I’ve been to Hong Kong many times, and I often get asked, ‘Why do I love the city so much?’ I find it hard to explain because, on every visit, there will always be something that surprises me, but in the right way.
I think Hong Kong has the most stunning skyline in the world. The tall buildings all over the city that glitter with colourful lights every night is beautiful and mesmerising.
It’s a hip and culturally exciting city to visit. It may seem overwhelming when you first hit the streets and night markets. But after a while, I realise that there are tons of fun things to do and see in the fragrant harbour.
The public transport in Hong Kong comprises the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, taxis and trams. If you like to travel from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island in a traditional way, you can take the ferry. I got an Octopus card to pay for my public transportation needs in the city, which makes my rides more convenient. The card can also be used at various convenience stores.
My Favourite Place to Stay in Hong Kong
My favourite hotel to stay in Tsim Sha Tsui is The Langham Hotel which is located in the heart of Kowloon. The hotel offers luxury accommodations with modern amenities in the hustle and bustle of the city that surrounds Tsim Sha Tsui. The Langham hotel is only a 5-minute walk to Harbour City Mall, high-end boutiques and Ashley Road MTR station. Ashley Road is a dining neighbourhood located opposite the hotel, and if you want to get there, you have to use the MTR underground walkway beneath the Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station.
The Best Areas To Stay For
- First Timer – Tsim Sha Tsui
- For Couples – Central
- Families With Children – Lantau Island
- Food – Causeway Bay
- Nightlife – Central
- Shopping – Tsim Sha Tsui
- Low Budget – Mong Kok
- High Budget – Yau Ma Tei
Tsim Sha Tsui (TST)
If you’re a Hong Kong first-time visitor, Tsim Sha Tsui is no doubt a place you should stay at. The area is known for its charming restaurants and swanky supermalls, exciting museums, quiet parks and cultural show performances. Situated in the south of Kowloon Peninsula, the district has a fantastic view of the harbour. You can see red junk boats sailing across the Victoria Harbour against the backdrop of the city’s impressive skyline.
Tsim Sha Tsui is not only my favourite area to stay, but it’s also my ideal area to shop. Canton Road is a famous shopping street with luxury brands like Fendi, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and more. With plenty of shops by famous designer boutiques in Heritage 188 and outlet shops in Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui will fulfil all your shopping needs. If you want to shop for cameras, head out to Nathan Road, where you can find numerous shops selling the latest tech and gadgets.
My hotel recommendation for First-Timers
The Peninsula Hotel
If you’re looking for a lovely and high-end place to stay in Tsim Sha Tsui, then consider Peninsula Hotel. The hotel offers unmatched splendour and classic elegance that will make your holiday in Hong Kong more memorable. Most of the nearby attractions are within walking distance. The hotel staff are friendly and well-trained. Peninsula Hotel provides a splendid buffet breakfast and lunch set in a nice ambience. Try the Michelin star-rated Japanese restaurant for outstanding Japanese cuisine.
Recommendation Hotel For Shopping
Marco Polo Hotel Hong Kong
Located along Canton Road, Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel overlooks the striking Victoria Harbour. The hotel has a direct connection to a mall and is steps away from The Star Ferry and Hong Kong Cruise terminal.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Symphony of Light at Victoria Harbour – Watch the colourful laser lights and music show presented by the Hong Kong Tourism Commission. The show starts at 8 pm daily, and the best way to watch is to get on the Star Ferry boat cruise which lasts about two hours.
- Kowloon Park – The largest park in Kowloon that provides outdoor facilities for both leisure and recreation. Located on Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, this park opens daily from 5 am to 12 am.
- Avenue of Stars – Hong Kong’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame is where you can enjoy films and cultural exhibitions. You can view the handprints of some of Hong Kong’s celebrities like Jackie Chan or take a picture with Bruce Lee’s statue.
- Science Museum – The museum has several floors that you can explore with lots of exhibits that include interactive activities like puzzles and scientific games. The real Cathay Pacific aeroplane is also on display.
- Red Junk Boat Ride – Watch the Symphony of Lights on a distinguished watercraft with bright red sails against Hong Kong’s astounding skyline. The boat is a cherished symbol of Hong Kong for generations.
- K11 Art Mall – K11 is not your typical mall that only sells fashion and lifestyle products. The mall also has interesting art exhibitions and events held throughout the year.
- Kowloon Mosque – One of the most quintessential landmarks in Tsim Sha Tsui, this mosque is established during the British Colonial period. The mosque is located just a short walk from Nathan Road.
- Harbour City Mall – The largest shopping mall in the city with more than 450 shops, nearby hotels, cinema, restaurants and a lavish private club.
- Chungking Mansion – One of the busiest retail building that also offers cheap accommodation. You can get everything from clothing and money exchange services.
Central
Central may be the financial district of Hong Kong, but it has many attractive places to stay. Two of Hong Kong’s most excellent spots is located here–Victoria Peak and Lan Kwai Fong. For couples who want a romantic getaway in Hong Kong, Central is the perfect place to stay.
