Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting in 2026? What First-Time Visitors Should Know

If you’re wondering whether Hong Kong is worth visiting, my short answer is yes — absolutely.

I’ve been travelling to Hong Kong for over 45 years. I lived here as a kid in the 1980s when my father worked in Hong Kong, and I still return regularly now. I’ve watched Hong Kong evolve through decades of change, and I still think it’s one of the most exciting Asian cities in the world.

Most people seriously underestimate Hong Kong. A lot of people treat it like a stopover city, but I think that’s a mistake. There’s far more to Hong Kong than shopping and skyscrapers.

English is widely spoken, you’ll eat incredibly well, walk for hours, and meet locals who are kind without being intrusive. And yes, there are beaches, hikes, art spaces, and markets that actually feel worth your time.

The reason I keep coming back is that Hong Kong offers a mix of things that’s really hard to find in one place — incredible food, efficient public transport, mountain hikes, island ferries, old neighbourhoods, and one of the best city skylines in the world, all packed into a relatively small and easy-to-navigate city.

You can land at one of the busiest airports in the world, jump on the Airport Express train, and less than an hour later be standing on the harbourfront in Tsim Sha Tsui eating dumplings while the skyline lights up in front of you.

In my opinion, Hong Kong is especially good for:

• first-time visitors to Asia
• women travelling alone
• food lovers
• people who enjoy walking cities
• travellers who only have a few days
• people who want a mix of modern and traditional Asia

Hong Kong is one of the easiest cities in Asia to explore independently.

Essentially, Hong Kong is like a giant playground with excellent signage. I can’t think of one attraction that isn’t clearly labelled with ample guidance on how to get there.

It makes getting around really easy.

Many attractions and sites of interest are just a stone’s throw from an MTR (Mass Transit Railway) station (which will likely be your primary form of transportation), with maps and wayfinding signage everywhere.

If you’ve never used Hong Kong’s subway system before, I’d recommend reading my beginner-friendly MTR guide before your trip.

Inside the MTR stations, there are giant maps and each exit has a list of what you will find if you take that route.

Once you get outside, there are more signs with detailed directions close to the MTR exit. This makes it easy to feel confident about where you’re going without worrying about getting lost.

The best part is that you’ll never feel out of place stopping to check a map because even the locals do it.

✈️ I’d strongly recommend sorting out your eSIM and airport transport before arrival because Hong Kong is incredibly easy to navigate once you’re connected.

Unmatched Safety

One question I get asked constantly is: “Is Hong Kong safe?”

My honest answer is yes — very.

In all my years of coming to Hong Kong, I have never once felt unsafe on its streets.

Unlike many Western cities where people start heading indoors after dark, Hong Kong stays alive well into the evening. Streets remain busy, public transport runs smoothly, and it’s completely normal to see women walking alone at night.

That’s especially true in popular visitor areas like Central and Tsim Sha Tsui.

The overall crime rate is also low, and incidents of attacks against tourists are extremely rare.

That sense of safety changes how you experience a city.

You relax more. You wander more. You stay out later. You explore side streets without constantly thinking about risk.

Of course, normal precautions still apply, as they do anywhere.

But overall, Hong Kong feels considerably safer to me than many large cities in Europe, the US, or Australasia.

Even though Hong Kong is one of the safest major cities I’ve visited, I still never travel without insurance — especially for delays, medical issues, or lost luggage.

Friendly Culture

Hong Kong has an incredibly friendly and helpful culture.

Yes, the city moves fast. But underneath that speed is a quiet politeness that visitors often don’t expect.

People will stop to help you with directions. Taxi drivers, shopkeepers, and market vendors are often surprisingly patient if you’re trying to work something out.

And thanks to Hong Kong’s bilingual history, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, transport systems, and tourist areas.

That removes a huge amount of stress for first-time visitors to Asia.

You don’t need to know Cantonese to travel well here.

And if you want someone to take your photo at a lookout or help you decode a menu, just ask. In my experience, people are usually happy to help.

