8 Best Things To Do In Hong Kong For First Timers (2026 Local’s Guide)

Bucket List
Written By YenKid

As a local, these are the 8 best things I recommend doing if you are a first time visitor to Hong Kong.

Also check out my Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai guides.

1. Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour

Why I find it special: I’ve ridden it dozens of times and I still can’t get enough of it. One of the best value things to view the best skyline in the world.

How to get there: Tsuen Wan Line/Tuen Ma Line, Tsim Sha Tsui/East Tsim Sha Tsui, Exit L6


👉 Check out my article Ultimate Hong Kong Travel Guide 2026

2. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade + the Avenue of Stars

Why I find it special: Probably the best promenade scenery in the world. You can check out the harbour skyline from different angles.

The Avenue of Stars also has handprints and statues of many famous Hong Kong actors such as Bruce Lee.

How to get there: Tsuen Wan Line/Tuen Ma Line, Tsim Sha Tsui, Exit E/J

3. Peak Tram to the Peak for a panoramic skyline view

Why I find it special: A must-do! Both the journey and the views at the top are TOTALLY worth it. But you must go on a clear day for the best experience.

How to get there: Island Line/Tsuen Wan Line, Central, Exit J2

👉 Buy your tickets here

4. Ngong Ping 360 + Tian Tan Buddha

Why I find it special: The cable car is an unforgettable experience. I really love the spectacular views of Lantau Island, Hong Kong Airport, and the surrounding ocean.

To top it off, the Big Buddha was a sight to behold. A peaceful break away from the city.

How to get there: Tung Chung Line, Tung Chung, Exit B

You could save money by:

👉 Comparing flight prices to Hong Kong HERE

👉 Comparing hotel rates in Hong Kong HERE

5. The streets of Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei

Why I find it special: One of the densest neighbourhoods in the world. If you’ve seen any Hong Kong movies, chances are you’ve seen Mong Kok.

The streets are bustling and the night markets are awesome.

Check out Nathan Road, Tung Choi Street, and Sai Yeung Street South in Mong Kok + Temple Street in Yau Ma Tei.

How to get there: Tsuen Wan/Kwun Tong Line, Mong Kok, Exit D3 + Tsuen Wan Line, Jordan, Exit A

6. Hong Kong Tramways

Why I find it special: A fantastic way to see lots of unique neighbourhoods. Well worth doing whether this is your first time or 5th time in Hong Kong.

How to get there: Tsuen Wan/Kwun Tong Line, Central station, any exit. Just hop on the tram + pay when you want to hop off.

7. The landmark bridges of Hong Kong

Why I find it special: Hong Kong is a world capital for iconic bridges. Most cities only have one, but Hong Kong has many.

Tsing Ma bridge, Stonecutter’s Bridge, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge are the top ones.

How to get there: You can take a bus (A10, A11, 12) or taxi to go across the first two.

For the third one, first take A21/A22 or taxi to the HZMB Hong Kong Port + then switch to the shuttle bus to Macau.

You’ll have to clear immigration for this one, as you’re leaving Hong Kong.

8. Ocean Park

Why I find it special: The pandas and the marine animals. Cable car with mind-boggling views of Hong Kong Island and the Pacific Ocean.

It’s a theme park/aquarium/zoo/cable car combo. It has something for everyone.

How to get there: South Island Line, Ocean Park

🛏️ These hotels have skyline views from different locations. Remember to book rooms with a skyline view!

Example Itinerary

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade + the Avenue of Stars ➡️ Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour ➡️ Peak Tram to the Peak ➡️ Hong Kong Tramways

➡️ The streets of Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei ➡️ The landmark bridges of Hong Kong ➡️ Ngong Ping 360 + Tian Tan Buddha

YenKid
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