Best places to visit in Hong Kong
Hong Kong has so much to offer to global travellers, as the vibrant city is packed with multiple tourist-friendly destinations. From dramatic harbour views to skyscraper panoramas, the scenery never fails to amaze. Hong Kong is home to lush islands, iconic temples, theme parks, and lively neighbourhood markets, perfect for sightseeing. Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking forward to exploring Hong Kong or are somebody repeating your trip, something is compelling among the many places to visit in Hong Kong. Each destination is located at a close distance from Hong Kong International Airport and is ideal for a wide range of tourists.
If you are planning a trip to Hong Kong, the smartest decision would be choosing your base of stay, especially if you’re arriving or departing via Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). Finding a stay among hotels near Hong Kong Airport gives you several strategic advantages, like minimal transfer time and flexibility to relax and enjoy sightseeing without the stress of long commutes. At the same time, the city has multiple accommodation options that will leave you spoilt for choice.
A comprehensive guide to the top places to visit in Hong Kong
Hong Kong offers many attractive places, allowing you to immerse yourself in city life, nature, and culture. So, suppose you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong and thinking about places to visit in Hong Kong. In that case, we have compiled a list of destinations that offer a well-rounded selection, from sweeping skyline views to nature and spiritual escapes, and waterfront ambience. And the best part is each one is easily accessible from the airport, making them good choices to explore whether you have a few hours or a full day for sightseeing. So, let’s have a look at them:
1. Victoria Peak
Distance from Airport: Approximately 45 km from HKG
Time required to visit: Around 2-4 hours
Cost / Entry: The historic Peak Tram round-trip costs somewhere around HK£88 for adults (per one guide), while the viewing deck (Sky Terrace) may have an extra fee, depending on inclusion.
Best time to visit: From October to February
Ideal for: First-time visitors, couples, and photographers
Victoria Peak can be reached in around 35–45 minutes by taxi from the airport, depending on traffic. The overall experience includes a tram ride up, sightseeing at the viewing deck, a walk along Lugard Road or the Peak Circle Walk, and perhaps a coffee/viewpoint stop. Visiting late afternoon or early evening is ideal, as you’ll catch daylight views, the soothing sunset, and then the city lights below. The clear skies offer romantic views to travellers who want the quintessential Hong Kong skyline.
2. Ngong Ping 360 & Tian Tan Buddha (Lantau Island)
Distance from Airport: Approximately 5 kms from HKG
Time required to visit: About 3-5 hours
Cost / Entry: Round-trip Standard Cabin cable car is approximately HK£115 for adults
Best time to visit: Morning is preferable
Ideal for: Nature lovers, families, and spiritual travellers
If you wish to take a break from the urban hustle while exploring Hong Kong, head towards the Lantau Island. The Ngong Ping cable car terminal at Tung Chung is just a 20 minute ride from HKG. Apart from the scenic views, you can also explore the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery and get aesthetic pictures clicked.
3. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade & Avenue of Stars (Kowloon Waterfront)
Distance from Airport: About 26 km (approx. 20 miles)
Time required to visit: 2-3 hours
Cost / Entry: Free access to the promenade
Best time to visit: Late afternoon into evening is ideal
Ideal for: Couples and night-photographers
The Avenue of Stars honours Hong Kong’s film industry and gives a relaxed stroll. You can easily reach here after driving roughly for 30-40 minutes from the airport when traffic is moderate. Arrive just before sunset, and stay till 8pm to see the ‘Symphony of Lights’ show. Travellers can get iconic harbour-view without strenuous effort and enjoy an optional ferry ride which costs around HK£ 3-6.
4. Wong Tai Sin Temple
Distance from Airport: Approx. 28-35 km from HKG
Time required to visit: Allocate around 1-3 hours
Cost / Entry: Free entry
Best time to visit: Early morning (upon opening) or late afternoon
Ideal for: Culture-seeking travellers and families
If you are curious about local religious practices in Hong Kong and observe their worship pattern, this place is perfect for you. A 30 minute drive by car can bring you to the Wong Tai Sin Temple, a serene yet interesting stop. You can explore the temple and draw fortune sticks while avoiding heavier crowds and midday heat of Hong Kong.
5. Chi Lin Nunnery & Nan Lian Garden
Distance from Airport: Roughly 30-35 km from HKG
Time required to visit: About 2-3 hours
Cost / Entry: Free entry to the garden and nunnery grounds
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon
Ideal for: Travellers seeking tranquillity and architecture enthusiasts
Located in Diamond Hill, Kowloon, Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden allow you to fully enjoy the nunnery, garden, and tea house, and offer multiple photo-spots. The cherry on the top is the soft light and fewer crowds. This place is perfect for those wanting a break from urban bustle and relax without leaving the city.
