Explore Hong Kong: Comprehensive One-Day Itinerary

Hong Kong

1 days

Skyline of skyscrapers seen from Victoria Peak
View of the island from Kowloon
Cityscape
Yick Fat Building, Quarry Bay
Modern buildings in Central Hong Kong

About Hong Kong

Experience the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong, a unique fusion of East and West. Marvel at the iconic skyline from Victoria Peak, explore bustling markets in Mong Kok, or take a historic tram ride. Visit the tranquil Nan Lian Garden, or take a ferry to Lantau Island to see the majestic Tian Tan Buddha. Enjoy world-class shopping in Tsim Sha Tsui and indulge in a culinary journey from Michelin-starred restaurants to local street food. Don't miss the stunning Symphony of Lights show at Victoria Harbour. Hong Kong's efficient MTR system makes it easy to explore this dynamic city. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Hong Kong offers an unforgettable travel experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Markets, Enjoying Local Cuisine, and Experiencing Stunning Views

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the bustling Ladies Market in Mong Kok. This vibrant market offers a wide variety of products, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and electronics. It's a great place to experience the local culture and do some shopping.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Dim Sum lunch in a local restaurant. Dim Sum, a style of Chinese cuisine, involves small bite-sized portions of food served in small steamer baskets or on small plates.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. The Peak offers breathtaking views of the city and its harbours. You can reach the Peak by the Peak Tram, one of the world's oldest and most famous funicular railways.

Dinner

For dinner, try some local seafood dishes in a restaurant near the waterfront. Hong Kong is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Symphony of Lights show at Victoria Harbour. This spectacular multimedia show involves more than 40 buildings on both sides of the harbour and is a must-see when in Hong Kong.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Ladies Market

1
Ladies Market

A popular street market in Hong Kong, where various kinds of products are sold including clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and toys.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Dim Sum

2
Dim Sum

A traditional Chinese dish often served in a small steamer basket. It includes various types of dumplings, rolls, and buns, often served with tea.

Food and Drink
Victoria Peak

3
Victoria Peak

The highest point on Hong Kong Island, this has been the city’s most exclusive neighborhood since colonial times — back then it was the cooler air that attracted the rich and famous; in the post air-conditioning era, the views of one of the world’s most spectacular cityscapes keep them coming.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Peak Tram

4
Peak Tram

One of the world's oldest and most famous funicular railways, the tram rises to about 1,300 feet above sea level. It is so steep that the buildings you pass look like they're leaning a gradient of between 4 to 27 degrees!

Attractions
Tours
Symphony of Lights

5
Symphony of Lights

Named as the 'World's Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show' by Guinness World Records, coloured lights, laser beams and searchlights perform in an unforgettable all-round spectacle synchronised to music and narration that celebrates the energy, spirit and diversity of Hong Kong.

Attractions
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Dim Sum

Dim Sum

A traditional Cantonese cuisine that includes a variety of small, bite-sized portions served in steamer baskets or small plates. It's a popular brunch option in Hong Kong.

Roast Goose

Roast Goose

A traditional Cantonese dish where the goose is marinated and roasted until it's crispy and golden. It's a must-try delicacy in Hong Kong.

Wonton Noodles

Wonton Noodles

A popular Cantonese dish in Hong Kong, consisting of thin noodles, broth, and wontons (dumplings) filled with shrimp or pork.

Egg Tarts

Egg Tarts

A popular pastry in Hong Kong with a flaky crust and a sweet, creamy egg custard filling.

Milk Tea

Milk Tea

A classic Hong Kong beverage made from black tea and condensed or evaporated milk. It's often served hot and is a staple in local tea houses.

Pineapple Bun

Pineapple Bun

Despite its name, this popular Hong Kong pastry doesn't contain any pineapple. The name comes from its pineapple-like sugary top crust.

Fish Balls

A common street food in Hong Kong, these are made from fish paste and are often served on skewers in a curry sauce.

Sweet Tofu Soup

A popular dessert in Hong Kong, it's a sweet, warm soup made from silky tofu and served with a ginger syrup.

Char Siu

A popular dish in Hong Kong, Char Siu is barbecued pork that's marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.

Rice Noodle Rolls

A popular street food in Hong Kong, these are thin rolls made from a wide strip of shahe fen (rice noodles), filled with shrimp, beef, vegetables, or other ingredients.

Lo Mai Gai

A traditional Cantonese dish often served at dim sum, it's glutinous rice filled with chicken, Chinese mushrooms, sausage, and scallions, wrapped in a lotus leaf.

