The Ultimate 2023 Budget Travel Guide To Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of the premier tourist destinations for everyone who wants to experience the colorful environment coupled with sumptuous street food offerings and unlimited shopping options. Explore the vibrant and bustling city of Hong Kong, where Eastern and Western cultures meet and blend together! With this travel guide, you’ll have all the essential information and recommendations to make the most of your trip to this fascinating destination.
About Hong Kong
95% of the population of Hong Kong speaks Cantonese. However, English is a common language, and tourists won’t have any problems navigating the place, for English translations are everywhere. Hong Kong is officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. It’s an autonomous territory located on the eastern side of the Pearl River estuary.
It’s a bustling city thanks to its trade, business, and tourism. Hong Kong Island is the center of its economy and politics, while Kowloon is where the museums, markets, Avenue of Stars, and most budget guesthouses are located. The New Territories are where the wetland parks and temples can be found.
Hong Kong is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. With its iconic skyline, bustling street markets, and diverse culinary scene, it offers a unique travel experience. Don’t miss a Star Ferry ride or a Victoria Peak trip for breathtaking views. Explore neighborhoods like Central, Mong Kok, and Tsim Sha Tsui for shopping and dining. Visit cultural landmarks like the Tian Tan Buddha and Wong Tai Sin Temple. Enjoy local delicacies such as dim sum and egg tarts. Remember to experience the vibrant nightlife and catch the famous Symphony of Lights show. Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
In this Hong Kong Travel Guide 2023 Blog, we’ll share essential travel tips with recommended things to do and see, itineraries, money-saving tips, the best hotels to stay, places to eat, tour packages, and more.
Best time to visit HK
You’ll have an easier time touring Hong Kong from October to March when the weather is cool enough but not raining. The summer months are from June to September, and there are times when there are typhoons in August.
Key events include Chinese New Year (January/February, dates vary), the Hong Kong International Film Festival (March-April), the Dragon Boat Festival (June), and National Day (October 1).
Hong Kong Currency and Money Changer Locations
Hong Kong’s currency is Hong Kong Dollar. You can change your currency to the Hong Kong dollar in five areas. Central District, Causeway Bay, Chungking Mansions, Hankow Center, and Mong Kok. You’ll also find currency exchange at the Airport and hotels.
Hong Kong Visa Requirement
About 170 countries and territories may visit Hong Kong without a visa, including the Philippines, which varies from 7 days to 180 days in duration. Filipinos can enjoy up to 14 days in Hong Kong, while U.S., Europe, Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand citizens can enter for up to 90 days. U.K. nationals can stay in Hong Kong for up to 180 days.
Macau Permanent Resident Identity Card Holders are also eligible for 180 days of entry. The country with the fewest days allowed in Hong Kong is East Timor, with 7 days.
Other nationalities who wish to enter Hong Kong are eligible to apply if they have enough funds for their stay, have an onward ticket to their destination place, and are bona fide citizens.
How to Get There
Cebu Pacific and AirAsia offer cheap flights to Hong Kong from Manila, while Philippine Airlines (PAL) provides a full-service flying experience.
The Hong Kong Airport Express proves to be the fastest way to get to the city from the Airport. It will take about 24 minutes. Buses are another way to get to the city but take longer with about 45 minutes of travel time. You can also choose the red taxi, which drives in urban areas such as Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.
Hong Kong Airport Express Train Tickets (Q.R. Code Direct Entry)
There is no need to redeem a physical ticket; just enter the gate with the Q.R. code on your voucher.
Getting around Hong Kong
The MTR system is the easiest and fastest way to get around Hong Kong. Use Hong Kong’s MTR mobile app while touring; it provides the best routes to all your chosen destinations. The app has maps and other info you’ll need while staying in the country. You may also want to avail yourself of the Octopus Card, which has a prepaid stored value for MTR and bus rides.
Buses, ferries, trams, taxis, and UBER can ride in Hongkong. The cabs have color-coding schemes depending on which place you’re going to. The red taxis serve Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Island; the Green taxis cater to the areas of the New Territories, while the Blue ones will only serve Lantau Island.
