3 day hongkong trip

The Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in Hong Kong (2024)

Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Looking for the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Hong Kong? Don’t miss this firsthand guide.

Are you planning to spend 3 days in Hong Kong? Get ready to experience a completely unique city with one of the densest population in the world. This incredible concrete jungle is one of those places which will leave you in a state of awe.

Table of Contents

8am – Choi Hung Estate

10am – nan lian garden, 12pm – chi lin nunnery, 2pm – kawloon walled city park, 4pm – hau wong temple, 6pm – avenue of stars, 7pm – mong kok district, 8pm – temple street night market, 8am – ngong ping 360 cable car, 10am – tian tan big buddha, 1pm – monster building, 4pm – victoria peak tram, 5pm – victoria peak viewpoint, 7pm – lugard road viewpoint, 8pm – take a ride in the star ferry and admire the symphony of lights, option 1 – day trip to macau, option 2 – disneyland, walk as much as you can, use public transport, try the local food, where to stay in hong kong, 3 days in hong kong itinerary.

I’ve included in this Hong Kong 3-day guide the most beautiful and surprising tourist attractions around the city. I’ll tell you one secret: you can find some really cool places if you know where to look.

READ MORE – Check out our guide to the best places to visit in Hong Kong

Day 1 – Morning

We’ll start the day with some colourful buildings which will brighten your day instantly. After breakfast, hop on one of the double-decker buses (yes, you can find red buses in Hong Kong, it used to be a British colony after all) and head to the Choi Hung Estate Instagram sensation.

We’ll start our journey here and then continue and visit some other interesting tourist attractions.

Have you ever seen those photos taken at a colourful basketball court surrounded by tall apartment buildings? It’s all over the internet! You can find that famous basketball court at the Choi Hung Estate .

This residential area, in the heart of Hong Kong is visited by hundreds of tourists every day. Everyone wants to have that Insta-perfect picture. My advice would be to arrive here as early as possible since the place tends to get crowded quickly.

Choi Hung Estate is situated on the top of a car park and is not exactly easy to find. If you’re having trouble finding it, make sure to ask a few locals. They would be more than happy to guide you.

After arriving, make sure to respect a few simple rules:

Don’t interrupt the basketball games
Don’t make too much noise, people live there

I’ve visited many beautiful gardens in many Asian countries but none was as fascinating as the Nan Lian Garden in Hong Kong. Once you’ll take the first step inside this garden, you’ll feel peaceful and relaxed.

The garden was built during the Tang Dynasty and every tree, stone or pond were arranged according to the Tang style. Although the Nan Lian Garden is not big, it’s perfect to take a walk and escape the chaos of Hong Kong.

This oasis of tranquility also has a souvenir shop (the prices are a bit higher than in the rest of the city), a vegetarian restaurant and a Chinese tea house. I would definitely recommend you to add this place to your 3-day Hong Kong itinerary. Another good part is that there is no entrance fee!

Right across the street from the Nan Lian Garden is the Chi Lin Nunnery, built in 1934. This beautiful temple complex with incredible wooden details and carvings is situated in the Diamond Hill area. If you’re in the area, it would be a shame not to visit it.

The temple hosts some amazing statues made from gold, clay or wood, dedicated to Sakyamuni Buddha and Guanyin. The Chi Lin Nunnery also has a traditional Tang Dynasty architecture but the most impressive things is that no nails were used to build this temple.

Chin Lin Nunnery holds the record for the biggest hand-made wooden building and is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Hong Kong.

Day 1 – Afternoon

After you grab something to eat, it’s time to head to one of the most intriguing places in Asia. The subject of many documentaries, the Kawloon Walled City Park is one of those places that will give you the chills.

From the Chi Lin Nunnery you can walk for about 1 kilometre or take a direct bus to the park.

Even though there is a mini-museum inside the park, I recommend watching this documentary before visiting. The Kawloon Walled city used to be the densest city in the world. Even though it was situated in the heart of Hong Kong, the Walled City was a place where crime and vice thrived. Even the local police was afraid to get inside this city.

Kawloon had a population of 50,000 residents, all living in an area of 2.6 hectares. In the early 90’s the government decided to entirely demolish the city and a few years later in the exact place where the city was built, a park was opened to the public.

Nowadays, the park is a quiet place, where locals come to relax and where ex-residents of Kawloon Walled City come to remember the old days. There is a small museum in the centre of the park where you can see images and read the history of the Walled City.

Right near the park is the Hau Wong Temple. The temple was built in 1730 and even though it is quite small, this temple is really beautiful. Here you can find important artefacts and beautiful Chinese calligraphy.

Day 1 – Evening

We’re going to spend the evening admiring some of the best views in Hong Kong. After that, it’s time for some shopping in one of the most photogenic markets in the world. Are you ready?

Take the direct bus number 1 from the Hau Wong Temple and head straight to the famous Avenue of Stars. This waterfront promenade offers some of the best views towards Hong Kong’s skyscrapers.

The idea behind the Avenue of Stars is similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This walkway honours the most important celebrities from the Hong Kong’s film industry. If you want some awesome pictures with the Hong Kong skyline, this is the place to be!

It is also a popular spot to watch the daily light show called the Symphony of Lights but for that I have an even better idea (see day 2).

From the Avenue of stars take the double-decker or the subway to Mong Kok, the busiest district in Hong Kong. In Cantonese, “Mong Kong” means “crowded corner” so get ready for a bit of chaos.

With countless shopping malls and convenience stores this place is heaven for shopping addicts. Also, here you can find many street food stalls. If you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend to try the local street food. You will find local dishes such as fish tofu and stinky balls and also international dishes such as pizza.

Don’t forget to keep track where you’re heading! Getting lost is almost inevitable in Mong Kok.

After escaping the crowded Mong Kok, take the bus to the famous Temple Street Night Market. Now it’s time to buy souvenirs for the loved ones back home. Here you will find magnets, clothes, accessories, electronics and pretty much anything you can think of.

The prices are decent but don’t forget to bargain! You can easily save up a few bucks!

As soon as the sun sets, the Temple Street Market opens and welcomes its visitors. Both tourists and locals shop here and it’s a really nice place to feel the vibe of the city.

To get an awesome shot from above the market, head to the parking lot, where the market ends and get your camera ready to catch some colourful photos!

Day 2 – Morning

Our second day in Hong Kong will take us to some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Get ready to see some incredible views and experience first-hand how locals live in this crowded concrete jungle.

Make sure to get up early in the morning, we have a lot to explore today!

Take the subway to Lantau Island and head straight to the Ngong Ping 360Cable Car. The 20-minute ride will take you through Hong Kong’s most beautiful scenery.

If the sights are not enough for you, you can take the Crystal Cabin (it costs a bit more) which has a transparent glass floor. How awesome is that? If you’re afraid of heights, maybe you should take the regular cabin.

The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is a tourist attraction itself and one of the coolest things to do in Hong Kong. Make sure to be there early as the cable car gets pretty crowded. You can also buy a fast pass if you want.

Our next stop is the Tian Tan Big Buddha, situated right next to the cable car. This bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni impresses through its size and beauty.

As you walk towards the statue, you’ll find six smaller bronze statues, known as “The Offering of the Six Devas”. To get to the Big Buddha, you will have to climb no more and no less than 268 steps. I recommend wearing some comfortable shoes.

While you’re in the area, I also recommend visiting the Po Lin Monastery. It’s a really nice way to experience first-hand Hong Kong’s culture.

Day 2 – Afternoon

It’s time to leave the Lantau Island and head to the Hong Kong Island. Here, we’ll visit another Insta-famous location and then see how the sun sets over Hong Kong from some of the best viewpoints around the city.

After being featured in the Transformers – Age of Extinction movie, the Monster Building, as it’s called by locals, has become an internet sensation. To get that perfect picture surrounded by the apartment buildings from the Montane Mansion, you’ll have to queue for a while.

The Monster Building has two courtyards where you can take photos. If the first one is too crowded, try the second one. Apart from photography enthusiasts, here you will also meet many local people who seem to not even notice the tourists searching for the best photo angle. You’ll see them playing Mahjong and drinking tea.

After experiencing first-hand how locals live in Hong Kong, it’s time to head to the Victoria Peak Tram and enjoy one of the most scenic rides in the city.

On your way to the top, you will pass by tall skyscrapers, dense forest and beautiful private villas. It’s a really good way to see the difference between how the rich and medium-class people live in Hong Kong.

Sometimes the Victoria Peak Tram can get pretty crowded. Be prepared to wait about 30 minutes for your turn to get in. The ride will take around 15 minutes so make sure to sit comfortably and relax while admiring the views.

Day 2 – Evening

This evening is all about jaw-dropping views. There is nothing more impressive in Hong Kong than its skyline. Although there are many viewing points around the city, I am going to tell you exactly where to go to experience the best views.

Once you get off the Victoria Peak Tram, head to one of the free viewing platforms. If you want, you can also go to the Sky Terrace 428 although I honestly don’t recommend it.

While the view from the Victoria Peak is beautiful, it’s definitely not the best one. Walk for a few minutes and you will get to a hidden gem, with a wider view and less tourists. I will talk about this place below.

Lugard Road is not actually a road but a path through the forest. From the Victoria Peak follow the path for about 15 minutes and you will get to this incredible viewpoint. Well hidden from tourists and with no entrance fee, this was my favourite place to watch the sunset in Hong Kong.

Take your time to watch how one by one, the skyscrapers light up. Slowly, the sunlight is replaced by neon lights and the night takes over the city. It is a truly wonderful sight. Don’t forget your camera home as you will definitely want to capture these moments.

Head back to the Victoria Peak Tram, get back down and head to the Central Pier No. 7 (Star Ferry Pier) and catch the 8pm ferry (from the Victoria Peak Tram there is a direct bus to the pier).

If you catch this exact ferry you will be one of the few lucky ones who will get to experience the Symphony of Lights from a ferry. Make sure to sit near a window and enjoy the show!

The Symphony of Lights is a daily multimedia show where the buildings in the Victoria Harbour light up on the sound of music. At the end of the show, be prepared to admire the fireworks!

Day 3 – Macau or Disneyland

For your last day in Hong Kong I have prepared two exciting activities. You can either take a day trip to the fascinating Macau or become a child again at Disneyland. Let’s talk about each of these options in detail.

Take the ferry to Macau and explore another spectacular city. Day trips from Hong Kong to Macau are really popular since the ferries run every 15 minutes.

Make sure to bring your passport with you! Most travellers don’t require a visa to enter Macau but you can check out more about visa requirements here .

To explore the city, I recommend taking the hop on and hop off bus straight from the ferry terminal in Macau. The bus has 16 stops and it covers all the important tourist attractions in the city.

Some of the attractions you can’t miss are: Macau Tower, A-ma Temple and of course, the famous casinos.

READ MORE – Check out our ‘ One Day in Macau ‘ itinerary.

Disneyland Hong Kong is one of the most visited theme parks in Asia and you should definitely visit it if you’re looking for some fun. Make sure to avoid holidays and the weekends since the park gets extremely crowded and you don’t want to spend hours queuing for rides.

To skip the lines, you can use the free fast passes. Near each important ride there is a ticketing machine that will issue a ticket with a “return time”. Make sure to be back at the time indicated on your ticket and enjoy a shorter queue!

Some of the most popular attractions are Big Grizzly Mountain Coaster, Iron Man Experience, Mystic Manor and Tarzan’s Tree House.

Hong Kong 3-Day Itinerary – Tips & Tricks

If you have 3 days in Hong Kong there’s a couple of useful tips I can share to help you make the most of your visit.

Hong Kong is a really beautiful city and there is no better way to experience it than by walking. You will find fascinating hidden alleys and you will have more time to admire the tall, crowded buildings around you.

The public transport in Hong Kong is awesome! The buses and the subway are really reliable, affordable and fast. Yes, taxis might be more comfortable but trust me, you don’t want to be stuck in traffic in Hong Kong.

Tip: When using the double-decker buses, head to the upper floor and sit in the front row. You will have the best view!

Stop at small, local restaurants to grab something to eat or try the street food. The food in Hong Kong might be a bit weird, especially for Westerners but it’s definitely worth a try!

Hong Kong is known to be a crowded city. Therefore, the bigger the hotel room is, the more you’re going to pay. There are accommodation options for each budget. You’ll definitely find something suitable for your needs!

If you feel like splurging, I recommend the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong . This hotel has some dreamy views and an incredible pool. Also, the rooms are incredibly spacious and very comfortable. The Grand Hyatt has all the amenities of a luxury hotel.

If you’re on a budget, I recommend the City Oasis Guesthouse . Situated in a beautiful area on Lantau Island, this place is perfect to relax after a day full of sightseeing.

Aurelia Teslaru

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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38 BEST Places to Visit in Hong Kong (2024 Guide)

Hiking, beaches and free camping in hong kong, related posts, 11 thoughts on “the perfect itinerary for 3 days in hong kong (2024)”.

Amazing article followed by beautiful photos… I really liked reading your post. Thanks for sharing!!

Hi! May I know the name of your hotel? I’m planning to visit HK hopefully in December. And I’m looking for cheap yet clean hotels. Thanks!

Take a Ride in the Star Ferry and Admire the Symphony of Lights – Is this free of charge? If no, how much does it cost? Where can I buy the tickets?

Hi Wilbert, both of these are not free. The price varies between companies. Here is a couple of options you can book a tour through Klook https://www.klook.com/en-US/activity/659-aqualuna-evening-sail-hong-kong/?aid=10694 Get Your Guide https://www.getyourguide.com/hong-kong-l174/victoria-harbour-night-or-symphony-of-lights-cruise-t194297/?partner_id=OA1606Q https://www.getyourguide.com/hong-kong-l174/hong-kong-symphony-of-lights-cruise-tour-t141549/?partner_id=OA1606Q

Have a great trip to Hong Kong

Thanks for the wonderful information

Thanks you very much, was a very useful guide!

Glad it was helpful. Happy travels

Super awesome article.

How much per person for this 3days tour?

This is a suggestion for a 3 day self itinerary not a tour. We are a travel blog not a tour company. There are many companies that do offer tours in Hong Kong. We wish you all the best and hope you have a great trip.

3 Days in Hong Kong: The Hong Kong Itinerary You’ll Want to Copy

last Updated: September 25, 2022 china hong kong

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Visiting the area and looking for the best 3 day Hong Kong itinerary? Keep on reading, because I’m sharing not only the perfect 3 days in Hong Kong, but where to stay, when to go, how to get around, and oh so much more! Including all my personal recommendations and top tips! You don’t wanna miss this Hong Kong blog.

Pull up a chair, because despite only covering 3 days, this Hong Kong itinerary is filled with so much information for your first visit to the country. Hong Kong is home to not only delectable dim sum (truuuust me on that one 😉 ), but serene floating islands, an impressive skyline, traditional Chinese architecture, and a vibrant and densely populated urban center.

The Perfect 3 day Hong Kong itinerary - what to see, where to stay, what to eat, and lots more!

I recently spent 3 days in Hong Kong last April, and was blown away by the tiny country’s skyscraper-studded skyline, lush greenery, and intriguing mixture of old and new.

Before visiting the country, I hadn’t really heard much about this Chinese autonomous territory, but after returning home, I’m scheming to make it back there sooner than later. And not just to eat alllll the food (again), I promise.

Where to Stay in Hong Kong

Since this 3 day Hong Kong itinerary will have you covering so much of what the little country has to offer, it’s best to stay in the middle of everything, with my top choice being the Kowloon Peninsula.

More specifically, the Tsim Sha Tsui (commonly known as TST), located in Kowloon , is a great option for those wishing to see and do it all. Being one of the most centrally located districts in the city, TST provides some of the best skyline views of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour.

TST is where many first-time visitors to Hong Kong decide to rest their heads at night due to its close proximity to a whole bunch of museums, Kowloon Park (a must-go), world-class restaurants, and epic nightlife potential.

I chose to stay in TST (at Urban Pack Hostel ) and was glad I chose this neighborhood to base myself in. If I wasn’t traveling solo, I would have LOVED to stay at either The Langham or The Peninsula (you betcha I did my research).

Top Hotels in TST:

The Peninsula Hong Kong (special occasion splurge-worthy)
The Langham Hong Kong (where I would have wanted to stay if I wasn’t traveling solo)
Hyatt Regency Hong Kong
Park Hotel Hong Kong
Butterfly on Prat
Gateway Hotel

Top Hostels in TST:

Urban Pack Hostel (where I stayed)

More hotels and hostels located in TST here.

When to Visit Hong Kong:

Unlike other Asian countries, like say Thailand for instance, Hong Kong experiences a myriad of different climates depending on the time of year. You’ll want to carefully avoid certain months if rain and crowds aren’t your idea of fun. My top pick: springtime (April – May).

Best Times to Visit: April – May, and September – December

September – December: Visiting once the humid (and wet) summer season is over is a fantastic idea. Daytime temps will be relatively mild in the mid 70’s, and you’ll be able to find average room rates. Just note that the first week of October is exceptionally crowded as many mainland Chinese visit during the national holiday.

April – May: Hong Kong’s short spring, from around April to May, is also a wonderful time to visit, but note that heavy fog tends to linger around until possibly late April or so. I visited in late March/early April, and thankfully experienced relatively clear skies without much impaction from fog. But if you’re hoping to avoid both the cooler temps in winter and that damn humidity in summer, spring may be your best option.

Visiting in the Summer : Hong Kong is known to have a long, hot, and muggy summer (June to August), with the possibility of typhoons. Unfortunately, this doesn’t drop hotel rates like it once did. Plan your 3 days in Hong Kong another time of year if you don’t want to visit during monsoon season and risk the potential rain.

Visiting in the Winter: January to March sees a bit cooler temperatures, but don’t fret, temps usually stay in the 60s and low 70s during the day. Perfect sightseeing weather in my opinion. While this deters some visitors, note that Chinese tourists love to head to Hong Kong for the holidays (Chinese New Year in February), ultimately increasing accommodation prices.

Hong Kong Safety:

Safety is never really a concern within the city itself, as Hong Kong is actually one of the safest places in the world. Violent crime is very, very rare here. Use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and keep flashy jewelry and electronics out of sight to avoid becoming the victim of petty crime (let’s face it – no place is a perfect 100% safe).

Stick to well-lit areas after dark and as I mentioned, just use vigilance like you would in any big city. The emergency police telephone number is 999, juuuust in case; the operators speak fluent English and Chinese.

How to Get Around Hong Kong:

The Octopus Card will be your best friend during your 3 days in Hong Kong – I promise! Make sure to buy it at the airport upon arrival, and preload it with some money. You can also purchase it at any MTR station, so don’t worry if you’re already in the city and haven’t bought it at the airport. 🙂

So what exactly is an Octopus Card? It’s a prepaid transport debit card that can be used to pay for all the different modes of transportation you’ll find around the city (just not taxis and some red minibuses). The Octopus Card can even be used as payment as supermarkets, restaurants, museums, convenience stores, and more. Basically, it’s awesome. Get one.

You’ll want to use the MTR (Mass Transport Rail – train) to get around the city, as it’s the fastest and most efficient mode of transport in Hong Kong. Download the MTR app (a true lifesaver when navigating the MTR) and KMB app (gives bus schedules in Kowloon and New Territories area) before your 3 days in Hong Kong.

Want to hop aboard Hong Kong’s signature mode of transportation, the double decker tram? Book yourself a 1-hour sightseeing tour of the city on an iconic 1920s tram, and then get unlimited rides for the next 2 days!

Is Hong Kong part of China?

Well, this is a tricky subject. Kiiiinda, but no. Hong Kong was taken over by the British after China lost a war in 1842, and was returned to China 156 years later in 1997 once the terms of the treaty expired.

It is now known as Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (HKSAR), and has its own government and its own separate identity for many administrative (and global) issues (including the United Nations).

People living in mainland China need to obtain a travel visa to visit Hong Kong, and vice versa. It is interesting however that people who live in Hong Kong are basically identical (linguistically and culturally) to those living in Guangzhou (the adjoining province, located in China).

Language and Currency in Hong Kong:

The official languages of Hong Kong are Chinese and English, although it’s a bit more complicated than that since Hong Kongers speak Cantonese (different than most of mainland China who speak Mandarin).

But if you’re coming from an English-speaking country you’re in luck – many speak English, although are far from fluent and are definitely not proficient. Thankfully, since English is in fact an official language of Hong Kong, all signs and announcements are in both Cantonese and English.

At the time of this article (Oct 2018), 1 Hong Kong Dollar is equivalent to 13 cents USD (or 1USD = ~8HK$). Kinda difficult to convert easily, so I used my currency converter app on my phone a lot. No shame. 🙂

And FINALLY, what you’ve been waiting for: My perfect 3 day Hong Kong itinerary!

Day 1. Kowloon Peninsula (Mainland Hong Kong)

For the first day on this 3 day Hong Kong itinerary, we’ll be staying in the northern part of Hong Kong, the mainland, also known as the Kowloon Peninsula. Today’s all about market hopping, eating, and checking out some architectural sites and gardens. If you’re staying in Kowloon at either Urban Pack Hostel or any hotel in TST (check for more) you’ll be able to follow this itinerary to a T.

MORNING: MARKET TIME

Tai Cheong Bakery: start off your first morning in Hong Kong with some egg tarts for breakfast at Tai Cheong Bakery (opens at 7:30am). It’s a bit tricky to find at first, located within the Star Ferry Pier. It’s just a little stand so take your egg tarts to go and indulge while having your first glimpse of Victoria Harbor.

Note that there’s another (more popular and more crowded) location in Central Hong Kong located near the Mid-Level Escalators. You can save this sweet treat for tomorrow if you’d like. (My gluttonous self went to both).

Kowloon Park: Next up, relax for a bit at Kowloon Park. If you just arrived this morning (like I did), you’ll probably be uber tired after your long flight. Don’t miss the pink flamingos and hundreds of turtles hanging out in the ponds. Beware that Kowloon Park is larger than large, so you’ll probably find yourself back here a few times to explore near your hotel or when you just want a quick relax.

Ladies Market : If you came to Hong Kong to bargain shop, this is your place to do it. With over 100 stalls of bargain clothing, accessories and souvenirs, put your haggling skills to the test. And you just find clothing here, everything from watches, cosmetics, bags, home furnishings, CDs and trinkets are also up for grabs.

Goldfish Market: This market is essentially a street lined on both sides with shops both raising and selling tons of types of fish, found in little baggies and large tanks. It’s located in Mongkok, one of the districts of Kowloon, and not far from the other markets we’ll be going to today.

You’ll see weirdly shaped goldfish, colorful tropical species, and fish with insanely high price tags. Makes for a few fun photos. Stop at Tung Tat for fish balls if you’d like to give them a try (highly recommended).

Flower Market Road: If you’re a flower lover like myself, you’ll find yourself gaping at all the petal possibilities here. Sure, you probably won’t buy anything here since you all you have is a hotel room, but a wander down this street will instantly put the pep back into your step if you’re feeling sluggish at all.

Flower market road is a good time to learn about the importance of flowers to Chinese culture, as each bloom has a different meaning to it.

Yuen Po Bird Garden: And while you’re over here, you might as well pop over to the bird garden, filled with you guessed it – birds for sale, cages, feeders, and tons of other supplies.

I kind of wished I joined a market tour like this one , because I honestly wasted a bit of time trying to find my way around and I learned absolutely nothing by walking around myself. By booking the tour you’ll also go to the jade market (swooooon) and a temple with burning coils of incense.

Like I said, I wanna go back to the country so there’s always next time for me! I tend to assume I can DIY everything, then wish I had pre-planned tours after the fact. Book the tour here .

AFTERNOON: Architecture and Gardens

Take the MTR a few stops to Choi Hung (remember to use your Octopus card), and spend the rest of the day exploring a few buildings and nearby garden. If you have time, visit the Wong Tai Sin Temple.

Note that I had a difficult time finding a few of these spots since there are just so many buildings and most are not labeled with names. Don’t feel bad if you’re wandering around for a bit trying to figure this out (as that’s exaaaactly what I did). 🙂

Ping Shek Estate: A quick stop at what looks like a regular ol’ apartment complex. But head inside, and you’ll be greeted with a grew view of sunlight beaming straight into the atrium. Make sure you look up! I was able to walk right in and take a few photos quite easily.

Choi Hung Estate: Oh so vibrant, and oh so colorful. THIS conglomerate of buildings is the main reason why I’m having you venture all the way over here. Besides being a top Hong Kong instagram spot, it actually is pretty interesting considering the interesting people watching opportunities.

And get this – Choi Hung literally means “rainbow” in Cantonese. Once you take a look at the buildings (and even the rainbow colored subway walls once you arrive at the Choi Hung station), you’ll see exactly what I mean.

In order to get the best photos (and where allll the budding photographers go to practice shooting), you’ll want to make your way to the basketball courts, which you’ll find after going up a flight of stairs above the parking lot. It’s a bit confusing but just look around and you’ll find the stairs.

Please remember that while this is a super fun spot to photograph, it’s home to many, many people. I mean did you see just how huge these buildings are – there must be 1,000’s of apartments here! Be courteous, keep the noise level to a minimum, and don’t move people’s things.

Nan Lian Garden: Next up, if you’ve had your fair share of Hong Kong instagrammers and nature’s calling you, walk a few minutes to Nan Lian Garden, which is relatively close to Choi Hung. Here you’ll find lush gardens, pavilions, lotus ponds, and pagodas – it’s basically like a calming oasis in the middle of crazy-busy Hong Kong!

Wong Tai Sin Temple: Take the MTR two stops to this well known shrine, which is actually dedicated to the Great Immortal Wong – Wong Tai Sin himself. If lattice work, incense and flowers, and colorful pillars are up your alley, don’t miss this busy temple.

If you somehow find yourself with more time (I was utterly exhausted by now), head to the Ten Thousand Buddhist Monastery. With a cost of FREE (!!!) and easily accessed from the MTR, there’s no reason to leave off these 13,000 Buddha statues from your Hong Kong itinerary. I’ll definitely be adding this to mine next trip since I unfortunately missed the monastery last time around.

Where to Eat in Kowloon:

A few of my favorites: Yum Cha for adorable dim sum critters, xiao long bao from Din Tai Fung, pork buns from Tim Ho Wan (cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant in the world), Tai Cheong Bakery for egg tarts (location in Central as well), and milk pudding from Yee Shun Dairy Company.

Also don’t miss fish balls, Three Stuffed Treasures, and white sugar cake, all delicacies and loved in Hong Kong. Try alllll of the street food on this tour , from pork dumplings and roast goose to pineapple buns and glutinous rice pastries. Um, hello! YUM!

If you want some of the famed Hong Kong dim sum, consider signing up for a Dim Sum and Sightseeing Tour .

Detailed post coming soon with alllll the things I ate (and wish I ate) during my 3 days in Hong Kong (you’ll be a bit disgusted to see how much I was able to stuff in in just a few days…)

Day 2: Hong Kong Island

Morning: victoria peak.

Visiting Hong Kong and not making your way to Victoria Peak is like visiting California and not stuffing your face with In N Out Burger. It’s a (terrible, horrible, no-good) crime, okay? So because of this, Day 2 of our 3 days in Hong Kong is dedicated to that iconic skyline at Victoria Peak (also known and referred to as “The Peak”).

And apparently, everyone and their mother adores this view as well, because, let’s face it, it’s one of the most crowded spots you’ll encounter in Hong Kong! I promise it’s worth it though!

Tips for Visiting Victoria Peak:

Able to choose which morning you head up to the Peak? Always choose a clear day, and preferably a weekday if you can. Depending on the time of year, Hong Kong experiences some nasty smog, which may in fact drastically impact the views (negatively). Should this happen, those spectacular skyline views may be impeded by thick fog, making for less than impressive photos.
While Victoria Peak will always be quite crowded (it is Hong Kong’s most popular tourist attraction afterall), a visit early in the morning will find the least amount of crowds. Just go early and expect to share the view with others, and you’ll be fine.
Get the egg waffles. It’s never too early for ice cream.

