Explore Hong Kong in 5 days with this detailed itinerary, highlighting must-see attractions and delectable dining experiences.

Exploring Hong Kong in 5 Days

Many travelers experience their first encounter with Hong Kong during a layover on a long flight. With careful planning, it is possible to spend a day or two discovering the city. Sixteen years ago, I found myself in a warm Hong Kong for a day after missing a connecting flight.

However, Hong Kong deserves more than just a brief stopover; it is a fantastic destination for an extended visit. Recently, I traveled to Hong Kong for my first comprehensive exploration. Spending five days in the city provided an excellent introduction. In this article, I will detail my daily itinerary, dining experiences, and valuable travel tips. I hope my five-day itinerary of Hong Kong inspires and assists you in planning your own visit to this incredible city.

Traveling to Hong Kong

I flew directly from Amsterdam to Hong Kong with KLM, which involved approximately a 12-hour journey. Given that my flight departed in the evening, I arrived in the late afternoon the following day (local time). Given that my first day mainly consisted of checking into my hotel (I stayed at the exquisite The Hari hotel) and having dinner nearby, I do not include this day in my five-day itinerary. The adventure truly begins on the following day!

Day 1: Wan Chai & Causeway Bay

As my hotel,The Hari, is located in the Wan Chai district, I commenced my first full day in Hong Kong by exploring this neighborhood alongside the neighboring Causeway Bay on Hong Kong Island.

Breakfast: Cheung Hing Coffee Shop

A typical breakfast in Hong Kong is enjoyed in a ‘cha chaan teng’—affordable cafes serving popular local dishes amidst retro interiors that appear frozen in time. A recommended breakfast spot is Cheung Hing Coffee Shop, renowned for its delightful ‘pineapple buns’—soft, sweet rolls accompanied by a thick slab of butter, intriguingly without pineapple. Pairing it with a cup of Hong Kong milk tea creates a quintessential Hong Kong breakfast experience.

Address: 9 Yik Yam Street, Happy Valley

Coffee: n.o.t. Specialty Coffee

If you’re in the mood for quality coffee following breakfast, visit n.o.t. specialty coffee located inside Hysan Place department store. Situated on the 9th floor, this café not only offers excellent coffee but also provides a breathtaking view. Take the lift at B1 Office and follow the signs for ‘Urban Sky.’

Address: Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay

Activity: Walking Tour of Wan Chai

To immerse yourself in Wan Chai, I followed the walking route from Lonely Planet, which includes notable stops at the famous Blue House, Wan Chai Market, and the Wan Chai Pak Tai Temple.

Lunch: Kam’s Roast Goose

Even on a weekday during the off-peak season, I waited an hour for lunch at Kam’s Roast Goose. However, for enthusiasts of roasted meats, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a must-visit. The food arrives within five minutes and is offered at very reasonable prices.

Address: 226 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai

Activity: Monster Building

Hong Kong is known for its towering buildings comprising numerous small apartments. The ‘Monster Building’ consists of five interconnected structures accommodating approximately 10,000 residents. While its appearance may seem imposing, it has become a popular photo location for tourists. Consider taking a ‘Ding Ding’ tram to Quarry Bay district to witness this fascinating site.

Coffee: Retro

Return to Wan Chai via the tram. If you’re in need of a coffee break, stop by Retro, conveniently located near The Hari hotel.

Address: 160 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai

Dinner: Tim Ho Wan

Hong Kong is recognized for its multitude of Michelin-starred dining establishments, many of which are surprisingly affordable. Tim Ho Wan, a renowned dim sum destination, exemplifies that Michelin-star quality does not have to come at a high cost; I spent just €15 here.

Numerous Tim Ho Wan locations exist in Hong Kong, with one situated in the Central district on Hong Kong Island. Although the setting is often located inside a metro station, the ‘bbq pork buns’ are exceptionally delectable.

Address: Shop 12A & 12B, Level 1, MTR Hong Kong Station, Central

Day 2: Central & Northwest

The second day of my itinerary is dedicated to exploring the Central and Northwest districts on Hong Kong Island.

Breakfast: Bakehouse

One must-try treat in Hong Kong is the ‘egg tart’ from Bakehouse. These pastries closely resemble the pastel de nata found in Portugal. While various bakeries serve them, the ones from Bakehouse are particularly esteemed.