Hong Kong Tourist Octopus Card
- Use your Hong Kong Tourist Octopus card for dining, traveling, having fun, shopping, and more.
- Simple and easy to use: Place the Octopus card over a reader, and the payment amount will be automatically deducted from the stored value.
- Start immediately with HK$50 of preloaded credit on your Hong Kong Octopus Card.
- Take your decorative card home after your trip and keep it as a souvenir to remember your Hong Kong trip.
Where to stay
From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, Hong Kong has various accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a 5-star hotel experience or a cozy guesthouse, you’ll find something that meets your needs. The vibrant Central district, the bustling Tsim Sha Tsui, and the lively Causeway Bay are popular areas to stay in.
Luxury Accommodations
Renaissance Hong Kong Harbour View Hotel
No.1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
The lowest rate for a Garden view room is USD229 via Agoda
The hotel restaurant overlooks Victoria Habor. It’s located on Wan Chai Waterfront and has direct access to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center. The hotel has its own landscaped pool and fitness center. Its rooms are styled with marble bathrooms and have amenities like a safe and cable TV.
Empire Hotel Hong Kong
Location- 33 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
The lowest rate for Twin Room is USD191 via Agoda
The hotel features minimalist guestroom interiors with pastel colors and its own amenities like flat-screen cable T.V. and tea/coffee maker. Its Café 33 is open all day with international dining options. It’s located in the Central Business District, which makes touring and shopping fun and easy.
Budget Accommodations
Rainbow Lodge HK
Flat fo1, 5/F, Hai Phong Mansion House, 99-101 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
The lowest rate for Dormitory Accommodation is USD22 via Agoda
Despite its low accommodation rates, this lodge in H.K. has standard amenities like T.V., air-conditioning, and computers. Its common dining area offers free WiFi access and other kitchen amenities. There’s also a shared lounge area, a game room, and a tour desk. It’s near many shops like Tiffany & Co. and Louis Vuitton.
City H.K. Guest House
Location- Flat E3, 10/F, Block E, Chungking Mansion, 40 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
The lowest rate for a Standard Double Room is USD53 via Agoda
This Guest House is near the Clock Tower, Mira Place 2, and Avenue of Stars. Guests who need to do some work while staying at the guest house can enjoy their free WiFi. It’s near many shopping destinations, and the guests have a private shower.
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Local Cuisine
Hong Kong is a food lover’s paradise, offering diverse culinary delights. Don’t miss trying these local favorites:
- Dim Sum: Indulge in the bite-sized delights of Cantonese cuisine, such as dumplings and buns.
- Roast Goose: Savor the succulent and crispy roast goose, a specialty of Hong Kong.
- Hong Kong-style Milk Tea: Experience the rich and smooth flavors of this beloved beverage.
- Egg Waffles: Try the famous street snack, known for its crispy exterior and soft interior.
Where to eat
You’ll never go hungry in Hong Kong. You can have different gastronomic adventures with every cuisine imaginable, as there are many.
DiVino Wine Bar and Restaurant
Moderately priced menu options attract guests to this Italian Restaurant. Still, more than that, the romantic ambiance and its authentic servings of pasta, antipasti, Italian desserts, and wines make it the go-to place for tourists wishing to have a taste of Italy in Hong Kong.
The Sweet Dynasty in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
For a hefty price, you’ll be treated to their signature dishes like Barbecued pork, Deep-Fried Cashew, Shredded Taro, and Deep-Fried Lobster. They serve only the best and most authentic Cantonese cuisine in Hong Kong.
Bistecca Italia Steak House
Another Italian restaurant you shouldn’t miss for its vegan and gluten-free options. Large groups of people can be accommodated in the Restaurant, and they serve gorgeous steaks and other authentic Italian dishes.