Should you pay extra to visit Sky Terrace 428? I’m not entirely sure. Although it’s only 26 HKD extra (a mere $3USD or so), it was exceptionally crowded and I’m not sure the views were any better than those down below. People were pushing and shoving and I could hardly even get a photo of myself without others in the frame.

Note that if you do decide to go, you’ll make your way up approximately 5 levels of escalators, ultimately ending up at the rooftop which is where the lookout of the Sky Terrace is.

There are a few ways to get to that iconic skyline:

Option #1 — Peak Tram: Want to ride on the city’s oldest mode of public transport?! Take the Peak Tram, which will get you all the way to the top in just 7-8 minutes. Do note that the line is freakily long, so you’ll want to plan for this in advance.

If you want to bypass the long lines for the Peak Tram (and why would you not?!), you can buy a ticket in advance to Madame Tussauds which includes access to the Peak Tram Special Lane. Don’t be silly and waste your time waiting in line. You can also include a hop-on hop-off tour of the city with this skip-the-line ticket as well if Madame Tussaud’s not really your thing.

Option #2 — Bus 15: Most people take the Peak Tram in order to reach Victoria Peak and then Sky Terrace, but I decided to take the bus from Central in order avoid the long long lines. If you’re staying in TST like I was, you’ll first need to take the ferry or MTR across the water, then take bus 15 for a mere ~2USD to Victoria Peak.

Understand that the bus ride up takes roughly an hour or so, but you’ll see a good bit of the island and get a small thrill while riding up the windy cliff road. AND it’s SO inexpensive. I chose to take the bus to the top of the mountain and the peak tram back down (there was hardly a line).

Option #3 — Walk/Hike: Feeling a bit extra and have some time to spare? Maybe you’re spending 4 days in Hong Kong and don’t need to rush up? Walk up to The Peak from town (albeit a bit long and rather steep), and you’ll definitely earn your fair share of egg tarts and bubble waffles!

Afternoon: Hong Kong Island Sites

Once you’ve had your share of skyline views, back to ground level it is! Time to explore the rest of Hong Kong Island (and if you’re like me, eat even more egg tarts). No shame nor judgments, I promise :p

Ride on the Central Mid-Level escalator : Although this is basically exactly what it sounds like, a loooong AF escalator that connects Central to the Mid-Levels, it’s still fun to ride on. And get this – it’s actually the longest uncovered escalator in the world (yes, the world!)

Note that since the escalator is actually used as a means of public transportation (by ~54,000 people per day – WHOA), it only runs in one direction at a time. Remember: down in the mornings and up in the evenings! Don’t forget this – it’d be horrible to get stuck walking up and down the tons and tons of stairs instead.

If you can use this to actually decrease your walking time go for it – I was too confused to even begin any attempts (face palm). I probably walked an extra 5,837 miles, but oh well, I earned my dessert for the day.

Man Mo Temple: Located on busy Hollywood Road among the antique shops, Man Mo really is a pleasant surprise. This 1800s temple features a lavish, traditional interior with tons of incense spirals overhead (and be prepared – the smell is intense!) To make the most of your visit, make a small donation and light an incense stick. A great retreat in the middle of the bustling Central area!

Street Art in SoHo (South of Hollywood Road) : Street art lover like myself? Take a stroll around SoHo and admire all the new and intensely colorful pieces popping up in all the nooks and crannies. There’s tons of beautiful pieces scattered around the area, so be sure to explore all the side streets, especially Graham Street!

You’ll come across a mural of old Hong Kong buildings which can be shot across the street – but be careful, as there are cars constantly driving along there so don’t get in the way of traffic.

Montane Mansion: Another of Hong Kong’s most popular photography sites is Montane Mansion, known for its conglomeration of five incredibly dense and stacked residential complexes.

If you’ve done any research for your 3 days in Hong Kong before landing on this page, I’m more than positive you’ve come across images of these buildings – they’re easily one of the country’s most instagrammable sites. It ain’t called the Monster Building for nothing! Get here by taking the MTR and getting off at Quarry Bay Station, Exit B.

Other Things on Hong Kong Island to Add to Your Hong Kong Itinerary if you’ve got more time or 4 days in Hong Kong:

Hike to Jardine’s Lookout : About a 3 hour and provides really pretty views, and even better, the hike ain’t too difficult!
The Blue House Cluster in Wan Chai: Looking for those colorful buildings in Hong Kong? You’ll find them over here! Not only will you easily spot an intensely blue house, but yellow and orange and pink are next door as well, forming a cluster of a few brightly colored buildings. These buildings are one of the few remaining examples of old-school tenement buildings in all of Hong Kong, built between the 1920s and 1950s.

Mini Flower Market in Wan Chai : Didn’t have time to make it over to the Flower Market (in Kowloon) on Day 1 of our Hong Kong itinerary? The next best thing is found in Wan Chai on Gresson Street. And while there only a few shops selling all things flowers (think succulents, orchids, and more), it’s just so colorful it’s worth a quick stop – even if you aren’t planning on buying anything.
Victoria Park: Everyone needs some time to chill and relax, and Victoria Park is the place to do it. Know that it’s also the ultimate hotspot for tai chi sessions at sunrise, so feel free to wake up before dawn if you want to partake in this activity! You’ll also see other forms of relaxation exercises being done to calming music near the fountain.

Where to Eat on Hong Kong Island

Don’t miss Mammy Pancakes or Oddies Foodies for those oh so famous egg waffles, Lan Kwai Fong street for your pick of over a hundred restaurants, Little Bao for traditional Chinese baos with a twist, Jumbo Kingdom Floating Restaurant if you’re in the mood for some drunken shrimp, and Kam Kee for the fresh beef set.

Remember, I’m currently working on an entire blog post dedicated to all the places I ate (and wished to eat at) during my 3 days in Hong Kong.

Day 3: Lantau Island

My day on Lantau Island was my favorite day on Hong Kong! Sure, I got a glimpse of the cities greenery the day before on the peak tram (with view of Victoria Harbor and the HK skyline), but unil visiting Lantau Island, I hadn’t realized just how lush this area actually is!

Day 3 in a nutshell: cable car ride, Big Buddha, Tai O Fishing Village, and the Wisdom Path (mini hike). Today’s a jam packed busy day, so be sure to get a good night’s sleep the day before.

How to Get to Lantau Island

Note that in order to get to Lantau Island, you’ll need to ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car . Book tickets beforehand (up to 14 days prior to visiting) in order to avoid wasting precious time (it get’s suuuuper crowded).

I prebooked tickets for the 9:45am time slot and was able to go directly to the boarding area bypassing all the crowds (saved me SO much time!) Also, you’ll want to take an early cable car so you can spend as much time on Lantau Island as possible.

Tickets are HK $107 (~13USD) for a normal round trip ticket , but I highly encourage you to get the Crystal (glass-bottom) cabin at least one way. For a few extra bucks, not only does the line become significantly shorter, but you’ll get absolutely fantastic views of the dense jungle and turquoise waters below your feet while on the cable car. Buy skip the line tickets here . I absolutely loved it and had SO much fun taking photos!

In order to get to the cable car, you’ll need to first make your way to the Tung Chung MTR station, then follow the easy-to-find signs. Worse comes to worse, just follow everyone – they’re all headed to the cable car (you certainly don’t need to worry about getting lost here)!

If you’re on a tight budget, take bus #23 outside of Tung Chung MTR, but be aware that there will be long queues on the weekend.

And if you’d prefer to save your sanity and let someone else do the pre-planning, book yourself on a tour. Most organized tours spend some time at Tai O Fishing Village, the Big Buddha, and give extra time for wandering the village.

Recommended Day Tours to Lantau Island

Lantau Island Explorer with Cable Car and Lunch
Big Buddha with Crystal or Standard Cable Car
Lantau Cultural Insight Tour (with Cable Car)

Things to do in Lantau Island

Tai O Fishing Village: Located an easy bus ride (#21) away after a short walk from the cable car drop off on Lantau Island, this fishing village is not to be missed!

Tai O is known for being one of the oldest remaining fishing villages in all of Hong Kong. A wander around will really give a perspective of how people live in this little village. I found Tai O to be less touristy and had a more relaxed atmosphere which was appreciated after spending the previous days in the bustling city center.

A few popular eats include charbroiled egg puffs (get the ones on Kat Hing street), jumbo fish balls (my favorite!), and Tai O donuts. Short boat rides are offered (which I took), as seeing pink chinese dolphins are a possibility! I was not so lucky, but the scenery and stilt houses were outstanding!

I would head to Tai O Fishing Village first thing (before climbing up to Big Buddha) because of timing. It’s easier to run back from the buddha if at at all necessary to catch the last cable car if need be.

Big Buddha: Climb the 268 steps up to the majestic Tian Tan Buddha, also known as Big Buddha, completed in 1993. At 34 meters high, it’ll be quite difficult to take a selfie with the large bronze statue, but from this high up, you’ll get absolutely fantastic views of the Po Lin Monastery and Ngong Ping Village down below.

The Tian Tan Buddha symbolizes the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people, and faith. Please be aware of the heat when climbing the stairs as there’s a reasonable amount of physical effort required. Bring water and don’t miss the Po Lin Monastery nearby afterwards!

Wisdom Path: Trust me – you’ll be craving a bit of tranquility and peace after visiting the super popular (and crowded) Big Buddha. This short 15-minute walk through the woods will give you just that – some brilliant peace and quiet.

Once you arrive, take in the beauty of the tall-standing wooden logs with Hindu inscriptions reflecting different aspects of human life (happiness, success, emptiness, etc). Walk on the infinity path. I went a bit further and took myself on a mini hike, although turned around quite quickly because I was traveling solo. Such a simple and serene spot in nature!

Things to do in Hong Kong at Night:

Temple Street Night Market : make sure to visit Temple Street one night for a good wander. You’ll find souvenirs (think clothing, jade, and antiques in addition to all the typical gimmicks), local street snacks with tons of outdoor seating, fortune tellers, and possibly even opera singers.

And if you’re staying in TST, this lively Chinese night market will only be a few minutes walk away!

Hong Kong 3-Hour Night Tour : Don’t feel comfortable wandering around at night? Grab yourself a ticket on this Hong Kong night tour – you’ll explore different pockets of Hong Kong, from ethnic minority communities to glamorous Tsim Sha Tsui, from peaceful parks to glittering skylines. Sounds good to me! Temple Street Night Market is included, as well as the spectacular illuminated skyline of Hong Kong from a secret vantage point.

Symphony of Lights: Wander over to the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade for a FREE Hong Kong light show projected from the famous Hong Kong skyline (yes, totally free).

I was expecting the show to be a bit more “wow” and was a tad underwhelmed, but that may be because I had just visited Singapore and all it’s ridiculousness. Still worth a quick visit in my opinion. Bring along a snack and hang for a bit.

Ride a sampan or ‘junk boat’ on Victoria Harbor: The best way to get those famous views of the city skyline? Aboard an ancient Chinese junk boat of course! These are the flashy red wooden boats you’ll see all over Victoria Harbor.

And if you plan your timing right, you may even catch the Symphony of Lights, a spectacular light show that happens every night at 8pm. Cruises are also available during the day or for sunset (which I bet is equally as beautiful).

Book tickets here for the light show , a junk boat tour with WINE here , and tickets here for an afternoon sail (and schedule this early as there are not as many providers as there once was).

Rooftop Bars: rooftops and views are synonymous in Hong Kong, and there are plenty for the picking. A few I visited and recommend:

Ozone Sky Bar: located at the Ritz Carlton, this place just screams swank (in a good way). Minus the high drink price tags, you bet you’ll get some of the best views of the city considering it’s one of the highest rooftop bars in the world. Yes, the world. I’m pretty sure you’re supposed to get all fancy for this place, but we managed to score a low-key table in shorts and a crop top.
EyeBar: If you’re staying at the Urban Pack Hostel (or somewhere nearby), this rooftop bar is only a two minute walk away. How can you not go for even one drink and a short visit? Note that they are very strict with those watching the view – no drink, no view. They kicked us out real fast. You’ve been warned.

Other Things to Add to your Hong Kong Itinerary

Have 4 days in Hong Kong? You lucky duck you. Plan to either spend the day on Macau, go hiking, or unleash your inner child at Disneyland Hong Kong!

Unleash your inner child and let loose for the day! With all the culture and history you’ve probably soaked up on your first 3 days in Hong Kong, you deserve a day of unparalled fun. Book tickets to Disneyland ahead of time (includes transportation from most hotels as well) .

With your Hong Kong Disneyland 1-day ticket, you’ll get to explore all 7 themed lands including Adventureland, Main Street U.S.A., Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, Toy Story Land, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. Heck yes! Discover the Iron Man Experience, Disney Park’s first Marvel-themed ride, enjoy the dream-come-true Royal Princess Garden, and experience Disney’s Paint the Night parade.

Commonly referred to as the “Las Vegas of Asia”, this little city on the south coast of China does in fact have giant casinos and malls on it’s own strip, Cotai. Since it was a Portugese territory until 1999, Macau has lots of cultural influences from Portugal, including some absolutely beautiful architecture, which is oh so different than the buildings you’ll see in Hong Kong.

Don’t miss the Macau Tower, which boasts sweeping city views from 338 meters high. This tour , with lunch in a revolving restaurant (yes, really), visits to Macau’s first Vegas style Casino and Museum of Macau, and much, much more, is a fantastic way to spend your extra day in Hong Kong. Ferry tickets are included as well which makes this day trip particularly easy.

When do you plan to put this Hong Kong itinerary to use?! If you have any suggestions on things to add to this Hong Kong blog (or if it’s been extra helpful), let me know down below in the comments!

Photos via Hong Kong dollars , disney 1 , disney 2

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3 days in Hong Kong Itinerary

Travel Blog Last Updated · Jan 10th, 2024 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

Welcome to our 3 days in Hong Kong itinerary.

As one of the most popular destinations in Asia, Hong Kong is a fascinating city with its unique mix of Chinese and Cantonese cultures.

This guide explores our itinerary, which we’ve customized so you can see everything at a moderate pace without too many breaks or idle time.

Table of Contents

3 days in Hong Kong

Time is precious, so let’s start by looking at the number of days in Hong Kong needed as well as the best time to visit so you can ensure the weather is on your side during your visit to the city.

How Many Days to Spend in Hong Kong?

We recommend spending a minimum of three days exploring Hong Kong, which will include visiting the best sites in the city, as well as taking a couple of day trips that are further away.

Best Time to Visit Hong Kong

The weather pattern in Hong Kong follows the standard seasonal pattern in the Northern Hemisphere, with hot summers and cooler winters.

The streets of Hongkong is perfect for walking during the dry months of the year

The summer season runs from June until early September and is characterized by an average daily temperature of 85-86°F throughout these months. Highs can rise as high as 89°F on a good day, with low sometimes dropping down to 77°F, mostly during the nighttime.

Rainfall is at its highest during this time of year, with anywhere from 20-26 days of rain for each of these months. August on average is the wettest, with around 270mm falling throughout the month.

The winter in contrast is somewhat cooler, although still pleasant. Average temperatures from December until February hover between 64-65°F, with highs of 68°F, and lows of 55°F.

On record, January is usually the coldest month to visit Hong Kong. Precipitation is very low during this time of year, with only 20-30mm falling throughout each.

Hong Kong 3 day itinerary

Below is our 3-day itinerary which we feel covers some of the best landmarks in Hong Kong. It’s not extreme on-time efficiency, which means there will be a few hours free here and there.

Tourists at Victoria Harbour with Hongkong skyline as the backdrop

From here, either take the popular open-top bus or the Peak Tram to ascend to the top of Victoria Peak. Here you can enjoy the amazing panoramic views of the city, and also to get some lunch.

After we then head to the Temple Street Night Market to explore the wild variety of bargain novelties, as well as taste some local foods.

One can walk down and enjoy the coastline of Cheung Chau

We recommend Tung Wan beach, which has lots of nice beach-side bars and restaurants close by. Take in the views from the North Lookout Pavillion, before heading onto Lantau Island.

Once we arrive, we’ll visit the imposing Tian Tan Buddha Statue, which is one of the best sights in Hong Kong. After the evening is yours to enjoy!

We recommend heading up Ozone Bar for some drinks and impressive views of the city (it’s the highest bar in the World!), and then onto Wan Chai which is home to the best nightlife in Hong Kong.

On our last day, we’ll take the 2.5 hour ferry over to Macau, and explore an island with a very unique, historical past.

Afterward, we’ll have time to explore the rest of the island, including the infamous Venetian Macao hotel , and also wind down with an almost unlimited array of entertainment opportunities on-hand.

When you’re finished, take the ferry back to mainland Hong Kong and to your apartment to gather your luggage before leaving for the airport.

Day Trips From Hong Kong

Doing a day trip from Hong Kong will give you the opportunity to see more than you usually would but within a much shorter time frame.

Cheung Chau

There are lots of great beaches here, with the most popular being Tung Wan. Another great thing to do on the island is to visit The North Lookout Pavilion, which arguably has the best views of the island out into the South China Sea.

This Island can be reached by ferry from Hong Kong. Now a special administrative region of China, Macau was previously leased to Portugal for many centuries, and so has features from this earlier historical period.

Nowadays, Macau is well-known as one of the playground islands of Asia, with many luxury hotels and casinos lining the island such as The Venetian Macao. You can even take a Self guided tour on your phone that goes around the infamous ‘Las Vegas of the East’.

Things to Do in Hong Kong

With a long list of things to do let’s start by taking looking at the most popular activities that you wouldn’t want to miss out on during your visit:

Victoria Peak

The best way to reach the top is using the Peak Tram, which is an experience in itself, where you’ll go up a sharp incline all the way up to the top. We recommend heading up around mid-afternoon, where you can have dinner whilst watching the sunset over the skyline.

Tian Tan Buddha

The Tian Tian Buddha is a must visit for Buddhists

One of the most popular destinations to visit in Hong Kong, Tian Tan is also a major hub for those who worship Buddhism and also a tourist attraction, the statue symbolizes the harmonious relationship between nature, man and faith.

Victoria Harbour

Located in the middle of Hong Kong, Victoria Harbour and its long promenades are one the best places for photography in the city.

Separating Hong Kong Island from the Kowloon Peninsula, it has huge historical importance including Hong Kong’s development as a trading center to the more recent controversial reclamation projects.

Temple Street Night Market

One of the biggest flea markets in Hong Kong, Temple Street Night Market is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Most chinese restaurants serve chopstick with their food - so better practice using chopsticks!

Here one can find anything from traditional Chinese medicine, to novelty bargains and roadside dining. There are also occasional Cantonese Opera Shows that take place along the market.

Hong Kong Travel Tips

The best time to visit Hong Kong is within the shoulder months of May, September and October, which have both hot temperatures and less rainfall than the Summer.
There are many great places to stay in Hong Kong, however, we recommend Wan Chai, which is full of arts, culture and a variety of great nightlife.
Before heading to Eastern Asia, why not take a look at these photos of China to get even more inspiration for the rest of your trip?
Getting around is much easier if you buy a Tourist Octopus Card, which is both affordable and gives full access to Hong Kong’s extensive travel network.
Lastly, we recommend getting some practice eating with chopsticks beforehand! Much of Hong Kong’s cuisine requires them, just don’t cross them over as it’s thought to bring bad luck.

3 Days in Hong Kong: Final Words

All in all, you should have some idea of how to spend your precious time in this beautiful city.

Be sure to follow some of our sustainable travel tips to ensure that your trip has a positive impact on the local environment.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning, if you click through and make a purchase or sign up for a program, we may earn a commission. This is at no additional cost to you.

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Things To Do In Hong Kong for 3 Days, a Perfect Itinerary

Hong Kong, an autonomous territory on China’s southeastern coast, is a vibrant, bustling city with a unique heritage, rich history, and a glamourous East meets West vibe. From the densely packed Kowloon neighborhoods to the tranquil fishing villages on Lamma Island, and with a population of 7.4 million, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most populated regions.

There’s plenty to do here, and three days in Hong Kong is perfect for an introduction to the former British colony. There are also many Hong Kong tours available that will help you explore more in-depth this city. Visitors often stay in Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island in Central. With an impressive and efficient public transportation system, as well as the prevalence of English signs, it’s easy to get anywhere in Hong Kong.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission. It costs nothing extra to you but helps keep my site running. Thank you for supporting me in this way.

Table of Contents

How to Spend 3 Days in Hong Kong, Detailed Itinerary

How to get from and to hong kong airport.

There are three options for getting to/from Hong Kong Airport to the city center and it depends on your time and budget which option you choose.

Train : Taking the train is the quickest option for getting from Hong Kong Airport to the city center. The journey only takes 24 minutes and with six Airport Express trains per hour, this is a safe, quick, hassle-free option. Finding the train is easy as it is located within the terminal building, just 50m from the arrivals’ hall. Look out for Airport Express counters or ticket machines to buy your train pass before boarding. Even though the train only takes 24 minutes the service provides free WiFi, TV, and power charging sockets! Once you arrive in central Hong Kong, you will want to connect to the free MTR shuttle bus to reach your final destination. Time: 24 minutes Cost: 12.50 EUR (115 HK)

Bus : Taking the bus into Hong Kong is the cheapest way to get from the airport to downtown but it is also the longest option. The A11 bus is the most popular option, with services departing the airport every 20 minutes. This route takes you directly to downtown stopping at convenient stops like Hong Kong’s City Hall and Connaught Road Central. Tickets can be purchased from a counter at the Airport Ground Transportation Centre or from the driver on the bus. The A11 bus runs from 06:10 am to 00:30 am. If you arrive after this time you will need to take the night buses, N11, which runs from 00:50 am to 04:50 am. The bus also offers free WiFi. Time: 1.15 minutes Cost: 4.40 EUR (40 HK)

Taxis : Taxis from Hong Kong Airport to the city center are done on a metered basis and should cost around 40 EUR (370 HK), depending on the travel distance required. If you are traveling to the Urban area of Hong Kong (most likely) you will need to take the designated Urban Taxis which are red with yellow lights on top. Please note: there may be additional costs for large luggage and toll roads. As Hong Kong is such a busy airport there is likely to be a queue when you arrive so you will need to wait in line in order to take an airport taxi into Hong Kong. Time: approx. 30 minutes

Private Airport Transfer with Welcome Pick-Ups : If you would rather have the convenience and security of knowing you have a pre-booked taxi from the airport, you can book a transfer through Welcome Pick-Ups . Welcome drivers are chosen for their customer service and level of English and also monitor your flight to ensure they are there for you in arrivals at whatever time you get in. The Welcome taxi service is likely to cost a bit more than a regular taxi (around 56 EUR) but you will have the security of having a pick-up driver waiting for you on arrival who will take you straight to your hotel with no hidden fees or waiting around.

Click here for more information and book your private transfer.

Map for your 3-day Hong Kong Itinerary

3 Days in Hong Kong: Day One

Your first day in Hong Kong ought to be spent exploring the history and culture of the territory. Hong Kong’s history stretches back to the Neolithic era, and until the mid 17th century was a territory of mostly fishing and farming villages. The British took control following the opium wars, in the mid-1800s, and only returned the land to the Chinese when their 99-year lease expired in 1997.

Walking Tour of Kowloon

Today, Hong Kong is a financial powerhouse and one of the world’s most significant banking centers. There are a variety of tours that highlight the heritage of Hong Kong as well as the growth of the city into one of the world’s foremost financial centers. One of the best Hong Kong tours that touch on both the history and the growth of the city is a half-day walking tour of Kowloon and Central.

For a powerful introduction to Hong Kong, visit the Peak. Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, is one of the most popular visitor attractions in the city. Most people arrive by the Peak Tram, which departs from St. John’s Cathedral in Central, but it is also accessible by private car or taxi along a winding road. Ambitious travelers might wish to walk up via the steep Old Peak Road, but factor in a few hours for this adventure. The nearest MTR station is Central.

You’ll find two shopping centers, a large viewing platform, plenty of restaurants, and several walking trails. In addition to being a popular tourist spot, the Peak is also the pinnacle of housing in Hong Kong and is home to numerous government officials and public figures.

Click here to book a private evening hike to Victoria Peak.

Tsim Sha Tsui

Tsim Sha Tsui is a popular culture and nightlife district located in Kowloon. It boasts a variety of activities and attractions along with Nathan and Canton Roads. The Avenue of Stars, along the Victoria Harbour waterfront, is where you can spot statues of your favorite film characters. The promenade pays tribute to the enviable list of Hong Kong stars – Jackie Chan, Bruce Lee, and more. It’s a popular spot to hang out to watch the evening light show.

You might also be interested in this promenade walking tour.

The Science, Space, Art, and History museums are all within walking distance of each other in Tsim Sha Tsui, making them a perfect rainy day activity.

Symphony of Lights

Every evening at 8 pm, the city lights up with a 15-minute light show. Considered one of the world’s best multimedia shows, the skyscrapers on either side of Victoria Harbour light up and dazzle viewers as orchestral music plays. You can listen to the music at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui or at the Golden Bauhinia in Wan Chai, or you can download an app and listen to the music while enjoying the show from anywhere. One of the best places to view the show is from the harbor, so several popular Hong Kong tours offer an evening on a local junk boat to watch the spectacle.

3 Days in Hong Kong: Day Two

On day two in Hong Kong, take a day to visit the world’s most famous mouse. Hong Kong Disneyland, located on Lantau Island, is a popular day trip for visitors from all over the world. Hong Kong Disneyland is very easy to get to, either by the MTR public transit or by car, although the metro is much easier. Disneyland has its own line and station, and signs are clearly marked in English.

While Hong Kong Disneyland is much smaller than the Florida resort complex, it still has the charm and flair of the two original Disney parks. Don’t miss Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland, three of the original regions in the Disney parks.

Tip: You can purchase Hong Kong Disneyland tickets in advance , through a tour operator. If you want to purchase Hong Kong Disneyland tickets when you get there, expect to stand in line.

3 Days in Hong Kong: Day Three

Take a day trip to one of the outer-lying areas of Hong Kong, or take the ferry to Macau, on the Chinese mainland. These are all popular Hong Kong tours but are also very easy to do on your own.

Lantau Island

As Hong Kong’s largest outlying island, Lantau is definitely worth a day trip from Hong Kong central. Attractions on Lantau Island include the Tian Tin Big Buddha at Ngong Ping monastery, the 360 cable car (which is also the best way to get to the monastery), Po Lin monastery, and Tai O fishing village.

Lantau Island: Book Boat and NP360 Cable Car tickets or Tai O Day Pass

Lamma Island

Lamma Island, just 20 minutes from downtown Hong Kong, feels like a world away. Its multicultural, laid-back hippie vibe is at odds with the high-powered hustle of the city, yet it complements it in so many ways. Head to Lamma to explore off-the-grid hiking trails, great seafood restaurants, and rustic fishing villages.

Highlights of Lamma include the World War II-era kamikaze tunnels – located along one of the hiking trails – and the Tin Hau Temple. The island doesn’t allow cars, so enjoy the relaxed pace on Lamma before heading back to the frenzy of Hong Kong.

For a unique day trip from Hong Kong, jump on one of the high-speed ferries and cross to Macau, another one of China’s autonomous territories at the Pearl River Delta. Macau, known as the Las Vegas of Asia, is a glittering jewel filled with casinos and shopping malls. It also has a rich Portuguese heritage though, and so, like Hong Kong, it is a juxtaposition of old and new. It takes about one hour to get between the two countries, and you will need to take your passport.

There’s plenty to do in Hong Kong, from exploring the unique cultural heritage to embracing your inner child at Hong Kong Disneyland. This three-days in Hong Kong itinerary covers all the major highlights and allows you the freedom to explore some of the most popular Hong Kong tours.

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Ultimate Hong Kong Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit & 3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary

Last updated on April 9th, 2024 at 04:24 am

Welcome to our ultimate Hong Kong Travel Guide, where we’ll take you on a journey through one of Asia’s most dynamic and vibrant cities. From iconic skyscrapers to bustling markets and stunning natural landscapes, Hong Kong offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. In this Hong Kong Travel Guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best places to visit, a well-crafted 3-day Hong Kong itinerary, the lively night market scene, and a variety of exciting things to do in this captivating destination.

Hong Kong Travel Guide

Hong kong entry requirements.

