Discover essential travel tips for an unforgettable experience in Hong Kong, from transportation to the best neighborhoods.

Practical Travel Tips for Hong Kong

The best time to visit Hong Kong

In my view, Hong Kong is an excellent destination year-round, though autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are ideal seasons due to mild, dry weather. During these months, temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C, with lower humidity and minimal typhoon activity.

I visited at the end of February, and winter (December to February) is also appealing for those who favor cooler temperatures (approximately 10°C to 20°C), despite the occasional chill.

The summer months (June to August) can be less pleasant due to high humidity, temperatures exceeding 30°C, and the risk of intense rainfall and typhoons. Nonetheless, it’s a vibrant season filled with various events.

How many days to spend in Hong Kong

If this is your first visit and you wish to explore most of the city, I recommend allocating five days. This timeframe allows you to experience key neighborhoods, attractions, and day trips to places like Lantau Island (to see the Big Buddha or Hong Kong Disneyland) or even Macau.

If time is limited, particularly during a stopover, you can still enjoy a satisfying visit. Major sights like Victoria Peak and the Avenue of Stars are still accessible, though you may visit fewer areas.

Do you need a visa for Hong Kong

Whether a visa is necessary for visiting Hong Kong depends broadly on your nationality. Most travelers can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.

Your passport should be valid for at least one month beyond your intended departure date. If you plan to visit Macau, a visa is typically not needed; however, be aware that traveling there counts as a border crossing and involves going through immigration again upon returning to Hong Kong.

Best neighborhoods to stay in Hong Kong

Hong Kong comprises 263 islands, yet most visitors center their stay in the northern part of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon on the mainland.

I had the pleasure of staying at the luxurious

5-star hotel The Hari

in the Wan Chai district. Wan Chai is a lively area featuring a blend of historical buildings, traditional markets, and modern dining options. Its central position between the business-centric Central district and the bustling Causeway Bay shopping area makes it a convenient location, easily reached by tram or metro.

Other excellent choices include staying in the Central district on Hong Kong Island or the Tsim Sha Tsui district in Kowloon, where visitors can find budget hostels and high-end hotels along Victoria Harbour and the Avenue of Stars. The Star Ferry or metro provides a straightforward transit to Hong Kong Island.

Get the essential Octopus Card

The Octopus Card is indispensable for public transportation in Hong Kong—an essential prepaid card that enables a range of quick transactions.

You can buy a physical card at any MTR (metro) station, including the airport, or easily add the Octopus Card to your Apple or Google Wallet prior to your trip. Note that direct wallet integration requires a Hong Kong bank account, so tourists should download the ‘Octopus for Tourists’ app instead.

This app allows you to purchase a new (digital) card, add credit, and integrate it with your mobile wallet. It’s quick to reload via the app, so it’s advisable not to add excessive funds at once; I utilized roughly HK$500 during my five-day journey, encompassing airport travel with the Airport Express.

Using the Octopus Card through your phone is effortless; simply tap your phone against the Octopus reader at metro stations or on trams, without needing to unlock it. Many residents also utilize this card for purchases in shops and restaurants.

How to get from Hong Kong airport to the city

Upon landing at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), travelers can choose from several transport methods to reach the city center.

The fastest and most popular option is the Airport Express, a modern train journeying to the city in just 24 minutes, with stops at Kowloon and concluding at Hong Kong Station. Trains depart every 10 minutes—just follow the ‘To City’ signs upon arrival.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the station, but the simplest method is using your Octopus Card. There’s no check-in requirement; fares are paid upon exit at your final destination. The fare from the airport to Hong Kong Station is HK$110.

An economical, albeit slower, alternative is the bus. For direct hotel access, taxis or Uber services are available, but they can be significantly more expensive than the Airport Express, especially during peak hours.

Public transport: how to get around Hong Kong

Hong Kong boasts an exceptional public transport system—fast, efficient, and well-priced, it is one of the finest ways to navigate the city.

The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) serves as the primary transit option—a modern, clean metro system that connects nearly all major neighborhoods and tourist hotspots.

For a quintessential Hong Kong experience, take a “Ding Ding” tram, a double-decker conveyance that experiences a leisurely journey across Hong Kong Island, stopping at various locations. Aim for a front-row seat on the upper level for spectacular views.

Trams display their final destination, yet most follow similar routes, so feel free to hop on any tram for a short ride. Board at the rear and utilize your Octopus Card upon exiting from the front.

The Star Ferry, linking Kowloon with Hong Kong Island, is another must-do, offering breathtaking skyline views at a remarkably low cost (around €0.50).

Money: how to pay in Hong Kong

The currency in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it is prudent to always have some cash on hand.

Personally, I prefer using Wise for currency transactions while traveling. This allows for greater savings by avoiding unfavorable exchange rates and extra withdrawal fees. You can withdraw up to €200 monthly from ATMs at no cost.

Numerous restaurants and cafes also accommodate payments made via Octopus Card.

Avoid high roaming costs with a local eSIM

While I strive to minimize phone usage while traveling, I find it invaluable to rely on maps and information in a city like Hong Kong. Without occasional access to the internet, navigating might become overwhelmingly challenging.

To sidestep excessive roaming fees, consider acquiring a local eSIM. Most modern phones now support dual SIM cards; I maintain my home number while using a local eSIM for mobile data during my travels.

I’ve reliably purchased an eSIM through Holafly, finding it to be a hassle-free experience. You can secure your SIM before departing, and activation via the Holafly app is straightforward. Enjoy unlimited data access, allowing you to effortlessly look up information, navigate with Google Maps, or share travel moments with friends and family back home.

Electricity in Hong Kong: don’t forget your travel adapter

Hong Kong operates on 220V electricity, similar to the Netherlands, but the sockets are of British design (Type G) featuring three rectangular pins. Be sure to bring an adapter to charge your devices.

I trust these practical travel tips for Hong Kong assist in maximizing your visit to this vibrant city. With adequate preparation, exploration is straightforward, leading to an extraordinary adventure!