Central is also a great area to stay people who are looking for night entertainment. Lan Kwai Fong is situated between D’Aguilar Street and Wyndham Street on Hong Long Island. Famous for its nightlife scene and an array of award-winning dining locations, the area is packed every night with white-collar workers that are looking to unwind after work. There are more than 80 restaurants, bars and cafes spread throughout the region. Hongkongers will flock to this area during Christmas and New Year’s Eve to celebrate.
My Hotel Recommendation for Couples
Conrad Hong Kong
Conrad Hotel provides a direct access link to the ultra-elite Pacific Place shopping mall and is one of the more upscale hotels in the area. Couples can enjoy an outdoor heated pool and massage services and dine at their award-winning restaurant.
My Hotel Recommendation for Nightlife
Lan Kwai Fong Hotel
Lan Kwai Fong Hotel is a decent boutique hotel located in Kau Fong Street in Central/Sheung Wan district of Hong Kong. The location is perfect for nightlife and dining near the Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo areas. The hotel is minutes away from Macau Terminal Ferry and MTR station.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Victoria Peak – Victoria Peak offers a panoramic view of the harbour and city. For a fun way to reach the top, ride the Peak Tram which is a 20-minute ride in a 120–year old funicular railway. You’ll start at the bottom terminus on Garden road.
- Mid-Levels Escalators – It’s the longest covered escalator and another great way to see the city from a higher point.
- Man Mo Temple – This famous temple was built in the 1800s and is dedicated to the God of literature.
- Hong Kong Zoo and Botanical Garden – This beautiful and serene park is one of the oldest zoological and botanical centres in the world. There are a variety of animals and birds that visitors can observe. Admission is free.
- Tai Cheong Bakery – If you love egg tarts, then you should come to Tai Cheong Bakery to taste some of its legendary sweet and buttery egg tart. This is the first bakery in Hong Kong to use a shortcrust pastry in their egg tarts. Yummy!
- Watch live performances at Fringe Club – Known for a variety of art performances, The Fringe Club is where local artists showcase their innovative artwork. You can visit the place during the day to check out the exhibitions or watch a state-of-the-art documentary, listen to choir performance or enjoy smooth jazz live shows.
- Opera Gallery – The art gallery was founded initially by Giles Dyan in 1994 in Paris. The gallery is three-levels high with artistic displays and amazing contemporary artwork.
Lantau Island
Lantau Island is situated on the western part of Hong Kong peninsula. The location is abundant with picturesque ocean views, hiking trails, unique villages and unspoiled beaches. The iconic statue of Tian Tian Buddha and the most magical place on earth, which is Disneyland are some of the main attractions in Lantau Island. If you’re travelling to Hong Kong with kids, you might want to consider staying at Lantau Island. The nearest MTR station is Tung Chung, and it’ll take approximately a 30 to 40 minutes train ride to get to the city centre.
My hotel recommendation for family with kids
Disneyland Hotel
Disneyland Hotel is a great place to stay if you’re near Lantau Island, especially with kids. Not only that, the location is just minutes away from Disneyland theme park. The hotel is beautifully decorated and looks amazing. The moment you enter the lobby, you’ll feel the magic in the air! Disney songs are played throughout the hotel making the ambiance more incredible. There’s a mini-maze where you can play with your kids outside the resort. If you’re planning to visit the theme park or going to the city, there’s a Disneyland Resort MTR line connecting the resort to Sunny Bay. Disneyland Hotel provides free shuttle transfers to the theme park and Disneyland Resort MTR station.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Ngong Ping 360 – Prepare to enjoy a beautiful, panoramic view of Hong Kong city with a 7.5 km cable car ride from Tung Chung Town to Ngong Ping Village.
- Hong Kong Disneyland – Have fun with your family or loved ones at the most magical theme park at Hong Kong Disneyland. Comprising seven themed lands, Hong Kong Disneyland offers a variety of fun rides and performances.
- Citygate Outlet – If the word ‘Deals’ gets your heart pounding twice as hard, head out to Citygate Outlet – one of Hong Kong’s biggest discount malls. You can buy from brands like Nike, Armani Exchange and more.
- Tai O Fishing Village – Visit Tai O fishing Village to witness a rare example of the life of a fisherman. Their homes have been built on stilts above the tidal flats, and the Tanka people have stayed there for generations.
- Silvermine Bay Beach – This unspoiled beach is Mui Wo’s top attraction. Spend a nice evening by strolling along the beach or playing volleyball.
- Pink Dolphin Watching – Take a day tour to watch pink dolphins in their natural habitat around Lantau Island and Peng Chau.
Causeway Bay
Another busy neighbourhood in Hong Kong, Causeway Bay has a lot of hidden gems that will keep your day full of things to do and see. Home to a great many shopping malls like SOGO and Times Square, Causeway Bay is also a foodie’s favourite spot. From Michelin star-rated restaurants to western and traditional Chinese cuisine, Causeway Bay will fulfil your gastronomical needs. Some of the popular restaurants in Causeway Bay is Din Tai Fung that is known for its tasty dumplings and noodles, Little Bao with its delicious buns and Ho Hung Kee that is famous for its historic noodle shops.