U.S. passport holders do not need a visa to visit Hong Kong for short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. However, entry requirements can change, so I recommend checking the official website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department or contacting the nearest Hong Kong consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date information before your travel.

Hong Kong Airport To The City

Airport Express Train: The Airport Express is a fast and convenient way to reach the city. It departs from the airport and takes you to Hong Kong Station, Kowloon Station, or Tsing Yi Station. The journey takes around 24 minutes to Hong Kong Station and 20 minutes to Kowloon Station.

Public Bus: Hong Kong has an extensive bus network. You can take one of the many buses that operate between the airport and various parts of the city. The journey time and fare depend on your destination.

Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. You can take a taxi to your destination in the city. Be sure to use licensed taxis, and have your destination written in Chinese to avoid any language barriers.

Hong Kong’s Electrical Landscape

Hong Kong’s electrical outlets feature the British-style Type G sockets. This means that if your electronic devices come with plug types commonly used in the United States (Type A) or Europe (Type C), they won’t fit directly into Hong Kong’s outlets. This is where a travel adapter comes to the rescue, enabling you to seamlessly plug in your devices and keep them powered up.

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How To Get Around In Hong Kong

1. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway): The MTR stands as the linchpin of Hong Kong’s transportation network, offering a rapid, hygienic, and efficient mode to traverse the city. The extensive network spans key districts and attractions, making it a favored choice for both residents and tourists. From iconic Hong Kong Island to captivating Kowloon and beyond, the MTR serves as your gateway to exploring the city’s multifaceted charm.

2. Buses and Trams: Embark on a leisurely sightseeing journey by hopping onto Hong Kong’s iconic double-decker buses or nostalgic trams. While the MTR might not cover certain areas, the bus system unveils picturesque routes that allow you to relish scenic vistas as you travel. Additionally, trams on Hong Kong Island offer a delightful way to traverse the city’s core.

3. Star Ferry: No Hong Kong adventure is complete without an enchanting voyage on the Star Ferry. This iconic mode of transport seamlessly links Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, offering unparalleled panoramas of the city’s majestic skyline and the enchanting Victoria Harbour. Beyond mere transportation, the Star Ferry embodies an integral Hong Kong experience that beckons exploration.

4. Taxis: Taxis stand as a readily accessible and convenient option, especially for groups or those carrying substantial baggage. Easily identifiable by color-coded zones, Hong Kong taxis provide safety and metered fares. Bear in mind that peak hours may entail traffic congestion, affecting travel times.

5. Airport Express: Effortlessly connect to and from the city center when arriving or departing from Hong Kong International Airport with the Airport Express. This high-speed train service guarantees a seamless travel experience, boasting comfort and onboard Wi-Fi. Make the most of your time in Hong Kong without the hassle of transportation concerns.

6. Ferries to Outlying Islands: Escape the urban hustle and embrace tranquility by embarking on a ferry journey to Hong Kong’s enchanting outlying islands. From the serene Lantau Island to captivating Cheung Chau and cultural Lamma Island, these ferry rides offer a rejuvenating getaway, replete with picturesque landscapes and distinct local cultures.

Where To Stay In Hong Kong

Selecting the right place to stay in Hong Kong is a crucial aspect of planning your trip. With an array of accommodation options catering to various preferences and budgets, our guide will help you navigate through the city’s diverse neighborhoods and find the perfect place to call your temporary home.

1. Central & Admiralty: Ideal for business travelers and culture enthusiasts, Central and Admiralty are bustling commercial districts that also offer a plethora of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Luxury hotels and boutique accommodations dot the skyline, placing you in the heart of Hong Kong’s urban buzz. Recommended hotel is Butterfly on Wellington Boutique Hotel Central

2. Tsim Sha Tsui: Nestled in Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui is a lively hub known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping havens, and breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour. Choose from a variety of hotels, ranging from upscale to mid-range, and revel in the convenience of staying near iconic attractions. Recommended hotel is The Mira Hong Kong

3. Causeway Bay: For those seeking a shopper’s paradise, Causeway Bay is an excellent choice. It boasts high-end shopping malls, local markets, and an assortment of eateries. From luxury hotels to more affordable options, this area offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets. Recommended hotel is Ibis Hong Kong North Point

4. Wan Chai: Wan Chai seamlessly blends business and leisure, offering a mix of corporate centers and entertainment venues. Here, you’ll find a selection of mid-range and upscale hotels, allowing you to experience both work and play in one central location. Recommended hotel is Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong

5. Lantau Island: For a more relaxed experience, consider staying on Lantau Island. With tranquil landscapes and proximity to attractions like Ngong Ping 360 and Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island offers a refreshing escape. Choose from resorts and cozy lodgings that cater to nature lovers and families. Recommended hotel is Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong

Budget-Friendly Hostels: If you’re traveling on a budget, Hong Kong has a range of hostels that provide affordable and comfortable accommodations. Many are situated in popular districts like Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay, offering a convenient base for exploring the city. Recommended hotels are RELIANCE LODGE or Yesinn @YMT

Top 15 Things To Do In Hong Kong

Hong Kong, a city that seamlessly marries tradition and modernity, captivates visitors with its dynamic energy and diverse experiences. From iconic skyline views to vibrant street markets, there’s a wealth of activities that define the essence of this metropolis. Join us on a journey through the best places to visit in Hong Kong, where your itinerary is enriched with a blend of cultural immersion, culinary delights, and breathtaking sights. Let’s dive into the top 15 things to do in Hong Kong, ensuring you make the most of your exploration while enjoying the city’s renowned night markets, urban charms, and everything else that makes Hong Kong an unforgettable destination.

Explore Victoria Peak for breathtaking skyline views: As one of the best places to visit in Hong Kong, Victoria Peak offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline. Ascend to the peak by the Peak Tram and be mesmerized by the glistening skyscrapers and Victoria Harbour below. This experience is a must-add to your Hong Kong itinerary, providing an unforgettable vantage point. Be sure to walk the Circle Path which is a nice 2 kilometer path.
Take a tram ride to The Peak for panoramic views: Embark on a tram ride to The Peak for panoramic views that showcase Hong Kong’s splendor. As you ascend, watch the city unfold beneath you, revealing the juxtaposition of urbanity and nature. A tram ride to The Peak is a quintessential experience, earning its place as one of the best things to do in Hong Kong. Only has 4 stations where you can enter but price is the same regardless. Be sure to sit on the right side of the train if you want to take photos.
Take the iconic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour: Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s history by riding the Star Ferry, an iconic symbol of the city. As you cross Victoria Harbour, marvel at the juxtaposition of towering skyscrapers against the sea. This charming journey should be part of your list of things to do in Hong Kong, offering a unique perspective of the city’s beauty.
Wander through the lively neighborhoods of Central and Sheung Wan: Explore the heart of Hong Kong by wandering through the vibrant neighborhoods of Central and Sheung Wan. Here, you’ll find a blend of modernity and tradition, with bustling markets, boutique shops, and colonial-era architecture. Adding these neighborhoods to your Hong Kong itinerary ensures an immersive cultural experience.
Discover the lively nightlife at Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo: When night falls, the atmosphere in Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo transforms into a lively celebration. These districts are synonymous with Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife, featuring an array of restaurants, bars, and clubs. Join locals and visitors for a memorable night out at some of the best places to visit in Hong Kong after dark. Ride the Central-Mid-Levels Escalators to the Top.
Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade for waterfront vistas: The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade provides stunning waterfront vistas that encompass both the Hong Kong Island skyline and Victoria Harbour. As you take a leisurely stroll along this iconic promenade, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views, making it a picturesque addition to your list of things to do in Hong Kong.
Visit the impressive Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island: Explore Lantau Island to discover the awe-inspiring Tian Tan Buddha, a testament to spiritual devotion. This towering bronze statue, surrounded by serene landscapes, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. Including this iconic site in your Hong Kong itinerary ensures a blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty.
Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens Explore the enchanting Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse flora and fauna as you stroll through this tranquil haven. This natural sanctuary offers a peaceful escape, inviting you to connect with the wonders of the natural world in the bustling urban landscape in the best places to visit in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Park: Tranquil Escape Exploring Hong Kong’s Urban Oases Discover the serene beauty of Hong Kong Park, a picturesque urban oasis nestled amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Stroll through lush gardens, pause by tranquil ponds, and admire the harmony of nature coexisting with modern architecture. This captivating park provides a peaceful respite, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Hong Kong amidst the surrounding urban energy.
Take a leisurely boat ride through Aberdeen Fishing Village: Embark on a boat ride through Aberdeen Fishing Village to witness the harmony of traditional fishing life and modernity. This unique experience offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s maritime heritage. Adding a visit to Aberdeen to your list of things to do in Hong Kong introduces you to an authentic cultural encounter.
Ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for stunning vistas: This exhilarating journey provides a unique perspective of things to do in Hong Kong. Experience breathtaking vistas as you ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, soaring above lush landscapes and offering panoramic views of Lantau Island, making it an enriching part of your Hong Kong itinerary.
Enjoy a serene escape to Lamma Island’s beaches and hiking trails: Lamma Island offers a serene escape from the urban bustle, with pristine beaches and scenic hiking trails. Immerse yourself in nature as you explore this tranquil haven, making it a serene addition to your list of things to do in Hong Kong, offering a well-rounded experience.
Explore Ocean Park for amusement park thrills and marine life: Ocean Park seamlessly blends amusement park thrills with marine life encounters, making it a must-visit destination for families and adventure seekers. Enjoy exhilarating rides, live shows, and up-close interactions with aquatic creatures, adding an element of fun and education to your Hong Kong itinerary.
Unwind at Repulse Bay Beach, a picturesque urban escape: Repulse Bay Beach offers a picturesque urban escape, where golden sands meet azure waters against the backdrop of high-rise buildings. This tranquil oasis allows you to unwind and soak up the sun, making it a relaxing inclusion in your list of things to do in Hong Kong.
Nan Lian Garden: Delve into the tranquility of Nan Lian Garden, a hidden gem nestled within the city’s urban landscape. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this traditional Chinese garden offers a serene retreat where you can connect with nature and experience the city’s cultural heritage.

Hong Kong’s Signature Dishes

Hong Kong’s culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse culture and rich history. From mouthwatering dim sum to succulent roast goose, the city boasts an array of iconic dishes that captivate the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the must-try dishes that define Hong Kong’s gastronomic heritage.

Dim Sum: Dim sum is a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s culinary identity. Served in charming bamboo baskets, dim sum offers an assortment of delicate dumplings, buns, and small dishes. Venture to local dim sum eateries to experience the art of selecting these bite-sized creations that showcase the essence of Hong Kong’s culinary craftsmanship.
Roast Goose: When it comes to indulgence, Hong Kong’s roast goose takes the spotlight. With its crispy skin and tender meat, this dish is a true testament to the city’s culinary prowess. Savor the aromatic flavors of a perfectly roasted goose as you explore the city’s dining scene, a journey that offers a blend of tradition and innovation.
Wonton Noodles: Immerse yourself in the comfort of wonton noodles, a beloved dish that combines thin egg noodles and succulent wontons in a flavorful broth. This classic choice is available at local eateries across Hong Kong, making it a heartwarming addition to your culinary itinerary.
Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao): Indulge in the delightful surprise of a pineapple bun, despite its lack of actual pineapple content. These fluffy buns with crispy tops offer a delightful texture contrast. Whether enjoyed plain or with a buttery filling, the pineapple bun is a must-try that adds a touch of sweetness to your Hong Kong experience.
Egg Tart: Satisfy your sweet tooth with Hong Kong’s iconic egg tart. With two variations—the creamy “Hong Kong-style” tart and the Portuguese-inspired “Macau-style” tart—these flaky pastries filled with smooth custard are a testament to the city’s fusion of cultures and flavors.
Hong Kong-style Milk Tea: As the sun sets, indulge in the velvety charm of Hong Kong-style milk tea. Served in local tea houses and night markets, this strong and silky beverage offers a symphony of flavors that’s a perfect match for the city’s lively and vibrant nightlife.
Curry Fish Balls: Satisfy your street food cravings with curry fish balls, a flavorful delicacy enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. These mouthwatering morsels are a staple of Hong Kong’s street stalls and night markets, offering a spicy and savory kick that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. As you navigate through the bustling food scene, don’t miss the chance to savor this quintessential Hong Kong street food that embodies the city’s dynamic flavors.

Hong Kong Nightlife

As the sun sets, Hong Kong’s vibrant energy transforms into a captivating nightlife that offers a unique blend of experiences. From exploring bustling night markets to indulging in late-night food adventures, the city comes alive with activities that cater to every taste. Join us on a journey through Hong Kong’s after-dark scene, uncovering the best places to visit and things to do in Hong Kong for a truly memorable experience.

1. Night Markets: A Shopper’s Paradise: For an authentic Hong Kong experience, explore the lively world of the city’s night markets. Colorful stalls at Temple Street Night Market and Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok offer an array of goods, from trendy fashion items to local handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture as you shop for unique treasures.

2. Sky-High Revelry at Rooftop Bars: Elevate your evening by visiting Hong Kong’s renowned rooftop bars. From OZONE at The Ritz-Carlton to SEVVA in Central, these venues provide a glamorous setting to sip cocktails and enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline. It’s a sophisticated addition to your list of best places to visit in Hong Kong at night.

3. Symphony of Lights: A Visual Spectacle: Witness the awe-inspiring Symphony of Lights, a multimedia light and sound show that illuminates Victoria Harbour. Marvel at the dazzling lights that synchronize with captivating music, turning the city’s skyscrapers into a breathtaking visual spectacle. It’s one of the mesmerizing things to do in Hong Kong that shouldn’t be missed.

4. Temple Hopping: Nighttime Spiritual Journey: Embrace the spiritual side of Hong Kong with an evening visit to its temples. As part of your Hong Kong itinerary, explore Wong Tai Sin Temple and Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery after dark. Experience the tranquility and connect with the city’s religious heritage in a serene setting.

5. Late-Night Food Adventures: Street Eats and More: Satisfy your appetite with a culinary adventure through Hong Kong’s late-night food scene. Indulge in street food delights at Temple Street Night Market or relish 24-hour dim sum joints. It’s a flavorful journey that offers a taste of the city’s diverse culinary offerings.

6. Night Cruises on Victoria Harbour: Embark on a captivating night cruise along Victoria Harbour, adding a touch of romance to your Hong Kong itinerary. Whether you choose the Symphony of Lights Cruise or Aqua Luna’s traditional red-sailed junk boat tours, you’ll be treated to enchanting views of the city’s shimmering skyline.

Hong Kong Nightmarkets

Hong Kong is renowned for its vibrant night markets that come alive after the sun sets. These bustling hubs offer a unique blend of shopping, dining, and local culture, making them must-visit destinations for any traveler. Here are some of the best Hong Kong night markets that are sure to captivate your senses:

Temple Street Night Market: Located in Kowloon’s Yau Ma Tei area, the Temple Street Night Market is a quintessential Hong Kong experience. This bustling market offers a wide range of goods, from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs. Street performers, fortune tellers, and local food stalls add to the lively atmosphere, making it a hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
Ladies’ Market: Nestled in Mong Kok, the Ladies’ Market is a paradise for fashion enthusiasts. This sprawling market is famous for its diverse selection of clothing, accessories, and footwear. Whether you’re looking for trendy fashion items or unique finds, the Ladies’ Market offers an exciting shopping experience that reflects Hong Kong’s vibrant style.
Mong Kok Night Market: Mong Kok is known for its bustling atmosphere, and its night market is no exception. Here, you’ll find a diverse range of products, from fashion and cosmetics to gadgets and toys. The Mong Kok Night Market offers a glimpse into the local lifestyle and is a great place to shop for bargains.
Stanley Market: While not a typical night market, the Stanley Market offers a unique shopping experience in a charming coastal setting. Situated on the southern part of Hong Kong Island, this market showcases a mix of clothing, accessories, artwork, and handicrafts. The relaxed ambiance and waterfront views make it an ideal place to shop and unwind.
Jardine’s Crescent Street Market: Located in Causeway Bay, Jardine’s Crescent Street Market comes alive in the evening with a variety of stalls offering clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products. It’s a great spot to shop for trendy fashion items and explore the local street food scene.
Apliu Street Flea Market: For tech enthusiasts and bargain hunters, the Apliu Street Flea Market in Sham Shui Po is a hidden gem. This market specializes in electronics, gadgets, and second-hand items. It’s a treasure trove for those seeking unique and affordable tech gadgets.

These Hong Kong night markets offer a delightful mix of shopping, entertainment, and local flavor. As you explore these vibrant hubs, you’ll find yourself immersed in the heart of Hong Kong’s bustling nightlife and cultural diversity.

3 -Day Hong Kong Itinerary: Discovering the Best of the City

Day 1 of Your Hong Kong Itinerary: Exploring Iconic Views and Lively Markets

Start your day with a visit to Victoria Peak for mesmerizing skyline views. This iconic vantage point showcases the city’s modernity against a backdrop of natural beauty.
As part of your Hong Kong itinerary, take the Peak Tram for a unique and historical experience on your way up.
Head to Central and Sheung Wan to explore lively neighborhoods that blend tradition with urban charm. Stroll through bustling streets, uncover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture.
Venture to Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo to experience the lively nightlife that Hong Kong is renowned for. Enjoy a night of dining, drinks, and entertainment at some of the best places to visit in Hong Kong after dark.

Day 2: Cultural Heritage and Natural Escapes

Begin your day with a visit to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade , where you can stroll along the waterfront and take in stunning vistas of the Hong Kong Island skyline.

Late Morning:

Make your way to Lantau Island to visit the impressive Tian Tan Buddha . This cultural landmark offers a spiritual experience and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Immerse yourself in the city’s maritime heritage by taking a boat ride through Aberdeen Fishing Village . Witness the harmony of tradition and modernity in this unique urban escape.
As part of your Hong Kong itinerary, experience the mesmerizing Symphony of Lights show over Victoria Harbour. Watch as the city’s skyscrapers come to life with synchronized lights and music.

Day 3: Nature, Adventure, and Relaxation

Embark on a thrilling adventure by riding the Ngong Ping 360 cable car . Soar above lush landscapes and enjoy stunning vistas of Lantau Island.
Escape to the serene beaches and hiking trails of Lamma Island . This tranquil oasis offers a perfect blend of nature and relaxation.
For amusement park thrills and marine life encounters, spend your afternoon at Ocean Park . Enjoy exhilarating rides and get up close with aquatic creatures.
Conclude your Hong Kong itinerary with a visit to Repulse Bay Beach , where you can unwind against the backdrop of high-rise buildings and the shimmering sea.

This 3-day Hong Kong itinerary is designed to encompass the best places to visit in Hong Kong, including its iconic views, vibrant markets, and cultural treasures. Enjoy your exploration of this dynamic city!

Free Walking Tours

Free Walking Tour

Conclusion of Hong Kong Travel Guide

Hong Kong is a destination that effortlessly balances tradition and innovation. With our comprehensive Hong Kong travel guide, you’re equipped to explore the best places to visit in Hong Kong, create memorable itineraries, immerse yourself in local night markets, and enjoy a range of fun activities and things to do in Hong Kong. Get ready for a journey that will leave you captivated by the unique charm of this dazzling city. From Here Travel To Macau .

Are there any visa requirements for visiting Hong Kong?

Many nationalities can enter Hong Kong without a visa for stays ranging from 7 to 180 days. Check with your local embassy for specific requirements.

What is the best time to visit Hong Kong?

The best time to visit Hong Kong is during the cooler and less humid months of October to December or March to April.

How do I get around in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has an efficient public transportation system, including the MTR (subway), buses, trams, and ferries.

Is English widely spoken in Hong Kong?

Yes, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and businesses.

Is tipping customary in Hong Kong?What is the currency in Hong Kong?

The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD).

Is tipping customary in Hong Kong?

Tipping is not obligatory, but it’s appreciated, especially in restaurants and for services like taxis.

Are there any health and safety tips for travelers to Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is generally safe, but it’s wise to take precautions like drinking bottled water and being aware of your surroundings.

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3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary For Adventuer-Lovers

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: June 25, 2023

Categories HONG KONG

3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary For Adventuer-Lovers

Are you heading to Hong Kong for three days or more and want to pack your itinerary with lots of epic locations and adventures? I got you covered. This 3-day Hong Kong itinerary will be your best resource for adventurous activities in Hong Kong. You can fit the shopping and dim-sum in around the adventures… we are here to explore!

If you are looking for a basic itinerary with stereotypical Instagram photo-locations and shopping tips, this is not it . I created this 3-day Hong Kong itinerary for those who want a daily dose of adventure but also want to do some activities at night to fully experience the wild side and the urban side of Hong Kong. Don’t worry it’s nothing too extreme but you will get your heart rate going each day. Let’s do this!

a person standing on top of a cliff overlooking a city.

Table of Contents

What is included in this 3-day Hong Kong itinerary blog post?

In this 3-day Hong Kong itinerary blog post I will first detail how you should structure your three days to make the most of your time.
Below that, I will share an additional day of suggestions for a 4-day Hong Kong itinerary .
Once again I will list another day in case you are looking for a 5-day Hong Kong itinerary .
Finally, at the bottom of the blog post, I will share my tips on things to know before you travel to Hong Kong ( specific information for adventurous travelers )

So, let’s get into it.

a view of the ocean and mountains at sunset.

MY 4 FAVORITE HONG KONG TOURS

Victoria Peak Tram & Sky Terrace : If you visit Hong Kong, you have to visit Victoria Peak!
Aqua Luna Victoria Harbor Cruise : Sail Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour on a traditional Chinese wooden junk boat.
Hong Kong Disneyland Park : An awesome experience for all ages!
M+ Museum Ticket : Most popular museum in Hong Kong!

Click the orange button below to view all of the top-rated tours on Klook

HONG KONG 3-DAY ITINERARY FOR ADVENTURERS

It’s time to break down the ideal 3-day Hong Kong itinerary for you.

DAY 1 HONG KONG ITINERARY

Day 1 Morning: The first thing I like to do when I arrive in a new city is to get up as high as possible so I can understand the layout and how it all looks. The best way to do this in Hong Kong is to head up to Victoria Peak.

VICTORIA PEAK CIRCLE WALK

The Victoria Peak Circle Walk is one of the easiest hikes in Hong Kong because it actually has less than 100m of incline and is just 3-km in distance. You catch a tram or a bus up to the peak and then complete a circular loop around the edge of the peak. This means you skip all the ascent but have great views throughout the circular loop, which takes about an hour to complete.

The great part about this hike (or loop-walk) is that you get seriously epic views down over Hong Kong Central. It’s probably the closest hike in proximity to the city so you feel like you are basically on top of the skyscrapers. This is a mellow way to kick off your 3-day Hong Kong itinerary.

It is also a great spot for sunset, but I’ve opted for a more epic spot at sunset for you as part of this itinerary. Trust me it gets better than Victoria Peak (and less crowded).

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: THE VICTORIA PEAK CIRCLE WALK

You NEED the Octopus Card

TRAVEL TIP: In Hong Kong you NEED the Octopus Card to use public transport and ferries, which is how everyone gets around. Pre-Book your Octopus Card with a Pre-Loaded balance of 50HKD so you can pick it up at the airport (very easy) and then catch public transport straight to your hotel.

Conveniently ride the MTR, bus, ferry, coach, and tram with just a tap of your Hong Kong Tourist Octopus Card
Conveniently pick up your card with a preloaded credit of HKD50-100 at the Hong Kong International Airport

Day 1 Afternoon: So you shouldn’t be too tired yet. You didn’t hike up Victoria Peak, you just completed the circular loop, which is less than 100m of incline and 3-km in total distance. That’s a warm-up right? So grab lunch, collect yourself and now jump on the MTR (railway system) and catch a train on the green line to Wong Tai Sin MTR Station . You will want to get there no later than 2-hours before sunset. A little earlier won’t hurt but that should be enough time. Are you ready? It’s time to head up the famous Lion Rock for sunset.

LION ROCK HIKE

The Lion Rock hike in Hong Kong is one of the most popular trails in the region with an epic viewpoint over Kowloon all the way to Hong Kong Central. The lion-head shaped rock at the summit is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the city from the forest. It is the kind of rock formation that you seem to spot out no matter where you are in Hong Kong but it isn’t until you are up there that you can enjoy the incredible view from the head of the Lion.

The hike up is only a few kilometers and once you reach the summit, you will find yourself on a winding ridge down the back of the Lion until you reach its head. It was one of my first hikes in Hong Kong and even after a month of hiking, it remains up there as one of my favorites. It’s a great spot for sunset and a lot of night photographers migrate here after dark to shoot the city lights.

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: THE LION ROCK HIKE

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN HONG KONG

Best Value Hotel: Metropark Hotel Causeway Bay – 4-star hotel for less than $100
Best Value Luxury Hotel: Hotel ICON – $150 for a 5-star hotel with an epic pool
Best Hiking/Adventure Base: Hotel Stage – Located in Kowloon and right next to lots of epic hikes.

Check out my full guide here: BEST AREAS TO STAY HONG KONG

a large swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas.

DAY 2 HONG KONG ITINERARY

Day 2 Morning: It’s time to get high. No not like that, I mean a helicopter flight over Hong Kong. It isn’t the cheapest activity in Hong Kong coming in at around $300 USD per person so I understand if it is a no-go for some but if you can afford the splurge, it’s a pretty damn epic place to fly.

Click Here to book your Hong Kong helicopter tour from the Peninsula Hotel (The same place I booked my flight)

TAKE A SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT FROM THE PENINSULA HOTEL

Hong Kong is one of the most unique cities in the world with the incredible, city metropolis meeting the jungle and mountains. The best way to see the contrast between the city and the jungle and to enjoy an epic fly-over view of the city is with a Hong Kong helicopter tour. I did the heli-tour and it was simply incredible.

We took off from the Peninsula Hotel rooftop helipad and then toured out over Lion Rock and to the edge of the New Territories. Here we saw the wild nature in the mountains of Hong Kong before cruising back over Hong Kong Central to witness the towering skyscrapers at Victoria Harbor and Causeway Bay.

Read the full blog post for more photos and details: EPIC HONG KONG HELICOPTER TOUR FROM THE PENINSULA HOTEL

Day 2 Afternoon: Grab lunch after the helicopter flight and then jump on the MTR (railway system) and head to Choi Hung Station. Yes, this is where the famous Instagram spot is with colored buildings. I didn’t stop to look but you could combine the two if you want to see it first-hand. One thousand times on Instagram was enough for me so I kept on towards my destination, which was the Suicide Cliff Hike. I’d say you would want to be at Choi Hung Station getting off the train no later than 2-5 or 3-hours before sunset.

SUICIDE CLIFF & KOWLOON PEAK

Kowloon Peak hike takes you on a journey to the Kowloon Peak viewpoint but also leads you to one of the most well-known hiking photography spots in Hong Kong, which is Suicide Cliff. The total route is under 7-kilometers to see both viewpoints and is recommended for sunset. It’s not a hike for beginners but is relatively safe for the average hiker!

The majority of the hike is on a nice ridge but it is nothing too crazy. However, right at the end of the ridge are two viewpoints that are very precarious. You will need to be careful in these spots as the drop below is deadly, which is how the cliff received its name. You don’t need to walk out on them and you can remain 100% safe at all times. Most do wander out on them for a photo. After a bit of research, Suicide Cliff doesn’t seem to be a place of tragedy with no suicide-related deaths reported at this location. The name seems to refer to the possible danger of jumping or falling from the ledges.

Both of the ledges at Suicide Cliff are among the best photo spots in all of Hong Kong with huge drops and an epic background of Kowloon behind. This is a great area to be for sunset as you can see from the photos below.

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: KOWLOON PEAK HIKE TO SUICIDE CLIFF

DAY 3 HONG KONG ITINERARY

Day 3 Morning: It’s the last day of your 3-day Hong Kong itinerary! It’s time to mix things up. Instead of the afternoon/sunset hike, we are going to get out nice and early. Now there are two options today. You can either opt for the easier hike or the hard (hardest hike in Hong Kong) hike. Don’t be afraid of the hard hike it is less than 10-km in distance and less than 900m of incline. However, the easy hike option is one of the popular trails in Hong Kong and quite simple and nowhere near as taxing. Both are beautiful and I loved both. The idea is to choose one of the below hikes but to be back by late afternoon to the city because you have a special activity planned for tonight!

