sure you stash some Marine Coconut (Hydration) into your Hong Kong luggage. Perfect for use during flights and in hot weather, it will keep you feeling revitalised and energised day by day.
COMFY SHOES
Trust us, those cute shoes that leave you with blisters? Leave them at home. Instead, pack your comfiest pair, because you’ll be clocking over 20,000 steps a day. With so much to see and do, the joy of Hong Kong is strolling the streets and discovering the city.
YOUR CAMERA
A street photographer's dream, from sprawling cityscapes to street art, neon signs and night markets. Just make sure your phone or SD card has room, because you’ll want to capture it all!
