Hong Kong is constantly buzzing with life. A former British Colony, it also boasts a rich history. This modern and cosmopolitan city has more to it than towering skyscrapers and fashion. Travelers visiting with children will enjoy a visit to the Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park, where they can enjoy multiple rides and make plenty of memories. This fast-paced city has several hidden nuggets and popular tourist haunts such as the Temple Street Night Market where you can indulge in some thrift shopping and find great deals. Here’s a look at some exciting activities to try when in Hong Kong, to help make your vacation planning easier. These are the best things to do in Hong Kong.
1. Admire the impressive collection of antiques in Hong Kong Palace Museum
This museum offers a great starting point for learning more about Chinese art and culture. With its impressive collection of over 900 priceless treasures on display, the museum regularly presents special exhibitions as well as art and treasures from various different parts of the world.
You can spend a fun day amidst the intriguing gold and silver wares, ceramics, and calligraphy. The museum is also digitizing the collection which includes more than a thousand objects for the website. Some of the noteworthy acquisitions include porcelain wares of the Ming and Qing dynasties from the Huaihaitang collection of Mr. Anthony Cheung and the Dawentang collection of Mr. Lawrence Chan, Ming furniture from the Muquju collection of Grace Wu Bruce, and paintings from the collections of Mr. Raymond Fung, Wu Cho Bun, and Mr. Chie Hong Wu.
Hong Kong Palace Museum
Address: 8 Museum Drive West Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Website: Hong Kong Palace Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 10am - 8pm; Thu: 10am - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
2. Have a rollicking time with kids at Noah's Ark Hong Kong Theme Park (from USD 15.19)
This theme park is a great place for parents and the little ones to have a fun day of an outing at. Children will find interactive games very enjoyable. With an array of fun things to do, a single day at the park would not be enough and you would want to come back for more.
One of the best places to hang out is the Little Pilot Training Centre - you can get your kid to sit in a cabin-like room and become a pilot to experience the joys of aviation. Children can also enjoy riding the go-kart or biking with their parents amidst lush greenery. Don’t miss the giant rocket slides before you enjoy a buffet of lobster, beef ribs, turkey, and pork loin with your family.
Noah's Ark Tickets in Hong Kong
Duration: 1 Day(s) Duration
3. Savor traditional Chinese food while touring the city on a mountain bike (from USD 270.0)
If you want to discover the unexplored roads in Hong Kong on a gear-shifting mountain bike while sampling traditional Chinese food during breaks, this is the ideal food tour for you. You will get to see and discover the hidden gems in the city with a local guide who is more like a knowledgeable friend.
This tour will make you feel like a local rather than a tourist. While it is an ideal introduction to the unique culture and lesser-known places in the bustling city, it also lets first-time visitors dig into the local cuisines in a local restaurant handpicked by a zealous food-writer guide.
Some of the stops that the bike tour covers are the Taoist Che Kung Temple, the old village of Tai Wai, Hong Kong Science Park, and the biggest indoor wet market in the city, Tai Po.
Eat Bike Love - Private bike tour in Hong Kong New Territory
Duration: 5 hours
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Go on a delicious food tour around the city while listening to stories of its history (from USD 107.0)
This food tour is truly one of its kind in which you can take the offbeat path and sample food from six different culinary stops in the neighborhoods of Hong Kong’s Central and Sheung Wan districts.
While you admire the colonial architecture and follow the local guide through the alleys and lanes learning about the city’s vibrant history, you can taste traditional dim sum, noodles, and desserts. Ideal for food lovers with an interest in art and history, this well-organized food tour is both educational and enjoyable.
Hong Kong Central, Sheung Wan Districts Food Tour
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
5. Set sail on a kayaking adventure in Hong Kong Global Geopark (from USD 141.0)
This day trip starts from Pak Lap Wan Beach in Hang Hau. Guests can board a kayak and sail on a water adventure to Hong Kong Global Geopark. Sail through the calming waters as you paddle through the stunning sea arches and caves. Enjoy the dunes at the pit stop in Long Ke Wan Beach, which is hailed as one of the most majestic beaches in Hong Kong.
An experienced guide will walk you through this adventure. You will be part of a group of 15 people that ensures a personalized experience.