📍 Not sure how Hong Kong compares to the rest of China? I explain it here: Hong Kong vs Mainland China.

Hong Kong Is More Affordable Than People Think

Hong Kong has a reputation for being expensive, and accommodation can definitely cost more than places like Thailand or Vietnam.

But once you’ve got your hotel paid for, you’ll find that many of the city’s attractions are either free or very affordable.

Public transport is cheap and excellent. The MTR is efficient and cheap, with rides costing just a few dollars. Even taxis are super budget friendly. $USD 20 goes a long way for a cab.

Street food is inexpensive. A skewer of fish balls or yummy siu mai (a type of dumpling) will only set you back $1-2 USD.

When it comes to dining, you’ll can find set menu lunches at local eateries for around $10-15 USD, letting you enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank (though western-style food can be a bit pricier).

Many of the best experiences — ferries, temples, markets, skyline walks, hiking trails — are free or cost very little.

A ride on the iconic Star Ferry costs almost nothing. Double-decker trams are incredibly cheap. And you can eat extremely well without spending much at all.

One of the reasons Hong Kong works so well as a destination is that you can choose where to splurge.

Personally, I’ll happily spend more on a good hotel or a really memorable meal, then balance it out with local noodle shops, ferries, and free attractions during the day.

That combination works brilliantly here.

Comfortable, Safe Places to Stay

I’ve stayed in dozens of Hong Kong hotels over the years, from older mid-range properties to more expensive harbour-view hotels, and generally the standard is pretty good. As of the time of writing, there are more than 300 hotels in Hong Kong, so there’s certainly no shortage of places to stay.

But one thing I’ve learned is that there’s a fairly sharp drop-off in comfort once you go too budget in Hong Kong. Tiny rooms, poor soundproofing, dated bathrooms, long walks from transport — it can really affect your enjoyment of the trip, especially after long days out exploring the city. (I wrote about this in my review of The Regal in Causeway Bay, where the hotel ended up impacting my overall experience more than I expected.)

Hong Kong is notoriously expensive when it comes to accommodation, but prices fluctuate wildly depending on the season, renovations, events, and demand. I’ve found great deals booking well in advance, but I’ve also scored surprisingly good last-minute prices too. If you’re watching your budget, it’s worth keeping an eye on hotel prices for a while before you book.

My advice for first-time visitors is to stay in Tsim Sha Tsui if you can. Yes, you’ll probably pay a little more, but it puts you right in the heart of Hong Kong with easy access to ferries, the MTR, harbour views, food, and major attractions. After a long day walking around Hong Kong, you really don’t want a complicated journey back to your hotel.

And whatever area you choose, try to stay close to an MTR station. It makes a huge difference in a city like Hong Kong.

Here are three Hong Kong Hotels in Tsim Sha Tsui I recommend (and have paid for and stayed in myself).

Efficient Transportation

Hong Kong has one of the best public transportation systems in the world.

It’s fun, too! You’ll master it in no time and soon be whizzing around the city like a local.

The main form of transport is the MTR, which is incredibly user-friendly, with clear signage in English and Chinese, making it easy to understand and navigate.

It’s cheap, efficient, and connects you to almost every major attraction. If the MTR doesn’t cover your destination, taxis are a great alternative. They are plentiful, affordable, and safe, with courteous drivers who know the city well. 

And don’t miss out on the iconic trams, known as “ding-dings,” which have been around since 1904. These double-decker trams offer a fun and relaxing way to travel through the city for just a few dollars.

The Star Ferry is another must-do. Even after all these years, I still love crossing the harbour that way.

If you want to explore beyond the city (and I highly recommend that you do), the ferries to the outer islands like Lamma, Cheung Chau, and Lantau are a fantastic option. These ferries provide a scenic and comfortable ride to beaches, hiking trails, and traditional villages. 

Using a Tourist Octopus Card makes it even easier to navigate Hong Kong, as you can use it to pay for rides on the MTR, buses, trams, and ferries. Plus, it’s handy for small purchases at convenience stores and restaurants.

