Hong Kong, China 5 Day Itinerary
5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Hong Kong, China
Day 1: Arrival & Central District Exploration
Arrival: Fly into Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). Take the Airport Express (AEX) train to Kowloon station (~$100 HKD one-way, $240 HKD round trip). Check into your hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui (TST), close to the AEX station.
Activities: Visit the Avenue of Stars, a tribute to Hong Kong’s cinematic heritage with iconic statues of stars like Bruce Lee. Take a stroll on the Star Ferry (~$0.4 HKD) across Victoria Harbor for stunning views of the city skyline. Check out the famous clock tower and explore the Kowloon Park.
Food & Drink: Enjoy Dim Sum at Maxim’s Palace, one of Hong Kong’s oldest dim sum restaurants (G/F 4-10 Chun Wan St., TST). Dine at Tim Ho Wan, the world’s first Michelin-starred fast food restaurant for affordable and delicious dim sum (Shop G2/F, K1 Kowloon City, 38 Wang Tak Street, Mong Kok).
Things to Know: Hong Kong is a vibrant mix of Chinese and British influences. English is widely spoken. The city operates on a “double-decker” system, with MTR subway (MRT) lines running above or below ground level. Octopus cards are handy for easy transit, shopping, and dining payments across the city.
Day 2: Lantau Island & Big Buddha
Activities: Take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car (~$145 HKD one-way or $270 HKD round trip) to Lantau Island. Visit the Tian Tan Buddha, also known as “The Big Buddha,” a massive bronze statue seated atop Po Lin Monastery. Explore the nearby Ngong Ping Village and enjoy the scenic views.
Food & Drink: Try authentic Chinese dishes at Ming Yuen Restaurant in Ngong Ping Village (G/F, 261 Lantau Island Rd.). Visit Tai O Fishing Village for unique seafood options like cuttlefish balls and dried seahorses.
Day 3: Hong Kong Island & Victoria Peak
Activities: Take the iconic tram (~$75 HKD one-way) up to Victoria Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong’s skyline. Explore Stanley Market, a popular shopping destination known for its bargains on clothing and accessories. Relax at beautiful Repulse Bay Beach.
Food & Drink: Enjoy lunch at Mak’s Noodle, famous for their wonton noodles (31 D’Aguilar St., Central). Dine at Hutong, a Michelin-starred restaurant with stunning views of Victoria Harbour (28/F, 1 Peking Rd., TST).
Day 4: Aberdeen & Ocean Park
Activities: Take a sampan ride (~$50 HKD per boat) in the Aberdeen typhoon shelter. Visit the iconic Jumbo Kingdom floating restaurant for a unique dining experience. Spend the afternoon at Ocean Park, one of Hong Kong’s major theme parks featuring marine life exhibits and thrilling rides.
Food & Drink: Grab a quick bite at Aberdeen Street Food Market (G/F 2-10 Shum Wan Rd., Aberdeen). Enjoy the park’s various dining options at Ocean Park.
Day 5: Explore Local Neighborhoods & Departure
Activities: Visit Wan Chai, a bustling district with historic buildings and vibrant nightlife. Check out the Man Mo Temple or explore the trendy Lee Tung Ave. stroll through the hipster neighborhood of Soho in Central, filled with cafes, art galleries, and independent boutiques.
Food & Drink: Have brunch at Yardbird (35-41 Gough St., Central), a popular spot for Southern US-style fried chicken. For dinner, try the Michelin-starred Bo Innovation (G/F 60 Johnston Rd., Wan Chai) or Ming Court (1/F Eaton Hotel, 380 Nathan Rd., Jordan).
Departure: Spend your last evening relaxing at a rooftop bar like Ozone (100/F, The Ritz-Carlton, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Rd. W., TST) or Sevva (25/F, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Rd., Central). Take the AEX train back to HKG for your departure.
Tips: Be aware of local customs and etiquette. Avoid discussing topics like politics or the Taiwan issue in public conversations. Remember to haggle when shopping in markets. Always carry tissues, as they are not widely available in public restrooms. Enjoy your Hong Kong adventure!