One Dim Sum Chinese Restaurant
If you want to fill your tummy without spending so much, visit this Restaurant that serves Asian dishes like Steam Rib Bone Rice with Chicken Paws, Steam Cake in Mala Styles, and Deep Fried Sesame Balls. There are plenty more to choose from on their menu.
Hong Kong Food Tours
Hong Kong Sham Shui Po Food Tour
- Explore some of the best foodie hot spots in this old Kowloon district. Sample 10 tastings plus many other cultural, historical, and architectural highlights.
- Eat like a local and taste sweet and savory classics at 6 holes in the wall family-run eateries.
- This food tour is highly recommended by the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Central and Sheung Wan Food Tour
- Discover beautiful colonial architecture in this Hong Kong district. Soak up the street vibe and immerse in the local culture of Hong Kong’s most iconic neighborhoods.
- Visit six family-run restaurants like the famous noodle shop and more!
Tai Po Market Food Tour
- Explore various points of interest to understand more about Tai Po Market’s past and present.
- Eat like a local at six unique tasting locations in Tai Po Market. Sample made-to-order steamed rice rolls and local dessert, and more!
Also Read:
- Hong Kong Food Trip: Taking a Food Walk in Mongkok
- Hong Kong Food Trip: “Eatsperience” Hong Kong like a local
- Most Popular Hong Kong Street Food To Try On Your Vacation
What to Do in Hong Kong?
The activities that tourists can embark on in Hong Kong are countless. It would be nice if you could make a plan before your trip, so you can visit all the places there.
Going to Amusement and Theme Parks
You can visit Hong Kong Disneyland, Snoopy World, and Ocean Park. Visitors can enjoy Jungle River Cruise plus other rides in Hong Kong Disneyland, the Boating Canal in Snoopy World, and cable car in Ocean Park. Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park have numerous rides, eating, and shopping options for visitors.
BUY DISCOUNTED DISNEYLAND TICKETS
BUY DISCOUNTED OCEAN PARK TICKETS
Visiting Temples
Plenty of temples abound in Hong Kong, which you can visit. Some are Wong Tai Sin Temple, The Big Buddha, and Po Lin Monastery. Wong Tai Sin Temple honors Daoist monk Wong Tai Sin. It keeps 3 religions; Daoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. The Big Buddha is home to Buddhist statues and Chinese structures. It also houses a meat-free restaurant and beautiful gardens.
Shopping
Shopping is truly a must in Hong Kong. The best shopping places are Argyle Center, Citygate Outlets, Times Square, Hysan Place, Harbour City, Langham Place, PMQ, Central District, Causeway Bay, Mong Kok, Sham Shui Po, and many more. You’ll find beauty products, high-end items, electronic devices, clothes, and other products in these areas. There are both cheap and expensive items you can buy there.
Market Hopping Tour
- Enjoy shopping at some of the most popular Hong Kong street markets.
- Feel the local atmosphere when roaming the alleyways, watching people buy, haggle, and buy Hong Kong souvenirs.
- At the end of the shopping tour, get to know more about the Hong Kong street food culture with a taste of local snacks.
Also Read: Hong Kong: Your Next Shopping Destination
WiFi and Internet Access in Hong Kong
WiFi connection is available in most hotels and guest houses in Hong Kong. You can also buy a 4G/3G sim card as you arrive in Hong Kong. You can also rent 3G mobile WiFi. You can avail of these when you get to the Airport.
4G WiFi (Hong Kong Pick Up) for Hong Kong
Enjoy mobile data use with a Hong Kong 4G pocket WiFi device that conveniently fits in your pocket.
Hong Kong Travel Tips
Whether you’re going somewhere new or going again, following some tried and tested tips won’t hurt to make your trip better and more efficient.
- Put your passport, I.D.s, and other essential documents in one envelope or waterproof clutch bag.
- List the address of your hotel and put it in your wallet.
- List your itinerary so you can maximize your time.
- Know the ride schedules and your destinations.
- Get an Octopus Card which can be used in many establishments and rides in Hong Kong.
- Take the MTR.