Option 1: The Dragons Back Trail

Option 2: The West Dog’s Teeth Ridge Hike to Lantau Peak

DRAGON’S BACK HIKE

The Dragon’s Back Hike is one of the most popular trails in Hong Kong due to its impressive coastal views seen from the ridge-line but also because it is one of the less intense routes in the region. Really after Victoria Peak, I think this may be the second most popular hike in Hong Kong. The Dragon’s Back Trail gives hikers outstanding, scenic views of the coast without too much incline and climbing. The trail is suitable for families, amateur hikers and all tourists looking for an adventure.

Lots of hikes in Hong Kong have quite a steep incline, but the popularity of Dragon’s Back stems from its mild incline. The reference to the back of a dragon comes from the ridgeline that you traverse throughout the bulk of the hike. It’s a very impressive coastal view and you will seem far away from the hustle of the city.

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: DRAGON’S BACK HIKE

WEST DOG’S TEETH RIDGE

The West Dog’s Teeth Hike in Hong Kong is billed as the hardest hike in Hong Kong. The trail involves 850m of incline and requires a very basic level of bouldering and scrambling to reach the end of the ridge. The ridge then connects to Lantau Peak, which is a great place to finish your climb before making the journey back down the ridge.

This ridge-hike reminded me of a lot of the hikes in Hawaii that take you along the jagged ridges to a summit. There were never any moments of danger but this hike would be among the most exhilarating hikes in Hong Kong with the basic bouldering and the rugged trail. It’s definitely the trail to pick if you like to push your limits and want a challenge.

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: WEST DOG’S TEETH HIKE ‘HARDEST HIKE IN HONG KONG’

Day 3 Night: It’s time to kick off the hiking shoes and get ready to enjoy a relaxing evening aboard a sailing boat out in the harbor. The Aqualuna is a historic sailboat that will tour you around the harbor while enjoying some drinks. It’s pretty cheap and you will be out on the water to witness the Symphony of Lights, which is a laser and lights show.

WATCH THE SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS FROM THE ICONIC AQUALUNA SAILBOAT

Hands down this tour is one of the best things to do in Hong Kong at night for all ages. The Aqualuna is a traditional red-sail Chinese junk boat, which will tour you around the harbor. At night the sails are lit up and just look incredible. Throughout the sail, you can appreciate Hong Kong’s magnificent harbor views aboard what is one of the last sailboats of it’s kind! During the trip, you can relax in style on a comfy lounge bed, enjoy a complimentary drink and soak up the sights and sounds of Hong Kong’s fantastic scenery.

Then halfway through the cruise, the sailboat seems to come to a halt and the Symphony of Lights laser and lights show comes to life. Lots of the skyscrapers and buildings in the harbor participate in a co-ordinated show with lights seemingly dancing from the city in tune with the soundtrack. It’s a fun couple of hours and one of the more unique things to do in Hong Kong. This is an epic way to finish off your 3-day Hong Kong itinerary.

To book your trip online at the lowest (This is where I booked mine)you can click here: AquaLuna Harbor Cruise

That’s the end of the 3-day Hong Kong itinerary. I hope you can still move and enjoyed the adventure. If you are in Hong Kong for one more day. I’ll continue below with my suggestions for the 4-day Hong Kong itinerary.

HONG KONG 4-DAY ITINERARY FOR ADVENTURERS

Day 4 morning: Today starts off with something a little bit different. It’s a very short hike, in fact, it’s less than 2-kilometers but it takes you to something quite unique. It’s important to note that the morning and afternoon activities are both in the same region of Stanley. That is on purpose because it is a 45-minute train ride out here so we will tick off two activities in one day in Stanley. In between the two activities, we had lunch and rested in Stanley, which is quite a nice coastal region.

The first stop of the day is to visit a unique rock formation on the coast called Rhino Rock.

RHINO ROCK TRAIL IN STANLEY

The Rhino Rock is one of the most incredible rock formations in Hong Kong, bearing an uncanny resemblance to a Rhinoceros. It’s a very, VERY short hiking trail in Stanley, which is less than 1-kilometers each way and less than 100m of overall incline. With stunning views of the coast, this is a great mini-adventure for a sunny day! If you are looking for the EASIEST hike in Hong Kong, I think this would be it. The whole adventure can be done in under an hour. It took us just 12-minutes to walk back from the Rhino-Rock to the trail entrance.

It really does resemble a Rhino so much and when you see it in person, the ridges and holes in the rock almost seem to resemble the eyes, wrinkles, and features of a giant rhinoceros.

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: RHINO ROCK TRAIL IN STANLEY

Day 4 Afternoon: Once you have finished up at Rhino Rock, head into Stanley and grab lunch and take a breather. You shouldn’t be too tired because Rhino Rock was only 2-kilometers in total. It was hardly a hike and more of a walk. Once you are ready to rock and roll again. Jump on the bus to the Stanley Gap Road Bus Stop to begin the next hike, which is the Twin Peaks and Violet Hill hike

TWIN PEAKS & VIOLET HILL HIKE

The Twin Peaks Hike in Hong Kong takes you up and down Violet Hill and gives incredible views over Stanley and the peninsula below. It’s up there amongst the toughest Hong Kong hiking trails due to the brutality of the stairs. No matter which direction you attack the trail from you will have to endure hundreds of stairs up and down the twin peaks. This Hong Kong hike is often nicknamed the ‘Terrible Twins’ because many people despise a thousand stairs that burn your legs as you make your way up and down the two peaks.

If you are up for a challenge, this is definitely an intense session, but one that most in average fitness will be able to handle. It’s a great hike because there are lots going on. You are either descending a steep set of stairs or pushing up a sharp incline. It’s pretty popular and will be packed on weekends but it is a good vibe as everyone out on the trail encourages each other to keep pushing on!

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: TWIN PEAKS HIKE & VIOLET HILL HIKE

If you only had four days in Hong Kong that is where your itinerary ends. I hope you enjoyed my adventurous 4-day Hong Kong itinerary. If you have one more day, keep reading because I have something special planned for you to complete your 5-day Hong Kong itinerary.

HONG KONG 5-DAY ITINERARY FOR ADVENTURERS

Day 5 Morning: If you still have the energy for another day of action, this is going to be a great adventure day for you. I did both of today’s hikes on the same day so I know it is very possible and not a rush time-wise at all. They are both relatively short hikes so you should be fine. The first short hike is Ap Lei Chau to Ap Lei Pai. It’s a unique coastal walk that has you ending up at a secret rock pool where you can swim and jump in. It’s best to visit this spot in the morning.

AP LEI CHAU TO AP LE PAI (MOUNT JOHNSTON LIGHTHOUSE)

The Ap Lei Chau to Ap Lei Pai hike is a great little coastal trail that takes you out to Mount Johnston Lighthouse via a small sandbar. It’s an out-and-back hike that is just under 5-km but it will still serve up some solid incline with over 500m of ascent up and over the hills each way. This is a beautiful hike on a sunny day, so make sure you don’t forget to look out for the secret tide pool. This is one of the most spectacular but easy hikes in Hong Kong on a day with good weather.

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: AP LEI CHAU TO AP LEI PAI HIKE

Day 5 Afternoon: After finishing up at the Ap Lei Chau to Ap Lei Pai hike, you will have time to grab lunch. Then head back onto the public transport for your final sunset hike in Hong Kong. It’s a very short hike so even if your legs are a bit sore by now, don’t worry there is no major climbing left. Most of the altitude for this hike will be gained while on the bus. You will be heading to one of my favorite lookouts in Hong Kong called Jardine’s Lookout.

JARDINE’S LOOKOUT HIKE

Jardine’s Lookout Hike is quite a short trail but it leads you to one of the best viewpoints over Hong Kong Central and the harbor. The great part about this hike is that it’s not that well-known so you can often be one of the only people up at the viewpoint. Whereas Victoria Peak can be quite busy. If you are looking for an epic view of the city without having to hike for more than a few kilometers, this is your trail. It’s dog-friendly and family-friendly with just a couple hundred meters of incline throughout the whole hike making it a good choice when searching for an easy Hong Kong hiking trail.

The hike is only 3.5km in distance with the minimal incline but because it starts at a few hundred meters above sea-level you will end up high enough for a beautiful sunset view over Hong Kong Island and all the way across to Kowloon. I loved this trail because at the summit you can weave your way through the trees and find a nice spot to watch the sunset over the city while perched in amongst the trees. That’s what hiking in Hong Kong is all about.

Check out the full blog post for details and all the photos: JARDINE’S LOOKOUT HIKE

And that, my friends, is the end of the 5-day Hong Kong Itinerary. I really hoped this structure your days. I put in a lot of research during my trip to pick activities and hikes that worked well together for an entire day of adventures. If you are staying longer and are looking for more hikes or activities, I’ve written longer guides about all the things to do in Hong Kong.

5 BEST HIKES IN HONG KONG

I wrote a massive guide about the 21 Best Hikes in Hong Kong , but if you are only in Hong Kong for a week or less here are the five most epic routes.

Kowloon Peak to Suicide Cliff
Lion Rock Hike
West Dog’s Teeth to Lantau Ridge Hike
Sharp Peak Hike
Ma On Shan Hike

HAVE YOU READ MY OTHER HONG KONG ARTICLES?

A complete guide to the best things to do: 27 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN HONG KONG
My favorite hikes in Hong Kong: 21 AWESOME HIKES IN HONG KONG
How to plan your Hong Kong trip: 3-DAY HONG KONG ITINERARY FOR ADVENTURE-LOVERS
The biggest ever guide for where to stay in Hong Kong: WHERE TO STAY IN HONG KONG: BEST AREAS & HOTELS
My favorite EASY hikes: 10 EASY HIKING TRAILS IN HONG KONG
The most luxurious places to stay: THE TOP 10 LUXURY HOTELS IN HONG KONG (5-STAR LIST)
The ultimate adventure: EPIC HONG KONG HELICOPTER TOUR FROM THE PENINSULA HOTEL
The toughest overall hike: WEST DOG’S TEETH HIKE ‘HARDEST HIKE IN HONG KONG’
Best waterfall hike: TAI MO SHAN HIKE: THE HIGHEST PEAK IN HONG KONG

The Wandering Girl

Everyday Outfit Ideas & Travel Fashion

Asia , Explore More , Hong Kong · December 3, 2022

The Best Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

Hong Kong is a culture-packed place with a balanced mix of both city life and quiet and calming areas. You’re reading this probably because you’re planning a 3-day trip to Hong Kong! 3 days in Hong Kong is not a lot of time to see this densely-packed city so this Hong Kong 3 days itinerary will show only the must-see places that are worth visiting. Activities are grouped in a way that limits the amount of transportation needed. This Hong Kong itinerary 3 days will take you to the most iconic places in Hong Kong, the best restaurants to try, and what places you don’t want to miss.

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Table of Contents

Day 1 of Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

Day 1 of the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days will be visiting the Kowloon side of Hong Kong including famous markets, exploring Hong Kong’s busy streets, and eating roast duck.

Take the metro to the hotel (MTR)

The Hong Kong MTR is incredibly convenient. Simply look up your hotel on Google Maps and it should tell you which metro line will take you to your hotel. The MTR opens usually from 6am-1am. Another option is to take a Hong Kong taxi. There are three taxi colors – red (most areas), green (new territories), and blue (Lantau Island). The red taxis are the most popular and you’ll be taking that unless you’re staying in New Territories or Lantau Island.

Get Breakfast at Australia Diary Company

On Day 1 of the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days, we’ll start off with traditional Hong Kong breakfast. Hong Kong is popular for its Hong Kong-style cafes which are called “cha caan teng” .

Australia Diary Company , located in Jordan, HK, is the most famous of them all. Its founder worked on an Australian farm and decided to specialize in using high-quality dairy ingredients imported from Australia. They’re known for their scrambled egg which they put cream inside to make it extra soft and creamy. They’re also famous for their steamed milk pudding.

Don’t be surprised if you’re faced with rude service. It’s typical for Hong Kong cafes to have rude service but they probably have one of the worst. The seating is not very comfortable also and the average customer visit length is only 10 minutes. Despite all of this, it’s still a must-try in Hong Kong.

Kai Kai Dessert

Hong Kong desserts essentially can fall into two categories – cold and hot. Cold desserts have lots of fruits (especially mango). Hot desserts use many healthy ingredients to make a thick soup-like consistency using key ingredients like red bean, green bean, black sesame, almond, walnut, papaya, ginger, and more. Kai kai dessert is a Hong Kong local favorite spot for authentic hot desserts. They have some cold desserts as well but specialize in the hot desserts category. This place was featured in Michelin’s Guide so you know it has to be good.

Visit Jade Market

Jade Market - Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

Jade Market is an outdoor market with hundreds of vendors selling jade jewelry, accessories, and other good-luck charms. It can get quite crowded in these outdoor markets. Jade Market is located in Yau Mai Tei which is close to Australia Dairy Company.

Wander Around Sai Yeung Choi Street

Sai Yeung Choi Street - Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

We’re going to make our way up north to Mong Kok, which means “busy corner”. Mong Kok is really true to its name. Sai Yeung Choi Street is one of the busiest streets in Hong Kong and is home to a ton of shopping malls and restaurants. Here, you can find anything from the top makeup and beauty brands to tech gadget stores. Don’t miss out on the small shops that are hidden in between buildings or on the 2nd floor.

Mong Kok has a huge variety of street food. Over the years, Hong Kong implemented more regulations around limiting street stands so you won’t see them everywhere like there were years ago. But there is still a good handful of them in Mong Kok. Definitely don’t miss out on those because they have some of the best curry fish balls, egg puffs, and more.

If you want to know all the best street foods, discover where locals eat, and learn about what ingredients go into the street foods, there’s a popular street food private tour that’s highly worth it. Check the HK private street food tour here.

Langham Place

Also in Mong Kok is Langham Place, one of the biggest malls in Hong Kong. It’s over 56,000 square meters and has 15 stories. The top floor has smaller boutiques and lower levels have bigger name stores. After shopping for hours, you can stop by their huge food court which has all types of Asian food. Or if you’re in the mood for a nice environment, try out Bistro Bloom or other dining options here . This can be the spot for lunch.

Goldfish Market

On Tong Choi Street, you can find a huge goldfish market that sells all types of pet fish. Its specialty, of course, is goldfish. You’ll see tons of fish packed in plastic bags with water. You’ll also see tons of aquariums with unique types of fish. Not only is there fish, but there are also lots of reptiles sold here.

West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade

West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade is the largest waterfront promenade in Hong Kong. It overlooks Hong Kong Island. It’s not too crowded here so it’s a great place to relax and take a stroll by the water. At night, all the buildings on Hong Kong Island light up and you can see the entire skyline of Hong Kong. It’s incredibly beautiful and worth it to stay here until it gets dark.

At 8pm the Symphony of Lights starts which is a lights show that illuminates the Hong Kong skyline. It’s the world’s largest permanent light and sound show according to Guinness World Records. The Western Kowloon Waterfront Promenade is the perfect location to watch this performance.

Dinner at Yan Toh Heen (Roast Duck)

When in Hong Kong, you have to try their roast duck. Yan Toh restaurant is on the pricier side but it has a Michelin 2-star rating. They also have a variety of other authentic Cantonese dishes including braised lobster, frog legs, abalone, sea cucumber, and more. This restaurant also has views of Victoria Harbour and at night, it’s so beautiful.

Day 2 of Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

Day 2 of the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days will be seeing the popular destinations in Hong Kong Island, exploring the art scene, going up to the peak of Hong Kong for amazing views, and lots of shopping.

Dimsum Breakfast at Dim Dim Sum

On Day 2 of the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days, we’ll stop by dim sum for breakfast. A trip to Hong Kong means trying their dim sum at least once for breakfast. It’s an essential part of Hong Kong cuisine. One highly rated dim sum spot is called Dim Dim Sum located in Wan Chai/Causeway Bay. They have a large variety of dim sum. It’s a small restaurant so if it’s busy, there might be a short wait.

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most popular malls in HK with a combination of luxury shops, a food court, more affordable retail shops, and an office tower complex. It’s very new and modern inside and has pretty much everything under one roof.

SOGO is a few steps away from Times Square and is a multi-story department store with apparel brands, cosmetic brands, houseware, groceries, and more.

See the Noonday Gun

Noonday Gun is a former naval artillery piece that is located in Causeway Bay. It fires every day at noon and has become a popular tourist attraction. The location for the gun is quite hidden – you’ll need to pass through a tunnel under the World Trade Center.

Ride the Ding Ding

Ding Ding is what the locals call the trams in Hong Kong. The Ding Ding passes through many areas in Hong Kong but it’s common for tourists to ride it in Causeway Bay, specifically on Hennessy Road which is a vibrant and busy street with lots to see. The Ding Ding has 2 levels so you can get some nice views from the 2nd level.

Lunch at one of HK’s Fast Food Places

Fast food in Hong Kong is not like the one in the US. They have incredible, high-quality Hong Kong-style food that matches restaurant-quality food. You can order in the front and then pick up your meal minutes later. Look out for the most popular ones – Cafe de Coral, Maxim’s, and Fairwood. They’re everywhere in Hong Kong.

This is for art lovers. PMQ is a historic site that used to be the Police Married Headquarters which was government-subsidized housing for HK’s junior police officers and their families. Now, it’s a creative venue with over 100 studio units that artists use as workshop studios or as art retail shops. Each shop is quite small but each offers very unique creative items.

Tai Kwun – Centre for Heritage and Arts

Next up on the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days is Tai Kwun. This historic place used to house Hong Kong’s first and longest-running prison. Now, it hosts lots of art events including performing arts, contemporary arts, and heritage. One of the many events Tai Kwan hosts is a series of 5-8 exhibitions a year centering around contemporary arts, forming partnerships with other art institutions and Hong Kong artists.

The Star Ferry shuttles daily between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. All of them are double-decker ferries. It’s a relaxing ride to enjoy views of both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon as well as Victoria Harbor. The Star Ferry is not only a convenient way to travel but it’s also an iconic symbol of Hong Kong. You can take the Star Ferry from Central to Tsim Tsa Tsui or Wan Chai to Tsim Tsa Tsui (and vice versa). Your trip to Hong Kong is not complete without this ferry ride.

Central Mid-Levels Escalators

Hong Kong holds the Guinness World Record for the longest outdoor elevator system. It covers over 2,600 ft in distance. It was built for the purpose of providing a more efficient link between Central and Mid-Levels on Hong Kong Island.

Ride the Tram to the Peak

VICTORIA PEAK TRAM HK - HONG KONG ITINERARY 3 DAYS

Victoria Peak is something not to miss on the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days. It’s at the peak of Hong Kong where you can see a beautiful, almost birds-eye view of Hong Kong. It’s beautiful during the day and nighttime, so try going at a time when the sky will change from day to night.

There are three options to get up to the peak. You can take the bus, walk, or take the tram. It’s an incredibly steep road so the most popular option is to take the tram. It’s also a really cool experience to ride the tram. To get to the tram, search for Central Terminus. You can get there by getting off at Central MTR station.

Hong Kong Observation Wheel

In Central, you can find the Hong Kong Observation Wheel. At the top, you can see a perfect view of Hong Kong and Victoria Harbor. It’s a smooth 30-minute ride and can sit up to 8 people per pod. Even if you don’t plan on riding it, it’ll be fun to snap some pictures.

Dinner at Wildfire

Since you’re already up at the top, it’ll be nice to enjoy dinner with amazing views. Wildfire is a popular pizza restaurant with amazing views. They have all glass windows and you can pretty much see views at any location of the restaurant.

Lan Kwai Fong

Lan Kwai Fong is a small square of streets in Central that is the go-to spot for nightlife, drinking, and bars. At night, you’ll see crowds of people and the atmosphere is incredibly lively. Locals and tourists frequently visit Lan Kwai Fong. It’s also a spot that’s featured in many movies and TV shows.

Day 3 of Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

Day 3 of the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days will be visiting Lantau Island, quiet and peaceful areas of Hong Kong, and some areas in Hong Kong Island.

Hong Kong Breakfast at Mido Cafe

On Day 3 of the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days, we’ll get breakfast at Mido Cafe , a popular “cha chaan teng” (Hong Kong cafe) among locals. It’s unique because its interior gives a very retro and old-style feel. It’s located in Yau Ma Tei. Try their pineapple bun with butter,

Ngong Ping 360

So far, we’ve stayed only visited Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Now, we’re heading to Lantau Island which is on the left side of Hong Kong, near the airport.

Ngong Ping 360 is a very popular tourist destination. It’s a 25-minute gondola lift with a glass bottom that overlooks the beautiful green hills of the island. It’s one of the longest gondola rides in the world. They also have lifts without a glass bottom for a cheaper price. The lift takes you to Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. You can get to Ngong Ping 360 by taking the MTR to Tung Chung station.

Get tickets to Ngong Ping 360 here.

Hong Kong Disneyland

If you’re into Disneyland, you have to add HK Disneyland on your Hong Kong itinerary 3 days! It’s also significantly cheaper than the US Disneyland. It’s located on Lantau Island and you just need to take the MTR one more station from Tung Chung to get here.

Disneyland can easily take a full day so if you plan to go to Disneyland, you probably won’t be able to do the rest of Day 3’s activities. If you don’t plan on going to Disneyland, then read on to see what’s left to do in this Hong Kong 3 day itinerary.

Get tickets to HK Disneyland here.

Tai O Fishing Village

Tai O Fishing Village has kept its rural way of living with most houses being by the water. It’s commonly called the “ Venice of Hong Kong”. Some highlights of the village include small alleyways of small shops with local foods, unique metal houses, a rope-drawn ferry bridge, and a 17th-century Yeung Hau Temple.

Lunch at For Kee

For Kee is a traditional Hong Kong-style restaurant (“cha chaan teng”). This place is popular for its signature baked pork chop with rice and other pork chop dishes as well. For Kee is located in Sheung Wan. It’s popular among locals so you definitely need to add this to your Hong Kong itinerary 3 days.

Tai Ping Shan Street

This is a unique and super popular trendy street in Hong Kong. In fact, it’s voted 7th in the world’s coolest streets according to Timeout. On Tai Ping Shan Street, you can find numerous aesthetic coffee shops and independent shops. This street is located in Sheung Wan so perfect to come after your lunch at For Kee.

Stanley is located on a peninsula on Hong Kong Island and is a quaint beach town. One of the most popular spots in Stanley is Stanley Market. It has everything you can think of including clothes, toys, electronics, art, and more. Don’t miss the Lover’s Terrace where you can find colorful love bubbles with written messages hung up. Stanley Promenade overlooks the water and is filled with restaurants. Murray House is an iconic three-story building in Stanley that has restaurants and shops. Stanley Blake Pier is also a popular spot with amazing ocean views.

To get there, you can ride the MTR to Central station, then take the 6/6A/6X bus to Stanley. The route also travels through Admiralty and Wan Chai so you can catch the bus there as well. There’s always the option of taking a taxi but it could be expensive.

Monster Building

You’ve probably seen this picture on your Instagram feed before. It’s located in Quarry Bay and is five densely stacked residential complexes. It’s been featured in some popular blockbuster movies including Transformers: Age of Extinction.

Walk Around Causeway Bay

Since it’s your last day here in Hong Kong, spend some time just aimlessly walking around one of the busiest and liveliest areas in Hong Kong, Causeway Bay. Other lively areas include Tsim Tsa Tsui, Wan Chai, and Soho. Enjoy the bright neon signs, crowded streets, and lively atmosphere.

Best Tours In HK

This Hong Kong Itinerary 3 days is all self-guided, but if you want to join a few tours during your Hong Kong trip, these are the most highly-rated ones.

Hong Kong Private Walking City Tour with a Local Tour Guide:

You get a personalized tour of Hong Kong’s top attractions and get to see lesser-known areas in Hong Kong that are hidden gems.

Check Out Private Walking City Tour here.

Private Hong Kong Street Food Tour

This tour is for all the foodies who want to find the absolute best street foods to try in Hong Kong. The local HK tour guide will guide you through this adventure.

Check out HK Street Food Tour here.

Use this 3 day Hong Kong itinerary as a starting point to help you plan your trip to Hong Kong!

Read more: Now you have your Hong Kong itinerary 3 days, check out these crucial airline tips to ensure you have a smooth trip to HK!

FAQ: Hong Kong 3 Days Itinerary

Is 3 days in hong kong enough.

If you don’t plan on exploring Hong Kong in depth and just want to see the main attractions, 3 days in Hong Kong is enough time. However, if you want to go to more lcoals spots, visit the other island in Hong Kong, or explore hidden gems, 3 days may be too short for Hong Kong.

Is Hong Kong a walkable city?

Yes! Especially if you’re staying near the lively areas (Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, and Central or Tsim Tsa Tsui, Mong Kok, and Yau Ma Tei), it’s very easy to walk. There is also a very conveient MTR station that easily takes you to anywhere you want to go.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide – Hong Kong in 3 Days

Last updated on April 21st, 2024 at 11:17 am

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I might earn a small commission if you click on the link to make a purchase but it doesn’t cost you anything. Thanks for your support!

Those who want to explore Hong Kong in 3 days should follow this perfect tailor-made itinerary to see all the main sights.

72 hours is a decent amount of time to see what the city has to offer without being super rushed.

Hong Kong is split into three different sections – Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories. Instead of zigzagging across the city, which is exhausting, I have split the itinerary so you can have one day in each section.

Without further ado, here is a breakdown of the perfect 3-day itinerary.

Let’s get started!

Hong Kong in 3 Days – Day One in Kowloon

1 st day – early morning, wong tai sin temple.

This is the perfect start to your first day in Hong Kong because the temple opens early in the morning. Early risers will have something to do instead of feeling like they’re missing out during their time here.

The area in Wong Tai Sin temple is quite large. Take a walk around and take in the beautiful temple. It’s a traditional Chinese temple with several attractions .

The main attraction is where you’ll see hordes of people praying for all kinds of reasons like career, health, love, and finances.

People are lighting up incense left and right. There’s the traditional kneeling and present offerings to the Gods but there is also something called kau chim.

This type of fortune telling is where you kneel and shake the container with sticks asking God your question. The first stick that comes out is your answer. Remember your number and scan the QR code to see what the answer is.

You can pay a little extra and go to a fortune teller booth. There are dozens of them lined up where they will explain to you your answer in detail. These fortune tellers also provide other services such as palm reading, face reading, and birthday reading.

Wong Tai Sin – Temple Mall

Within a few minutes of walking distance of the temple, there is a shopping centre called Temple Mall. They are split into two different types – Temple Mall North and Temple Mall South. The stores inside the mall don’t open as early but you might be able to find a few bakeries open if you’re in a rush to grab something for breakfast.

1 st day – Late Morning

A few subway stops away from Wong Tai Sin is Choi Hung. Here is where you will find Choi Hung Estate, Chi Lun Nunnery, and Nan Lian Garden. These three spots are all a must-visit if you want to take pretty Instagram pictures of Hong Kong.

The area is on top of a parking lot so you have to climb up the stairs to get there. Ask locals nearby because they will for sure know. Too many people come here for pictures. Also, the area gets quite crowded because there are basketball courts in front of the Rainbow estate. You’re going to have to be strategic when it comes to taking pictures if you want humans out of the way. It’s a quick stop because there’s not much to see other than some photos.

People actually live at Choi Hung Estate so those who are visiting should respect the residents living there.

You’ll spend more time at Chi Lun Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden. They are next to each other so you kill two birds with one stone.

This morning could have been quite rushed so strolling around Nan Lian Garden will be more relaxing. Of course, it depends on the month you’re visiting. In the summer months, you might not be as eager to spend a lot of time in the garden since it will be too warm (the heat is unfortunately one of the downsides of being in HK).

It can seem too much since that’s two temples in one morning but the vibe at Chi Lun Nunnery is completely different. Wong Tai Sin is busier and there’s a lot of red and gold everywhere. Chi Lun Nunnery has darker colours since it’s a wooden building. It’s also not as big but it’s easy to focus since it’s super close to Nan Lian Garden.

