Hong Kong: The Unmissable City
It's not in many global cities that you can walk to the top of a mountain at sunrise, be back in the heart of the city for lunch and dance the night away at legendary night clubs.
In Hong Kong, you can do it all in 24 hours — whether you spend it hopping between blue-chip international galleries and local independent ones, hitting up bustling dumpling dens or elegant fine diners, or eating your way through night street markets before dancing the night away at the hippest clubs.
While it might be better known as a fast-paced urban jungle — and there’s no denying that, in many ways, it is — there’s so much more to Asia’s world city than meets the eye. Whether you’re wanting to live it up in a luxurious hotel, have epic outdoor adventures, explore the thriving local arts scene, or check out the unique cocktail bars, you can do it all right here.
Make sure you’re getting the most out of Hong Kong’s Night Vibes. 
WHEN TO GO
You can experience the beauty of Hong Kong at just about any time of the year — though with its subtropical climate, the most temperate weather usually arrives between October to December. However, the vibrant city really steps things up a notch in March, during its annual Arts Month. This citywide celebration of all things creative can be encountered in just about every corner of the city, with everything from street art festivals transforming suburban landscapes to large-scale art fairs showcasing works by some of the biggest names in the art world.
DID YOU KNOW
Hong Kong is made up of over 250 islands, and only around 30 percent of it is actually urbanised. Further, around 40 percent of the land is protected as country parks. As such, there are plenty of opportunities to disconnect and get up close to nature. There are hiking trails all around the city, as well as secluded beaches, sleepy (but charming) islands and even a UNESCO Geopark that will make you feel a world away from all the hustle and bustle.
SPENDING MONEY
Trips to Hong Kong can go either way on the wallet. If you’re on a budget, you’ll find plenty on offer, from scenic trails to hole-in-the-wall dumpling and noodle spots that will keep you fuelled throughout your stay. Alcohol isn’t taxed in the city, so you can also party without dipping too much into your pocket. If the word ‘budget’ doesn’t exist when you travel, you’re also in luck — Hong Kong is a luxury playground, with no end of designer boutiques and fine dining establishments to keep you busy.
DON’T MISS
No trip to Hong Kong would be complete without a ride on the Star Ferry. This historic mode of transport offers the best views of the city’s high-rise skyline as it crosses Victoria Harbour from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui. The ultra-regular service takes just over 10 minutes to get you from one side to the other, with a ride each way setting you back the equivalent of about 50 cents. Hot tip: time your trip for sunrise or sunset and nab a place on the top deck for some of the best photos you’ll get all trip.
Choose Your Perfect Itinerary
So much to do and so little time — it’s always the way when you’re on holidays. Let us help you fine-tune your itinerary of eating, drinking and adventuring and ensure not one moment of your precious annual leave is wasted.
We have a local’s guide to the best way to spend your nights in the epic neon-lit city, we’ve also got tips and tricks for the best dining in the city from a local food writer and a nightclub and bars guide from a local DJ.
Our art guide includes all the must-see things to experience Hong Kong’s booming creative scene, while our luxury guide showcases the very finest things to see and do if you’re living large. If it’s an adventure you’re after, head to our explorer’s guide, which is packed with things to eat, see and do that will make you feel like a Hong Konger.
Want to get a taste of it all? Mix and match from the below to create your perfect itinerary.
Nicolas Hoizey
Where to Stay
Luxury hotels don’t come much swankier than they do in Hong Kong, and leading the charge is the six-star Rosewood on the edge of Victoria Harbour, which has set a new standard in extravagance in a city already abundant with it.
On Hong Kong island, The Upper House, designed by renowned Hong Kong architect Andre Fu, has long been a byword for elegance in the city’s social set. For a more boutique feel, the art deco-inspired The Putman houses 28 apartment-style rooms and suites in the heart of Central.
Looking to get away from it all? Hyatt Regency in Sha Tin offers the feel of a luxe resort among the verdant peaks of the New Territories. For a charming beach retreat, head to The Pier on the shores of Sai Kung. Or, kick back at the nine-room boutique Tai O Heritage Hotel, set in a beautifully maintained colonial building overlooking the historic fishing village of Tai O.
MUST-HAVE EXPERIENCES
Whatever you do, don't leave Hong Kong without ticking these off your list.
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Take it all in from The Peak
Whether you walk up or take the historic tram, there's no better way to experience the majesty of the city than from over 550 metres above it. -
Hop on board the Star Ferry
Just 50 cents AUD will buy you a seat on the historic Star Ferry and an unforgettable view of the city. The regular service that connects Kowloon to Hong Kong Island and remains a favourite among Hong Kongers from all walks of life. -
Sample Hong Kong street food
Hong Kong loves its food, so it's no surprise that it has a thriving street food scene. On just about every corner of the city you can sample savoury goodies like curry-doused fishballs and juicy siu mai, or, if you've got a sweet tooth, don't miss the egg waffles that are made to order.
To find out more — and to start planning your trip to this sensational global hub — head to the Hong Kong Tourism Board website.
Images: Discover Hong Kong, Chi Hung Wong, Bjarne Vifvinkel, IMAGE COMING, Discover Hong Kong, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Eugene Production (Unsplash), Getty Images, The Aubrey, Nicholas Hoizey.