Weekender: The Perfect Three-Day Guide to Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s famous skyline by night. (Photo: www.tonnaja.com/Moment Open/Getty Images)
So, you only have one weekend to spend in Hong Kong? Don’t worry, with the right sightseeing plan, you can get to all the highlights.
Stay in a central location
Hong Kong is divided into three parts: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, and the New Territories. To see as much as possible over the course of a weekend, stay in Kowloon near Victoria Harbor or in the Central District of Hong Kong Island. Three-star hotels start at around $100 per night.
Related: Cheat Sheet: Hong Kong
Take in the views
Ride the funicular up to The Peak. (Photo: Thinkstock)
The Peak on Hong Kong Island is arguably Hong Kong’s most popular attraction, since it lays claim to the most unbelievable views of the city and its harbors. To reach the top, journey via the Peak Tram, a funicular that’s about 135 years old. (Don’t worry, it’s OK if you hold the hand of the passenger next to you.) Once off the funicular, you can choose to go to an even higher lookout deck, the Sky Terrace, via a bank of escalators. The experience is well worth it. Try to time your visit on a nonfoggy day to get the best views. (Then again, if you only have one weekend to explore, just make it to the top.)
Check out top tourist attractions
Hong Kong’s Times Square does look like New York City’s! (Photo: IMAGEMORE Co, Ltd./Getty Images)
Hong Kong Island’s Times Square: It’s only comprised of two office buildings and a shopping center, but it attracts a lot of crowds, just as New York’s Times Square does. You won’t find people dressed up as Sesame Street characters, but you will definitely hear music on the streets, see a plethora of vendors, and want to shoot lots of pictures.
Now that’s a light show. (Photo: Nanut Bovorn/Moment/Getty Images)
A Symphony of Lights: The InterContinental Hotel, located on the harbor, is the perfect place to watch “A Symphony of Lights.” This nightly multimedia show utilizes laser beams and colored lights, all synced to music. It has been named by the “Guinness Book of World Records” as “the world’s largest permanent light and sound show.” Have a drink at the hotel or dinner at Nobu (where the menu is just as delicious as at its U.S. counterparts) for the best seats in the house.
Do some shopping
There are so many goodies to buy! (Photo: Image Source/Getty Images)
An homage to America? (Photo: Bettie Levy)
Hollywood Road on Hong Kong Island was the first road to be completed when Hong Kong was founded. Today it showcases all sorts of antique shops where you can buy souvenirs, like a jade Buddha head. Also, the contemporary art scene has started booming in the area.
See Hong Kong by boat
Don’t miss the Star Ferries. (Photo: Sam W Stearman/Moment/Getty Images)
Star Ferry: Journey between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon on Star Ferry. In less than 10 minutes you will travel between locales while making friends with Hong Kong natives; Star Ferry is the most popular way for locals to travel (think of the Staten Island Ferry in New York).
Private yachts: If public transportation is not your thing, there are many companies that provide private chartered yachts. Much of the city’s tourism is centered around Victoria Harbor, as well as Hong Kong Island’s skyline (by day) and city lights (by night).
Related: 5 Snacks You Need to Eat in the Hong Kong Airport Now
Have high tea at the Peninsula Hotel
High Tea at The Peninsula is so fancy. (Photo: enuwy/Flickr)
Whether you stay at The Peninsula in Kowloon or not (I highly recommend a night’s stay — the hotel is stunning and boasts immaculate service), high tea at this elegant landmark has become an institution. Besides, who doesn’t like an afternoon snack?
Hit the night markets
Shopping under the stars. (Photo: David Sandoz/Flickr)
The Night Market at Temple Street in Kowloon is one of the busiest flea markets in the area. It features mainly low-cost local food (mostly of the seafood variety) and goods (like tea ware and jewelry). Definitely try an egg tart, a pastry filled with egg custard. (If you don’t, it would be like traveling to Paris and not eating a croissant: a total sin.)
Related: The Only Dim Sum You Need to Eat in Hong Kong
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