One perfect day in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the most exciting cities in the world, blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. A visit here will surely be memorable thanks to the intensity of its sights, smells, sounds, and tastes. With so much to see and do, it can be challenging to decide where to start. That’s where this guide comes in—it fully details how you can spend an epic one day in Hong Kong.

This Hong Kong itinerary explores some of China’s best destinations. From the Tian Tan Buddha to world-class shopping districts, affordable dim sum dishes, and the Victoria Harbor Waterfront, this one-day itinerary offers you a perfect blend of culture, history, and breathtaking views. So, if you’re on an extended layover or simply visiting for the day, follow this ultimate itinerary to ensure you enjoy the most sought-after Hong Kong activities, attractions, and experiences.

What to do in Hong Kong: the perfect one-day itinerary

1. Experience a Tai Chi workout with a view

Start with an early morning Tai Chi workout overlooking the iconic Hong Kong skyline. Hosted at some of the city’s most peaceful locations, like Victoria Park and Hong Kong Park, it’s an active experience you’ll love.

Practiced for centuries, Tai Chi is known for its meditative movements and health benefits—a perfect exercise to prepare for the day ahead. These workouts used to be freely available, but now require a fee to join. Tai Chi classes are typically hosted on weekdays and offered in various ways. You can join them as part of a city tour or as a lesson at an official institute.

2. Ride on the Star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island

After your refreshing workout, take a ride on the legendary Star Ferry. These ancient boats ply the waters between Hong Kong Island and the mainland. The most popular route is between Kowloon, from the Tsim Sha Tsui pier to the central pier on Hong Kong Island. The ferry ride from Tsim Sha Tsui to Wan Chai pier also offers exceptional views of the city’s skyscrapers. Be sure to check the ferry schedule and fare table beforehand for a swift experience.

3. Take the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak

Once you arrive on Hong Kong Island, take the historic Peak Tram from Central to Victoria Peak—the highest point in the city. Operating since 1888, this funicular railway has earned its place as one of Hong Kong’s highlights, offering views of lush forest and the Victoria Harbor.

This ride itself is an experience—the steep inclines and panoramic city views will have you captivated. The transfer takes about 8-10 minutes to complete, with a new tram arriving every 15-20 minutes for your convenience.

Once you reach the summit, enjoy a stunning view of Hong Kong, stroll along the Peak Circle Walk, or grab a coffee at a café with skyline views. Purchase your tickets at the terminus or online.

4. Explore Hong Kong’s best markets

Next, you should explore some of Hong Kong’s legendary markets. Hollywood Road, running between Central and Sheung Wan on Hong Kong Island, is famous for its antique market. Cat Street Flea Market also sells interesting keepsakes, so take a detour for more souvenir options.

Another must-visit Hong Kong market is the Yuen Po Street Bird and Flower Market, where wizened old men feed their pets with chopsticks and dote like grandmothers on their charges. Be sure to try one of Hong Kong’s food markets as well—you’ll find numerous dotted all over the city. The Wet Markets are Hong Kong’s fresh food outposts: these are a sensory overload, brimming with live seafood and unique produce, and are quite memorable due to their vastness and variety.

Wrap up your market tour by visiting the Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok, where clothing and accessory bargains are on offer. The Jade Market is also a fantastic treat, where you can stock up on jewelry and charms made from jade—a stone considered to have mystical properties by many locals.

5. Visit the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

You can’t visit Hong Kong without seeing one of its most famous landmarks. Located on Lantau Island, the Tian Tan Buddha is one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world.

Standing at 112 feet tall, this large bronze statue is a symbol of peace and harmony. To get there, take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, which offers stunning aerial views of the mountains. There’s plenty to see here, including six smaller statues of Devas making offerings to Buddha.

6. Go on a sunset cruise on Victoria Harbor

As evening approaches, board a luxury junk boat and sail across the Victoria Harbor while taking in the sunset. Many cruises include cocktails, canapés, and live music, making them a memorable experience. If you pick the right tour, you can enjoy an entertaining Symphony of Lights show as well.

7. End the day with a Symphony of Lights show

Hong Kong’s Symphony of Lights is a must-see attraction. This famous light display is the world’s largest permanent light show, according to the Guinness World Records. It illuminates the skyline every night at 8pm; you’ll find the best viewing spots along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade or from a rooftop bar, overlooking the city buzz from above.

Complete your one day in Hong Kong with pub-hopping and total immersion into the city’s buzzing nightlife. The Lan Kwai Fong area is famous for its pub crawls, with bars and restaurants lining narrow streets and alleys. Here, you can knock back endless dim sum and drinks, all at reasonable prices.

Top Hong Kong transport tips

As one of the most densely populated places in the world, Hong Kong may be challenging to navigate, particularly if you’re a first-time visitor. Thankfully, whether by tram, taxi, ferry, rail, or bus, public transportation in Hong Kong is among the world’s most efficient and sophisticated, and it’s considered quite safe to use.