Hong Kong Top Attractions Chi Lin Nunnery

1 st day – Lunch

One of the best foods to eat in Hong Kong is dim sum . It’s a classic, and you can find dim sum restaurants all around the city. Even if there are so many of them, they’re always busy on the weekends. It’s a ritual with many families to go for yum cha on a Saturday or Sunday morning.

Depending on which restaurant you go to, they will also serve signature HK dishes like barbeque meats, wonton noodles, and egg tarts. That’s multiple classic HK foods you can eat on your first day.

1 st Day – Afternoon

The next district to visit is Tsim Sha Tsui . Tsim Sha Tsui is a tourist and local favourite for shopping and dining.

There are several malls around the area. If there are only 2 you can visit, go to K11 Musea for their modern architecture.

The other one is Harbour City . It’s the largest mall in Hong Kong with hundreds of shops.

There’s even a Cheesecake Factory and an Apple Store there. You know that the mall is a prime location when both these companies have a store there.

As you’re walking from K11 Musea to Harbour, walk along the promenade. It’s a gorgeous water view of Hong Kong.

This pathway is where the Avenue of Stars is. It’s inspired by Hollywood’s Walk of Fame where you’ll see iconic celebrities. If you are familiar with the Chinese entertainment industry, there are definitely at least a few you’ll recognize along the way.

Tsim Sha Tsui also has multiple museums to choose from. Here are all the options:

Hong Kong Space Museum
Hong Kong Palace Museum
Hong Kong History Museum
Hong Kong Museum of Art
Hong Kong Science Museum
Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Museum (inside Kowloon Park)
Nissan Cup Noodle Museum

You can spend a whole day there and still have plenty of things to keep you busy.

1 st Day – Late Afternoon

Next up is Mong Kok .

The best time to go to Mong Kok is during late afternoon. The stores here open later (around 1:30 p.m.) because they close later than regular stores.

Here, there are all kinds of things to buy like…

Korean Clothes
Hong Kong Souvenirs
Electronics
Korean skincare and makeup
Street Food

If there’s one thing to hit in Mong Kok, it’s Ladies’ Market. It’s arguably the most well-known market in Hong Kong. This is an outdoor market where sellers sell miscellaneous goods. You can even try your hand at bargaining but a lot of stalls now aren’t willing to budge as much as before.

1 st Day – Dinner

Temple Street Night Market is a place where it comes alive at night. It’s extremely close to Mong Kok. You can take public transportation or even walk. (The closest MTR (what we call subway here) station to Temple Street is Jordan station. Take Exit A to see the huge entrance to Temple Street.)

It’s similar to Ladies’ Market since vendors are selling all sorts of miscellaneous goods. The difference is that Temple Street is more catered towards males.

These are dai pai dongs, which are essentially outside stalls to serve food. These places aren’t fancy. Some might even think it’s too dirty but it’s very Hong Kong.

Normally, people go to New Territories for live and fresh seafood but depending on your journey, it might be a bit out of the way. You have to try the seafood in Hong Kong. It isn’t talked about enough but it’s fantastic.

1 st Day – After Dinner

After dinner, it’s time to visit Temple Street Fortune Telling. This is a street that comes alive at night with fortune tellers and their red tents that line up across the street.

Hong Kong people are quite superstitious. Unlike the stalls at Wong Tai Sin Temple, these fortune tellers here also offer tarot card reading as well as traditional services like birth time reading, palm reading, etc.

My favourite is the fortune teller with the bird. You share what topic you’d want to learn more about, ask your question, give your surname, and the fortune teller will ask the bird. He will first feed the bird then the bird will then select an envelope for you. I picked a bird that the fortune teller told me is usually lazy! But thankfully he cooperated with me and chose one.

Inside the envelope lies your answer. You might not believe in fortune-telling and think it’s totally bogus. But it’s fun and something that’s not often found.

Hong Kong in 3 days – Day 2 in Hong Kong Island

2nd day – morning.

On the 2 nd day, the day starts a little later because it’s going to end later.

Have a quiet morning and start the day by grabbing some breakfast at a HK café. There are dishes like egg sandwiches, macaroni soup, French toast, and congee with fried dough sticks for breakfast.

First stop is Monster Building in Quarry Bay. Like Rainbow Estate, it’s a residential building where people from all over the world come to visit to take pictures. There is no set time for when it opens because it’s outdoors. It’s also not a place you’ll stay for too long unless you’re trying to get that one perfect shot.

Some movies have come to film here because it’s unbelievable how many people live in this space. Hundreds of people can fit into this one building?! It seems fake but I can assure you that it’s totally real.

2nd Day – Late Morning/Early Afternoon

Causeway Bay is similar to Tsim Sha Tsui except it’s on the HK Island side. The stores here also don’t usually open until around 11 a.m.

Shoppers will love this area as there are multiple malls like Times Square, Hysan Place, Lee Gardens, and Fashion Walk. There is also SOGO which is a huge department store that sells pretty much anything you can think of.

The basement level is dedicated to grocery and food stalls so there’s tons to eat as you get hungry from all that moving and walking.

Lunch – HK Café

You might be thinking ‘Why on earth would I eat at a HK café again after I had it for breakfast?’

That’s because the dishes they serve in the morning and afternoon are completely different. In the afternoon, they have BBQ meats, curry rice, baked tomato rice, fried noodles, wonton noodles, etc.

Locals eat at HK cafes when they want to grab a quick bite to eat but still don’t want to skimp on food quality. There are also a lot of options and most importantly, they’re affordable!

I personally love HK cafes and eat food from there usually about once a week.

2nd Day – Afternoon

After lunch, it’s time to head up to Victoria Peak. The Peak is where you can see the highest point in Hong Kong.

Most people take the peak tram to get up there. When you’re up on top, there are attractions to keep you occupied like the Madam Tussauds Museum, walking trail, shopping mall, souvenir stores , and restaurants.

It’s overpriced but I like their candy store there called Candylicious. It reminds me of Dylan’s Candy Bar in NYC where there are hundreds of options for sweets. It’s too bad that they don’t have a store in city centre because I’ll visit the store often. Actually, now that I think about it, maybe it’s a good thing they don’t have a store in the city or else too much of my money will go there.

It’s an area that can take about 2-3 hours of your time.

2nd Day – Late Afternoon

In order to take the peak tram, it has to be at Central. When you take the peak tram back down, you’ll be back in Central and where you started.

Central is the financial district of Hong Kong so if you come here on a weekend, it tends to be more quiet.

There are fine-dining restaurants and luxury malls all around the area.

Although you’ve just taken the peak tram, you can take the tram, or as locals call it the ding ding, to go around the area.

Your feet need a rest from all that walking and there’s still so much to do in the time you have left in Hong Kong. The ding ding lets you see a street view of the city. This type of transportation is quite slow and most of them do not have air conditioning. On the plus side, it’s affordable.

The tram has limited routes so if you pass on the opportunity to take it, there might not be another chance to ride the tram according to this Hong Kong in 3 days schedule.

2nd Day – Late Night

Lan Kwai Fong, Central is a must for those who love visiting bars and clubs. It is THE party place in HK.

Lan Kwai Fong is filled with people at night, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. If you compare it to the exact place in the daytime, it’s completely dead. The atmosphere after the sun sets feels more fun and lively.

This is where you must go to see the fun nightlife in Hong Kong.

Wind down in this area before heading back to the hotel.

The last day of your trip will also be a full schedule so try not to get too crazy at Lan Kwai Fong.

Hong Kong in 3 Days – Day 3 in Lantau Island

The last day is reserved for a day trip . This can be a variety of options depending on what you would like to do.

3rd Day – Option One

Those who prefer sightseeing should visit Big Buddha . When you go to Big Buddha, you take the cable car up to Ngong Ping Village. This small village has a few souvenir shops, restaurants, a monastery, and a mini chocolate museum to keep you busy before going to the main tourist attraction.

There are hundreds of steps before you can reach the foot of the bronze Buddha. It’s quite tiring and can get quite cramped especially if there are a lot of people there at the same time. But it’s also something people usually only do once so remind yourself of that as you’re huffing and puffing as you continue to walk up the stairs.

If you did your research before coming to Hong Kong, you should have known to pack comfortable footwear because there’s a lot of walking involved.

Big Buddha and Ngong Ping Village won’t take the whole day. Many people will partner with Big Buddha and Tai O Fishing Village . Tai O Fishing Village is known for its shrimp paste and pink dolphins.

3 rd Day – Option Two

Hong Kong Disneyland Castle (Fantasyland)

Did you know HK has two amusement parks?

It might come as a surprise since Hong Kong is known for its small spaces.

There is Ocean Park and Hong Kong Disneyland . Ocean Park has more of a chill local vibe. It’s also bigger with more attractions.

On the other hand, there is Disneyland. It’s a worldwide famous theme park that doesn’t have much of an introduction. Disney fanatics won’t want to skip out on this one.

Be wise on the day you visit Disneyland and you’ll find yourself not having to queue for an absurd amount of time.

3 rd Day – Option Three

The third option is to spend your last day in Hong Kong with nature.

The last two days were spent so much time in the city that the 3 rd day is to spend time with nature. Head over to Sai Kung or Discovery Bay for fresh seafood, local shops, beaches, hiking trails, temples, and parks.

These islands in Hong Kong have a slower pace of life. You won’t feel as rushed to finish everything in one go and can leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood.

Final Thoughts – Hong Kong in 3 days

You might be wondering why I didn’t include Macau when visiting Hong Kong in 3 days. There’s a good reason for this.

There’s so much of Hong Kong to see but people automatically think that they should travel to Shenzhen and Macau if they have extra time in the city. While those two places are definitely worth exploring, if you have a shorter time in Hong Kong, I would highly recommend visiting the city centre and suburbs before moving on to other cities.

With this thorough itinerary, you can see the most important parts of Hong Kong in 3 days. This 72-hour itinerary has a mixture of everything so it’s suitable for anyone visiting this Chinese city.

Now to You – Hong Kong in 3 days

Grab my FREE weekly planner to plan your 3-day trip to Hong Kong!

Xoxo, Nicole

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A Complete Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

By: Author Charles

Posted on June 9, 2023

3 days in Hong Kong is just enough time to explore all around the area. Many people like to add Hong Kong as part of a longer trip to Asia, and this itinerary can help you plan out all the main sites to see.

From incredible viewpoints of the Hong Kong skyline to the big Buddha of Lantau to the casinos of Macau, this itinerary will walk you through it all.

* Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

3 Days in Hong Kong Map View

Take a look at the map below which shows you where each attraction that is part of this itinerary is located throughout Hong Kong.

Given that you probably will be situated in one place the whole trip, you can move around the individual days of the itinerary as you see fit.

A Detailed Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

Now lets get on to the actual trip! The following is a detailed breakout of the daily attractions and activities on this 3 day itinerary. Feel free to scroll through and click on any more in depth posts along the way.

Day 1 – Views, Exploring & Markets

Hong Kong is full of lively streets, markets and views. The first stop on your trip will take you to the top of the city – Victoria Peak – where you will be able to have an incredible view of the entire city from up above.

You can opt for the bus, cab, cable car, or hike up to the top of the peak. Take a look at the guide below that will go over each of these transportation options.

» Check out Your Complete Guide to Victoria Peak which will give you more insight about this amazing experience.

If you would like you can take a stroll around Hong Kong Park , which is also right next to where the base of the tram is. It is a great little oasis within the city full of greenery, ponds, and walking paths. Hop on the MTR and get yourself to the Kowloon side of the city.

Once there stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and the Avenue of the Stars . Here you will be able to see the skyline of the Hong Kong Island side during the day and pass by statues of all the famous movie celebrities that came from the region.

By this time it is probably time for lunch and you can find any place around the area for some food. Depending on what interests you there are a bunch of museums around as well (and most are free on Wednesdays!).

The museums include the Hong Kong Museum of History, the Hong Kong Science Museum, and the Hong Kong Space Museum among others.

All of these are walking distance from one another so if you want to spend an hour or two checking one out now is the time.

Later on in the evening you can check out some markets, and there are plenty to choose from. A bit north of the promenade you will find the Ladies Market .

As usual in Asia, these markets have a little bit of everything so get your bargaining hat on and start browsing around.

Once you have made it through the Ladies Market head down to the Temple Street Night Market .

Side note: a few minutes walk from the Ladies Market you can find the Goldfish Market . Now you probably aren’t in the market to buy a goldfish but it is an interesting site to see. Also close by are the Bird and Flower markets. Walk around there for a bit before making it down to Temple Street.

Here are some of the best valued hotels when choosing where to stay in Hong Kong:

Kowloon Hotels

New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel
Harbour Grand Kowloon
Hyatt Regency Hong Kong Tsim Sha Tsui

Hong Kong Island Hotels

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong
The Fleming Hong Kong
Harbour Grand Hong Kong

Day 2 – Lantau Island

On your second day in Hong Kong, make your way to Lantau Island to see the Big Buddha, take part of some hiking opportunities, and see a fishing village.

It is super simple to do a day trip to the island as one of the metro lines will take you right there. Once on the island you will be able to do any and all activities.

» The Ultimate Guide to Lantau Island will go over everything you need to know about the day trip

Later at night it is time to head back to the Tsim Shu Promenade. Every night at 8PM there is a light show put on by the buildings on the riverbank.

It is a unique thing to see, as you don’t usually get to see all these buildings in one area putting on a show in unison.

Make sure you get a nice spot to enjoy the 15 minute display before grabbing some food and calling it a night (Ozone Bar at the top of the Ritz Carlton is another option if you want to see the show from up top).

Day 3 – Macau

After spending a few days in Hong Kong its time to head out to the Las Vegas of Asia – Macau. Even if you are not into the whole gambling scene, there are other things to see around Macau for the day so don’t write it off just because you don’t enjoy the blackjack table.

Luckily Macau is an easy ~1 hour or so boat ride from Hong Kong.

There are two ferry terminals that will take you there – one on the Kowloon side (China Ferry Terminal) and one on the Hong Kong Island side (Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal – Sheung Wan). You can ferry over either to the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal or the Macau Taipa Terminal.

Ferries run around the clock so you should not have any trouble picking a time and getting tickets. You can check the Turbojet schedule who runs many of the routes. Expect to pay $20 – $25 one way.

You can start off your time in Macau at the Historic Centre of Macau. As a UNESCO World Heritage site there are numerous buildings, churches, and squares to roam around in.

Check out the map of the area to give you some context of what you can see. Spend the next couple hours walking around the area and taking in that Chinese / Portuguese feel.

Once you have had enough time roaming the city, you can grab lunch and spend some time wandering the casinos as you gamble, drink, eat and enjoy the entertainment.

There are plenty of casinos to choose from – both within walking distance of the historic centre and some farther south. Once your day/night is complete you can hop back on a ferry to Hong Kong.

Additional Nightlife Option : One of the highlights of Hong Kong nightlife experience is heading to the Happy Valley Racecourse. Each week, on Wednesdays there are 10 or so races starting at about 7PM.

It is a great time to have some beers, bet on horses and then cheer them on. Even if you are not into horse racing whatsoever, it is easy to get involved and enjoy the evening.

So if you happen to be in Hong Kong on a Wednesday and want to take part, check the schedule before heading out there. After a night on the racecourse, head on over to Wan Chai or Lan Kwai Fong for a night on the town.

That about does it for a complete Hong Kong 3 days itinerary route. Check out some more Hong Kong itineraries and guides , and feel free to comment below with any questions.

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Travel Blog, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary For Hong Kong

August 22, 2017 by Bino 2 Comments

For someone looking to get out of the city rush, Hong Kong might come last in one’s travel list. This rings true among first time visitors to Asia’s World City. There is often a mistaken belief that Hong Kong is a highly urbanised territory with less to see apart from theme parks and shopping malls.

However, Hong Kong has so much to offer more beyond its reputation for being a cosmopolitan district. In fact beyond its famed skyscrapers, you may rediscover Hong Kong with new eyes as a place of natural wonder and a repository of memorable experiences.

Witness Hong Kong With New Eyes

There is a long list of things to do and places to visit in Hong Kong. The lineup spans from Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, alongside the other outlying islands including Lantau Island. Assuming that you prefer quality time with nature before hitting the Hong Kong metropolis, let’s start our 3-day Hong Kong itinerary at Lantau Island.

Day 1: Exploring the Island of Lantau

Say you’ll be coming from Hong Kong Island, you can easily get to Lantau Island by taking the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) to Tung Chung. From Tung Chung, there are two options for you to reach Lantau. You either take a bus or ride the Ngong Ping Cable Car .

tian tan buddha by Jorge Lascar, CC 2.0

The fastest way would be through the cable car, not to mention you experience a great view from up high. Also, try to get to Tung Chung as early as you can to avoid the long queues. The line for both the bus and cable car builds up especially on holidays.

Our first stop will be Ngong Ping, situated in the western part highlands of Lantau Island. Ngong Ping has become an amalgam of modernity with nature as the ultimate backdrop. Apart from the established line up of man-made attractions, Ngong Ping is where you will also find the two must-visit sites, Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery .

There will be a lot of walking so I suggest you grab a bite before you make the hike. You can have a quick breakfast at the Ngong Ping Village , a well developed open-air tourist area that hosts a variety of restaurants serving Asian and Western cuisine. Apart from food and dining, the 1.5 hectare village also brings a multitude of cultural performances with shopping centers, which I suggest is best reserved for later.

Dedicate your entire morning to Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. From the village, head to the east part of the Lantau Trail Section 4/ Ngong Ping Rd heading toward Lin Ping Drive. You’ll definitely won’t get lost, as this site is one of Lantau Island’s most visited attractions and you’ll probably see a swarm of tourists on their way to the sites.

Depending on your pace, you can cover the trail, including climbing the 260 steps to the Buddha shrine, in 10 to 15 minutes or even less. Right across the majestic, and apparently the biggest bronze seated statue of Buddha in the world, is the Po Lin Monastery. You hit two birds in one stone, so the walk to this spot is well deserved!

Spend a bit of time here to learn about the cultural, spiritual and traditional significance of both the shrine and the monastery. If time permits, throw in a walk to the Wisdom Path . I’d say the Wisdom Path is another noteworthy and scenic trek especially for those looking for a more quiet, less visited area by tourists. You will find a signage that leads to the path from the base of Tian Tan Buddha.

With all the walking and climbing, for sure you will be dead hungry by noon. You can either go back to the base for your lunch or try out an all-vegetarian cuisine at the Po Lin Monastery’s Kitchen. I prefer the latter! The vegetarian restaurant may not be your typical “destination meal”. However, the fact that the vegetarian dishes are prepared and served by the monks from the area is worth a try. Moreso, you support the monastery when you dine in. Reserve in advance for your meals by buying a ticket from the dining area or at the ticket office at the base of the Buddha Shrine. Meals start at HK$78 for a General Meal, while a Deluxe Meal will cost you HK$118. Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

In the afternoon, you can choose to stay and leave no stone unturned at Ngong Ping Village, one of Ngong Ping 360’s attraction. After all, you are already in the area, you might as well spend your half day looking about what else they have to offer. Ngong Ping Village is a developed themed “cultural area” fashioned and inspired by a traditional Chinese Village. Mind you however, this choice may not be off-the-beaten path in terms of being a tourist destination. Otherwise, the site has it’s own charm to entertain you.

Alternative Afternoon Route, Tai O Fishing Village

tai o fishing village by polar | cc 2.0

In case you are still looking for places to visit that’s more off-the-beaten path, you can choose to go to Tai O fishing village, instead of hanging around Ngong Ping Village. This fishing village gets its share of tourists, but it is not as congested by travelers compared to other places. The fishing village is composed of stilt houses and a massive seafood market that can be overwhelming at times, but nonetheless offers a great experience for the hungry traveler.

Day 2 : Hello Kowloon

One of the most delightful things I love when traveling in Hong Kong is the accessibility from point A to B! If you love ferries, fasten your seatbelt as we begin our day 2 by boarding a ferry from Victoria Harbor to Tsim Sha Tsui!

kowloon by Jirka Matousek | CC 2.0

It’s very easy to get to Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon by riding the Star Ferry. You can actually board the ferryboat from one of two of these piers, Wan Chai or Central. Taking the ferry is one of the oldest forms of transportations in Hong Kong. In fact, the Star Ferry Pier is seen as one of the most significant landmarks in this region.

star ferry by Petteri Sullonen | CC 2.0

Surprisingly, it will only take you around 10 minutes to arrive at your destination, which is pretty awesome. The shorter the travel time, the more time you have at your disposal to visit more spots in Kowloon area. Nothing less is to be expected from this age old traditional means of transportation traced back to the 1880s.

flamingos at kowloon park by sarah stierch | cc 2.0

Kowloon is a highly urbanized area in Hong Kong. Some even describe Kowloon as being than “grittier” end of Hong Kong. Even so, a day trip to Kowloon is worth your while as there are indeed interesting districts that are very memorable.

Upon arriving at Tsim Sha Tsui pier, head to Kowloon Park by taking the MTR and exit at Tsim Sha Tsui station. In my opinion, the 13.33 hectare public park strikes a balance between a densely populated city and presence of nature. Use the whole morning to go around and visit the following facilities within the park: Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre , Avenue of Comic Stars & Bird Lake and The Aviary.

Try to wrap things up and head for an early lunch to One Dim Sum , which is known for being the best affordable dim sum restaurant in Hong Kong. One Dim Sum gets crowded at lunch. You’d think only tourists flood this dim sum place but you’ll be competing with the locals as well. You are in dim sum heaven with nothing above HK$26. If you are not sure what to order, head to their classic favourites and you will not be disappointed!

To get there, take the MTR and exit Prince Edward Station. One Dim Sum is located at Shop 1 & 2, G/F, Kenwood Mansion at 15 Playing Field Road, Prince Edward. They are open from 11:00am to 12:30mn on Mondays to Fridays and 10:00am to 12:30mn during the weekend.

After lunch, check out Wong Tai Sin Temple to have your fortune told! The cheapest way to get there is through the MTR. Get off at Tai Sin Station, exit B2 and take a short walk to the temple.

wong tai sin temple by pablo trincado | cc 2.0

The site is very picturesque, with daily visitors stopping over at this temple dedicated to Wong Tai Sin. The temple was build to honor the most prominent Chinese religions which includes Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Visitors come here to worship and to pray for good fortune.

After your short visit to Wong Tai Sin Temple, head to Mong Kok to try one of the many street side restaurants popularly known as dai pai dongs . Also, take a look at their infamous flea market, which begins late in the afternoon. The “real action”, however starts at 9:00pm which you can skip if you lack the time. Nearest MTR is at Mong Kok Station.

Don’t miss out watching the Symphony of Lights from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade at 8:00pm. After watching the show, head back to Hong Kong Island by taking the ferry enjoying the the view of Victoria Harbor amidst the city lights at night.

You can watch the Symphony of Lights daily all throughout the week. The show lasts for 13 minutes.

Catch the live narration in English every Monday, Wednesday & Friday.

Day 3: Last Day Well-Spent in Hong Kong Island

The past 2 days have been undoubtedly action packed. I usually reserve my last day during a trip to chill and do a bit of shopping. But there’s still much to see in Hong Kong Island. No time to waste here!

If you’re feeling touristy, schedule a visit to Madam Tussauds situated at the The Peak. It’s the first ever wax museum in Asia with about 100 wax figures displayed at the museum. It would be such a shame not to go.

On the way to Victoria Peak by Harvey Barrison | CC 2.0

Board the Peak Tram with the nearest MTR at Central Station. You will be transported to Victoria Peak through the Sky Terrace. Take this chance to bask in the panorama of the city from The Peak , the highest point in Hong Kong Island. Afterwards, hop your way to the infamous wax museum!

For lunch, it was a choice between going to Kam Kee or Luk Yu Tea House . The latter is known for its history. Built in 1933, this lovely teahouse takes you years back with its Eastern art deco interiors! They serve old-school Cantonese cuisine. The food is a bit pricey but if you have the money to spare, it’s worth a try. Nothing beats good food with a perfect ambience. Nearest MTR is at Central Station. Address: No.24-26 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong. Open at 7:00am to 9:00pm from Mondays to Sundays.

If you haven’t had enough of shopping from the souvenir shops in Ngong Ping Village and Mong Kok, the PMQ or Police Married Quarters is an area to consider. From being a six story school, to to a site recruiting police in the 1940s, this architectural landmark has been turned into a building filled with shops.

bookstore in PMQ by Ruth Johnston | CC 2.0

This building has become a hub for budding designers and entrepreneurs. Spend 2-3 hours scouring for great finds made by the young bloods! Wrap your Hong Kong trip by dining and drinking cocktails in one of the joints situated inside the heritage building.

PMQ is located at 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong. Nearest MTR is from Sheung Wan Station.

Where to Stay in Hong Kong

Budget: The place to stay if you are looking for convenience, Mini Hotel Central Hong Kong is located in Lan Kwai Fong area and is a short walk to Central MTR Station. The rooms are tiny and service almost non-existent but if value for money and location are what you’re after then this is the place to stay.

Midrange: A good midrange option I typically recommend is City Garden Hotel located near Fortress Hill MTR Station. The area is refreshingly devoid of tourists but still convenient enough to several good eateries.

Luxury: You can’t go wrong with the grand dame – Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong . It’s the property that spurred dozens more of this iconic chain. Personally one of my favorite hotels in the world. Excellent service through and through.

Reader Interactions

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August 23, 2017 at 2:40 am

Ahhhh one of favorite cities. Nice suggestions. Wong Tai Sin temple is really nice. For the adventurous, my trip to Po Lin Monastery in Ngong Ping started with a ferry to Mui Wo then bus to Tai O then bus to Ngong Ping then cable car – a perfect day. Also recommend Tai Po Market food tour. A bit expensive but really fun and out of the tourist zone for sure. Great blog, thanks ?

August 30, 2017 at 10:54 am

Hello Bino! Thanks for this itnerary, Lantau island island seems a great place. We didn’t manage to visit it during our hongkong trip last year. 🙁 Will definitely include it in the plans for our next hk trip.

3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary

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Hong Kong in 3 days
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Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: southeast side of town, day 3: proximity is everything, hong kong disneyland.

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Tai kwun - centre for heritage and arts, the peak tower, lan kwai fong, where to eat, tin lung heen, rajasthan rifles, ding dim 1968.

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Planning a 3-Day Tour of Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an internationally famous travel city with a metropolitan atmosphere, great skylines, fantastic shopping venues, and some of the best museums around. If you have 3 days to spend there, you can choose to visit some of the places that interest you most.

Here are some ideas to help you plan your 3-day tour of Hong Kong, and our recommendations for things to do.

Suggested Itinerary

Our itinerary provides a good balance of attractions over three days.

Day 1: Victoria Peak, Aberdeen (optional: Repulse Bay, Stanley Market);
Day 2: Lantau Island: Giant Buddha, Tai O Village;
Day 3: Dragon's Back and Tsim Sha Tsui.

Remember this is only a sample itinerary. If you are traveling with us, you can modify the trip according to your interests.

Day 1 – Hong Kong Island Sightseeing

A great idea for starting your tour of Hong Kong is to view the city from above – by visiting Victoria Peak . Then in the afternoon, you can take the opportunity to get closer to local people in Aberdeen or Stanley.

Morning: Visit Victoria Peak to Enjoy the Scenery of Victoria Harbour

For sightseeing in Hong Kong, Victoria Peak's view of the sea and city is quintessential. You have 2 options for reaching the peak: Take the relaxing Peak Tram (7 to 8 minutes) or hike (1 to 1.5 hours).

Peak Tower is the destination, from where you can admire fantastic views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong's skyline. Also visit Madame Tussauds Hong Kong in the tower.

At noon, go to one of the luxury restaurants in Peak Tower, where you can have lunch as you take in the harbor views. If you are traveling with us, your guide will also recommend to you some restaurants down the mountain.

Afternoon: Aberdeen or Stanley Market

In the afternoon, come into closer contact with local people in Aberdeen or Stanley.