Hong Kong Geopark Kayaking Adventure
Duration: 8 hours
6. Hop on the iconic Star Ferry
The iconic Star Ferry boats are synonymous with ferrying passengers to and from from Hong Kong to Kowloon since 1888. In present day Hong Kong, people have other means to travel to Kowloon. However, despite the Victoria Harbor being connected by rail tunnels and roads, locals and tourists alike take the Star Ferry boats to travel. This is a great way for travelers to soak in the vibe of Hong Kong, as well as see up close the magnificent harbors. Make sure you take either the Harbor Tour or Water Tour for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Star Ferry Harbour Tour - Klook
7. Rummage for hidden gems at the Temple Street Night Market
The shopaholic in you will have a field day exploring the Temple Street Night Market, which is a haven for unusual finds. Travelers will enjoy this night market which has vendors selling everything from trinkets to antiques to clothing! This market is near the Tin Hau temple, which is basically at the night market’s center. The market has some great bargains and you can snag some great deals. You can even have your fortune read by a fortune teller and experience the Chinese culture. Make sure you sample local cuisine from the stalls when here. The market has an amazing vibe and is a great way to experience Hong Kong.
Temple Street Night Market
Address: Temple St, Jordan, Hong Kong
Opening hours: 5pm - 11pm (daily)
8. Learn about Hong Kong's past in the Hong Kong Museum of History
The best way to learn more about Hong Kong is to visit the Hong Kong Museum of History which will acquaint you with its rich cultural past and heritage. Take the Viator tour and experience the riches of the museum in all its glory. The museum will familiarize travelers with Hong Kong’ s history from 400 million years ago until the British colony was handed over to China in 1997. The museum has several exhibits you can explore and eight galleries that have several life-size dioramas, artifacts, and multimedia displays. You can take an audio or guided tour in English as well. After the tour, enjoy some snacks at the museum’s cafe.
Hong Kong Museum of History
Address: 100 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Website: Hong Kong Museum of History
Opening hours: Mon & Wed - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat & Sun: 10am - 7pm
Price: 1.27 USD
9. Walk through the Nan Lian Garden (from USD 304.0)
A great activity to indulge in when in Hong Kong is to take a leisurely walk through the picturesque Nan Lian Garden. This traditional Tang Dynasty-style garden is in Diamond Hill and is reminiscent of the era. The beautiful lush green garden is replete with ponds, ornamental rocks, and waterfalls. You can walk across quaint bridges that add to the beauty of the place. The mountains in the backdrop and the city skyline add to the charm of the place. Make sure you see the Golden Pavilion of Absolute Perfection when exploring the garden. Another attraction is the Pavilion Bridge and the Blue Pond. You can also grab a bite at the Chi Lin Vegetarian Restaurant to round up your tour.
Private Full Day Sightseeing Tour of Kowloon in Hong Kong
Duration: 9 hours
10. Take your kids to the Ocean Park (from USD 92.0)
This amusement park is marine-themed and is the perfect spot to take children for a day of fun. Ocean Park opened in 1977 and also boasts rides and marine life shows. It lies on Hong Kong Island’s southern side, in Wong Chuk Hang and Nam Long Shaand. This popular tourist attraction is the second-biggest amusement park (the first being Disneyland) in Hong Kong. The park has two popular attractions that draw tourists by the drove namely the Summit and the Waterfront. You can take the Ocean Express train or the Cable Car to reach them.
Hong Kong: Peak Tower and Ocean Park in a Day
Duration: 9.5 hour
11. Party with the best in Lan Kwai Fong (from USD 20.0)
The L-shaped Lan Kwai Fong or LKF street is basically the hub of clubbing, bars, and dining in Hong Kong. Lan Kwai Fong comprises a tiny square of streets in Hong Kong’s Central Area. This area was once upon a time the hub of hawkers. However, post-World War II it underwent a huge transformation and metamorphosis into its present-day status post the mid-1980’s. This entertainment spot is a must-visit for any traveller and is teeming with over 100 clubs, bars, and restaurants. You can go pub crawling or simply walk around to soak in the atmosphere. Nightlife lovers and foodies will have a fabulous time in this party district which is home to some of the best bars and clubs.