You may dine in at Bakehouse, but today, I opted for a cappuccino to-go, a delightful croissant, and, of course, several of those remarkable egg tarts to sample while strolling.

There are several Bakehouse locations across the city; I visited the one near my hotel in Wan Chai.

Address: 14 Tai Wong Street E, Wan Chai

Activity: Hong Kong Park

Proceeding towards the Peak Tram, which departs from the edge of Hong Kong Park, take a short walk from Bakehouse to this lovely park (approximately 15-20 minutes) to unwind before your tram ride.

Activity: Peak Tram & Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak is among Hong Kong’s most famed attractions, offering breathtaking views of the city. Several hiking trails lead to the summit, allowing visitors to hike the Morning Trail (2.8 km) to the top amidst the local crowd. Although I observed people of all ages attempting this climb, it can present challenges due to its continuous ascent. The well-marked route consists of a paved path surrounded by lush trees.

Most visitors, however, prefer the less arduous method: the Peak Tram, which ascends to the top in merely six minutes. It can become quite congested, but I arrived at 9 AM and encountered no waiting time at all. Tickets for the Peak Tram are also 25% less expensive if purchased between 8 and 10 AM. Keep in mind that the Sky Terrace, which offers the finest views, opens only at 10 AM. During peak hours, it is advisable to acquire a ‘Skip the line‘ ticket (known as a Ruby Pass).

At the Peak, several hiking trails await; I chose to descend via the Morning Trail. Be aware that the trail’s endpoint (or starting point) is not centrally located, necessitating extra walking to return to the primary tourist areas.

Coffee: Halfway Coffee

While exploring Central, Halfway Coffee serves as a delightful and popular spot for coffee, where they present their brews in traditional Chinese porcelain cups.

Address: 26 Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan

Lunch: Little Bao

For lunch in Central, Little Bao provides a great dining option. This contemporary restaurant specializes in bao sandwiches filled with delicious ingredients, including fried chicken and pork belly.

Due to a reservation error at their location in Causeway Bay, I found myself traveling back and forth, so I recommend visiting the Central location directly.

Address: 1-3 Shin Hing Street, Central

Activity: Man Mo Temple

If you plan to visit just one temple in Hong Kong, make it Man Mo Temple. I found it particularly worthwhile.

Address: 124-130 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan

Activity: PMQ

PMQ, formerly known as the Police Married Quarters, once accommodated married police officers. It has now metamorphosed into a vibrant hub for creative entrepreneurs. Exploring the various floors is enjoyable, and it’s an excellent spot to find unique souvenirs.

Address: 35 Aberdeen Street, Central

Activity: Tai Kwun

One of my favorite locations in Hong Kong was Tai Kwun—a former central police station (along with a prison). The now-restored 16 buildings make up a lively community for art, dining, shopping, and more. It’s an absolute must-see!

Address: 10 Hollywood Road, Central

Cocktail: 001

Ensure your visit to Tai Kwun falls in the afternoon for a cocktail at a remarkable hidden bar before dinner. Tucked behind a prison door lies Hong Kong’s inaugural speakeasy bar. There are no signs indicating its presence; simply ring the bell beside the door, and you’ll gain entry.

Dinner: Ho Lee Fook

I was drawn to dine at Ho Lee Fook purely for its catchy name (try saying it). Reservations are indispensable, yet it is undoubtedly worth it—this ranks among my best meals in Hong Kong. The menu consists of Cantonese dishes infused with influences from the chef’s global experiences, with the ‘prawn toast x okonomiyaki’ being a standout dish for me.

Address: 3-5 Elgin Street, Central

Day 3: Kowloon

Today, we transition from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon across the water.

Breakfast: Australia Dairy Company

Our day begins again in a classic cha chaan teng, specifically at Australia Dairy Company. Do not expect an avant-garde Australian brunch featuring avocado toast; the name “Australia” pertains to the dairy ingredients once imported from Australia, as the founder previously worked on a farm there.

Established in 1970, this institution is a must-visit—a bustling, hectic experience where patrons are in and out rapidly. However, it’s an amazing experience; the scrambled eggs paired with toast were particularly delicious.

