Top 10 Things to Do in Hong Kong

Using this list

Ten of Hong Kong's landmark experiences as a tickable checklist, covering Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the outlying attractions.

The view is the city's signature

Victoria Peak at dusk is the defining Hong Kong experience. The Peak Tram is part of it and the queue can be long — going late afternoon lets you see the harbour in daylight, at sunset, and lit, which is three views for one trip.

The Symphony of Lights over the harbour is best watched from the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront on the Kowloon side.

The Star Ferry is cheap and essential

Crossing Victoria Harbour by ferry costs almost nothing and is a better experience than the tunnel. Do it at night at least once.

Get an Octopus card immediately

It works on the MTR, buses, trams, the Star Ferry, and in most convenience stores. The MTR is fast and clearly signed in English; the Island tram — the ding ding — is slow, cheap, and a good way to see the north shore.

Leave a day for the islands or the hills

Lantau for the Big Buddha and the cable car, or Dragon's Back for a hike with sea views. Hong Kong is far greener and more mountainous than its skyline suggests, and around three quarters of the territory is undeveloped country park.

Practicalities

Summer is hot, humid, and typhoon-prone; check warnings, since a T8 signal shuts the city down. Air conditioning indoors is aggressive — carry a layer.

Timing

Run it plain, or add due dates from your arrival date.