Aberdeen is one of the earliest residential areas of Hong Kong and used to be a fishing village. It is now famous for its floating village and floating restaurants . Here, you can experience the lifestyle of fishermen from 'old Hong Kong'.

Ride on "sampan" fishing boats to visit the harbor area of Aberdeen. Then enjoy a seafood dinner in a floating restaurant.

Alternatively, Stanley Market is another place popular with local people. You may find a lot of interesting goods there, such as ornaments, paintings and handicrafts.

You are recommended to visit the market with a guide, for you can get some useful advice if you are going to buy something. It should be a good experience just to walk around.

Evening: Night View of Victoria Harbour

Enjoy free time for the rest of the day. At nightfall, how about visiting Victoria Harbour shore to enjoy sunset and night views? At 8 pm, the Symphony of Lights show is laid on in the harbor. This popular tourist attraction is an entertaining way of learning about various buildings in Hong Kong.

Summary: During your first day, you will catch some must-see attractions, enjoying the scenery and experiencing locals' lives. Refer to our Hong Kong Island tour for further details.

Day 2 – Lantau Island Cultural Experience

Morning: giant buddha.

In the morning, we will drive to Lantau Island , with beautiful scenery all along the way. The top attraction in Lantau is Po Lin Monastery and the largest outdoor seated bronze Buddha statue in the world – the Giant Buddha.

For one of the best views of the Buddha – a view from above – ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car.

Enjoy a vegetarian lunch in the monastery after visiting.

Afternoon: Tai O Village and Ngong Ping Village

Tai O is a village in Lantau Island with beautiful scenery. It is a good place for imagining the lives of Hong Kong people long ago.

Ngong Ping nearby is a cultural village with Buddhist theatres, specialty restaurants, tea houses and markets. Buskers also perform Chinese kungfu, juggling, and Cantonese opera in the village.

Optional: Theme Parks

If you are traveling with young kids who may not so interested in cultural attractions, a good option may be to spend a day at one of Hong Kong's popular theme parks: Ocean Park or Disneyland.

Hong Kong Ocean Park is a popular theme park with animal performances, exciting rides and interesting exhibitions. Visit the Waterfront Section in the morning to see pandas, then enjoy some thrilling rides in the Summit Section, or watch marine animal performances.

Hong Kong Disneyland is not the largest in the world, but its small size lends itself to one full happy day out. It has two distinctive areas not found elsewhere, so no matter whether you have visited other Disneylands or not, Hong Kong Disneyland is worth a visit.

Summary: Day 2 is a cultural day, when you can learn about traditional customs of Hong Kong, and imagine how Hong Kong used to be. Check out our Lantau Island tour for more information.

Day 3 – Dragon's Back and Tsim Sha Tsui

Morning: dragon's back hiking.

In the morning, to escape the urban environment and enjoy natural beauty and exercise , we suggest hiking along Dragon's Back. The trail is about 30 minutes' drive from Hong Kong Central.

Dragon's Back is internationally renowned. From the trail, you could also easily access Big Wave Bay Beach, one of the Top 10 Hong Kong Beaches, on Hong Kong Trail Section 8. See Hong Kong Island Hiking for more information about the trail and transport there.

Optional: Hong Kong Park

If you are still feeling tired from yesterday's journey, or the weather isn't suitable for hiking, we recommend Hong Kong Park ,which is a free and pleasant city park, with some relaxing indoor activities.

The park has a greenhouse with 2,000 plant species, a large world-class open aviary under a net canopy, and 19 th -century British buildings. Also visit the Hong Kong Museum of Teaware ,with a free ceramics museum, excellent architectural sightseeing, a tea shop, and a cafe.

Afternoon: The Golden Mile on Nathan Road

In the afternoon, ride a Star Ferry to Tsim Sha Tsui.

For local culture and shopping in HK, Nathan Road is a tourist magnet. People from various cultures mingle there, with a variety of low- and high-end stores lining both sides of the road. Start in front of Chung King Mansions and walk north.

If you become tired of walking, you can visit Kowloon Park behind the Masjid, or sample some street food.

Summary: On day 3, enjoy nature or take some time to relax,then enjoy some shopping. Apart from shopping, there are other things to do in Tsim Sha Tsui . Hoping you will have some great experiences in these 3 days.

Enjoy Your Tour of Hong Kong with Us

Here's hoping the itinerary above will give you some ideas for your tour of Hong Kong. If you are traveling with us, you can simply tell us what you like, then we will customize a tour for you. You can enjoy a hassle-free journey with a guide who speaks your language and a private vehicle.

See more Hong Kong tours . Pick out a tour you like, as the starting point for creating your own unique trip . Just tell us your preferences and start discussing 1–1 with a dedicated travel advisor.

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3 Days in Hong Kong: The Best HK Travel Itinerary

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 1, 2024

3 Days in Hong Kong: The Best HK Travel Itinerary

Planning a trip to Hong Kong and unsure about what to do? This three-day itinerary shows you all the best things to do in the city.

Hong Kong had always fascinated me with its bright lights, unique heritage and ornate temples, and I was eager to experience this alluring culture for myself.

As a child, I remember the home of a Chinese friend being adorned with pictures of Hong Kong, ornaments, tea sets and fabrics. All these objects interested me, and I hoped that one day I would get the chance to experience them for myself.

Finally, during my epic round-the-world trip , I made it to Hong Kong and was ready to immerse myself in everything it offered me during my three-day visit.

In this 3-night Hong Kong itinerary, I highlight the main tourist attractions in Kowloon and Hong Kong island to visit during your time in Asia. I hope it will inspire you to visit the city yourself.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my disclaimer and privacy policy.

Table of Contents

Getting from Hong Kong Airport

Hong Kong airport is a 30-minute journey to Kowloon if the traffic is good; otherwise, it can take significantly longer. Book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups .

There are other public transport options, but for me, a taxi is the easiest way to get to your hotel.

Where to Stay in Hong Kong

Divided into two main areas, Hong Kong Island is the home of Victoria Peak, while Kowloon is the home of modern culture and the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. I had chosen to stay at the 5* Royal Garden Hotel Kowloon as it was only a block from the waterfront, and I wanted the iconic view back across to Hong Kong Island.

Three-Day Hong Kong Itinerary

Day one in hong kong – morning.

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
Avenue of Stars
Peninsula Hotel
The HK Museum of History
The Clock Tower
Star Ferry Pier

As our hotel was on the waterfront in Kowloon, our first stop was the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. This iconic promenade contains the Avenue of Stars, the History, Art and Space museums and a cultural centre. Its main feature is the fantastic views of the Hong Kong skyline towering over Victoria Harbour.

The Avenue of Stars, modelled on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront and honours Hong Kong film industry celebrities. It features a statue of Bruce Lee, one of Hong Kong’s biggest stars.

The Peninsula Hotel is worth visiting to say you have been! From the supercars on the drive to the high-end jewellery shops inside, it is clear that this is a rich man’s playground. You can have coffee and cake in the lobby, but if you feel underdressed, just look around and vow to return another time in a more befitting outfit.

The Hong Kong Museum of History is located along the waterfront and immerses you in the history and culture of Hong Kong.

The Clock Tower is a landmark in Hong Kong. It is located on the southern shore of Tsim Sha Tsu and is the only remnant of the original site of the former Kowloon Railway Station.

Star Ferry Pier is where you embark on taking the ferry across Victoria Harbour to Hong Kong Island and near the Clock Tower.

It is famous for having been in service since 1888, and no trip to Hong Kong would be complete without experiencing what National Geographic describes as “one of 50 great journeys to take in a lifetime.”

Shopping in Kowloon

Once we left the waterfront, we headed into the main streets of Kowloon. The shops here sell everything you could imagine and sit beside sky-high blocks of flats.

Shopkeepers will inundate you with offers to make you a suit. Every other shop seemed to be a tailor, so we had no escape. Tell them firmly, “No thank you”, and you will be left alone unless a bespoke suit is something you want!

Blocks of flats above shops in Hong Kong.

Day One in Hong Kong – Evening

Take a cruise in victoria harbour at night.

We booked an evening trip on Hong Kong’s only original 3-mast Chinese junk with Dukling.com. The trip sails around Victoria Harbour in time to watch the Symphony of Lights show every evening.

Constructed in 1955, the Dukling was used by fishermen as a place of work and also as a home. There are other similar-looking boats in Victoria Harbour, but this is the only original one, and when you step aboard, it feels like you are experiencing a piece of Hong Kong’s history.

We weren’t as impressed with the Symphony of Lights as we had hoped, as we felt that this was no match after visiting Singapore , where the light shows are amazing.

After enjoying a cruise around the harbour, I recommend visiting one of Hong Kong’s rooftop bars . Sip a cocktail and enjoy Hong Kong’s night skyline from a unique perspective.

Day Two in Hong Kong – Full Day

On day two, we travelled from Hong Kong to Lantau Island. We stopped at a beach, saw the Big Buddha statue, enjoyed a vegetarian lunch in a monastery and visited a floating village. It was a great day out, which you can read about in my post: Lantau Day Trip From Hong Kong.

Day Three in Hong Kong – Morning

Today, we decided to take the Star Ferry from Kowloon across to Hong Kong Island and explore what the other side of the harbour had to offer. Our first stop was to visit Victoria Peak on the Peak Tram.

When we arrived, there was a long queue to get on the tram, and in the heat of the day, it was quite an uncomfortable wait.

I would recommend having plenty of water with you. After much pushing and shoving, we finally reached the front of the queue and boarded the tram to make our way up the hill.

Take a ride on famous Peak Tram

One of the world’s oldest and most famous funicular railways, the tram rises to 396 metres (about 1,300 feet) above sea level.

It goes quite fast, and you are at a real incline in your seat as it goes up the hill, so the buildings you pass look like they are leaning.

As the residents still use this tram to reach their homes, you get to stop a couple of times during the journey should you wish to get off and walk the rest of the way. We chose to stay in our seats!!

Red tram going up the hill in Hong Kong.

On top of The Peak

Before you can get out to the viewing platform of the Peak, you have to walk through an entertainment complex including Madame Tussauds, a 3D photo area, many food outlets and souvenir shops.

My son, who was travelling with me, had promised to bring something back for his friends, so we seized the opportunity to buy 15 (yes, 15!) golden cats with waving paws, the Chinese symbol for luck. It’s worth bargaining for as we got quite a few souvenirs at low prices.

We exited the complex and were blown away by the iconic view that confronted us. Seeing the city spread out below us was one of the reasons we wanted to visit The Peak. Once we saw it, we understood why Hong Kong is one of China’s best places to visit.

Aerial view of Hong Kong skyline and harbour from The Peak.

We wandered around The Peak, taking in all it had to offer.

There is a walking track that we started to investigate, which leads all around the Peak. There are maps on the walls to tell you where you are going. It’s good to see some original houses dotted around despite everything else being so modern.

Clock of flats in dense woodland at the top of The Peak in Hong Kong.

Step inside the historic Man Mo Temple

Our next stop was to be Man Mo Temple. We took a taxi and headed to Hollywood Road, Hong Kong’s first street.

One of Hong Kong’s oldest and most acclaimed temples is between the towering skyscrapers along this iconic road.

Constructed in 1847, the Man Mo Temple pays tribute to the God of Literature (Man) and the God of War (Mo). It is one of the top temples to visit in Southeast Asia.

The thick smoke took my breath away when we entered, and I couldn’t stop coughing! Giant incense coils line the roof, having been lit and hung by worshippers. They are considered food for the spirits and purification of the surroundings.

Make sure the temple is high on your Hong Kong itinerary. It is a fascinating place to visit and steeped in tradition and beliefs.

Many coiled wooden incense burners hanging from the roof in a temple in Hong Kong.

After World War II, Hollywood Road and its surrounding streets became the centre for antiques and curios and remain the same today.

We looked in the shops and found a curio store, a treasure trove of antiquities. Inside it was dark and dusty and felt almost magical. We wondered just what stories these objects could tell us.

Moon gate entrance to a curio shop in Kowloon.

We also came across carvings made from Mammoth tusks! Where were they getting these protected items from in the 21st century? Surprisingly the answer was Siberia.

From tusks buried deep in the ice, intricate carvings are crafted from ivory. The sculptures are beautiful but come with a hefty price tag.

Day Three in Hong Kong – Evening

Search for the street art.

We wandered along the adjoining roads towards the world’s longest escalator, the Central Mid-Level Escalators.

One of the unique things to do in Hong Kong is to see the city’s street art. On our way to the escalators, we noticed how much street art was around us – not something we had read about in the guidebooks.

There are many Asian cities where you can see street art , but for some reason, I was surprised to see so much of it in Hong Kong.

Ride the famous mid-central escalators

We finally reached the famous mid-central escalators and entered them to take a ride to the top. It is a long way to the top because they are the longest escalators in the world. Don’t worry; you can exit at different points to visit restaurants and bars!

When we arrived at the top, we realised the only way back down was to take the hundreds of steps. Needless to say, we jumped into a taxi to take us back to the port.

We caught the Star Ferry back to Kowloon and agreed we had experienced a perfect 3-nights in Hong Kong.

Ferry crossing the harbour at sunset in Hong Kong.

Our incredible 3-day adventure had finished, and we would leave Hong Kong with fond memories along with ten gold lucky nodding cats, a silk kimono, incense sticks, silk make-up bags and hundreds of photos!

Conclusion of Hong Kong and Kowloon

What month did I travel? March

How was the weather? It was hot and dry.

Would I recommend the hotel? Yes, the Royal Garden Kowloon offers 5-star luxury.

Would I recommend three nights in Hong Kong and Kowloon? Yes, it is worth visiting Hong Kong and Kowloon. They both have a different vibe, which is good. Kowloon is modern with its ultra-sleek museums and luxury hotels, while Hong Kong Island is more traditional. A trip to Lantau Island should also be included in your trip itinerary.

Please Pin for Future Travel to Hong Kong

Are you looking for further inspiration for travel to Asia? Please check out the following posts:

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Best street art around the world

Sunday 21st of June 2020

[…] your stay in Hong Kong check out this quintessential area near to the famous Hollywood Road – yes that really is […]

Thursday 26th of March 2020

Hong Kong is a beautiful city to visit. Its skyscrapers and star ferry pier look impressive. I love that well-made statue of Bruce Lee in action! Your pictures are stunning. :-)

WhereAngieWanders

Hong Kong was definitely an assault on the senses and somewhere I am pleased to have visited. So much to see and do including the Avenue of Stars where the Bruce Lee statue takes pride of place

Friday 31st of January 2020

Yes, we were lucky that we had clear blue skies as I believe it can be very foggy up there. I guess we travelled at a good time of year. I hope you get there one day.

I've been to Hong Kong twice, but never explored the street art--what a great idea! But this city really does have lots to see. I also enjoyed the food in Hong Kong, I could eat dim sum all day.

It is such a city of contrasts and I got hooked on noodles !

Thursday 30th of January 2020

Great post! I've wanted to go to Hong Kong for a while now as I love the combination of different cultures, modern skyscrapers and historic buildings. It looks like such a fascinating city to visit!

Yes it certainly is 😃

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary (with Budget Tips!)

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Hong Kong is a global destination – and with 3 Days in Hong Kong, travelers can experience the highlights of this magnificent city. That said, the cost of a 3-Day Hong Kong trip can be exorbitant. As budget-conscious travelers, we were determined to keep our spending in check.

We devised a plan to experience of the best of Hong Kong on a budget. Our 3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary – which includes ample HK cost-saving tips – is an ideal way for fellow budget travelers to follow in our footsteps!

Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days

The 3 Day Hong Kong Itinerary that we outline below showcases the best of HK. On the first day, we go to the top of The Peak, tour Central and dapple in the nightlife of famous Lan Kwai Fong. Day 2 is spent in Kowloon, enjoying the sights, markets and amazing food. The last day of our Hong Kong Travel Itinerary is spent sightseeing on Lantau Island.

3 Day Itinerary Hong Kong…on a Budget

Hong Kong has risen in the ranks to one of the most expensive cities in the world, no doubt deterring budget travelers. In a place where a cup of coffee can run upwards of $7 USD and a one-day ticket to Hong Kong Disneyland costs more than $80 USD, it is easy to assume that all of Hong Kong is expensive. The truth is that visiting Hong Kong can be affordable – and we proved it with our budget trip to HK!

How To Create a Budget 3 Day Itinerary for Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a financial hub, therefore we designed our itinerary based on maximum return on investment! We stuck to a tight budget, while still being able to experience Hong Kong’s top sights. During our trip, we relied on public transportation and our own two feet, rather than organized tours. Plus, we avoided high-dollar sights by seeking out cheaper alternatives.

Instead of paying an entry fee for a skyscraper view, we discovered towers with observation decks that are open to the public for free. As a substitute to purchasing a ticket to The Peak’s 360-degree viewing platform, we strolled the circumference trail for free. Rather than paying for a Hong Kong Harbor Cruise, we hopped on the cheap Star Ferry. And, in lieu of a package tour to Lantau Island, we figured out a way to visit the sights on our own for a fraction of the cost.

Our trip was also highlighted by some of the Best Food in Hong Kong – without excessive spending. We do understand that everyone’s Hong Kong budget will be different. Therefore, we offer money-saving tips that fit a range of travel styles throughout our 3 Days in Hong Kong Itinerary.

BEST 3-DAY HONG KONG ITINERARY

Victoria Harbour at Night, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

Our trip plan features the top things to see in Hong Kong in three days – and we do it all at a budget price. Now, let’s get to the day-by-day details of the trip itinerary!

Day 1: The Peak and Central

Start your first day with a bird’s eye view of Hong Kong from The Peak. Then explore Hong Kong Central via a self-guided walking tour before ending the day in SoHo and Lan Kwai Fong.

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak – or simply ‘The Peak’ – is Hong Kong Island’s tallest mountain, reaching 1,811 feet – and it’s a must-see during your three days in Hong Kong!

Tourists and locals alike flock to The Peak not only for the phenomenal views of Central, Victoria Harbour, Kowloon and surrounding islands, but also for the cooler temperatures and a bit of exercise. While the highest point is off-limits to visitors (it’s stacked with cell towers), there are parks, paths, viewing points and a shopping complex near the top.

Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Budget Tip: Skip the indoor shopping and pass on buying a ticket to Sky Terrace 428. Instead, jump on the Peak Circle Walk trail for spectacular views of Hong Kong…for free! Allow an hour to complete the easy circumference trail, stopping to enjoy the scene along the way.

Getting To Victoria Peak

The Peak Tram, which first operated in 1888, is a popular (and pricey) option to get from HK Central to the top of Victoria Peak. A second (and cheaper) option is to catch bus 15 from the Central Ferry Piers for a ride up the mountainside, passing posh Hong Kong residences along the way.

The bus ticket costs a mere fraction of the tram and offers the best money-saving option. However, if the roundtrip tram ride and visiting Hong Kong’s highest viewing platform are at the top of your HK Must-Do List, purchasing The Peak Combo Ticket will save you money.

Walking Tour of Hong Kong Central

Next up is Hong Kong’s vibrant Central Business District and a top area for exploring on foot. Located on Victoria Harbour, HK Central is dense with skyscrapers. Interspersed among these soaring towers are historic sights as well as green spaces.

Take a stroll through HK Central District and into the surrounding neighborhoods to get acquainted with Hong Kong Island. Top things to see are the tallest buildings (like 2 International Finance Center), the Mid-Levels Escalator, Hong Kong Park and Aviary and the Golden Bauhinia Square. We share specific details in our Free Self Guided Hong Kong Walking Tour!

Guided Walking Tours in Hong Kong Central

Budget travelers can use our free walking tour to navigate to the top sights. However, it can be more interesting to tour HK with a guide. For a more formal introduction to the city, consider joining one of the guided small-group tours of Hong Kong.

Tips for Getting around Central Hong Kong

Ride the Ding Ding Tram, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

As we already mentioned, Central District in Hong Kong is best explored on foot. After touring the sights within Central and the adjoining Sheung Wan and Wan Chai Districts, get to the next stop on our itinerary by walking the shoreline promenade. If you’d prefer to give your feet a quick rest, ride an incredibly cheap (and classic) Ding Ding Tram to Central.

Alternatively, enjoy super Hong Kong views by using the inexpensive Star Ferry . Ride from Wan Chai Ferry Pier to Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) – and then hop on another ferry to Central. Visitors can also take an affordable night boat tour to see the Hong Kong Skyline when it is illuminated!

Join the Party in SoHo or Lan Kwai Fong

99 Bottles, Craft Beer, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

The streets in SoHo (South of Hollywood Road) and Lan Kwai Fong are famous for their chic bars and trendy nightclubs. Unfortunately for budget travelers, the bartenders at the best bars in Hong Kong pour drinks that come with very hefty price tags.

However, the atmosphere is lively and budget travelers shouldn’t miss joining in the fun. We recommend seeking out happy hour specials. The true bargain hunter, however, will hit up Club 7-Eleven (aka: the corner convenience store) to buy cheap beer to go. Somewhat surprisingly, there are no laws against alcohol consumption on the streets of Hong Kong!

Budget Hong Kong Tip : Fans of craft beer can still get a taste of Hong Kong while keeping the budget in check. 99 Bottles features a menu of local craft beer at fair prices.

Day 2: Kowloon Sights, Markets and Food

Today you’ll discover Kowloon and learn about the past at the Hong Kong Museum of History. After eating Dim Sum for lunch, wander through fascinating Kowloon neighborhoods, catch a laser light show, and end the day at Temple Street Night Market.

Tsim Sha Tsui District

View of the Clock Tower, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

Located on the southern tip of the Kowloon Peninsula, Tsim Sha Tsui sits opposite HK Central across Victoria Harbour. TST attracts tourists with prominent hotels, high-end shops, fascinating museums, green parks and a few historical sites. It’s a must-see district for your Hong Kong Itinerary for 3 days.

Visitors can easily route their way through the area on their own to see the top sights. The best things to see in TST are Avenue of Stars, Kowloon Park and Tin Hau Temple. Also nearby, in West Kowloon, is the International Commerce Centre (ICC), the tallest building in Hong Kong.

View of the International Commerce Centre, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

Budget Travel Tip: The Sky100 Observation Deck is located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre and entry comes with an equally steep price tag. However, purchasing Sky100 Tickets in advance can save a little money (and the Sunset Happy Hour deal is even better!).

Hong Kong Museum of History

Next up is the fascinating Museum of History – which ranks as one of the best free things to do in Hong Kong! The permanent exhibition, “The Hong Kong Story,” is an excellent way to learn about the city’s turbulent past and its surviving culture.

The exhibit includes eight galleries covering 400 million years – beginning with the Devonian period and educating guests on the events that occurred throughout Hong Kong’s history to the reunification with China in 1997.

Pro Tip : In addition to the permanent exhibit, the Hong Kong Museum of History also offers specials exhibitions, some of which do not require a ticket.

Lunch at One Dim Sum HK

Lunch on Day 2 of your Budget Hong Kong Itinerary is at One Dim Sum, a Michelin Star restaurant that still serves inexpensive – and oh-so-delicious – local food.

Budget travelers rarely return from a trip abroad boasting about the Michelin Star restaurants they ate at while on vacation…except in Hong Kong! Several Hong Kong eateries have been awarded Michelin Stars, yet the prices have remained relatively affordable at a few of them

As is the case with One Dim Sum, a Michelin Star recipient in 2012. Frequented by both tourists and locals, One Dim Sum offers a wide selection of small plates at incredibly affordable prices (from $3-5 USD per menu item).

We highly recommend ordering the baked BBQ pork buns and steamed shrimp dumplings. Find more fantastic foodie tips in our guide to Hong Kong Food .

Hong Kong Travel Tip : To avoid waiting, aim to arrive at One Dim Sum in the mid-afternoon – between the lunch and dinner rushes.

Kowloon Markets

One of the most intriguing things to see in Hong Kong are the mind-boggling markets – and Kowloon is home to some of the best! From tourist souvenirs to live animals, the top Hong Kong markets in Kowloon are a feast for the senses.

In the Yuen Po Bird Garden, vendors sell several species of small birds. At the Flower Market, fragrant blooms and potted plants line the walkways. The Goldfish Market sells an array of aquatic creatures. The Ladies Market and Fa Yuen Street Market both sell fashionable clothing and bargain wares. Shanghai Street is the place to go to find traditional Chinese shops and Jade Street is known for shops selling precious stones.

Top Travel Tip: Visiting the Hong Kong Markets comes with a full dose of sensory overload. To experience not only the sights, scents and sounds of these bustling bazaars, but also get a local’s perspective, join an affordable Hong Kong Market Tour .

HK Symphony of Light Laser Show

After wandering through the many markets and neighborhoods, before 8:00pm, start making your way toward the TST Piers for the nightly Symphony of Light Laser Show. The 10-minute display features light effects that move to the beat of music and it’s an absolute must for your Hong Kong 3 Days Itinerary!

Top Tip: There are multiple excellent vantage points to see the show. The Clock Tower in Kowloon is a good spot, as is Golden Bauhinia Square across the harbor. Those who prefer a view from the water can join the evening Star Ferry Tour .

Temple Street Night Market

End your day at the enthralling Temple Street Night Market. Vendor stalls are crammed with merchandise, but the dynamic atmosphere is the real reason to go. From fortune tellers to karaoke singers to bargain shops and some of the best street food in the city, this market is a top Hong Kong attraction.

Neon Sign, Temple Street, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

Sample bite-sized snacks as you make your way through the area, or sit down to a fabulous meal. We enjoyed dinner at Tak Kee Seafood, but it’s also wise to simply follow the locals to find the most popular Temple Street food stalls and restaurants.

Top Tip: Eating street food at Hong Kong markets can feel intimidating. If you would rather let an expert lead the way, join a Guided HK Market Tour .

Day 3: Lantau Island Hong Kong

View Tian Tan Buddha Complex, Lantau, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

Wrap up your 3 Days in Hong Kong with an adventure to Lantau Island. Visit the Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery and Tai O fishing village.

Lantau Island: Sights and Attractions

Lantau is Hong Kong’s largest island and was once home to several quaint fishing villages. The area is comprised of mountainous terrain that boasts the second highest mountain in Hong Kong, Lantau Peak, which stands at 3,064 feet (almost double the height of Victoria Peak on Hong Kong Island).

Over the past few decades, numerous major projects have been built on Lantau. These include popular tourist attractions like Hong Kong Disneyland, the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and beach resorts at Silver Mine Bay and Discovery Bay.

Big Buddha Hong Kong

Officially named the Tian Tan Buddha, the Big Buddha bronze statue on Ngong Ping plateau in the middle of Lantau Island is 112-feet tall. Visitors can climb 268 steps to reach the statue and entrance is free (bypass the sales desk; they are selling meal tickets). At the base there are six more statues and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Po Lin Monastery

The Buddhist Po Lin Monastery is just a short walk from the Big Buddha and is another free thing to do in Hong Kong. Founded in 1906, the monastery complex includes multiple religious structures and places to burn incense. Don’t miss the Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas in the back of the grounds.

Tai O Fishing Village

View of Tai O Village from the water, Lantau, Hong Kong

Once a thriving village of fishermen, Tai O has evolved to cater to tourists coming to get a glimpse of their houses built on stilts, which hover precariously above the water. An abundance of dried seafood shops and cafes line the streets of Tai O Village. To get a better look at these unique houses, boats take tourists through the ‘neighborhood’ and then out to sea in search of the elusive pink dolphins.

Visiting Lantau Island: Tour or DIY

Climb the Stairs to Big Buddha, Lantau, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

Travelers can opt to take a guided tour of Lantau Island or see the sights on their own. While joining a tour will eliminate the hassle of planning transit routes and tickets, Lantau Island Tours can cost quite a bit.

Lantau Island Tours

Walk over the Tai O Bridge, Lantau, Hong Kong

Several companies run tours to Lantau Island attractions. The organization and information provided by the tour guide can make for a superb Lantau Island Tour , which includes transportation, the cable car and popular sights. If riding the cable car is at the top of your list of things to do in Hong Kong – but don’t want a guided tour – consider a combo package to save money.

