Hong Kong Holidays

How to reach Hong Kong

• Flight time: Direct flights to Hong Kong from London and other major UK airports take 12–15 hours. Other options include flying via a hub in Europe or the Middle East or to Shenzhen just across the border in mainland China – all of which can be cheaper. Flight times for these routes will be 2 hours longer or more.

• Transfer time: The quickest route from Hong Kong International Airport into the city is the Airport Express train, which takes around 24 minutes. Buses can take around 1 hour, while taxi times depend on traffic.

• Price: The Airport Express into the city costs HK$115 (€11.50). Bus fares are HK$20–HK$50 (€2–€5), while taxis typically range from HK$350–HK$500 (€35–€50).

Weather and best time to visit Hong Kong

Hong Kong's subtropical climate has varying conditions throughout the year, so timing your trip can make a difference.

• December to February is Hong Kong's coolest and driest period, averaging 16°C, with less humidity and rain. It's an ideal time for exploring the outdoors and pleasant city walks. Demand for accommodation during Chinese New Year (January or February) means advance booking is advised.

• March to May sees milder spring weather with highs of 19°C in March up to 28°C in May, plus increasing humidity and showers.

• June to September brings steamy temperatures, generally around 30°C. This is the wet season, so be prepared for high humidity and rainstorms. Frequent typhoons can also affect travel.

• October to November sees milder temperatures returning to a more comfortable 27–23°C and lower humidity, making it another great time to visit and perfect for hiking and exploring nature.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Cantonese is the primary language, though English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: In China, showing respect is important. Avoid pointing at people with your finger – use your whole hand – and when dining, always pass food to others before serving yourself. Be prepared for queues and busy spaces, especially at major tourist attractions.

• Health and safety: Hong Kong is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, leave valuables in your hotel, watch out for pickpockets, and take care where you walk at night. Tap water is safe to drink, although many opt for bottled water. Healthcare is excellent, but it's best to arrange travel insurance to cover any medical expenses before you go.

• Currency: Hong Kong's currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$). ATMs are widely available, and credit or debit cards are accepted in upper-end hotels and shops, but cash is still best for smaller businesses.

• Getting around: Hong Kong has excellent public transport, with trains, trams, buses and ferries covering the region. The MTR trains are highly efficient, with single journey tickets costing HK$5–HK$10 for short distances. The Octopus Card is convenient for all public transport.

• Electricity and plug types: Hong Kong uses a UK-style plug (Type G) and runs on 220–240V. UK travellers won't need an adapter.

• Time zone: Hong Kong is 8 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK nationals can visit Hong Kong without a visa for stays of up to 6 months.

Best things to do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an exciting destination that dazzles with its towering skyline, bustling city centre and fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, contrasting with the surrounding mountain peaks and peaceful countryside. Here's the best of what holidays to Hong Kong offer:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Victoria Peak: The Peak offers the best views of Hong Kong's skyline, the harbour and beyond. To reach the top, the Peak Tram is an 8-minute scenic funicular ride, followed by a choice of walks up to the summit.

• Sky100: For panoramic views without the climb, head to Sky100 in the International Commerce Centre, Hong Kong's tallest building. The observation deck offers a 360-degree view, including a glittering Kowloon and the harbour, which are especially good at sunset.

The best districts

• Central: Known for its skyscrapers, historic buildings, bustling vibes and stunning views, Central is the commercial heart of Hong Kong. Highlights include the Mid-Levels Escalator and the trendy dining district of Lan Kwai Fong.

• Tsim Sha Tsui: Located north of Hong Kong Island on the Kowloon side, this area is famous for its luxury shops and malls, Nathan Road's neon-lit stores and landmarks like the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and Avenue of Stars along Victoria Harbour.

• Mong Kok: The epitome of busy Hong Kong, Mong Kok is a sensory overload with markets, local eateries and electronics shops. Don't miss the Ladies' Market and the Flower Market.

Parks and gardens

• Kowloon Park: This large urban park in Tsim Sha Tsui features Chinese gardens, birds and playgrounds with martial arts and tai chi in Kung Fu Corner, making it a hit with locals and tourists alike.

• Hong Kong Park: Located in Central, this beautifully landscaped park on a hillside offers fountains, a conservatory and a walk-through aviary, perfect for a relaxing day amid greenery.

• Nan Lian Garden: Nestled in Diamond Hill, this traditional Chinese garden transports visitors to a tranquil setting full of pavilions, rocks, ponds and bonsai trees.

