I first visited Hong Kong in May 2024 and was initially quite overwhelmed with how compact the city was. I was staying in the central area, where you are surrounded with very narrow high buildings, on undulating roads. The city centre certainly has a lot to offer, and I was really impressed with the shopping and nightlife. I had five unforgettable days there visiting friends, which was filled with sightseeing, shopping, exploring and a lot of eating and drinking!

Day 1

Arrival and First Impressions

I took a 3 hour flight from Bangkok and landed at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) on a bright and sunny Thursday afternoon. I would say it is one of the most efficient airports I have ever been to (with the exception of Singapore, which is very impressive!). Immigration was quick and everything appeared very well organised. Rather helpfully, signs were in both English and Chinese. As mentioned above, I was staying in the central area, and there are various ways to get into the city centre:

• Airport Express Train: This is the fastest way to Central — only 24 minutes. It’s clean, comfortable and has Wi-Fi. The cost is about HK$115 (around US$15). Trains leave every 10 minutes.

• Taxi: If you’re carrying a lot of luggage or arriving late, then may be a better option for you. It will take about 30–40 minutes to Central and cost roughly HK$350–HK$400.

• Bus (A11 route): If you are on a budget, then there is an option of a bus, which takes about an hour and costs HK$40. It’s a lot slower than the other options, but lets you see a bit more of the city on your way in.

Where to Stay in Hong Kong: My Picks for a Range of Budgets

Hong Kong has accommodation for everyone, from luxury hotels to budget friendly options.

Here are three options I’d recommend depending on what budget you're looking for:

1. Lower Range - SOHOTEL

Location - 139 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Central

Overview

Sohotel is a 3 Star budget friendly hotel, in a great location in the Central area (Sheun Wan district) of Hong Kong. It is in close proximity to the subway and train station, making it easy for exploring. Standard rooms are small, but clean and functional, with free Wi-Fi, AC and flat screen TVs. Some standard rooms are without windows, but suites are available giving extra room and more light.

The hotel is pretty simple, but the location is a huge plus.

Price Range

Prices start from approximately $60–$120 USD per night (rates will vary depending on room type and season)

2. Mid Range - 99 Bonham

Location - 99 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Central

Overview

99 Bonham is a very cool boutique hotel (52 rooms in total) in the Sheun Wan district of Hong Kong, which is a great central location. Close to shopping, nightlife and the MTR. The hotel has a modern design, with smart amenities in the rooms.

Rooms are fairly compact but are well designed. There’s no pool or gym, but the rooftop terrace provides fantastic views of the city. So if you looking for a modern, comfortable hotel in a prime location, without stretching the budget too far, 99 Bonham is an ideal choice.

Price Range

Prices start from approximately $100–$250 USD per night (rates will vary depending on room type and season)

3. High Range - The Upper House

Location - 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong

Overview

The Upper House is one of the best boutique luxury hotels in Hong Kong, but is does come at a premium price. The hotel is perched above Pacific Place in Admiralty and is beautifully designed, with spacious rooms (some of the largest in HK) featuring warm wood tones, floor to ceiling windows, and deep soaking bathtubs with city views.

A highlight of the hotel is the Café Gray Deluxe, which offers refined dining with harbour views. Whilst there is no pool at the hotel, there is a spa to enjoy.

Price Range

Prices start from approximately $750–$1,500 USD per night (rates will vary depending on room type and season).

Day 2

Visit Victoria Peak and Star Ferry

I had seen so many fantastic pictures of Victoria Peak when researching Hong Kong, that I had to kick off my first full day with a visit to it.

You get there by taking the beautiful and historic Peak Tram (Tickets), which has recently undergone refurbishment. Once you arrive at the top, you can take the Peak Circle Walk for a quiet trail, with amazing views of the Hong Kong skyline and harbour. The walk takes about 30 minutes, and you can capture some fantastic photos.

After that, I headed down to Central Pier to take a trip across the water on the iconic Star Ferry. It’s an experience you shouldn’t miss and is very budget friendly at HK$2.70 for a cross-harbour ride, from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui. You will get a great view of the skyline as you cross, especially at sunset, which is pure magic.

For lunch I ducked into Mak’s Noodle in Central, where legendary wonton noodles are served. The place is no frills and fairly small, but that’s part of the charm.

I ended my day with an afternoon stroll along Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, and walked by the Avenue of Stars (Hong Kong’s answer to Hollywood Blvd). I then ended up at the Hong Kong Museum of Art, which is free and beautifully curated.