There typically exists a queue outside, yet on a weekday, I secured a seat immediately, though at a small table shared with three others—part of the overall experience.

Address: 47 Parkes Street, Jordan

Activity: Kowloon Walled City Park

Take the metro to Kowloon Walled City Park, a park that previously served as the site of a “walled city”—a densely populated area where residents operated under their unique rules. In the 1990s, it was demolished and transformed into this serene park, offering one of the city’s most peaceful environments, ideal for a leisurely walk. You will also discover intriguing information and photographs illustrating what the city once resembled.

Coffee (and lunch): Roommate

For a great spot for coffee and a treat within walking distance of Kowloon Walled City Park, visit Roommate, where lunch is also an option.

Address: 88 Choi Hung Rd, San Po Kong

Activity: Tai Shing Street Market

If you’re keen on exploring an indoor market in Hong Kong, Tai Shing Street Market is just around the corner from Roommate and worth a quick visit.

Address: 121 Choi Hung Road, Chuk Un

Activity: Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple

Next, I visited the Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple; however, I would advise skipping this one. It felt overwhelming—one of the largest temples in Hong Kong, enveloped in visitors carrying incense sticks amid loud music blasting from sizable TV screens. If you are curious about future predictions, multiple options exist here.

Activity: Nan Lian Garden & Chi Lin Nunnery

On the bright side, nearby you will find a more tranquil destination in Kowloon: Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery. The comparatively new Nan Lian Garden, designed less than twenty years ago, is a peaceful oasis in a busy city area. Adjacent to it is Chi Lin Nunnery, an almost century-old Buddhist monastery that is absolutely stunning. Unfortunately, photography is limited to the initial section; nevertheless, this place is worth experiencing.

Coffee: Coffee Analog

In the bustling Mong Kok district, you’ll discover various specialized markets, including the iconic Ladies’ Market and a goldfish market (where goldfish are thought to bring good fortune). The lively atmosphere is enjoyable, but the markets may not captivate everyone. If you’re seeking a break to enjoy an exceptional cup of coffee, Coffee Analog comes highly recommended. In the evenings, it transitions into a whiskey bar filled with numerous bottles, yet during the day, it remains a quiet space for quality coffee.

Address: 169 Sai Yeung Choi Street N, Mong Kok

Activity: Avenue of Stars

The Avenue of Stars features a beautifully designed waterfront promenade that offers an exceptional view of the Hong Kong Island skyline. It’s also Hong Kong’s equivalent of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, featuring handprints of famous personalities (though I only recognized a few). Despite being a favored tourist destination, it remains a pleasant locale for a riverfront stroll.

Dinner: Din Tai Fung

I am a fan of Din Tai Fung and cherish my memories of dining there in Taiwan (its birthplace) and Singapore. They serve incredible dim sum here in Hong Kong; be sure to stop by if in the area.

Address: Shop 306, 30 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Activity: Symphony of Lights

Ensure you return to the Avenue of Stars by 8:00 PM for the evening light show that attracts large crowds.

Activity: Star Ferry

Post-Symphony of Lights, you could opt to take the metro back to your hotel. However, you absolutely should experience the Star Ferry at least once during your trip to Hong Kong—why not now? The Star Ferry provides service to Central and Wan Chai, and its fares are incredibly affordable (less than €0.50), with rides lasting about ten minutes. Payment via your Octopus card is accepted.

Day 4: Lantau

Did you know that Hong Kong is composed of 263 islands? Although most of your time will likely be spent on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, today we will venture to another island: Lantau. If you’re interested in visiting Hong Kong Disneyland, it’s also situated on Lantau Island.

Breakfast: Bakehouse

For breakfast, I made my way back to Bakehouse in Wan Chai, opting for a leisurely breakfast experience compared to previous hurried visits for coffee and takeaways.

Activity: Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, Big Buddha & Po Lin Monastery

Next, I traveled to Tung Chung on Lantau Island via metro, a journey taking approximately one hour. The primary attraction on Lantau Island is the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery; to reach these, we must ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, which departs from near the Tung Chung metro station.

The cable car ascends quickly, offering stunning views during the approximately thirty-minute ride. However, my fear of heights made me especially grateful to be back on solid ground.