Day trips in the area

• Lantau: A quick ferry or MTR trip from Central takes you to Lantau Island, where you can find lovely beaches, the cable car or a hike up the lofty peaks, the Po Lin Monastery with its giant Tian Tan Buddha and the atmospheric village of Tai O, known for its stilt houses.

• Macau: Just 1 hour away by ferry, Macau offers a fascinating blend of Portuguese colonial history, casinos and local food specialities like egg tarts.

Activities for families in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has plenty of family-friendly activities catering to all ages.

• Theme parks: While Hong Kong's Disneyland is the chain's smallest, it's still a magical escape for kids and adults alike. The region's largest theme park is Ocean Park, offering thrilling rides, an oceanarium and animal exhibits, including giant pandas.

• Star Ferry: Crossing Victoria Harbour to Central from Tsim Sha Tsui by ferry is the best way to take in Hong Kong's famous view of skyscrapers and the hills behind. As regular transport for local people, it's cheap and can get packed.

• Interactive museums: The Hong Kong Science Museum has interactive exhibits on engineering, technology and science to excite curious minds. The history and heritage museums also have ambitious and comprehensive exhibits that delve more deeply into Hong Kong's history and Chinese culture.

Free things to do in Hong Kong

There are many free ways to enjoy Hong Kong holidays, from cultural events to scenic walks and views.

• Events: Throughout the year, the parks and cultural hubs across Hong Kong host free events like open-air concerts and festivals, plus celebrations during Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, which include traditional dragon dances, lanterns and fireworks.

• Museums: Many of Hong Kong's best museums, including the History Museum and Heritage Museum, offer free entry to their permanent displays, charging only for special temporary exhibitions.

Wellness in Hong Kong

• Spas and thermal baths: Many of the city's luxury hotels offer excellent spa experiences, with highlights like The Peninsula Spa and its traditional Asian-inspired treatments.

• Traditional body care: For a local wellness experience, try a Chinese foot massage or reflexology session in Kowloon – perfect for soothing tired feet after exploring the city.

• Tai chi: Many tai chi classes take place in the mornings at Victoria, Kowloon and Hong Kong Park. Hong Kong's helpful tourist information service can provide information on classes, some of which are free.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: The Dragon's Back trail on Hong Kong Island is among the most popular hikes, providing breathtaking island and sea views. Another favourite is the trail up to Lantau Peak to catch the sunrise.

• Beaches: The south of Hong Kong boasts several great beaches. Repulse Bay is perfect for a family day out, while Shek O and Big Wave Bay are popular with surfers.

Local dishes in Hong Kong

One of the best places in the world to eat Cantonese food, Hong Kong offers a range of typical Chinese dishes along with some local specialities. From bustling street food stalls to high-end dim sum parlours, there's something for every palate.

Some typical dishes

• Dim sum: A must-try in Hong Kong, this assortment of bite-sized dishes, such as har gow (shrimp dumplings) and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), is usually enjoyed at traditional tea houses, and for breakfast.

• Congee: A comforting rice porridge often served with toppings like shredded pork, egg, seafood or vegetables.

• Wonton noodles: A classic dish featuring plump pork and shrimp wontons served in a rich broth with springy noodles.

Meat and fish dishes

• Char siu: Hong Kong's famous barbecued pork, marinated in a sweet sauce and roasted to perfection.

• Roast goose: A Cantonese speciality, typically served with crispy skin and tender meat, often accompanied by a plum sauce.

• Steamed fish: Fresh fish steamed with ginger, spring onions and soy sauce, allowing the natural flavours to shine.

Street food

• Fish balls: A popular snack, fish balls are fried or boiled, then served on skewers and coated in a spicy curry sauce.

• Egg waffles: Hong Kong-style waffles with a soft, chewy texture are typically eaten as a sweet snack and are available at many street corners.

• Salt and pepper squid: Lightly battered and tossed with chilli, garlic and spring onions, this dish is a street-food favourite with a touch of spice.

Sweets and desserts

Hong Kong's dessert scene is a blend of East and West. You'll find plenty made from ingredients such as sticky rice, coconut milk, mango, sago, red beans, jelly, fruit and ice cream, or egg tarts – small custard-filled pastries with flaky crusts, a local favourite inspired by the Portuguese pastel de nata.

Local drinks

• Tea: Famously drunk throughout China, tea accompanies meals in restaurants or is served on its own in teahouses. The most common varieties are red and green or flavours such as jasmine, and it's always drunk without sugar and milk.

• Yuenyeung: A unique blend of coffee and tea, served over ice – a quirky taste of Hong Kong's café culture.