Yuenyeung

Yuenyeung

A popular beverage in Hong Kong, Yuenyeung is a mix of coffee and Hong Kong-style milk tea.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Hong Kong is from October to early December when the weather is sunny, cool, and pleasant. This period is considered the autumn season in Hong Kong, which is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is less crowded as well, allowing tourists to explore at a leisurely pace. However, if you're interested in cultural events, Chinese New Year, which usually falls between January and February, is a vibrant and festive time to visit.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 10

Sat

Lunar New Year's Day

February 12

Mon

Third Day of Lunar New Year

February 13

Tue

Fourth Day of Lunar New Year

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 30

Sat

Holy Saturday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 4

Thu

Tomb Sweeping Day

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 15

Wed

Buddha's Birthday

June 10

Mon

Dragon Boat Festival

July 1

Mon

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Establishment Day

September 18

Wed

Day after Mid-Autumn Festival

October 1

Tue

National Day

October 11

Fri

Chung Yeung Festival

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

First Weekday After Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Hong Kong's MTR system is a convenient and efficient way to get around the city. It is a comprehensive network of subway and overground trains that cover most of the city's main districts and attractions.

Hong Kong has an extensive bus network that covers both the Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Double-decker buses offer a great way to sightsee, especially on Hong Kong Island.

The tram system in Hong Kong is one of the oldest and most traditional forms of transportation. It covers the northern part of Hong Kong Island and offers a unique and leisurely way to explore the city.

Taxis are plentiful and relatively affordable in Hong Kong. They are color-coded based on their operating areas: red taxis serve all destinations throughout Hong Kong except Tung Chung Road and roads in south Lantau; green taxis serve only the New Territories and specific roads in Lantau; blue taxis serve all destinations in Lantau and the airport.

Minibuses, also known as public light buses, are 16-seater vehicles that serve routes not covered by the larger buses or MTR. There are two types: green minibuses have fixed routes and fares, while red minibuses operate more flexibly.

The Star Ferry is a charming and inexpensive way to travel between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Other ferry services also connect to the Outlying Islands, offering a scenic way to explore beyond the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Hong Kong, offering a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. However, they are not as widely used or accepted as in some other cities, and may not be available in all areas.

The Peak Tram is a funicular railway in Hong Kong, which carries both tourists and residents to the upper levels of Hong Kong Island. It provides the most direct route and offers good views over the harbor and skyscrapers of Hong Kong.

While not as common due to the city's hilly terrain and busy traffic, cycling is possible in some parts of Hong Kong, particularly the New Territories and Outlying Islands. Bike rentals are available in these areas.

The Airport Express is a dedicated MTR line that connects Hong Kong International Airport with the city center. It is the quickest way to reach the city from the airport, with trains running every 10 minutes.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ HKD

Time zoneUTC+8

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phone999

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type G

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Hong Kong as a first time visitor

1

Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of China, but it has its own currency, the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD).

2

English and Chinese are the official languages of Hong Kong. However, most locals speak Cantonese, a dialect of Chinese.

3

Hong Kong is one of the safest cities in the world, but it's always important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

4

The weather in Hong Kong can be quite humid, especially in the summer. Temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C) in the summer and drop to around 59°F (15°C) in the winter.

5

Public transportation in Hong Kong is efficient and affordable. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is the most popular mode of transport.

6

Taxis in Hong Kong are color-coded. Red taxis operate throughout most of Hong Kong, green taxis serve the New Territories, and blue taxis are for Lantau Island.

7

Hong Kong is a food paradise. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, there's something for every palate and budget.

8

Tipping is not a common practice in Hong Kong, but it's appreciated. A service charge of 10% is usually added to your bill in restaurants.

9

Hong Kong is known for its shopping. From luxury brands to local markets, there's something for everyone.

10

The city is bustling and crowded, so be prepared for large crowds, especially during peak hours.

11

Hong Kong uses the Type G plug, the same as the UK. The standard voltage is 220 V.

12

Internet access is widely available in Hong Kong. Free Wi-Fi is provided in many public areas, including MTR stations and shopping malls.

13

Drinking tap water in Hong Kong is generally safe, but most locals prefer to drink boiled or bottled water.

14

Hong Kong has strict laws against littering and spitting in public places. Fines can be hefty.

15

Hong Kong is a city that never sleeps. Many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues stay open late into the night.

16

Despite being a bustling city, Hong Kong has plenty of green spaces and hiking trails for nature lovers.

17

Hong Kong's Octopus card can be used for public transport, as well as in convenience stores, restaurants, and more.

18

Hong Kong has a high cost of living. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for food and accommodation if you know where to look.

19

The city has a unique East-meets-West culture, with a mix of traditional Chinese customs and British colonial influences.

