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Hong Kong packs a lot into a small space: a dramatic harbour, hills right behind the skyscrapers, and some of the best food in Asia. This route splits your days between Kowloon, Hong Kong Island and Lantau. Treat it as a starting point and adjust it to suit you.
Photos are my own, taken on an earlier visit, and are for illustration. Check current opening hours, transport and prices before you go.
Day 1: Kowloon and the harbour
Stay in Tsim Sha Tsui or near an MTR station on the Tsuen Wan or Island Line. Walk the Avenue of Stars waterfront, then ride the Star Ferry across to Central and back. At 8pm, a light show plays across the skyline from the harbour front.
Day 2: Central and the Peak
Explore Central's old streets, Man Mo Temple and the Mid-Levels escalator. Look up at I. M. Pei's Bank of China Tower. In the late afternoon, ride the Peak Tram up and walk the flat Lugard Road loop for the classic view as the city lights come on.
Photo: Jaimes Tan
Day 3: Dim sum, Sham Shui Po and West Kowloon
Start with dim sum: har gow, siu mai and cheung fun at a busy local teahouse. Then head to Sham Shui Po for street food, fabric and electronics markets. Spend the afternoon at M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District, with harbour views from the waterfront park.
Photo: Jaimes Tan
Day 4: Lantau and the Big Buddha
Take the MTR to Tung Chung and the Ngong Ping 360 cable car up to the Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Walk the Wisdom Path, then visit the stilt houses of Tai O fishing village by bus. Lantau is on the airport side, so this also works on your last day.
Before you go
- Entry: Singapore passport holders can visit Hong Kong visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Weather: October to December is the most comfortable. Typhoon signals can stop ferries and close attractions in summer and early autumn.
- Payments: cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, but small eateries and markets may be cash only.
Questions people ask
How do I get from the airport to the city?
The Airport Express takes about 24 minutes to Hong Kong Station in Central, with free shuttle buses to many hotels. Buses are cheaper and slower.
Is an Octopus card worth getting?
Yes. It works on the MTR, buses, trams, the Star Ferry and in convenience stores. You can also add it to Apple Wallet or use a contactless bank card on many routes.
When is the best time to visit Hong Kong?
October to December is usually clear and dry. Spring can be hazy and humid, and summer is hot, wet and typhoon season.
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