Tips for Visiting Lantau Island on a Budget

Tai O Fish Market, Lantau, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

Taking a day trip to Lantau Island is easily done on a budget. In fact, our Lantau Island visit only cost about $12 USD each. That amount accounted for our transit (both ferries and buses) and a quick boat ride at Tai O.

Our day started with a commuter ferry boat from Central to Mui Wo on Lantau Island. Then, we took a local bus from Mui Wo to Ngong Ping Big Buddha. After seeing the sights, we hopped on a bus from Ngong Ping to Tai O fishing village. After we explored the town on foot, we took a short boat excursion from Tai O. Then we got on a bus from Tai O back to Mui Wo to catch a ferry to Central.

The times and prices were clearly posted at the bus stops (which differed slightly from online information) and aligned well with ferry arrivals and departures. We weren’t sure what to expect in the way of food on Lantau Island, so we ate a big breakfast and brought snacks with us.

Budget Tips for Your 3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary

Burning Incense, Lantau, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

We’ve highlighted attractions that will appeal to a range of travelers – and specifically showcased some of the budget-friendly things to do in Hong Kong. That said, we have a few more Hong Kong sightseeing tips for those with additional time or a more robust budget.

More Fantastic Sights in Hong Kong

Our HK Itinerary on a Budget provides an introduction to a variety of sights in Hong Kong – but is by no means a complete list. If it is within your budget, consider adding these Hong Kong activities to your trip plan. There really is something for everyone – and every budget – in Hong Kong!

Hong Kong Harbor Cruises
One Day Macau City Tour
Horse Racing at Happy Valley Racecourse
Ocean Park Theme Park and Disneyland
Day Trip to Guangzhou, China
Guided Hike on the Dragon’s Back Trail

Hong Kong Sightseeing Passes

Looking for a way to bundle costs to experience the best of Hong Kong? A Hong Kong Sightseeing Pass – like this one – can save you money when used for entry into the most popular Hong Kong sights. The pass is good for The Peak Tram Combo, Sky100 Observation Deck, Ngong Ping Cable Car and much more!

Hong Kong Travel Tips

We have outlined what to do in Hong Kong in 3 days, but we have a few more important items to share with you that will help with planning your vacation.

Getting to Hong Kong

Unless coming from neighboring mainland China, you will most likely arrive in Hong Kong by plane. The Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is located on Chek Lap Kok, a massive man-made island just off the north coast of Lantau. Use our Tips for Finding Affordable Flights – then start your search on Skyscanner .

The Airport Express Train quickly (in as little as 24 minutes) brings passengers from the airport to the city center and one-way tickets run about $14 USD.

Using the public bus from the airport to downtown Hong Kong is the most cost effective way into the city. Buses from HKG cost around $5 USD and only take about 15 minutes longer than the train to HK Central.

Public Transport in Hong Kong

Clean, Affordable and Efficient, MTR, Hong Kong, HK, SAR

Getting around Hong Kong using public transportation isn’t only convenient and efficient – it’s also very affordable. The network of public transit in Hong Kong consists of the subway, trams, ferries and buses.

Tickets and fares on the MTR subway system are based on distance. Intercity rides typically cost less than $2 USD. The famous double-decker Ding Ding Trams are incredibly inexpensive and are a really fun way to get around Hong Kong! The Star Ferry, which transports passengers across Victoria Harbor (Central to/from TST; Wan Chai to/from TST) cost less than $1 USD.

Hong Kong Buses and the Red and Green Mini Buses are another good way to get around, and only cost slightly more than trams and ferries.

Hong Kong Transit Tickets

An Octopus Card can be used to ride all forms of public transportation and is even accepted at convenience stores. Visitors can opt to purchase a Standard On-Loan Octopus Card, which is sold at the airport. The card is pre-loaded with an amount to use on public transport only.

If needed, Octopus Cards can be reloaded at ferry terminals or MTR stations in the city. Before departing Hong Kong, a refund of the initial purchase price, plus any remaining balance (minus a small processing fee) can be issued at the airport, as well.

We purchased Standard Octopus Cards and found it to work in our favor monetarily. There is a Tourist Octopus Card with one day of unlimited travel on public transportation and can be used at several other Hong Kong attractions, stores and restaurants.

Hong Kong Hop On Hop Off Bus

Exploring Hong Kong by foot can be tiresome – especially in high humidity. The Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off tour is a fairly affordable transit route that takes tourists to all the top sights – and has the added bonus of optional upgrades.

Where To Stay in Hong Kong

Hong Kong hotels range from posh 5-star resorts to inexpensive hostel dorm beds. That said, budget options are limited. Use our tips for Booking the Best Hotels for Cheap to find an affordable place to stay in Hong Kong.

During our Hong Kong budget trip, we stayed at the Y Hotel Hong Kong in the Sheung Wan district. The boutique hotel, which is just steps from Central District, offers rooms at about $150 USD per night.

What To Eat in Hong Kong

With a little research (and discipline) eating in Hong Kong can be affordable, with meals often costing less than $10 USD. Check out our list of Delicious Things To Eat in Hong Kong for more about eating at the best places in HK!

What To Pack for a Trip to Hong Kong

Before you jet off to Hong Kong, we have a few tips about what to pack in your backpack or suitcase . Find more hacks on our Packing Tips Page . For now, grab your FREE Packing Checklist !

Walking Shoes for Travel

Our 3-Day Travel Itinerary for Hong Kong covers some ground! It’s important to wear a pair of lightweight and comfortable travel shoes to take on Hong Kong. I (Sarah) like wearing versatile sneakers and Reef Flip Flops . Kris prefers wearing trail shoes by Merrell or casual kicks from Sanuk .

Travel Camera

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip to Hong Kong! Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual travel camera for high quality photos. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens , which takes amazing photos and is an excellent budget camera .

Day Pack

Be sure to have a good day bag for your Hong Kong travel adventures! We use small backpacks with zippered compartments where we can stow a HK city map and guidebook – plus all our everyday travel items , like a travel umbrella and sunscreen . Read our reviews on the Best Travel Day Bags to find the right one for you!

HK Trip Insurance

No matter how well you plan your Hong Kong Itinerary, luggage can get lost , flights can cancel and you could become ill . If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, check the robust coverage and affordable rates at World Nomads .

Organize Your Hong Kong Vacation

As you begin making plans and reservations, organization is key! Stay on top of all the details of your vacation with our Travel Planning Printables .

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

Start planning your trip to HK ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing ! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Click here for a Free Vacation Budget Planner Banner by JetSettingFools.com

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

3 Days in Hong Kong Itinerary with Budget Tips

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Hong kong itinerary 3 days — the fullest guide for what to do in hong kong for 3 days.

Let’s go to explore the attractions in Hong Kong on a different aspect of the Hong Kong itinerary 3 days. Now, let’s discover Hong Kong itinerary 3 days (3 days in Hong Kong, Hong Kong 3 days 2 nights itinerary, three days in Hong Kong itinerary) — The fullest guide for what to do in Hong Kong for 3 days with Living Nomads below.

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Some notes before leaving

Preparing for yourself available Octopus Card which saves money as well as using it on the bus, train and even in convenience stores anymore (you have to recharge before). This card will help you save a lot more time in the queue and exchange money.

Octopus-Card-kong-explore-the-fullest-hong-kong-only-3-days

Using the ship MTR – has a useful MRT map at each stop, giving you more details of areas around the station. You make sure that you come out the correct entrance to save time because there are many far ways.

taxi -kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days hong kong itinerary 3 days

You also go by taxi if you think necessary. Hong Kong sometimes is very hot that can make suffocate, but has the affordable price, faster and most important is air-condition. If you need to cross the port by taxi, you should call a taxi by using his arm under undulating waves. You should also know that having some taxis do not want to run pass the port.

If you need to cross the port by taxi, you should call a taxi by using his arm under undulating waves. You should also know that having some taxis do not want to run pass the port.

There are three tunnels connecting Hong Kong Island to Kowloon. Centre Tunnel (Central) is the cheapest but also the most numerous vehicles, tunnel in the West and East (Eastern / Western) are more expensive but faster and take less time also.

When traveling escalator, go up / down on the left side and stood on the right side, if not, the people in around areas will be extremely upset with you (because you’re obstructing their path)

Usually, you do not pay gratuities. Most restaurants automatically add a 10% service charge into your bill. So you do not have to pay extra for anything else.

Image of Hong Kong itinerary 3 days blog. shop-sell-food -hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

If you want to eat in a “luxury” restaurant but worry about the price, try to eat at lunchtime, a lot of restaurants have set lunch with more affordable price.

The 7-11 stores are located everywhere, is a quite reasonable option to buy drinks. In the local restaurants, you ask carefully restrictions on food and check carefully with the staff before ordering. Often even vegetable dishes are also cooked with animal’s oil. Here are the details guides for Hong Kong itinerary 3 days.

Hong Kong 3 day itinerary — Day 1: The first day

mongkok-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

Mong Kok is one of the region’s which have density population but not downhearted. This is a paradise for those who love shopping. This district has all things what you want to buy, from the shoes to items in the house, to all Western brands and luxury and more expensive goods.

mongkok-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

An interesting feature of this area, all the roads here looks like to sell a specific kind of good. The Beautiful and most interesting place is the flower market, golden fish street, and birds. Here has Ladies Market also – Market for the girls. Market Street is filled with the electronics stores and other types of souvenirs. Even if you do not intend to buy anything, Mong Kok is also a great area to explore and experience, is a typical part of bustling urban life.

Image of Hong Kong itinerary 3 days blog. mongkok-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days2

Focus on the Dundas is a large number of food shops with many kinds of street foods. Before buying any expensive item such as electronic, shoes, make sure that you checked the cost of nearly other shops, it is very useful for getting a reasonable price. For going out of those shops, finding items which you bought carefully in order to ensure for your money spending

The expected time: From 1 to 2 hours

The flower market road

Flower Market Road-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

Located in Mongkok, The flower market road is the itinerary to Hong Kong you can’t miss. The local people often come here to buy flowers and other trees. It is especially crowded on holidays when many types of traditional trees are sold to bring luck and symbolize wealth and fortune.

Flower Market Road-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

Here also has the beautiful orchid trees, the flowers and the trees are bending with all kinds of sizes and shapes. Although there is not anything to do much here, this is a great place for you to take pictures and soak in the atmosphere characterized Hong Kong.

Flower Market Road-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days2

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: Hong Lok Street, Yuen Long District, Kowloon, Hong Kong Opening hours: Daily From 7 am to 7 pm

Hong Kong Museum of History

Hong Kong Historical Museum-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

This museum does its main job is very excellent as- recording the entire history of Hong Kong. From the prehistoric periods to the ancient Chinese dynasties, throughout from the moment, the city was born until today. Museum utilizes deep-range pictures, documents, and short data, along with a variety of medias so that visitors can participate in as well as communicate with everything, bring a fresh feeling and keep people to be entertained also.

Hong Kong Historical Museum-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

Admission fee is very reasonable here, but also get free admission every Wednesday, too. But this museum doesn’t open on Tuesdays.

Hong Kong Historical Museum-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days2

Expected time: From 2 to 3 hours Location: 100 S Chatham Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong Opening hours: Monday from 10 am to 6 pm, Wednesday to Friday: from 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday and Sunday: from 10 am to 7 pm

Kowloon West Promenade

This is an alternative method for “Avenue of the Stars” (Avenue of the Stars) in Tsim Sha Tsui. This quiet place provides to you Hong Kong harbor scene but not has the noisy crowd, as well as the car to take passengers. You can go for a stroll, enjoy the sunset while looking at the lights at the port is turned on also. Or if the weather permits, you also buy some food from the Elements shopping mall nearby, then come here for camping on the lawn and enjoy the beautiful urban landscape.

Kowloon West Promenade-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

Elements shopping mall has a ThreeSixty grocery store as well as many choices for other foods to bring which you can ready to go camping. This is also a good place for you to watch the laser show “A Symphony of Lights” at the port, starting at 8 pm each day.

Kowloon West Promenade-Symphony of Lights-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: Russia Cheung Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Ozone bar in Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Ozone bar-Ritz Carlton-Hong Kong-explore the fullest Hong Kong only 3 days

Ozone – Ritz Carlton is located on the 118 floor of the International Commerce Center (ICC), and currently, holds the position as the highest bar in the world. From here, you spoiled for viewing the panoramic view of harbor Hong Kong and Kow Loon peninsula anymore.

Ozone bar-Ritz Carlton-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

This place is extremely crowded on weekends. So you should call firstly to ask if there is a waiting list or not. If you want to book a table, you have to take a few minutes; depending on that day is which day. But this bar is quite expensive; drinks have the cost from 100 dollars.

Expected time: From 1 to 2 hours Location: 118 / F, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Lan Kwai Fong

With a large number of the crowd and a lively atmosphere (especially on Friday and Saturday), Lan Kwai Fong is the center of nightlife in Hong Kong. Originally, it just a small square, bars and restaurants has now reached outside. You will be able to find a pretty amazing mix of foreigners living in Hong Kong, tourists and students in the crowd who are having the party but also depends on the bar that you will come again. There are many bars and restaurants having a special night with free drinks for women (usually on Thursday night)

Lan Kwai Fong-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days2

Expected time: From 2 to 3 hours (or more time if you love the night entertainment activities)

Another choice

You can also spend the first day to visit one of the largest parks in Hong Kong: Disneyland or Ocean Park.

Hong Kong 3 day itinerary — Day 2: The second day

The tian tan buddha (big buddha).

tian-tan-statue-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

Until 34 meters high, this is one of the largest bronze Buddha statues located outdoors in the world, attracting Buddhists from many different places in Asia. You can come here by other ways. The quickest and also the most wonderful way for the panoramic viewing, moving by Ngong Ping 360 cable car (it takes about 20 minutes one way).

tian-tan-statue-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days3

You can also travel by bus and taxi (approximately 45 minutes), and the riskiest choice that is climbing up on the top (approximately 4 hours). However, this way is not recommended in the summer months, because the hot and humid temperature will make this experience becomes more toilsome and hardship.

If you take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, you can reserve your time for going to save time and not have to wait in line. Be sure to check the cable car operate well or not before climbing. If you’re saving the cost, go by bus No. 23 on the outside of the MTR Tung Chung Station. It is located next to the escalators to go up the cable car Ngong Pin spot 360. Be prepared your spirit to be there on the weekend is a long line of people waiting there.

Please avoid going to visit this place on the Chinese holidays, because the queue is extremely long, the bus and the cable cars are.

Expected time: From 1 to 2 hours Opening hours: From 10 am to 05:30 pm

Po Lin Monastery (Buu Lien Monastery)

Buu Lien Monastery-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

Polin Monastery is located opposite with the Big Buddha Statue is still active until today, is an important home for the Buddhist monks. Here, visitors can immerse you in the scenery of the beautiful temples, statues as well as Buddhist architectures, all thanks to a restoration project on a large scale, making it become a place can not miss when visiting Hong Kong.

If you plan to eat at a vegetarian restaurant in this town, buy available tickets and menu. You will have more people in your group, the more to enjoy different types of cuisine. Please stop for a longer time and enjoy vegetarian food at this restaurant.

Expected time: 1 to 2 hours Opening hours: From 7:30 am to 06 pm

tai-o-fishing-village-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

Tai O tradition fishing village which has the history extends 3 centuries ago. In Tai O, a peaceful traditional lifestyle and attraction of the village still are hold. Here has the picturesque scenery of the ocean floor and old houses, is also the attraction of Tai O. You can take great photos here from every angle and in every corner. You go and get a bonus with slows time exploring this beautiful area.

tai-o-fishing-village-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days2

You can take a boat to see the pink dolphins, although is also very rare. Anyway, the price is also cheaper but this boat trip earned countless of beauty view. You also try the waffle traditional egg made by an old man with decent charcoal oven. People often also crowded queues.

tai-o-fishing-village-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

Please avoid the following weekend. To get to Tai O, you can go by bus No. 11 from Tung Chung MTR station (approximately 45 minutes), or the car no. 21 from Big Buddha (approximately 15 minutes).

Expected time: From 2 to 3 hours

Tai O Heritage Hotel

Located on a hill in the west of Tai O, this building was a police station was built in 1902 to prevent smuggling and piracy. Later, it was converted into a hotel and it also becomes a heritage site.

Tai O Heritage Hotel-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days2

You can walk to the Tai O Heritage Hotel to take a few pictures of the fishing village panorama, as well as at the bottom of the ocean. Then you can say that you have to go to the west of Hong Kong already.

Tai O Heritage Hotel-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: Shek Tsai Po Street, Tai O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

You can find, check rates, reviews & availability for this hotel on Booking.com .

pui-o-beach-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

This is a beautiful beach located on Lan Tau Island (Chinese name can be translated as sea shells). Pui O, no crowded bustle, even gives for your great scenery and clear blue water anymore. It really is an ideal place to escape from a hustle and bustle city. When the wave become diving, you can comfortably dug shells. Some local people are picking up snails to take home for baking.

pui-o-beach-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

You should try to eat in restaurants of Ooh La La’sbeach, they serve food is very tasty. You can also camp here, Ooh La La restaurant also renting tents and some equipment for camping, too.

You can go to Pui O by bus from Mui Wo or Tung Chung (bus number 4).

Expected time: From 1 to 2 hours

Hong Kong 3 day itinerary — Day 3: The third day

Cheung chau island.

Located about 30 minutes CBD boat, Cheung Chau Island (“Long Island”) is a fishing place with beautiful scenery and food shop, from the temples to the street foods, there was a pirate’s cave also. You let yourself lost in the narrow alleys, drop along the bike path next to the coast, as well as enjoy a leisurely life here.

Cheung Chau Island-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

The best way to discover this small island is by renting a bike from any of the stores along the main road when you’ve just stepped out of the boat. You take a boat from the port number 5, close to Hong Kong Central MTR station about 15 minutes for walking. This boat trip takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you go by fast boat or vessel normally.

Expected time: over 3 hours Location: southwest of Hong Kong Island

Star Ferry-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

Until the 1970s, the Star Ferry is still the main transportation between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Victoria Harbour boat trip along the extended 10 minutes will bring you the more stunning spectacle of the horizon.

Star Ferry-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days2

You should aim to stay on board until 8 pm on direction from Tsim Sha Tsui on Hong Kong Island to enjoy the light show “A Symphony of Lights” decent place daily. There are also regular trains travel between Tsim Sha Tsui and WanChai downtown.

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: Kowloon Point, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Mido Coffee Shop

Mido-coffee-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days3

First opened in 1950, Mido Café is the time machine which brings you come back in the old days of Hong Kong. When stepping inside the restaurant, it seems nothing has changed. You can sit on upstair and enjoy the scenery of the street markets and temples, as well as Tin Hau Temple also. While the food and drink here is nothing too special, Mido Café is an ideal place to stop to eat or drink something and soak in the scenery and history.

Mido-coffee-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days2

Sandwich bread of Hong Kong is a good dessert and look like with French bread. You can also see “Yin Yang” (yin and yang), is a drink native of Hong Kong, half tea and half coffee with milk and sugar.

Mido-coffee-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days

Expected time: less than 1 hour Location: G / F, No. 63 Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong Opening hours: From 8:30 am to 09:45 pm

Temple Street Night Market

Temple Street come alive at night when the bars and merchant stalls at the market start operating and fill together, bringing the delicious local dishes and anything else you can think. Be adventurous with your choices and buy any items you want. This is also a good opportunity to buy some small gifts, so you should practice your skills to bargain.

Temple Street Night Market-hong-kong-explore the fullest hong kong only 3 days1

Expected time: From 2 to 3 hours Location: Street and Jordan Road KANSU, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Above are suggestions of Living Nomads for what to do in Hong Kong for 3 days so you can explore the fullest Hong Kong with full of attractions can not miss, restaurants and other special places. If you have been going to this island, please share your journey with your team.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Hong Kong you can refer to

Private MPV Hong Kong International Airport Transfers (HKG) for Hong Kong (Group of 6)
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[Buy 2 Get 1] Outlet Shopping and Sightseeing Day Tour
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[QR Code Direct Entry] Peak Tram Sky Pass (Peak Tram + Sky Terrace 428)
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Hong Kong 3-day travel itinerary for first-time travellers

07 sep hong kong 3-day travel itinerary for first-time travellers.

If you are considering whether to spend some time in Hong Kong for a trip or a layover, please do so. The hotels cost a bomb and so does food. On top of that, I hate excessively urbanised cities (I am looking at you Singapore and Dubai). But I was surprised by Hong Kong.

That is probably because you got it all wrong. If you think about Hong Kong, you must think of tall buildings, half-dirty residential complexes with no room to breathe, cramped alleys and aunties selling dumplings. Well, all of that is absolutely right. But what I did not expect was how big Hong Kong is and most of it is forest.

As I estimate only about one-fourth of Hong Kong is city and urbanscape. But what lies around it are beautiful islands, national parks, numerous hiking trails, hidden monasteries on mountains, fishing villages and so many viewpoints that I had no idea about.

For a short trip, 3-4 days in Hong Kong should be enough. But yes, you still won’t be able to see a lot of it even if you stay a week. My itinerary consists of the most popular places to visit in Hong Kong.

Unfortunately, it has no Instagram-famous places like the famous funky apartment buildings. But you can find them on other travel blogs easily. Let’s start.

Day 1: Hong Kong Island

We are going to Hong Kong Island on the first day. In my opinion, it is the most fun and exciting part of Hong Kong. If you are looking for a neighbourhood to stay, you should consider staying around this area. The day’s highlights are Victoria Peak and the area around Central and Sheung Wan.

1. The Peak Tram

To start the day, we are going to Victoria Peak using The Peak Tram, the oldest mode of transportation in Hong Kong. The Peak Tram is a funicular railway that starts at the base of Victoria Peak and takes about 20 minutes to get to the top on a renovated heritage tram. The ride is sweet and uneventful, but the views keep getting better as you go up.

The Peak Tram is a popular tourist attraction in Hong Kong. There are chances that you may find it crowded around mid-day (although we didn’t). So it’s better to start your day a little earlier. To reach Victoria peak, there are also other modes of transportation like bus, taxi and even hike. This is just for the experience.

To reach The Peak Tram, you can take the subway to Admiralty Station (it’s a station on 4 different lines which is easy to reach). From there you can comfortably walk which is another 15 minutes walk. Since the tram is open from 7.30 am to 11 pm, it works out well if you want to get a night view of Hong Kong city instead.

You will need to buy a ticket for the tram ride. If you plan to visit the observation deck called Sky Terrace 428, you can buy a package ticket. Read below if it’s worth it. Either way, you can buy a ticket at the station or via an online aggregator with a small discount.

Buy ticket to Victoria Peak Tram

2. Victoria Peak

For tourists, Victoria Peak is a popular tourist spot. In fact, it is one of the first places that tourists head to in Hong Kong. And it’s totally worth it. It gives a view of Hong Kong’s world-famous skyline with the Victoria Harbour like nowhere else. But there was a lot more going on there.

During British rule, Victoria Peak was an upscale residential area where the governor of Hong Kong had his residence built during the 19th century. In fact, for a long time, local Chinese were banned from owning a house in the locality. People travelled up and down the Peak on sedan chairs till The Peak tram was introduced in 1888. Even today, Victoria Peak is one of the most upscale and expensive residential areas to live in.

There are quite a few things to do on Victoria Peak. The most popular is the Sky Terrace 428 which is on top of The Peak Tower . To simplify, it is an open-air viewpoint on top of a building. Yes, it is nice. But even if you don’t plan to buy a ticket, you will still get plenty of options around Victoria Peak to catch aerial views of the city.

Other places worth visiting are The Peak Galleria (a mall with restaurants and retail stores), Madame Tussauds , Lugard Road (for a leisurely walk) and Victoria Peak Garden with a couple of viewpoints. You can easily spend half a day here but since there is a lot of walking and climbing, it’s better to wear comfortable shoes.

Need more details? Check out our article on Visiting Victoria Peak in Hong Kong

3. Hong Kong Park

While returning back from Victoria Peak, you can head over to Hong Kong Park which is only 10 minutes walk from the Tram station. The park is not enormous but it can still take an hour or so to visit different sections of the park at your own pace.

The park used to be Victoria Garrison. But later, a section of it was renovated into a park by still preserving some of the important buildings from that time. Those were converted into museums and offices inside the park that opened in 1991.

The park has an Aviary (which was closed when I was there). Next to it is a conservatory with plants from three different climates and themes. There is an orchid section, a desert section with dry plants and a rainforest. All of them are indoor glasshouses and beautifully built and free to enter. Don’t miss it.

Two smaller stops in the park are the Hong Kong Visual Arts Center and Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware. All these places are free to visit. If you are not interested in those, you can really just enjoy the artificial waterfall, and the fountains and relax at one of the benches around.

4. Central Market

If you are exhausted and wish to head home now, it is a good time too. You can cover the rest of the places in the evening or some other day as well since these are nighttime activities. But if you wish to continue, you can head over to the Central area. The best and the most fun way to do this is by tram.

One of the most popular places to visit is the Central Market. This place used to be a wet market that was shut down once the area around it started urbanising. It was then renovated into an urban mall marketplace. There are numerous retail shops, a food court, souvenir stalls, coffee shops etc.

On some days, you may also find a special market or an art gallery. But you will always find some exhibition stalls showcasing the shops from the last century like a museum.

5. Ta Kwun & Soho

Just outside the central market is a walking escalator. We took it because we had nowhere to go. And it took us to some great places. The first stop was Ta Kwun Heritage Center. The name is misleading since this area used to be a barrack and a prison. And you can still find them here. But now it is converted into an upscale fun place for young people to hang out with relaxing bars and restaurants.

Almost all the heritage buildings in the barracks area were converted into a restaurant, a store, a museum or something else. But they all are perfectly preserved. If you have time, tour the Victoria prison.

Right next to Ta Kwun is Soho, aka South of Hollywood Road. This is another upscale area with buzzing bars, international restaurants, art galleries and retail stores. We are done for the day, so you can end your evening here with a drink and enjoy some nightlife.

Escalator from Central to Ta kwun & SoHo

Day 2: Lantau Island & Victoria Harbour

For the second day, we are going to head out of the city all the way to Lantau Island and spend most part of the day there. Lantau is an important island to the west of Hong Kong that is popular for a few tourist attractions as a day trip. For the later part of the day, we will come back to Victoria Harbour to enjoy the nightlife around the area.

To reach the Lantau Island you can take the Metro to Tung Chung Station on the Tung Chung Line. From here you can take the cable car, the bus or hike the way (this is for seasoned hikers though!) to the top of Lantau Island.

1. Take the cable car

All good vacations have a cable car ride. If you believe this, then add this to your list. Our day starts with reaching the top of Lantau Island because that’s where all the good things are. Instead of taking the cable car, you can also take the bus, a taxi or hike. But the cable car is the most convenient and fastest option.

The cable car is called Ngong Ping Cable Car and starts from Tung Chung itself, near the metro station. You can buy the tickets at the counter or book online ahead of time for a discount. You will need to get a physical ticket at the base in all cases but it is pretty easy.

The cable car ride is fun and lasts about 20 minutes in each direction. We bought only a one-way ticket since we took the bus on our return journey from Tai O fishing village. The cable car leaves you at the top station and you are free to roam around at your own pace.

Book your tickets: Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Ticket in Hong Kong

Buy ticket to Ngong Ping Cable Car

2. Lantau Peak

Now that you are on top of Lantau Peak, it is upto you how much time you would like to spend here. The first place you will visit here is the Ngong Ping Village. It is a bunch of shops and restaurants set up especially for tourists to enjoy their time decorated in oriental style. You can grab a bite here if you wish to.

The Tian Tan Buddha statue is just a little ahead which is the most popular attraction here. You can go up a few stairs and catch an aerial view of the island and pay your respects. A little ahead is the gorgeous Po Lin monastery which I think you must not miss. It has beautiful carvings and a great meditation hall lined with multicoloured orchids that I couldn’t get enough of.

Several travellers come to Lantau Peak to hike the summit. But that itself can take a couple of hours one way. If you wish to do it, I suggest coming prepared with shoes, water and some food since you won’t find any on the trail. If you are looking to get a taste of a hike but not go as far, you can walk upto the Wisdom Path, a small trail that starts right next to the monastery.