Hong Kong Travel and Tour Packages
Introduction to Hong Kong Guided Walking Tour
Experience a guided walking tour of Hong Kong and its famous landmarks. This Tour includes:
- Visit H.K. historical attractions
- Explore Tsim Sha Tsui
- Visit Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan
- Ride Hong Kong’s iconic transport, including the Star Ferry
- Experience Riding a ‘ding ding’ tram and the Mid-Level Escalators
Unseen Hong Kong Tour
Travel the way locals have done since the early 1900s. This Tour includes:
- The experience aboard the Star Ferry and the double-decker ‘Ding Ding’ (tram)
- Learn about the traditional practice of ‘Villain Hitting’ (Da Siu Yan)
- See the Mid-Level Escalators, the most extended series of covered outdoor escalators worldwide.
- Visit Stone Slab Street, named for its granite stone steps.
- Take a walla-walla boat ride at Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter.
- Visit Hong Kong’s oldest public housing, supposedly enriched with feng shui
Hong Kong Big Bus Tours
- This Tour offers Classic, Premium, Deluxe, or Single Route Tour with the most flexible sightseeing and unlimited stops.
- See Hong Kong’s main sights from your seat by exploring from designated bus stops.
- Get on the Peak Tram, scale the heights of Sky100, board the Star Ferry and back, and embark on a sampan ride with the Premium and Deluxe tours.
Cultural Etiquette
It’s essential to be mindful of local customs and etiquette when visiting Hong Kong:
- Respect: Hong Kong residents value politeness and respect. Be courteous to locals and follow their lead in social situations.
- Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping is appreciated for good service in restaurants and hotels.
- Queuing: Hong Kongers take queuing seriously. Be patient and wait your turn in lines.
- Language: English and Cantonese are widely spoken in Hong Kong, but learning a few basic Cantonese phrases will be appreciated by locals.
Sample Itinerary and Budget 3D/2N Hong Kong Travel Guide
Day 1
- 8:10 am – arrive in Hong Kong
- 9:30 am – get Octopus Card, ride the MTR or bus going to your hotel/ have your money changed for local currency
- 11:30 am – arrive at the hotel (possible check-in depending on room availability
- 12:00 N.N.- eat lunch
- 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm – walk around Central District
- 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm – go to Victoria Peak
- 6:00 pm to 7:30 Eat dinner
- 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm tour Causeway Bay or other shopping districts
- 10:00 pm – onwards -have a drink or two at DiVino Wine Bar and Restaurant
Day 2
- 6:00 am to 7:00 am – have breakfast
- 7:00 am to 9:30 am – explore Wong Tai Sin Temple in Kowloon
- 9:30 am to 10:30 am – Ride all you can in Hong Kong Disneyland/ Ocean Park
- 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm – visit a random place suggested by a local
- 7:00 pm to onwards – visit a night market, have dinner, and shop
Day 3
- 6:00 am to 7:00 am – have breakfast
- 7:00 am to 11:00 am – explore Mong Kok
- 12 N.N. – hotel check out and proceed to the Airport
Embark on a journey of discovery through the bustling streets of Hong Kong and be mesmerized by the captivating blend of modernity and tradition. Admire the iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and towering skyscrapers of the city’s impressive skyline.
Sample the delectable variety of cuisine, from traditional Chinese dishes to international flavors. Visit the city’s many museums and art galleries to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s captivating history. Ride on the famous Star Ferry and be awed by the stunning harbor views.
Explore the lush parks and gardens and be enchanted by the vibrant greenery. Stroll along the waterfront and be captivated by the majestic skyline. With its endless sights, sounds, and flavors, Hong Kong is the perfect destination for an unforgettable and unique experience.
Have you been to Hong Kong? Help us improve this Travel Guide to Hong Kong Blog by sharing your personal Hong Kong travel tips and exciting recommendations
Also Read:
- Hong Kong Bucket List: Top 10 Most-Loved Hong Kong Activities in 2018
- Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Lantau Island, Hong Kong
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