Planning your first trip to Hong Kong? This vibrant city is a fascinating blend of East and West. Towering skyscrapers sit alongside centuries-old temples, and bustling street markets buzz with the aroma of delicious local cuisine. You are sure to be drawn by the iconic skyline, the rich culture, or the world-famous food scene. Hong Kong has something for every traveler.

In this beginner’s guide, you will discover the must-see places that capture the city’s unique spirit, along with practical travel hacks to help you navigate like a local. From scenic viewpoints and bustling markets to essential tips on transport and dining, this guide will prepare you for an unforgettable adventure in Hong Kong.

1. Must-See Attractions for First-Time Visitors

Hong Kong is packed with incredible sights that perfectly showcase its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Here are the top must-see attractions that every first-time visitor should add to their itinerary.

Star Ferry and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

Hop on the iconic Star Ferry for a short and affordable ride across Victoria Harbour. It offers postcard-perfect views of Hong Kong Island’s skyline. Once ashore at Tsim Sha Tsui, stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the spectacular “Symphony of Lights” show at night. A dazzling multimedia light and sound display that lights up the cityscape.

Travel Tip: The ferry ride at night is magical and costs only a few HK dollars, perfect for budget travelers.

Temple Street Night Market

Dive into the vibrant local culture at Temple Street Night Market. Here you will find everything from affordable souvenirs and fashion accessories to delicious street food. The market comes alive after dusk with a buzzing atmosphere and live street performances.

Travel Tip: Bargain respectfully with vendors, and don’t forget to try local snacks like curry fishballs or egg waffles.

Ngong Ping 360 and Big Buddha

For a spiritual and scenic adventure, take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car on Lantau Island. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea. At the top, visit the massive Tian Tan Buddha statue and the tranquil Po Lin Monastery. A perfect spot to soak in some calm away from the city buzz.

Travel Tip: Buy your cable car tickets online in advance to skip the long queues.

Repulse Bay and Stanley Market

If you need a break from the urban pace, head to Repulse Bay’s sandy beach. This place is perfect for sunbathing. Nearby Stanley Market offers a more relaxed shopping experience with crafts, souvenirs, and seaside cafes.

Travel Tip: Weekdays are best for avoiding crowds and enjoying a peaceful stroll.

Mong Kok and Ladies Market

For a true taste of Hong Kong’s urban energy, explore Mong Kok’s bustling streets. The Ladies Market is famous for affordable fashion, accessories, and souvenirs. Street food vendors offer local favorites like egg waffles, stinky tofu, and grilled squid.

Travel Tip: Visit in the evening when the market is fully open and lively for the best experience.

2. Special Travel Activities in Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers a range of unique and unforgettable activities that let you experience the city in special ways. Here are some must-try experiences for travelers looking for something different.

Sunrise Hike at Dragon’s Back

For outdoor lovers, the Dragon’s Back trail is a fantastic way to see Hong Kong’s natural beauty. This relatively easy hike rewards you with stunning views of Shek O Beach, Tai Long Wan, and the South China Sea. Start early to catch a breathtaking sunrise over the coastline. One of the awe-inspiring ways to start your day.

Travel Tip: Bring water and wear comfortable shoes. The trail is accessible by public transport.

Day Trip to the Outlying Islands (Lamma & Cheung Chau)

Escape the city hustle with a ferry ride to Hong Kong’s quieter outlying islands. Lamma Island is known for its laid-back vibe, seafood restaurants, and hiking trails. Cheung Chau offers cultural festivals, sandy beaches, and traditional fishing villages. Both are perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike or explore on foot to soak in the local island atmosphere.

Join a Hong Kong Food Tour

Dive deep into the city’s culinary scene with a guided food tour. Sample dim sum, egg tarts, street snacks, and hidden gems that you might miss on your own. Our local guides share fascinating stories about Hong Kong’s food culture and neighborhoods, making it a delicious and educational experience.