Since there are several places to enjoy, you can choose the ones you prefer. Even then this can take 3-4 hours to finish. Once done, our next stop is Tai O fishing village on the northwest coast of the island. You can take bus 21 from the Nong Ping bus stop directly to Tai O.

Book a Guided Tour to Lantau Island

3. Tai O Fishing Village

Tai O is a sleepy laidback Chinese fishing village, the kind that you’d never expect in Hong Kong. I was so surprised to see people chilling out in front of their shops selling dried fish, fruits, noodles and some other food items I did not want to know. It is really just a small village, like many in Hong Kong hundreds of years ago.

You can walk around the village on foot since it is relatively small. We did sell out on a 10-minute boat ride that promises to show you around the village and take you out to the sea to watch dolphins. We saw the village for like 5 minutes, but we dolphins totally ditched us. It is just something to do in the village but you can totally skip it.

We walked around the village to find stilt houses, like many in coastal areas. Most of them were old and crumbling, but some were still interesting. Looked like most kids left for the city, leaving back the old and the retired. Definitely worth checking out.

From here, you can take the bus number 11 directly to Tung Chung metro station which will take around an hour to reach but will be a comfortable and interesting ride around the island.

Have Questions? Here is our Complete Guide on Visiting Lantau Island, Hong Kong

4. Victoria Harbour Promenade

I am sure you would have crossed Victoria Harbour by now regardless of where you are staying. But you still must dedicate a couple of hours to this place. It is the focal point of Hong Kong city and its business district. And you will be able to see the iconic Hong Kongian skyline on both sides. But the best place to spend some time would be Victoria Harbour Promenade.

The promenade is where many Hong Kongians come in the evening to relax, meet their friends and simply hang out. An interesting feature is the avenue of the stars that run across the promenade. It has the statue of the awards trophy given to the stars from the Hong Kong film industry, much like the Oscars.

As you walk across the promenade, you will find hand imprints of directors and actors prominent in this industry. In the end, you will find the statue of Jackie Chan, the GOAT himself who took these movies to the world. There is a Starbucks here if you wish to get a coffee with a view.

One of the best ways to enjoy this place is to take a boat ride. Now it can be a fancy one like a cruise. Or it can simply be a local boat used for transportation that runs from Tsim Sha Tsui Pier to Central Pier or Wan Chai Pier .

5. Symphony of the Lights show & Cruise

If you are looking up things to do in Hong Kong, this usually pops up quite often. And I was pretty excited about it. It did not live upto my expectations. And as I read online, many others. But it is still popular and you still should not miss it. It will be helpful if you didn’t keep your expectations too high.

The Symphony of Lights show is show orchestrated using laser lights, luminaires on buildings and music behind it. It is a permanent show organised by Hong Kong authorities every day at 8pm (except in rare cases when it is cancelled). You can watch this show from the Harbour Promenade where hundreds of people gather every day to watch it.

Apart from that, if you wish to make your evening special, you can go on a cruise. If you are not looking for something elaborate, you can just enjoy the evening views without food. Otherwise, check out one with elaborate dinners international cuisine and fresh seafood. That will be an evening to remember.

Most cruises charge more for the one with a symphony of lights shown on board. I am sure it will be an added experience. But don’t worry too much about it. The harbour view is pretty great as well. The cruise is even better on a Chinese Junk Boat

Book a cruise on Victoria Harbour

Day 3: Kowloon

For the third day in Hong Kong, it is time to explore some offbeat places on the Kowloon side. Kowloon is the largest area in Hong Kong that extends into the literal wilderness as you go north. We won’t wander that far. But we will travel a little outside the city. And I think after two days of popular tourist activities, you may be craving for some offbeat places.

1. Sha Tin Che Kung Temple

The first stop is Sha Tin Che Kung Temple near the Kak Tin Village. This is neither a big nor a popular temple. It’s just a beautiful local shrine with many Thai tourists (I don’t know why). But I think it is a great addition since we were going to be in the area anyway.

To reach here, you can take the metro to Tai Wai station and walk around 5 mins from there. The temple was constructed in 1890 so its not too old. But it is usually busy with people. The red and black facade with an enormous dark-green tiled roof is lovely. This is a good place to stop and see some Chinese customs followed by people when visiting the temple.

From there walk 10 minutes and cross the road to the other side to reach Hong Kong Heritage Museum.

2. Hong Kong Heritage Museum

Usually, my list of places to visit includes a lot of museums. Unfortunately, I was able to squeeze only one. But it was a good one. There is no entry fee to the museum, but there are a couple of galleries that you need to buy a ticket for. Although they are very reasonably priced.

Take your time around the galleries. The themes range a lot around the Hong Kong movie industry and Jackie Chan. But there are also snippets from the heritage of the city, stories from the 60’s and the 80’s. One of the most iconic galleries showcases the Chinese opera theatre and costumes. Many of these are interactive using technology that you will enjoy. Great place for kids too.

There is also a cafe in the front if you wish to grab some snacks or drinks. From here it is best to take a taxi, a short 5-minute ride to Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery.

Who doesn’t like free things? Here are 20 free things to do in Hong Kong to save you a few bucks

3. Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

You will arrive at the base of the monastery. The entry is not obvious so you will need to walk a little bit and find the trail where the monastery starts. Luckily it is easy to find and is marked by a few golden coloured Buddha statues that will run all the way to the top.

It is one of the many monasteries in Hong Kong located on a hilltop in obscurity and with few visitors. This is why I found Hong Kong so wonderful. It takes around 20 minutes to hike to the top. There are several rest spots on the way, so you can take your time. But the view gets better as you climb.

On the top, you will find the main temple with the beautiful hall of ten thousand Buddhas. You may have seen something similar at Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island. You can spend some time on the premises and grab a drink from the vending machine to cool off before heading down.

Walk back to the Sha Tin subway station to Kowloon Tong . From there change for Wong Tai Shin subway Station.

4. Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple

If you are late by the time you are here, you can directly head to Nan Lian Gardens. But if you arrive before the temple closes, Wong Tai Sin Temple is a great place to visit. It is a famous temple in Hong Kong. It was established by the organisation named Sik Sik Yuen.

The temple is built in bright red and green colours in typical Chinese architecture. While most of the temple is free to visit, you will need to pay HKD 100 to visit Taisui Yuenchen Hall which goes towards the development and maintenance of the temple.

It is the garden that you must not miss to visit. The Good Wish Garden is built as a smaller replica of the Summer Palace in Beijing. It is built in a traditional Chinese architectural garden style with Asian courts connected by bridges. The water birds and lily pads in the background add a lot of beauty. I think it is a fantastic place to take photos.

5. Nan Lian Gardens

Nan Lian Gardens are not too far from here but after a full day of walking, you must be tired. You can take the subway to the next station that is Diamond Hill and walk 5 minutes from there. I thought I needed to add this since it is so popular over the internet. And nobody can argue with the beauty of Chinese gardens.

You can simply relax and walk around the gardens. The gardens are open till 9 pm so even if you are late here, you still should be able to enjoy your time. There is Chi Lin Nunnery that is right behind the gardens but it closes by 4.30 pm. For vegetarians, the Chi Lin Vegetarian restaurant is a bonus to grab some dinner right next to the gardens.

6. Temple Street Market

The last stop in the day (or night) is Temple Street Night Market. This is the more popular of the lot, but there are several night markets between Jordon and Mong Kok areas. You will find them as you walk around.

If you have been to a night market, then you just know what to expect. And that is mostly food. But you will also find Chinese souvenirs, clothes, luggage, dinnerware, porcelain, chopsticks, and paintings as you walk around. This is a great place to pick up gifts for friends and family back home. Don’t forget to bargain (a lot).

Other night markets to check out in the area are Ladies Night Market, Fa Yuen Street Market, Nelson Street Wet Market and maybe even Bird Market but it’s a little far.

Book a Guided Tour of Night Markets in Kowloon

Other places to visit

Macau surprised the hell out of me. I am not sure what I expected. But I got a very European city somehow mixed with Chinese dwellers and communities and a LOT of bakeries. Macau was a former Portuguese colony and expect to find a lot of elements preserved till date including the language. If you have an extra day, don’t miss it.

Macau makes a fantastic day trip from Hong Kong but if you wish to enjoy the casinos and the town, make it 2 days. You can take a ferry to and back to Hong Kong that runs frequently. Macau is open to most international visitors and you may not need any visa or documentation to enter. But please check the requirements before online.

Read more about visiting Macau from Hong Kong in our blog post.

Plans for Macau? Here is our itinerary to a day trip to Macau from Hong Kong

Book ferry to Macau Online

2. Hong Kong Disneyland

Another great way to spend your time in Hong Kong is to visit Hong Kong Disneyland. It is located on the eastern part of Lantau Island and can be easily reached using the subway. I did not visit since I have already been to Tokyo Disneyland recently. But I can tell you from experience that the best days to go are during the weekdays with fewer people and shorter lines. Definitely the place to go with kids.

Buy Tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland

3. Lamma Island

For the people looking for something (very) offbeat in Hong Kong, you can spend a day or a night on Lamma Island. You can reach there by a 30-minute ferry ride from Central Pier but the rides are infrequent. It is a hippy island home to several fishing villages with plenty of fresh seafood restaurants, cafes and bars. No vehicles are allowed on the island so you just walk around or maybe catch a couple of hiking trails.

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Little City Trips

3 days in Hong Kong: a family itinerary

Asia · Insider Guides

Hong Kong is an ideal city stopover when crossing between Australia and Europe, as well as a great long weekend getaway, but can you see the best of Hong Kong in only 3 days?

Little City Trips recently interviewed on our City Travel with Kids podcast the Editor of Hong Kong Family Traveller Carolynne Dear, who along with our co-founder Marianne , a former Hong Kong resident herself have helped us put together this perfect 3-day itinerary for exploring Hong Kong on a short city trip.

You can see our full show notes for the podcast here or click below to listen to Carolynne and Marianne discuss favourite Hong Kong attractions, beaches, restaurants and hotels!

Day 1 Hong Kong itinerary with kids

Morning: the peak.

Start your Hong Kong family trip with a ride on the iconic Peak Tram. Travelling 428m above sea level on the world’s steepest funicular, you will be spoilt with views over Hong Kong’s dramatic city skyline.

The tram ride while very steep is actually quite short, so you will have plenty of time to explore around the top of the peak. There is a Trick-Eye Museum, Madam Tussauds as well as plentiful shops and cafes to be found.

From the Peak, there’s the Lugard Road walk, an easy gradient 3.5km walk if you are with strollers or little legs, and a stop at the Mt Austin playground is a must.

You can purchase your Peak Tram tickets here to avoid queuing, along with combinations of other top Hong Kong attractions including the Observation Wheel.

(Note the Peak Tram is presently shut for renovations, a grand re-opening is expected later in 2019. Until then your ticket will give you a replacement service on the uphill bus ride or a round-trip bus instead).

Lunch/afternoon: Stanley

Head to the family-friendly area of Stanley on Hong Kong island for the afternoon. Here, as well as the Stanley Market you will find a pirate ship play area and lots of family-friendly restaurants so it’s a great area for a little run around.

If you are visiting on a weekend, you can add to the fun by taking a tour on the Aqua Luna – a traditional Chinese Junk to get to Stanley.

If the weather is nice, as an alternative you can head to Shek O, a gorgeous beach also on the south side of Hong Kong Island and have lunch at a Little City favourite restaurant, Cococabana.

Dinner: Soho Area

In Soho you will find a lot of restaurants in this area but most will not take bookings. If you go early enough with the kids you should have no problem getting tables.

Where to stay in Hong Kong with Kids

There are plenty of family-friendly options to choose from big brand names through to boutique hotel offerings. Most hotels are in high rises, and the higher up you go with better views, the more expensive the room!

The main areas are Central on Hong Kong island or Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) on the other side of the harbour.
At the high end, you can try The Ritz on TST side, or the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong and Island Shangri-La Hong Kong on Hong Kong Island.
Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong is surprisingly great with children, probably one of the city’s best pool decks.
On the budget end of the scale try the new Hotel Purple Hong Kong or Butterfly on Prat Hong Kong great value for groups.
Ocean Park Marriott Hotel brand new with 4 pools and restaurants and weekend brunch, child gifts and activities, close to MTR station.
Staying at Disney there are three great choices. If budget allows we recommend Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel .

You can check out our full selection of hand-picked family-friendly hotels for all budgets, chosen by our local family experts here.

Day 2 Hong Kong itinerary with kids

Morning: big buddha.

Get an early start and head to Lantau Island to see one of the city’s most famous landmarks, Big Buddha. Half the fun is getting there as you take the Ngong Ping Cable Car from Tung Chung Town Centre – easy to reach by MTR.

You will arrive in to Ngong Ping Village. Take the time to explore the Po Lin Monastery before making your way to Big Buddha itself, a 34m high statue and a mere 268 steps to reach the base!

As a side trip, you can also add on visiting Tai O fishing village, a short bus ride from Ngong Ping Village or take a taxi. You can find more tips on visiting Big Buddha and Tai O Fishing village here.

Lunch: Maxims City Hall

Come back into the city for lunch at famous Dim Sum restaurant Maxim’s .

Afternoon: Explore Kowloon

Take the Star Ferry from Central and head across to Kowloon on the main land to explore the markets. There is the Ladies Market during the day as well as the Jade Market in Yau Ma Tei to explore.

Dinner: Temple Street Night Markets or Hutong at One Peking

Staying on Kowloon side, there are two eating options at either end of the budget scale! You will get an authentic street food experience at Temple Street Night Markets , but if you’d like a special treat, perhaps see if you can get a baby sitter for the night and check out the phenomenal views and culinary experience of Hutong at One Peking.

Evening: Star Ferry

Enjoy taking the Star Ferry back to Central and the simply magical night-time lights of the Hong Kong city skyline

Day 3 Hong Kong Itinerary with Kids

All day: disneyland hong kong or ocean park.

Today is all about the kids and visiting one of the city’s exciting theme parks. Normally on a short break, we prefer not to shift hotels but on this occasion, we’re going to recommend you stay at one of the parks for an extra something special, and convenience!

Disneyland Hong Kong

Hong Kong Disneyland is smaller than other Disney parks around the world, but for this reason, it is easier to tackle in one day with small kids, and generally less crowded – although it can still get very busy at weekends!

The park consists of seven themed lands to enjoy including favourites Fantasyland, Toy Story Land, Tomorrowland (Star Wars fans!) & Adventureland, along with some unique Hong Kong rides.

We recommend you get there well before opening time and have an advanced booked ticket.

Hong Kong Disneyland meeting Minnie Mouse

If you’ve taken our advice on not taking a stroller around Hong Kong, you may want to hire one at the park just for the day. You can get more Disney Hong Kong tips from Marianne here.

Disneyland Hong Kong is located on the same island as the airport, Lantau Island so for ease of departure, you may want to stay at one of our suggested Disney Hotels, such as Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel or Disney’s Explorer Lodge.

Disney Explorers Lodge Hong Kong family hotel

Ocean Park Hong Kong

Alternatively, many Hong Kong residents & visitors actually prefer Ocean Park Hong Kong to Disneyland (but if you have the time, do both!!).

Ocean Park is part aquarium, part zoo, part amusement park! At the waterfront level, the Grand Aquarium is a favorite, but the stars of the show are definitely the two resident pandas, Ling Ling and Le Le.

It does get super busy, especially at weekends so advance purchase your tickets here (No ticket collection needed, just scan the QR Code).

When the kids are finished with the animal attractions, jump on the cable car which will take you to the park summit and amusement rides (or head straight here if you want to beat the ride queues!)

Although arguably the amusement rides are slightly better suited to older kids due to height restrictions, your little ones will love it too for the variety on offer. You can find a great guide to tackling Ocean Park with younger kids here.

We recommend staying at the new Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel – listen to our podcast to find out more from Carolynne about this spectacular new family offering.

Further family activities in Hong Kong

If you have more than 3 days in Hong Kong, the best thing to do is explore more of Hong Kong’s “backyard” and get to the outer islands. Some day trip ideas include:

Take the free ferry from Central over to Lamma Island , famous for its strip of seafood restaurants in Sok Kwu Wan. here there are also calm beaches good for small children.

Visit Discovery Bay where there are plenty of parks and beaches.
Hike Devil’s Peak an easy grade track and Explore Lei Yue Mun Village
Hike the Dragon’s Back, a 2-hour hike offering spectacular views of Hong Kong’s Southside and ending at Big Wave Bay Beach.
Head to the “New Territories” closer to the Chinese border for hiking and Clear Water Bay 1 & 2 beaches.

You can check out our guide to the best things to do in Hong Kong here.

How to get around Hong Kong

There is an excellent public transport system called the MTR which is clean, efficient and punctual. You will need to get all members of your family an Octopus card. Taxis are also a cheap and easy way to get about when little legs will walk no further. It is really not a stroller friendly city!

You can read our complete guide on how to get around in Hong Kong here.

What to pack for Hong Kong

A good pair of walking shoes will be essential any time of year.
For younger children, look to bring a stroller-alternative for tackling the main parts of the city.
In summer pack loose clothing to deal with the heat, but also a cardigan to deal with the air conditioning
Don’t be surprised by how cold the winters can be, you’ll need to pack enough layers.

Our full guide on what to pack for Hong Kong can be found here.

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Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all of the places mentioned.

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Beijing Langfang 3-Day Exploration: Imperial Wonders to Modern Marvels

April 17, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 3-day journey through the historical and cultural tapestry of Beijing before diving into the modern attractions of Langfang. Your adventure begins at The Palace Museum, where you'll spend 4 hours marveling at palaces and monuments that whisper tales of a bygone era. Next, stand atop the Badaling Great Wall, a world cultural heritage site that promises awe-inspiring views and a walk through history. Dedicate your second day to the tranquil beauty of the Summer Palace, exploring its vast grounds for a full day, followed by an educational visit to the National Museum of China, where the country's past and present converge. On your final day, step into the future at DreamEast Future World, a planetarium that offers a 2-hour journey among the stars. Conclude your trip with a leisurely day at Grand Epoch City, indulging in golf or unwinding at the resort. This itinerary promises a blend of imperial splendor, cultural enlightenment, and contemporary entertainment, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 1: Imperial Majesty and Great Wall Wonders

The Palace Museum

Kickstart your Beijing adventure with a visit to the awe-inspiring Palace Museum, a treasure trove of Chinese history nestled in the heart of the city. As you wander through the ancient palaces and monuments, you'll be transported back in time, exploring the vast collections that have earned it a reputation as a world cultural heritage site. Set aside a good 4 hours to fully immerse yourself in the museum's rich tapestry, located at No. 4, Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District.

Attraction Info

No. 4, Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Suggested tour duration: 4-8 hour
Open from 04/01-10/31,Tue-Sun,8:30am-5:00pm;Open from 11/01-03/31,Tue-Sun,8:30am-4:30pm;Closed from 01/01-12/31,Mon;Open from 8:30am-4:30pm during New Year's Day,Spring Festival;Open from 8:30am-5:00pm during Ching Ming Festival,Labour Day,Dragon Boat Festival,Mid-Autumn Festival,China's national day

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

BeiJing Quanjude Roast Duck (HePing Men)

Badaling Great Wall

After delving into the depths of dynastic history, ascend to the iconic Badaling Great Wall, a symbol of China's enduring strength. This section of the world heritage monument offers breathtaking views and a tangible connection to the past. Allow yourself 3 hours to traverse the ramparts and battlements that have stood the test of time, located just off Exit 58 of the G6 Beijing-Lhasa Expressway in Yanqing District.

Exit 58 of G6 Beijing-Lhasa Expressway, Yanqing District, Beijing
Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
Open from 04/01-10/31,6:30am-4:30pm;Open from 11/01-02/08,7:30am-4:00pm;Open from 02/09-02/17,6:30am-4:30pm;Open from 02/18-03/31,7:30am-4:00pm;Open from 6:00am-5:00pm during Mid-Autumn Festival,China's national day，Starting from November 1st, the Badaling Aerial Cableway will start operating at 7:30 in the morning, and the Southern Line Ground Cable Car will start operating at 9:00 in the morning. The sales of round-trip tickets will be stopped at 13:00 in the afternoon, and the system stops service on time at 16:00. During the Spring Festival (February 9 to February 17), the Badaling Great Wall North Line Aerial Cableway and the South Line Ground Cable Car will operate at the same time at 06:30, with round-trip ticket sales stopped at 13:30, and the system stops service at 16:30.

Where to Stay Tonight

Great wall inn, the great wall old courtyard ancient inn.

Day 2: Imperial Elegance and Cultural Treasures

Summer Palace

Begin your second day with a visit to the Summer Palace, an imperial garden that has stood the test of time, nestled in the heart of Beijing's Haidian District. As you step into this vast expanse of traditional Chinese landscape design, you'll be enveloped by its natural beauty and historical significance. The Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese garden architecture, harmoniously blending hills, open water, bridges, and pavilions. It's a place where you can easily spend a day wandering along the Long Corridor, admiring the Marble Boat, or climbing the Tower of Buddhist Incense for a panoramic view of Kunming Lake.

No. 19, Gongmeng Road, Haidian District, Beijing
Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
Open from 4/1-10/31,6:00am-8:00pm;Open from 11/1-3/31,6:30am-7:00pm

National Museum of China

After immersing yourself in the royal gardens, make your way to the National Museum of China. Located on the east side of Tiananmen Square, this museum is a cultural gem that showcases China's extensive history and civilization. As you wander through the halls, you'll encounter a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of China's artistic and cultural evolution. From ancient bronzes and calligraphy to revolutionary history and modern art, the National Museum of China offers a full day's exploration into the depths of Chinese heritage and innovation.

East side of Tiananmen Square, No. 16 Dongchang'an Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon;Open from 9:00am-5:00pm during Chinese public holidays

Hongyuan Nanmen Hot Pot (Temple of Heaven Branch)

Beijing Renren Hotel

Dongjiao minxiang hotel.

Day 3: A Futuristic Farewell in Langfang

DreamEast Future World

Begin your final day with a journey to the stars at DreamEast Future World, a state-of-the-art planetarium in Sanhe. As the first stop of the day, this cosmic adventure sets a high bar with its immersive space exhibits. Spend a couple of hours marveling at the wonders of the universe, where technology meets the final frontier. The planetarium is not just a feast for the eyes but also an educational experience that will leave you with a greater appreciation for the cosmos.

Sanhe, Langfang, China
Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
Open from 9:30am-5:30pm

Grand Epoch City

Conclude your Beijing Langfang escapade at the Grand Epoch City, where luxury meets leisure. This sprawling resort offers a serene golfing experience, making it the perfect venue to unwind after your celestial morning. As you spend the day here, indulge in the resort's amenities and reflect on the memorable moments of your trip. The Grand Epoch City is more than just a stop; it's a destination in itself, offering a tranquil retreat to end your three-day journey on a high note.

Ping'an St, Xianghe Xian, Langfang Shi, Hebei Sheng, China
Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
Open from 8:30am-4:30pm

Zheng'angong Hotel

Fuangong hotel.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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The PERFECT 3 Days in Hong Kong Itinerary [2024 Edition]
Day 2 - Evening. 5pm - Victoria Peak Viewpoint. 7pm - Lugard Road Viewpoint. 8pm - Take a Ride in the Star Ferry and Admire the Symphony of Lights. Day 3 - Macau or Disneyland. Option 1 - Day trip to Macau. Option 2 - Disneyland. Hong Kong 3-Day Itinerary - Tips & Tricks. Walk as Much as You Can.
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Day 1: Hong Kong Island. First things first: let's get you an amazing view of the city. The best place to start your Hong Kong itinerary is with a trip up to the top of Victoria Peak for a bird's eye spectacular view of Hong Kong's skyline and Victoria Harbor. I always recommend planning to do this on your first day in Hong Kong, because ...
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Day 1. Kowloon Peninsula (Mainland Hong Kong) For the first day on this 3 day Hong Kong itinerary, we'll be staying in the northern part of Hong Kong, the mainland, also known as the Kowloon Peninsula. Today's all about market hopping, eating, and checking out some architectural sites and gardens.
3 Days in Hong Kong: A Perfect Travel Itinerary (2024)
The winter in contrast is somewhat cooler, although still pleasant. Average temperatures from December until February hover between 64-65°F, with highs of 68°F, and lows of 55°F. On record, January is usually the coldest month to visit Hong Kong. Precipitation is very low during this time of year, with only 20-30mm falling throughout each.
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3 Days in Hong Kong: Day Two Disneyland. On day two in Hong Kong, take a day to visit the world's most famous mouse. Hong Kong Disneyland, located on Lantau Island, is a popular day trip for visitors from all over the world. Hong Kong Disneyland is very easy to get to, either by the MTR public transit or by car, although the metro is much easier.
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Explore the best things to do with our detailed Hong Kong travel guide. Discover top attractions vibrant night markets, a 3-day itinerary, travel tips, and more! ... 3-Day Hong Kong Itinerary: Discovering the Best of the City. Day 1 of Your Hong Kong Itinerary: Exploring Iconic Views and Lively Markets.
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TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN HONG KONG. Best Value Hotel: Metropark Hotel Causeway Bay - 4-star hotel for less than $100. Best Value Luxury Hotel: Hotel ICON - $150 for a 5-star hotel with an epic pool. Best Hiking/Adventure Base: Hotel Stage - Located in Kowloon and right next to lots of epic hikes. View on Booking.com.
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Visit a massive cat cafe, such as the one in Tseun Wan ( Cats Tea Room Tsuen Wan) Take a boat ride to Lamma Island and explore the charming village of Sok Kwu Wan. Go to the Hong Kong Wetland Park and see a wide range of flora and fauna. Take a trip to Macau and explore the city's Portuguese heritage.
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3 rd Day - Option Three. The third option is to spend your last day in Hong Kong with nature. The last two days were spent so much time in the city that the 3 rd day is to spend time with nature. Head over to Sai Kung or Discovery Bay for fresh seafood, local shops, beaches, hiking trails, temples, and parks.
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A Detailed Hong Kong Itinerary 3 Days. Day 1 - Views, Exploring & Markets. Day 2 - Lantau Island. Day 3 - Macau. * Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you.
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Spend 2-3 hours scouring for great finds made by the young bloods! Wrap your Hong Kong trip by dining and drinking cocktails in one of the joints situated inside the heritage building. PMQ is located at 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong. Nearest MTR is from Sheung Wan Station.
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Day 2: Big Buddhas and Fishing Villages. Next up, day two of this 3-day Hong Kong itinerary consists of a trip to Lantau Island and the Tian Tan Buddha. For those who don't know, this buddha statue is gi-friggin'-normous. It's 112 feet tall and took three years to build.
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It is a good place to start your shopping incursion into the district before moving on to other venues nearby. Make the most out of your 3 days in Hong Kong by exploring these top visited places: Hong Kong Disneyland, Tin Lung Heen, Ocean Park, Islamic Centre Canteen, Temple Street Night Market, and Mammy Pancake Jordan.
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The Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in Hong Kong (2024)

8am – Choi Hung Estate

Day 1 – Morning

Day 1 – Afternoon

Day 1 – Evening

Day 2 – Morning

Day 2 – Afternoon

Day 2 – Evening

Day 3 – Macau or Disneyland

Hong Kong 3-Day Itinerary – Tips & Tricks

Aurelia Teslaru

38 BEST Places to Visit in Hong Kong (2024 Guide)

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3 Days in Hong Kong: The Hong Kong Itinerary You’ll Want to Copy

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Language and Currency in Hong Kong:

Day 1. Kowloon Peninsula (Mainland Hong Kong)

MORNING: MARKET TIME

AFTERNOON: Architecture and Gardens

Where to Eat in Kowloon:

Day 2: Hong Kong Island

Afternoon: Hong Kong Island Sites

Other Things on Hong Kong Island to Add to Your Hong Kong Itinerary if you’ve got more time or 4 days in Hong Kong:

Where to Eat on Hong Kong Island

Day 3: Lantau Island

How to Get to Lantau Island

Things to do in Lantau Island

Things to do in Hong Kong at Night:

Other Things to Add to your Hong Kong Itinerary

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