Day 3

Exploring Temples, Markets, and Street Life in Kowloon

My main agenda for today was checking out local Hong Kong life. I started in the area Mong Kok, which is the heart of Kowloon. This area can be described as chaotic, colourful, and full of energy.

Temple Street Night Market

By far this is one of the most atmospheric places in Hong Kong. You can find everything from jade trinkets to knock-off watches and fortune tellers. Even if you’re not interested in buying anything, the vibe is electric.

Chi Lin Nunnery & Nan Lian Garden

Located in Diamond Hill, this Buddhist temple complex is a world away from the hustle and bustle. There is some amazing serene wooden architecture, koi ponds, and bonsai trees. I spent a peaceful hour there soaking it all in. There is a great vegetarian restaurant inside the complex, which I highly recommend checking out.

Sneaker Street & Ladies Market

For a bit of shopping fun, I walked through Fa Yuen Street (aka Sneaker Street) and then the famous Ladies Market in Tung Choi Street. It’s all hustle and bargaining, but is a lot of fun if you’re into it.

For dinner I tried a claypot rice, at Four Seasons Clay Pot Rice in Yau Ma Tei. There was a queue, but it was worth the wait. Crispy rice at the bottom and savoury toppings.....it was comfort food at its finest!

Day 4

Islands, Dim Sum, and Hidden Bars

Today, I wanted a slower pace and a breath of fresh air away from the city. So I hopped on a ferry to Lamma Island.

Lamma Island

Only 30 minutes from Central, it feels like a different world. No cars, chill cafes, art shops, and scenic hikes. I walked the Family Trail from Yung Shue Wan to Sok Kwu Wan, then had a seafood lunch right on the water. It was such a wonderful experience.

In the afternoon I headed back to the city and really wanted to experience some proper dim sum. I chose DimDimSum Specialty Store (Mong Kok branch). It is Michelin recommended, and has a nice casual and authentic feel. The BBQ pork buns and shrimp dumplings were truly amazing.

I explored SoHo in the evening and the Mid-Levels Escalators, which is the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system. It’s a great way to explore the city’s layered layout. At night, this area comes alive with bars and restaurants.

A very cool bar I found was Foxglove, a 1950s style jazz lounge behind an umbrella shop. Great cocktails, moody lighting, and live music. Definitely a cool way to end the night.

Day 5

Art, Culture, and Harbour Views

On my last day, I decided to explore West Kowloon Cultural District. It's a relatively new and vibrant area with waterfront parks, art museums, and some nice open air cafes.

M+ Museum

If you're into modern and contemporary art, then M+ Museum is well worth checking out. It's one of the biggest museums of its kind in Asia. The museum has striking architecture, with bold and thought provoking exhibits. Even if museums aren't your usual thing, you’ll likely find something to connect with here. You can purchase tickets from Klook.

Hong Kong Palace Museum

Also nearby, this museum showcases ancient Chinese treasures, including items on loan from Beijing's Forbidden City. This place is rich with history and is beautifully curated. Check ticket prices here - Tickets.

Lunch with a view: I grabbed lunch at FAM (Food Art Music) in the cultural park. The food was good, there was a relaxing atmosphere, and amazing views of Victoria Harbour.

Sunset Stroll: West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade

My final walk in Hong Kong was along the waterfront. Locals were out with dogs, kids flying kites, and joggers catching the last bit of daylight. It was the perfect way to wind down and reflect on the trip.

My Top Picks For Food in

Hong Kong

• Tim Ho Wan: Authentic dim sum restaurant, that has earned a Michelin star. Amazing BBQ pork buns.

• Kau Kee Restaurant: Famous for beef brisket noodles.

• Yardbird: Trendy yakitori spot in Sheung Wan. Is great, but a bit pricey.

• Tsim Chai Kee: Great noodle spot, serving generous size portions at good value.

• Tai Cheong Bakery: For the best egg tarts!

Final Thoughts

Hong Kong is a fantastic blend of old and new, with its ancient temples and modern skyscrapers, there is so much to do and see. Whether you’re gazing down from Victoria Peak, shopping until you drop in Mong Kok, or slurping noodles in a tiny kiosk restaurant, this city will have you not knowing where to turn next.

I loved my 5 day trip, and felt this was enough time to make the most of it.

So if you're planning a visit and have about five days to spare, then I would highly recommend.