Hong Kong is also incredibly walkable. You’ll probably end up walking far more than you planned (and get very sore feet so bring your good socks, trust me). Many neighbourhoods are easiest to explore on foot, with pedestrian walkways, side streets, markets, and harbourfront promenades connecting everything together.

Endless Things to Do

This is where Hong Kong really surprises people. If you’re like me and you want to be out and about exploring all the time, there’s always something cool and interesting to see and do in Hong Kong.

Yes, there’s The Peak and Star Ferry and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, but there’s so much more to Hong Kong.

You can dip into street markets like Stanley or the Ladies’ Market and spend an hour people-watching or picking up souvenirs. Stanley has more of a beachy, slower pace. The Ladies’ Market is busier and louder, but fun in short bursts.

If you’re interested in culture or history, there’s plenty here. The Chi Lin Nunnery is a personal favourite. It’s calm, beautifully built, and a nice break from the city noise. The nearby Nan Lian Garden makes it easy to slow down for a bit.

And if you like museums, the Hong Kong Museum of Art and M+ Gallery is a good way to understand the mix of Chinese and British influences that shaped the city. It’s not overwhelming, and the exhibits are thoughtfully done (even if you’re not a museum person).

Hong Kong also has easy escapes into nature. Hop on a fast ferry and head to one of the outer islands for a few hours. Cheung Chau, a little fishing island, is a favourite of mine. I love spending an afternoon there, soaking in the tranquility and stopping for lunch at one of the seafood restaurants.

Delicious Food

If food is one of the reasons you travel (same here), Hong Kong totally gets it.

Chinese Food: Everywhere, and Almost Always Good

You don’t need a curated list of “top 10” restaurants here. Just follow your nose, or the local lunch crowd.

Whether it’s a no-frills cha chaan teng (that’s “tea restaurant” in Cantonese), you’re in for a very Hong Kong experience. These casual diners serve everything from strong milk tea and pineapple buns to macaroni soup and curry beef brisket. Super local and super iconic.

Or maybe it’s a Cantonese BBQ joint with roast goose swinging in the window. Either way, chances are high you’ll eat well.

A few go-to dishes worth trying:

• Har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai (pork + shrimp) in bamboo steamers
• Crispy pork belly or roast duck from a shop with roasted meats in the window
• Wonton noodles in clear broth, topped with springy egg noodles and prawns
• Char siu bao those fluffy BBQ pork buns that hit the spot every time

It’s Not Just Chinese Food

But don’t think Chinese food is all you’ll find. Hong Kong’s the kind of place where you can eat Thai for lunch, Turkish mezze for dinner, and still have room for a Hong Kong-style egg tart from a bakery on your way home.

From spicy Indian curries to international buffets, to High Teas, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Even the McDonald’s is great (perfectly assembled and hot every time, Hong Konger’s take great pride in getting McD’s right).

One of the Best Skylines in the World

Hong Kong’s skyline is undeniably one of the most spectacular sights in the world, no matter which season you visit. Thankfully, there are several fantastic ways to experience it, no rooftop bar required.

Some of the best skyline experiences are:

• walking the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade
• taking the Star Ferry at night
• riding the No. 15 bus to The Peak
• sitting on the West Kowloon waterfront at sunset

Start with the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade or Kowloon West Promenade. Both are flat, easy walks with striking views. Think blue harbour, stacked skyscrapers, and ferries gliding past. Bring your camera or just take it in. Day or night, it’s a stunner.

The Peak: Yes, Still Worth It

If you want the classic panorama—the one on every postcard—head to The Peak. Skip the crowded tram and take the No. 15 bus instead. It winds its way up the mountain and gives you a mini tour of the Mid-Levels and beyond.

At the top, Sky Terrace 428 gives you a full 360° view of the skyline, harbour, and even parts of the New Territories on a clear day. Go near sunset if you can. But whatever you do, don’t go on a Saturday night, the crowds are overwhelming.

Then catch the Peak Tram back down and you’ll be back in Central in no time.