Travel Tip: Book in advance, as popular tours fill up quickly.

Harbour Sunset Cruise

See Hong Kong from a different perspective on a sunset cruise around Victoria Harbour. Enjoy spectacular views of the skyline as the city lights start to twinkle. Many cruises offer dinner or drinks on board, making for a romantic or relaxing evening.

Travel Tip: Choose a smaller boat for a more intimate experience.

Explore Cat Street Antiques Market

For vintage lovers and treasure hunters, Cat Street is the place to be. This market specializes in antiques, curios, and collectibles with a fascinating history. Even if you’re not buying, wandering through the stalls offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s past and its blend of cultures.

Travel Tip: Keep your bargaining skills handy!

3. Where to Stay in Hong Kong

Choosing the right place to stay in Hong Kong can make a big difference in how you experience the city. Whether you’re traveling with family or looking for a luxury escape, Hong Kong offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler. Here’s a breakdown of the best neighborhoods and hotel options for first-time visitors.

Tsim Sha Tsui (TST): Best for First-Time Visitors

Located in Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui is a popular base for tourists thanks to its harbor view and shopping streets. It has easy access to ferries and MTR lines. Ideal if you want to be close to many attractions.

• Highlights: Great shopping and dining options.
• Transportation: Easy airport access via Airport Express Kowloon Station.
• Attractions: Victoria Harbour, Star Ferry, Avenue of Stars.
• Recommended hotels: The Peninsula Hong Kong, Hotel ICON, InnSight or Yesinn@YMT .

The Peninsula Hong Kong

Central: Best for Luxury and Business Travelers

Central is Hong Kong’s financial district, but also home to some of its best restaurants, rooftop bars, and nightlife. It’s well-connected and great for travelers who want a more upscale experience.

• Highlights: Trendy boutiques and high-end malls.
• Transportation: Easy transport to Kowloon via ferry or MTR.
• Attractions: The Peak Tram, Lan Kwai Fong nightlife, PMQ.
• Recommended hotels: Mandarin Oriental, Ovolo Central, Mini Hotel Central.

Mandarin Oriental

Mong Kok: Best for Shopping and Street Food Lovers

If you love street markets and night shopping, Mong Kok is the place to be. It’s lively, local, and full of authentic eats.

• Highlights: Street food and local restaurants galore with Affordable accommodations.
• Attractions: Ladies Market, Sneakers Street, Goldfish Market
• Recommended hotels: Cordis Hong Kong, Hotel Ease Mong Kok, YHA Mei Ho House.

Hotel Ease Mong Kok

Lantau Island: Best for Families and Nature

Perfect if you’re looking for a quieter stay close to nature and major attractions like Disneyland and the Big Buddha. Great for families with kids or those on longer trips.

• Highlights: Beach vibes at Discovery Bay
• Transportation: Direct train to the airport.
• Attractions: Hong Kong Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360, hiking trails.
• Recommended hotels: Disney Explorers Lodge, Auberge Discovery Bay, Novotel Citygate.

4. Local Food You Shouldn’t Miss

Hong Kong is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mouthwatering mix of traditional Cantonese dishes and unique street snacks. Sampling the local cuisine is a must for any traveler wanting to truly experience the city’s vibrant culture. Here are some iconic foods you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

Dim Sum

Dim sum is a classic Cantonese tradition, where small plates of dumplings, buns, and other treats are served alongside tea. Don’t miss favorites like shrimp dumplings (har gow), pork siu mai, and fluffy BBQ pork buns. Tim Ho Wan is known as the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant. A great spot for authentic dim sum at affordable prices.

Travel Tip: Go early to avoid long waits, or try less touristy neighborhood teahouses.

Egg Tarts

These flaky pastry shells filled with smooth, sweet egg custard are a beloved Hong Kong dessert. Grab one fresh and warm from bakeries like Tai Cheong Bakery, famous for their melt-in-your-mouth tarts.

Travel Tip: Pair with Hong Kong-style milk tea for the perfect combo.

Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao)

Despite its name, the pineapple bun doesn’t contain pineapple.  Its name comes from its golden and sugary crust that looks like pineapple skin. Often enjoyed with a thick slab of butter inside (called “bolo yau”). It is a popular snack at local bakeries and cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafes).

Wonton Noodles

A comforting bowl of thin egg noodles served with delicate shrimp wontons in a flavorful broth is a local favorite. Try Mak’s Noodle or Tsim Chai Kee for some of the best versions.

Travel Tip: Order an extra bowl of soup to enjoy every drop of the rich broth.

Roast Goose and Char Siu

Roast goose is a signature Hong Kong dish with crispy skin and tender meat, often served with plum sauce. Char siu (barbecue pork) is another must-try, known for its sweet glaze and smoky flavor. Visit specialized roast meat shops or traditional restaurants to taste these delicacies.

Hong Kong-Style Milk Tea

Made by brewing black tea with evaporated or condensed milk, this creamy beverage is a staple at cha chaan tengs. It’s smooth and slightly sweet, perfect to accompany any meal or a quick afternoon pick-me-up.

Travel Tip: Order “pantyhose milk tea” (silk stocking milk tea) for the traditional brewing style.

Street Snacks

Don’t miss out on popular street foods like curry fishballs, stinky tofu, egg waffles, and grilled squid. These tasty bites are found at night markets and street stalls and are perfect for tasting on the go.

Travel Tip: Try a few small portions from different vendors to sample a variety of flavors.

5. Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Hong Kong

• Get an Octopus Card: The Octopus Card is a must-have! It’s a rechargeable smart card used for public transport (MTR, buses, ferries, trams) and even at convenience stores and restaurants. You can buy one at the airport or any MTR station and top it up as needed. It’s more convenient than buying individual tickets.
• Use eSIM or Get a Local SIM: Stay connected by getting a Hong Kong SIM card or using an eSIM with mobile data. Local providers offer cheap prepaid packages with fast 4G/5G internet, great for navigation and translation apps. CSL, China Mobile, and SmarTone offer affordable tourist SIMs.
• Master the MTR: Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is fast and easy to use. Signs and announcements are in English and Chinese. Avoid rush hour (8–9:30 AM and 6–7:30 PM) if you can, especially on weekdays.
• Plan for Busy Days: Major attractions like Victoria Peak, Disneyland, and the Big Buddha can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends or public holidays. Visit early in the day or book skip-the-line tickets online in advance.
• Learn a Few Local Phrases: English is widely spoken, but learning a few Cantonese basics like “M̀h’gōi” (please/thank you) or “Jo Sahn” (good morning) is always appreciated and can enhance your local experience. . ( Read more: 10 Apps you need for travel in China )
• Eat Like a Local: Don’t be afraid to try local street food or eat at no-frills restaurants. These often serve the most authentic and delicious meals at very reasonable prices. Bring cash because many local eateries don’t accept cards.
• Bring Both Cash and Card: Hong Kong is very modern, but some small vendors and restaurants only take cash. Keep HKD bills on hand, but you can use contactless payment (like Apple Pay or credit cards) in most chain stores and shopping malls. ( Read more: Payment guide in China )
• Pack for All Weather: Hong Kong can be hot and humid, especially in summer. Also, it rains often. If you’re visiting between May and September, pack lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and an umbrella.
• Respect Local Customs: Hong Kong blends Chinese traditions with Western habits. Be polite in temples (no photos in restricted areas), queue properly, and avoid speaking loudly on public transport. Please avoid discussing politics.

From iconic attractions and hidden gems to mouthwatering local eats and cultural treasures, Hong Kong is a city that truly has it all. Ready to start your Hong Kong adventure? Let us help you plan the perfect trip tailored to your interests and needs. Contact us today via WhatsApp: +86 187 2197 8867 or Email: [email protected]. Your journey begins here. Let’s make it memorable!