Summary of 3 Days in Hong Kong
Known to be one of the most spectacular skylines in the world, Hong Kong boasts an impressive display of skyscrapers and is one of the most exciting travel experiences to explore.
Most travelers don’t have a lot of time in Hong Kong, so we’ve created a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your visit in just 3 Days in Hong Kong.
3 Days in Hong Kong
Day 1
After an overnight flight, it’s best to request an early check-in at your hotel for some well-deserved rest before heading out to see the sights. Have a short nap, take a shower, and then start your adventure.
We stayed at the Mira Hotel in Kowloon and loved its central location, providing a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Once refreshed, grab a quick bite to eat at the hotel and then enjoy lunch at Cuisine Cuisine, known for its delectable Dim Sum that certainly lives up to its reputation.
Check out reviews and prices on TripAdvisor.
After lunch, set off to see the Sky 100. Hong Kong’s famous skyline, consisting of stunning skyscrapers, is best viewed from this impressive observation deck. Make your way to the International Commerce Centre to truly experience the breathtaking panorama of the city.
Peak Tram
Once finished at the Sky 100, hop on the Star Ferry terminal to venture over to Hong Kong Island. Spend the afternoon and evening at Victoria Peak. The Peak Tram, operating since the turn of the century, costs only $36 HK Dollars for a return trip. If you can manage the lines, the view at 552 meters above the harbor is worth it.
There’s more to do—hiking and biking trails await adventurers. We spotted the Hong Kong Adventure racing team training and felt tempted to join in!
Furthermore, enjoy shopping as there is a large mall and numerous dining options at the top that make it easy to spend the whole day exploring.
The top of the Peak is one of the best spots for sunset in Hong Kong, but be sure to secure your viewing spot early as it gets quite crowded.
Visit Mongkok Night Market and Ladies Market
Before heading back to your hotel, check out one of the most popular markets in Hong Kong located in Kowloon.
You’ll find affordable clothes, accessories, and a fantastic variety of merchandise including men’s clothing, household items, electronic gadgets, and toys.
Day 2
Morning
Skip breakfast and instead, embark on the Hong Kong Foodie Tour in Sham Shui Po. This culinary adventure allows you to discover the local delicacies and steep yourself in the vibrant food culture of the area.
Afternoon
After this experience, book another tour for the afternoon that will take you through the SoHo district. Explore the revitalized PMQ, the former Police Married Quarters, now a creative hub teeming with design studios and pop-up shops. Indulge in snacks at one of the nearby restaurants such as Taste Library.
Man Mo Temple
A must-visit while in Hong Kong is the Man Mo Temple, known for its majestic coils of incense hanging from the ceiling. It holds significant historical and community importance. Under the management of the Tung Wa group, it subsidizes various community expenses and offers a range of medical, educational, and community services throughout the city.
The temple played a pivotal role in starting the first free school in Hong Kong back in 1880, and today it has expanded to 52 schools providing free education for underprivileged students. This rich history adds to the cultural depth of your visit.
Explore Soho
Soho has transformed from a derelict area into a vibrant district full of trendy eateries and shops. It features the world’s longest outdoor escalator, which transports visitors effortlessly up the hillside.
World’s Longest Escalators
The escalators run from 10:00 am to midnight but switch directions for morning commuters. It takes about 20 minutes to ride to the top, with numerous stops to hop on and off along the way. Stroll through Soho and explore the antique stores lining the streets.
Evening
Tonight offers the chance to enjoy the fascinating Hong Kong Pulse 3D Light Show. With a captivating combination of 3D projection mapping, music, and color, it is a dazzling spectacle. While the show itself may not be overly theatrical, witnessing the dramatic lighting changes on the iconic buildings is certainly worth pausing your evening for.
If your accommodation is in the central part of Hong Kong, make your way to the Star Ferry terminal for a choice of either heading to Kowloon or taking a cruise to experience the show from the center of Victoria Harbour.
The show lasts for about half an hour and is completely free.
Staying in the Kowloon district, overlooking Victoria Harbour, provides a perfect vantage point. Head down to the Hong Kong Cultural Center and set up your tripod near the clock tower for an exceptional view of the light show.
The crowd can be quite fierce, so arrive early for a prime photography spot as the Bank of China building serves as the centerpiece, changing in rhythm and color throughout the display.
Day 3
Visit the Geopark, which features the most comprehensive stratigraphy of sedimentary rocks in Hong Kong, ranging from 400-million-year-old Devonian sandstone to a conglomerate of 55-million-year-old tertiary siltstone.
The area also showcases diverse landforms created by various erosional processes.
Lunch
Savor lunch at the Shing Kee Seafood Restaurant, a Michelin-starred establishment. Following your meal, explore the nearby fish markets and enjoy the scenic waterfront.
Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery
This hidden gem, the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery in Sha Tin, is a must-visit. Walk along the path lined with hundreds of golden Buddhas leading to the temple, which offers extraordinary views.
Consider wrapping up your culinary adventures with dinner at Harbour City before returning to your hotel. Additionally, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to check out the Hong Kong Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Quick Hong Kong Facts:
- Hong Kong is divided into four areas: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories, and the Outlying Islands.
- Hong Kong Island is home to the iconic skyscrapers including the Bank of China, designed by I.M. Pei.
- Kowloon overlooks the harbor and is a popular lodging choice for travelers, showcasing a stunning skyline in its own right.
- Ferries run regularly between Hong Kong Central and Kowloon.
- The ferry costs 2.40 HKD one-way.
- The Star Ferry offers a full day’s pass for 180 HKD.
- The Peak Tram costs $36 HKD return.
- 1 HKD = 7.5 Canadian dollars.