The Big Buddha is the largest seated Buddha globally, requiring a climb up a staircase with 268 steps to reach it. Adjacent lies the Po Lin Monastery, which is well worth a visit.

Lunch: Samsen

A vegetarian restaurant at the Po Lin Monastery reportedly has excellent offerings. While you can have lunch there if you choose, I decided to return to Hong Kong Island instead.

The Thai restaurant Samsen features multiple locations throughout the city and serves as a wonderful choice for lunch or dinner. For those coming back from Lantau Island, the Sheung Wan location is the most convenient, being just a 12-minute walk from Hong Kong Station. This establishment can get busy with long wait times, but I effortlessly secured a table for lunch on a weekday.

Address: 23 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan

Coffee: EN

If you’re craving an outstanding cup of coffee after lunch, venture to EN, located a mere 5-minute walk away. I consider EN to be the best coffee spot in Hong Kong. Seating is limited indoors, yet the adjacent large staircase allows for a delightful spot to unwind while enjoying your beverage.

Address: 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central

Dinner: Yardbird

For my final evening in Hong Kong, I chose to dine at another Michelin-starred restaurant: Yardbird. Reservations should be made in advance (available starting two weeks before).

This trendy establishment specializes in an array of yakitori skewers crafted from various chicken parts. The highlight dish was a meatball skewer paired with a dipping sauce containing an egg yolk to blend in—absolutely delicious!

Address: 154-158 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan

Day 5: West Kowloon & Central

As I prepare for my flight home tonight, we approach the conclusion of this five-day itinerary in Hong Kong. With my flight scheduled for late evening, I still have a full day to explore the city. It’s advisable not to over-schedule, ensuring flexibility for any attractions you may have missed earlier.

Breakfast: Lucciola at The Hari Hotel

Since I must check out today, I opted to have breakfast at the hotel restaurant, Lucciola. The breakfast set includes a buffet as well as a selection of one special dish from the menu, such as French toast or eggs Benedict. While there’s nothing amiss with the meal, it didn’t particularly stand out. I appreciated having breakfast outside the hotel on previous days far more.

Activity: M+ Museum

During my Kowloon visit, I hadn’t the chance to explore the M+ art museum, so I allocated time for it this morning. If modern art piques your interest, this museum is an essential stop. The building itself (designed by the same architects as London’s Tate Modern) is breathtaking, and I was thoroughly impressed by the collection. It ranks among the most beautiful museums I’ve visited.

Address: 38 Museum Drive, West Kowloon

Lunch: Duddell’s

Having dined at so many Michelin-starred restaurants during this trip, I decided to make the most of it, especially since this would be my final proper meal before dinner at the airport. Duddell’s isn’t the most economical option, but I had encountered numerous positive reviews, prompting me to make a reservation. I opted for the executive lunch, consisting of an assortment of dishes. However, the dim sum emerged as the highlight, which indicates that next time, I would likely just order that.

Address: 1 Duddell Street, Central

Activity: Central Market

Throughout your trip, you may have noticed the Central-Mid-Levels Escalators—riding them is a must during your visit to Hong Kong. These escalators stretch 800 meters long, making them the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system, elevating passengers 135 meters.

Adjacent to the escalators is Central Market, a historic structure now reimagined into a space for unique shops and street food vendors. It serves as a fun area to stroll, with Mammy Pancake being renowned for serving one of the city’s finest egg waffles—a classic Hong Kong delicacy.

Activity: ArtLane

To conclude my visit, I took the tram to the Sai Ying Pun district and explored ArtLane. Though I nearly skipped this site, it is undoubtedly worth it for street art enthusiasts. The walls of two streets in the area have been beautifully adorned by local and international artists.

Coffee: Winston’s Coffee

Should you seek a final coffee or tea stop in the area, I made one last visit to Winston’s Coffee situated a mere 5-minute walk from ArtLane. For those looking for something closer, Rootdown is another option.

Address: 213 Queen’s Road W, Sai Ying Pun

Following this, it was time for me to return to my hotel, collect my luggage, and proceed to the airport. Although I could have easily spent weeks immersing myself in this remarkable city, five days offered a great introduction. I hope you enjoy your adventure just as much!