Must Do In Hong Kong – A First Time Traveler’s Guide

Hong Kong is a vibrant, bustling city located on the southeastern coast of China. With a population of nearly 7 million people, it is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Best known for its towering skyline and its reputation as a global financial hub, Hong Kong is also home to a vibrant art and culture scene, stunning natural landscapes, and some of the world’s best shopping. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, Hong Kong has something for everyone. Here is our guide to the must-do activities in Hong Kong for first-time visitors.

Explore the City

No trip to Hong Kong would be complete without exploring the city itself. Start off your visit with a trip to Victoria Peak, the highest mountain in Hong Kong. From here, you will get breathtaking views of the city and its iconic skyline. You can also take a ride on the Peak Tram, a funicular railway that takes you to the top of the peak. Make sure to visit The Peak Tower, which houses an array of shops and restaurants with stunning views of the city.

For a more traditional experience, take a stroll through the historic streets of Central. Here you will find quaint neighborhoods full of traditional Chinese architecture and street markets. The most popular area is the bustling Lan Kwai Fong district, where you will find plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes. Be sure to visit one of the many street markets in Central, including Western Market, which is home to some of the best local souvenirs.

For a unique experience, take a ride on the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbor. This is one of the oldest ferry services in the world, offering passengers stunning views of both sides of Hong Kong Island. The ferry runs daily from Central Pier to Tsim Sha Tsui Pier.

Visit Hong Kong’s Museums

Hong Kong is home to a variety of fascinating museums. Start off your museum tour with a visit to the Hong Kong Museum of History. This museum offers visitors an in-depth look at the city’s past, from its pre-colonial era to the present day. Don’t miss out on the Hong Kong Science Museum, which showcases interactive exhibits on science and technology. This museum also offers educational programs for children.

For something unique, head to the Hong Kong Space Museum. This museum features interactive exhibits on astronomy and space science. You can even take a virtual reality journey through space!

Experience Nature

Hong Kong has plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Located just outside the city center, Victoria Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. This large park features walking paths, gardens, and a large lake. You can also take a boat ride around the lake or enjoy a picnic on its banks.

For spectacular views of the city skyline, take a hike along the Dragon’s Back Trail in Shek O Country Park. This trail is rated one of the best hikes in Asia, offering stunning views from its peak. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks!

If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, take a boat ride around Victoria Harbor. You can enjoy stunning views of the harbor and its iconic skyline from your own private boat. This is the perfect way to end your day in Hong Kong!

Popular Tours

There are plenty of amazing tours available in Hong Kong that offer something for everyone. One popular tour is the Sightseeing Double Decker Bus Tour that takes you around some of the city’s most popular sights including Victoria Peak, Lan Kwai Fong district and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. You can view all these attractions from atop two-story buses and disembark at any stop in order to explore further. Book this bus tour here.

Another popular tour is the Evening Symphony of Lights Cruise that takes visitors on a narrated cruise around Victoria Harbor at nightfall. During this tour, you can experience the Symphony of Lights show, a spectacular multimedia show featuring more than 40 buildings on both sides of the harbor that light up in time with music and narration. Book this cruise here.

Visit Local Neighborhoods

Exploring Hong Kong’s neighborhoods is one of the best ways to get an authentic look at life in the city. Start off your visit by visiting Sham Shui Po in Kowloon, which is known for its traditional markets and street food vendors. Here you can find some of the best dim sum and noodles in town!

Another great neighborhood to explore is Sai Ying Pun, which is located on Hong Kong Island. This area is known for its colonial-era architecture, local shops, and street art. Don’t miss out on Man Mo Temple, one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong dating back to 1847!

For something completely unique, take a trip to Lantau Island, just south of Hong Kong Island. This area is known for its outdoor activities such as hiking and biking trails, as well as its stunning beaches and traditional fishing villages. Be sure to visit Ngong Ping Village where you can explore ancient temples and learn about traditional Chinese culture.

Conclusion

From its stunning natural scenery to its vibrant art and culture scene, there is something for everyone in Hong Kong. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or a more relaxed experience, you are sure to find something that suits your needs in this vibrant city. Be sure to check out all of our must-do activities for first-time visitors and make your trip to Hong Kong one to remember!