Hong Kong: 3-Hour Lan Kwai Fong Pub Crawl
Duration: 3.0 hour
12. Try your luck at the Happy Valley Racecourse (from USD 204.0)
If you’re feeling lucky, wager a bet on your favorite horse at the Happy Valley Racecourse in Hong Kong. This popular tourist destination is located in Happy Valley and was built in 1845. Races at this racecourse take place on Wednesday night. These are open to the Hong Kong Jockey Club members, as well as the public. The entrance to the racecourse is from Wong Nai Chung Road and you can take the MTR or a taxi to get here.
Hong Kong Horse Racing Tour
Duration: 5 to 7 hours
13. Enjoy your time in the Hong Kong Disneyland (from USD 170.0)
When in Hong Kong, a visit to Disneyland is a must, especially if you are traveling with children. Watch the magic of Disney unfurl as you experience the characters come to life. Experience the thrill of the different rides and themed lands. Interact with the different characters and snap pictures, making memories that will last a lifetime. You can take rides such as the Mad Hatter Tea Cups and Dumbo the Flying Elephant or brave the Jungle River Cruise. Head to the Snow White Grotto and watch fantasy come to life at the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Hong Kong Disneyland is the perfect way to have an enjoyable day so make sure you don’t miss this opportunity! Take the Viator tour which includes the admission ticket to Hong Kong Disneyland, as well as transportation.You get a pick up from your hotel in an air-conditioned coach and a one-way MTR ticket to Kowloon or Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Disneyland Admission with MTR Transportation
Duration: 11 hours
14. Visit Man Mo Temple (from USD 102.0)
Another must-do for travelers when in Hong Kong is a visit to the serene Man Mo Temple. This attraction is known for its spiral coils of incense. The temple was built during the Qing Dynasty in 1847 and is one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong. It is defined by the red and gold hues of incense coils that adorn its interiors. The Man Mo Temple is dedicated to the god of war Mo Tai and the god of literature Man Tai. Locals come here to seek blessings for academics or literary pursuits. Make sure you use the fortune sticks when here. On a counter you can find a tube of sticks. Ask a question and then shake the jar until one stick rises above. Take this stick to the Man Mo Fortune Stick predictions book. Turn the books page to the number on your stick to get your answer. Take the two-and-a-half day Super Saver tour from Viator where you get to explore the Sheung Wan District on foot, as well go sightseeing in Hong Kong Island. The tour will take you to popular traveler spots such as Stanley Market, Victoria Peak Tram, and Aberdeen.
Hong Kong Island and Sheung Wan District Walking Tour
Duration: 2 days
15. Meet the Big Buddha - Tian Tan Buddha (from USD 144.0)
This 34-meter-high (112 feet) Buddha statue is a popular landmark in Hong Kong. The Tian Tan Buddha statue is made of bronze and is in Hong Kong’s Lantau Island in Ngong Ping. The statue was finished in 1993 and is also called Buddha Shakyamuni. It is a symbol of a harmonic relation and coexistence between nature and man. This bronze statue is among the biggest seated statues of Buddha in the world. It is in the serene and remotely located Po Lin Monastery. The majestic Big Buddha statue draws pilgrims and tourists from across the globe. Make sure you meet the Big Buddha when in Hong Kong!
Lantau Island and Big Buddha Tour from Hong Kong Island
Duration: 8 hours
Experience the wonders of Hong Kong
When in Hong Kong, travelers will delight in soaking in the amazing sights and sounds of the city. Tourists can visit Disneyland and Ocean Park if they are traveling with kids, explore the Temple Street Night Market for trinkets, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll in Nan Lian Garden. There are so many things to do in Hong Kong that every experience will be a wondrous one.
Tip from Content Creator
Hong Kong is a perfect metropolis. It feels so busy, so crazy, but still manages to capture a special vibe that separates it from other cities of its kind. The city may have left a small hole in our pockets, but we loved it. It's full of great food, boasts a good transportation system, and has several fun things to do. I also loved how beautiful the contrast between the mountains and the skyscrapers was.
We’d love to come back here again when we have a bit more money, so we don’t have to be so stressed about our budget!
See the city from Garden Hill
Contributed by Content Creator, Rafael Madrilejo
Garden Hill is a lovely place located in Sham Shui Po District that tourists do not know of. It’s a great location for good views of the Hong Kong skyline. Although it is located in the center of the city, the place is quiet, and you can just enjoy the surroundings while taking beautiful pictures.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to