20

Hong Kong's healthcare system is top-notch, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Basic Chinese and English to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

你好

Nei hou

Greeting someone

Goodbye

再見

Zoi gin

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

多謝

Do je

Expressing gratitude

Please

Ching

Making a request

Yes

Hai

Affirming

No

唔係

M hai

Negating

Excuse me

唔該

M goi

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

對唔住

Deoi m jyu

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

你識唔識講英文?

Nei sik m sik gong ying man?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

我唔明

Ngo m ming

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

廁所喺邊度?

Ci so hai bin dou?

Asking for directions to the bathroom

How much does it cost?

幾多錢?

Gei do chin?

Asking the price of something

I would like to order

我想點

Ngo seung dim

When ordering food or drinks

Water

Seoi

Asking for water

Help

救命

Gau ming

In case of an emergency

Call the police

叫警察

Giu ging caat

In case of an emergency

I am lost

我迷路了

Ngo mai lou liu

When you are lost

Can I use credit card?

可以用信用卡嗎?

Ho yi yung seon yung ka ma?

Asking if a place accepts credit cards

Open

Hoi

To know if a place is open

Closed

Gwaan

To know if a place is closed

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sweater or light jacket

  • Umbrella or raincoat

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face masks

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa (if required)

  • Travel insurance

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Local currency (Hong Kong Dollar)

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Camera

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guidebook

  • Map of Hong Kong

  • Phrasebook or language app

  • Backpack or daypack

Weather Conditions

Hong Kong experiences a subtropical climate, with distinct seasons throughout the year. From March to mid-May, it's spring in Hong Kong. The weather is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 64°F to 82°F (18°C to 28°C). It's a great time to explore outdoor attractions, but remember to carry an umbrella as occasional rainfall can occur. Summer, from late May to mid-September, is hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 91°F (25°C to 33°C). It's also the typhoon season, so it's essential to stay updated with the local weather forecasts. Despite the heat, summer is a vibrant time in Hong Kong with various festivals and events. Autumn, from late September to early December, is considered the best time to visit Hong Kong. The weather is sunny and cool, with temperatures between 64°F and 82°F (18°C to 28°C). It's an ideal time for hiking and exploring the city. Winter, from mid-December to February, is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 57°F to 68°F (14°C to 20°C). It's the perfect time to enjoy Hong Kong's urban attractions and shopping festivals. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before planning your day. Also, remember to pack appropriate clothing and stay hydrated, especially during the hot and humid summer months.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

21° / 14°

January is the coldest month in Hong Kong, but it's still relatively mild with low humidity. It's a great time to explore the city without the summer crowds.

February

22° / 15°

February is still cool and dry, with occasional cold fronts. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

March

24° / 17°

March sees a gradual increase in temperature and humidity. It's a good time to visit parks and gardens as flowers start to bloom.

April

28° / 20°

April is warm and humid, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like museums and shopping malls.

May

31° / 24°

May is hot and humid, with frequent showers and thunderstorms. It's a good time to visit beaches and outdoor swimming pools.

June

33° / 26°

June is the start of the summer season, with high temperatures and frequent rain. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

July

34° / 27°

July is the hottest month in Hong Kong, with high humidity and occasional typhoons. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

August

34° / 27°

August is hot and humid, with frequent showers and thunderstorms. It's a good time to visit beaches and outdoor swimming pools.

September

33° / 26°

September is still hot, but the humidity starts to decrease. It's a good time to visit parks and gardens as the weather starts to cool down.

October

30° / 23°

October is warm and pleasant, with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

November

26° / 19°

November is cool and dry, with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

December

22° / 15°

December is cool and dry, with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy the festive season.

Did you know?

Did you know that Hong Kong is made up of over 200 islands?

1 of 10

Places near by Hong Kong

Macau

Macau

Known for its giant casinos and malls on the Cotai Strip, which joins the islands of Taipa and Coloane.

1h
64 km / 39.8 mi
How to get there
Shenzhen

Shenzhen

A modern metropolis that links Hong Kong to China’s mainland.

1h
30 km / 18.6 mi
How to get there
Guangzhou

Guangzhou

Known for its avant-garde architecture such as the Canton Tower and Guangzhou Opera House.

2h
135 km / 83.9 mi
How to get there
Zhuhai

Zhuhai

Famous for its beach resorts and golf courses.

1.2h
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How to get there
Dongguan

Dongguan

Known for its manufacturing industries and rich cultural history.

1.5h
75 km / 46.6 mi
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Foshan

Foshan

Known for its ceramics and furniture industries.

2h
142 km / 88.2 mi
How to get there
Zhongshan

Zhongshan

Known for its electronics and appliance industries.

1.5h
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How to get there
Jiangmen

Jiangmen

Known for its overseas Chinese history and culture.

3h
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