My hotel recommendation for foodies
Eco Tree Hotel Causeway Bay
Eco Tree Hotel Causeway Bay is located in the heart of Causeway Bay between Tin Hau and Fortress Hill MTR stations.There are a selection of small cafes and restaurants near the hotel if you want to try some local food at a lower price. The Causeway Bay Wetmarket is near the corner if you’re going to buy some fruits. Opposite the hotel is a small mini-mart that opens until midnight.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Ride the Ding Ding (Tramways) – Hong Kong’s tramways is one of the earliest forms of land transportation in Hong Kong and is an iconic symbol of the city. Riding the Ding Ding is also fantastic to explore and learn about Hong Kong.
- Shopping at SOGO – Situated above Causeway Bay MTR Station, SOGO is a shopping paradise for all shopaholics. You can find everything here from clothing, Hello Kitty items to electrical appliances.
- Victoria Park – It’s a public park named after the Queen of England. The park has a beautiful horse sculpture, gardens and planted with tropical trees.
- Times Square – One of the lively spots in Hong Kong, Times Square mall is 16 stories high with more than 200 brands available for shoppers.
Mong Kok
If you’re looking for AirBnB’s and budget-friendly hotels, Mong Kok is where I recommend you to stay. The area is within walking distance to Temple Street Market.
My hotel recommendation for budget friendly hotel
L’étoile de Mer Mong Kok
For a budget friendly hotel, L’étoile de Mer Mong Kok is the perfect choice. It’s located next to Prince Edward MTR Station, making it easy to get around Hong Kong.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Sneaker Street – Thanks to its endless rows of shoe shops selling the latest styles and limited edition apparel from brands like Nike and Adidas, Sneakers Street is a street fashion lover’s paradise. You can find sportswear stores selling sports merchandise in here too.
- Try street food – You can find a lot of street-food stalls in Mong Kok spread throughout Fa Yuen Street, Soy Street and San Yeung Choi Street. Try the local’s favourite snacks like fish balls in curry, fish siu mai and more.
- Goldfish Market – If you’re a fish lover, visit the Goldfish Market and see the locals sell every type of pet fish including goldfish in a plastic filled with water.
- Mong Kok Computer Center – Home to more than 80 stores selling electronic goods. Though not as large as Sham Shui Po, this place has every electronic product you can think of. From phone accessories, laptop or gaming console, you’ll get it here.
- Argyle Center – This four-floor store is stocked with everything you need for your wardrobe from clothes to shoes and cute accessories.
Yau Ma Tei
Situated in the south of Kowloon, between Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok, this iconic area is often overlooked. Yau Ma Tei rich with historical landmarks and interesting architecture that shouldn’t be missed.
My hotel recommendation when budget is not an issue
W Hotel Hong Kong
Located in Yau Ma Tei neighbourhood, W Hotel Hong Kong is an excellent area for shopping and to have a luxurious stay. Temple Street Night Market and Nathan Road are just around the corner, and for couples who plan to enjoy nature, Fa Hui Park and Kowloon are worth a visit.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Broadway Cinematheque – This cinema will make every film lover happy, as the cinema presents both the latest commercial and art house films.
- Temple Street night market – Temple Street night market is where you want to be if you’re looking to buy cute and quirky souvenirs. You can get toys, gadgets, accessories, small trinkets and more. Be prepared to bargain for a good deal.
- Tin Hau Temple – This temple has been listed as a Grade I historic building and a must-visit landmark if you’re in Temple Street Night Market. You can have your palm read by a local fortune teller, or you can choose to burn incense to pray.
- Old Police Station – Built-in 1922, Yau Ma Tei old police station is a Grade II historical establishment in the area. This station is closed to the public, but you can still visit the reporting centre. Rush Hour 2, starring Hong Kong’s finest Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker was filmed here.
- Gwo Lan – This unique market is another valuable area and listed as a Grade II historical area. The outer wall and the signposts are from the pre-World War II period. There are a variety of fresh fruits and freshly squeezed juice sold at the market.
- Yau Ma Tei Theatre – The only remaining pre-World War II theatre and used to be the biggest one in the Kowloon Peninsula. It first opened its doors in 1930 and now is classified as a Grade 11 historic landmark. Currently, the theatre is used for Cantonese Opera and other local cultural performances.
Hong Kong offers an astonishing list of places to stay to cater to all visitors’ needs. Hong Kong will always have a special place in my heart for its east meets west personality. Not to mention all the exciting things to do and see. I hope my travel guide to Hong Kong will give you some perspectives on what to expect while in Hong Kong, and you’ll love it as much as I do!
What is your favorite place to stay in Hong Kong? Let me know in the comments bellow!