Getting from Hong Kong International Airport

• Mass Transit Railway (MTR) Airport Express: Connecting the airport to downtown, this service offers the fastest route to Central. Its stops include Kowloon station—a major business hub, and Hong Kong station—at the heart of the commercial and shopping center. Many consider the airport express train to be the most convenient way to get to the city center.
• Airport Express Shuttle Bus: Operated by MTR, the shuttle bus runs along bus routes that connect the airport to hotels and stations across the city. It’s free for Airport Express passengers, but you can also buy tickets with an Octopus Card (more on that in a bit). You’ll find the shuttle bus waiting area on the left side of Level 2 at the MTR.
• Airport taxi: Taxis offer a convenient albeit more expensive way to travel, as they provide door-to-door accessibility. Catch a ride at the taxi pick-up area outside the arrivals hall. Taxis are color-coordinated according to the area they service: red vehicles cover urban areas, while green is for new areas in the northeastern and western parts. The blue taxis only operate on Lantau Island and Chek Lap Kok.
• Private transfer: Ideal for luxury travelers, private transfers offer a hassle-free way to get from the airport to your hotel. Chat to our local experts if you’re interested in this option, and they can help you arrange door-to-door travel for greater ease.

Getting around Hong Kong

Once you’ve landed at the airport and checked into your hotel, you’ll need a viable way to explore the city. Again, there are a few ways to get around the city and its most popular areas, such as Hong Kong Island, Tsim Sha Tsui, Wan Chai, and Tung Chung on Lantau Island.

If you opt to travel by rail, then heading to the nearest MTR station from your hotel is a no-brainer. Alternatively, take a bus ride from one station to another. The Octopus Card is your best friend to get around smoothly and efficiently: this contactless card is rechargeable, meaning you can simply load funds and use it to pay for transportation and to make purchases at many shops and restaurants. Purchase the card at official providers, such as all MTR stations, Light Rail, Sun Ferry, and Citybus service centers.

Where to stay in Hong Kong

If you haven’t decided where to stay in Hong Kong, here’s a breakdown of some of the best neighborhoods to consider. When choosing, keep in mind access to public transportation, proximity to major attractions, and nearby amenities like restaurants and shopping centers.

Central District: best for first-time visitors and luxury stays

Central is Hong Kong’s business and financial hub, but it’s also home to luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and world-class shopping. If you want to stay close to the city’s top attractions—such as Victoria Peak, the Star Ferry, and Lan Kwai Fong—then Central is a prime location.

Transport: Central MTR station is a major hub with easy access to all parts of the city.

Tsim Sha Tsui: best for culture and iconic views

Located on the Kowloon side, Tsim Sha Tsui is one of Hong Kong’s most vibrant neighborhoods. It’s packed with markets, museums and restaurants, and offers stunning Victoria Harbor views. It’s also a great place to stay if you want easy access to the Star Ferry and Symphony of Lights show.

Transport: Tsim Sha Tsui station offers quick connections to Central and Mong Kok.

Causeway Bay: best for shopping and entertainment

If you’re a shopaholic, Causeway Bay is the ultimate place to stay. It’s home to the Times Square mall, SOGO department store, and numerous boutiques, making it one of Asia’s busiest shopping districts. You’ll also find plenty of trendy cafés, street food, and vibrant nightlife to enjoy here.

Transport: Causeway Bay station connects you easily to all parts of Hong Kong.

The best Hong Kong tours for you

The best way to explore Hong Kong is with help from a local expert, who’ll tailor-make an itinerary based entirely around your needs and preferences. You can spend time enjoying street food adventures, cultural walking tours, Victoria Harbor cruises, day trips to Lantau Island, and anything else in-between. Guided tours provide insider knowledge, hassle-free transport, and unique local experiences, making your visit truly unforgettable.

FAQs about spending 24 hours in Hong Kong

If you still have some lingering questions, these short answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about a visit to Hong Kong should put you at ease.

Is Hong Kong worth visiting?

Absolutely! With its unique blend of East and West, a stunning skyline, and rich culture, Hong Kong is a must-visit destination.

What is the most famous thing in Hong Kong?

Victoria Harbor and its stunning skyscraper skyline.

What month is best to visit Hong Kong?

October to December offers the best weather conditions, cool and dry, for sightseeing and getting around.

Is Hong Kong friendly to foreigners?

Yes! English is widely spoken, and the city is very tourist-friendly.

Is one day in Hong Kong enough?

One day is short, but this itinerary covers the highlights so you can make the most of your time. If you’re looking for something a little different, our local experts will happily tailor a 24-hour itinerary to better suit your needs, so reach out when you’re ready to start planning.

Make it happen

All of our trips are tailor-made by local experts, ensuring your experience is perfectly suited to your interests, pace, and travel style. Whether you want a luxury escape, cultural deep dive, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, your perfect Hong Kong itinerary awaits.