Hong Kong, the vibrant metropolis where East meets West, is a city that never sleeps. From the iconic skyline to its rich cultural heritage, there’s something for every kind of traveler. While food is undoubtedly a major highlight in the city, we’re focusing on other aspects of Hong Kong’s allure: top attractions, hidden gems, and its exciting nightlife — without delving into its restaurants, bars, or clubs.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here’s a guide to the best things to do and see in Hong Kong, including must-visit landmarks, quirky experiences, and nightlife adventures that don’t require stepping foot inside a typical watering hole.
1. Victoria Peak (The Peak)
No trip to Hong Kong is complete without visiting Victoria Peak. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding islands, it’s the best place to get a sense of the city’s dramatic topography.
Tips:
Take the Peak Tram for a thrilling ride up the mountain, or hike up the scenic Peak Circle Walk for a more adventurous route.
At the top, you’ll find the Sky Terrace 428, the highest viewing platform in Hong Kong, perfect for photos.
Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
2. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade & Avenue of Stars
For a relaxed yet awe-inspiring experience, head to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. This scenic waterfront stretches along Victoria Harbour and provides iconic views of the skyscrapers on Hong Kong Island, especially when illuminated at night.
The Avenue of Stars is another highlight, celebrating Hong Kong's cinematic heritage with handprints and statues of famous movie stars.
Tip: Visit at night to catch the Symphony of Lights — a nightly multimedia show that lights up the city’s skyline in a spectacular display.
3. Hong Kong Museum of History
Dive into Hong Kong’s fascinating past at the Hong Kong Museum of History. From prehistoric times to the colonial era and beyond, this museum offers engaging exhibits on the city’s transformation. It’s an insightful stop for anyone keen on learning more about the city’s multicultural background.
Tip: Entry is free on Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly!
4. Wong Tai Sin Temple
This vibrant and iconic temple is dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, a Chinese deity who is said to bring good fortune. The temple is renowned for its beautiful architecture, tranquil gardens, and the practice of "kau cim" (fortune telling by shaking a container of sticks).
It’s a great place to learn about Hong Kong’s spiritual practices and immerse yourself in local culture. Many visitors also believe the temple can grant their wishes if they pray sincerely.
5. Lantau Island & Tian Tan Buddha
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by taking a trip to Lantau Island, where you'll find the impressive Tian Tan Buddha — one of the largest outdoor seated Buddha statues in the world. To reach the Buddha, take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for stunning aerial views of the lush countryside and the South China Sea.
While on Lantau Island, you can also visit Po Lin Monastery and explore peaceful hiking trails.
6. Man Mo Temple
Another must-see temple is the Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan. This historically rich and visually striking temple is dedicated to the gods of literature (Man) and war (Mo). The interior is filled with incense coils, which create an atmospheric haze and a deep sense of spirituality.
This temple is perfect for those looking to experience a more traditional, intimate side of Hong Kong, away from the commercial hustle.
7. Mong Kok's Street Markets
Explore the bustling streets of Mong Kok and visit its famous street markets:
Ladies' Market for souvenirs, trinkets, and fashion.
Temple Street Night Market for quirky gadgets, street food (outside the scope of this guide), and fortune-telling.
Goldfish Market for exotic fish, flowers, and traditional Feng Shui items.
These markets offer a vibrant, authentic slice of Hong Kong’s everyday life, where haggling is part of the fun.
8. Hong Kong Park
For a break from the city’s chaos, take a stroll through Hong Kong Park, a peaceful green oasis in the heart of Central. This park offers everything from an aviary and a serene lake to modern art installations and beautiful gardens. It’s also home to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, which showcases the cultural significance of tea in Chinese history.
9. Sky100 - Hong Kong's Indoor Observation Deck
If you want a different perspective of the city’s skyline, head to Sky100, an indoor observation deck located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) in Kowloon. The views are stunning, and the experience is quieter and more relaxed compared to the bustling crowds at Victoria Peak.
10. Kowloon Walled City Park
Kowloon Walled City was once a densely populated, lawless area. Today, it’s a beautiful park that preserves some of the ruins of the old walled city and tells its unique story. The park offers a peaceful escape with gardens, ponds, and historical remnants that reflect Hong Kong’s fascinating and sometimes turbulent past.
11. Take a Star Ferry Ride
No visit to Hong Kong is complete without a ride on the historic Star Ferry. Operating since 1888, these ferries cross Victoria Harbour, offering stunning views of the skyline from the water. It’s an affordable and relaxing way to experience Hong Kong’s waterfront and its world-famous skyline.
12. Hong Kong Disneyland
While a bit touristy, Hong Kong Disneyland is still worth a visit, especially for families or fans of Disney. It’s smaller than its counterparts in the U.S. and other countries, but the rides, parades, and Disney-themed attractions offer a fun escape from the city’s urban energy.
Nightlife Adventures in Hong Kong (Beyond Bars & Clubs)
If you're looking for exciting nightlife activities that go beyond the usual bars and clubs, here are a few unique options:
Night Markets: As mentioned earlier, Temple Street Night Market is a perfect place to experience the bustling energy of Hong Kong after dark. Wander through stalls filled with eclectic goods, grab a snack, or enjoy impromptu street performances.
Victoria Harbour Light Show: Watch the Symphony of Lights at Victoria Harbour, a spectacular nightly light and sound show that illuminates the skyline. It's free, captivating, and one of the best ways to appreciate the city's beauty at night.
Night Hikes: For those looking to stretch their legs after dark, take a moonlit hike up to Lugard Road or explore trails around Tai Mo Shan, the highest peak in Hong Kong. Both offer incredible views of the city lights below.
Evening at the Hong Kong Observation Wheel: For a different perspective of the city at night, take a ride on the Hong Kong Observation Wheel in Central. The wheel offers a slow, relaxing view of the skyline and Victoria Harbour, and it’s especially stunning at night.