For a Quick Look—Try the Observation Wheel

On a clear evening, the Observation Wheel in Central is a sweet little detour. It’s not super high, but it gives you a gentle, elevated look at the skyline and harbour. Beware, though, the queues can be brutal. It’s super cheap, though, at around US$5.

However you choose to see it, Hong Kong’s skyline is one of those rare things that really does live up to the photos.

The Nature Constantly Surprises You

This is probably the thing first-time visitors underestimate most about Hong Kong.

It’s incredibly green.

Nearly 40% of Hong Kong is protected parkland, which means you’re never very far from:

• hiking trails
• beaches
• islands
• forests
• reservoirs
• mountain views

One minute you’re standing in Central surrounded by skyscrapers.

The next you’re hiking through subtropical greenery looking out over the South China Sea.

Take the outer islands, for starters. They’re less than 40 minutes by ferry, but feel like a different world.

One of my favourites is Cheung Chau.

This super walkable island has a slower, sleepier pace. You’ll find seaside paths, sandy beaches, and tiny alleyways full of snacks and seafood. It’s the kind of place where you can wander, eat well, and just let the day unfold.

Over on Lantau Island, the Tian Tan Buddha (aka the Big Buddha) is worth the trip. It sits high on a hill, surrounded by misty peaks and forest trails. Even if you’re not usually into temples, the setting is something else.

And don’t skip the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. On a clear day, the views over the South China Sea and Lantau’s green hills are unforgettable.

If you’d rather stay closer to the city, you’ve still got options.

Hong Kong Park in Central is a solid pick. Lush, peaceful, and unexpectedly big. There’s even a mini rainforest dome and a nice café if you want to stop for high tea.

Kowloon Walled City Park is another good one. It’s got a layered history and feels a world away from the nearby traffic. Think quiet ponds, pagodas, and space to slow down for a bit.

Whether you’re hiking forest trails, ferrying out to a beachy island, or just finding a quiet bench in a city park, this greener side of Hong Kong will surprise you.

Hong Kong vs Other Asian Destinations

Hong Kong often gets compared with places like Singapore, Bangkok, and Taipei, but honestly they all feel very different once you’re on the ground.

🏬Hong Kong vs Singapore

Singapore feels cleaner, calmer, and more polished.

Hong Kong feels more energetic, layered, and dramatic.

If you love dense city life, old neighbourhoods, ferries, skyline views, and a bit more grit and character, I think Hong Kong is the more interesting destination.

Choose Singapore if you want:

• cleaner and more orderly streets
• easier luxury travel
• modern infrastructure
• a calmer overall atmosphere
• tropical gardens and resort-style experiences

Choose Hong Kong if you want:

• more city energy
• dramatic harbour views
• old neighbourhoods and street life
• mountain hikes and island ferries
• a destination that feels more chaotic and layered

Personally, I think Hong Kong has more personality.

🛺Hong Kong vs Bangkok

Bangkok is cheaper, more sprawling, and more chaotic in a traditional Southeast Asian way.

Hong Kong is easier to navigate, more compact, and generally works better for shorter trips.

If you only have 4–5 days, Hong Kong is often the simpler and less exhausting option.

Choose Bangkok if you want:

• lower costs
• nightlife
• tropical heat
• a slower backpacker-style travel experience

Choose Hong Kong if you want:

• efficient transport
• easier navigation
• hiking and city together
• dramatic skyline views
• a faster-paced but more manageable city break

🏯Hong Kong vs Taipei

Taipei feels softer, friendlier, and more relaxed.

Hong Kong feels denser, faster, and more visually dramatic.

Both cities have incredible food and excellent public transport, but they offer very different energy.

Taipei is easier on the wallet and has a gentler pace overall. Hong Kong feels more intense, more vertical, and more cinematic.

Choose Taipei if you want:

• a slower pace
• night markets
• lower costs
• a more relaxed atmosphere

Choose Hong Kong if you want:

• harbour views
• dense city energy
• mountain-and-city contrasts
• ferries and island trips
• easier English for first-time Asia travellers

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