Hong Kong holidays: the skyline, food markets and outlying islands
Skyscrapers packed between mountains and sea, ferries across Victoria Harbour and some of the world's best food markets. Hong Kong is a big city where nature is never far away.
Victoria Harbour
Photo: Cheung Yin / Unsplash
Hong Kong at a glance
The Star Ferry pulls away from Tsim Sha Tsui, and across Victoria Harbour the towers of Hong Kong Island rise against green mountains. Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of China, with its own currency, its own entry rules and one of the world's best public transport systems.
The city is made up of Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon peninsula and more than 200 islands. More than half of the territory is countryside, with trails, beaches and villages. For more Asian cities, see our Asia guide and Singapore.
What to see
Victoria Peak
Take the Peak Tram to the top for the view over the towers and the harbour. Walk the loop trail around the summit, ideally just before sunset.
Kowloon and the night markets
Temple Street Night Market and the streets of Mong Kok are full of food stalls, shops and neon. The promenade in Tsim Sha Tsui has the best view of Hong Kong Island at night.
The trams and Central
The narrow double-decker trams have run on Hong Kong Island since 1904. Ride through Central, Wan Chai and Causeway Bay for a cheap tour of the city.
Lantau and the Big Buddha
The Ngong Ping 360 cable car climbs to the giant Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau. Combine it with the fishing village of Tai O.
Trails and islands
Dragon's Back is a short, beautiful walk with sea views. Ferries to Lamma and Cheung Chau take you to quiet islands with seafood restaurants.
Hong Kong Island
Photo: Cheung Yin / Unsplash
When to go
October to December: dry, clear and pleasant. The best time.
January to April: mild, but often hazy.
June to September: hot, humid and typhoon season.
Good to know
UK citizens can visit without a visa for short stays.
Get an Octopus card. It works on the metro, trams, ferries and in many shops.
Macau is about an hour away by boat.
Where to stay
Hong Kong has some of Asia's best known hotels, on both sides of the harbour. A dedicated Hong Kong hotel guide is on the way.
Frequently asked questions about Hong Kong
When is the best time to visit Hong Kong?
October to December brings dry, clear weather. Summer is hot and humid, with a risk of typhoons.
How many days do I need in Hong Kong?
Three to four days is enough for the city. With a week you can add Lantau, the islands and Macau.
Do I need a visa for Hong Kong?
UK citizens can visit without a visa for short tourist stays. Check the current rules before you travel.
What currency is used in Hong Kong?
The Hong Kong dollar. Cards and the Octopus card are accepted almost everywhere.