6. Ocean Park Hong Kong
Distance from Airport: Approximately 47 km from HKG
Time required to visit: Half-to-full day (4-6 hours or more)
Cost / Entry: Adult ticket is approximately HK£ 385 per person; children approx HK£ 193
Best time to visit: Weekdays are better
Ideal for: Families and thrill-seekers
A major theme park in Hong Kong that brings amusement rides, wildlife exhibits and marine displays under one roof. Ocean Park is a fun option to explore for families or visitors with extra time to spare beyond the basics. You can enjoy a full-day outing with a blend of adventure, animals, views and fun.
7. Hong Kong Disneyland
Distance from Airport: About 13-15 km from HKG
Time required to visit: Entire day (5-8 hours)
Cost / Entry: Varies based on season, a typical adult ticket costs around HK£639 or more
Best time to visit: Autumn (September-November) offers pleasant weather
Ideal for: Families with kids and Disney-fans
Hong Kong Disneyland is ideal for visitors who want themed entertainment beyond typical city sightseeing. One can experience multiple rides, shows and other amusement in the park, which is simply unbeatable. It will take you to the world of Disney, leaving your inner child craving for more.
8. Dragon’s Back Hike (Hong Kong Island)
Distance from Airport: Approximately 40-50 minutes from HKG
Time required to visit: 2-4 hours
Cost / Entry: Free access
Best time to visit: Mornings; autumn is great for clear views
Ideal for: Active travellers, hikers, and nature lovers
Located on Hong Kong Island, Dragon’s Back Hike is an ideal place if you want a break from city vistas and skyscrapers. Millions of travelers visit this place to enjoy the hike and viewpoints, collecting memories of a lifetime. You can even extend your stay to explore Shek O or Big Wave Bay, depending on your mood and itinerary.
9. Temple Street Night Market (Kowloon)
Distance from Airport: Approx. 30-35 km
Time required to visit: 1-2 hours
Cost / Entry: Free to walk
Best time to visit: Evening after 7 pm
Ideal for: Shoppers and foodies
A 30‐40 minute drive from Hong Kong International Airport will take you to the Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon. If you wish to have a more local and lively experience rather than just sightseeing in Hong Kong, you can explore this lively market, walk around, browse stalls, and maybe eat street food. Arriving at night when the market is in full swing makes it an altogether different experience and street food atmosphere is alive.
10. Man Mo Temple (Sheung Wan)
Distance from Airport: Roughly 30‐40 km from HKG
Time required to visit: 1-2 hours
Cost / Entry: Free entry
Best time to visit: Early morning (when it opens)
Ideal for: History and culture enthusiasts
Man Mo Temple is a 19th-century temple in Sheung Wan, dedicated to the gods of literature (Man) and martial arts (Mo). Located on the Hong Kong island, the interior of this temple is atmospheric with incense coils and boasts traditional architecture. Travelers wanting an escape from the bustle of the city can explore the temple, take photos, and wander nearby antiques streets, experiencing a glimpse of traditional Hong Kong.
Accommodation decision (near the airport) to complement your sightseeing
For many travellers, especially those with early flights or short stays, it is always convenient to find a stay close to the airport. If you land at midnight or depart at dawn, choosing one of the hotels near Hong Kong Airport leaves you just minutes away from check-in and departure. Moreover, many hotels near Hong Kong International Airport also offer ease of connectivity to the city via the Airport Express train, buses or taxis.
That said, you can plan your stay near the airport for convenience and then pick and choose the sightseeing spots depending upon flexibility of time, interest and mobility. Choosing a hotel close to Hong Kong Airport will help maximise your time in the city and minimise wasted time. So, you can easily explore these highly recommended destinations in Hong Kong, which offer a unique slice of Hong Kong and what it has to offer.
Tips for travelers visiting Hong Kong
Travelers visiting Hong Kong need to get the Octopus Card (or contactless) for MTR, buses, trams as it makes city travel much smoother. While it is recommended to choose from the best hotels near Hong Kong Airport, prefer the ones that offer free shuttle services for ease of commute. For skyline views like Victoria Peak and harbour promenade, prefer late afternoon into evening, whereas for nature exploration in Dragon’s Back and Lantau, aim morning when it’s cooler.
Hong Kong can be humid, so pack accordingly. If you are planning to go for hiking, bring good shoes, water, and sun protection with you. However, if you wish to explore the city, bring comfortable walking shoes. Stay flexible throughout your trip and book ahead to save time. Last but not the least, don’t forget to get a taste of the street food, local markets, and savour late-night bites. While city centre has enormous choices, Hong Kong Airport hotels may have fewer local authentic options, so plan at least a few nights in the city and experience the local culture and taste.
Final words
Hong Kong has a dazzling variety of places to visit, from skyline vantage points to city promenades and serene temples. Nature lovers can dive into an unforgettable experience by exploring island nature escapes, beautiful beaches, and cultural districts. What makes your stay hassle-free and convenient is choosing one of the hotels near Hong Kong Airport so that you remain well-connected to all major zones. So, what are you waiting for? Mix and match these travel destinations in Hong Kong based on your interest in romantic, family, nature, culture, shopping or food travel, and let the magic begin. Safe travels and enjoy exploring this vibrant city!
