Hong Kong Travel Tips

Hong Kong Travel FAQs and Tips introduce the city and zip codes, post offices, useful numbers, hospitals, banks for foreign exchange, Government and famous universities. When plan your trip to Hong Kong, view our answers to questions about Hong Kong travel to get better understanding of Hong Kong.

Useful Numbers in Hong Kong

Emergency numbers are for your reference in case there is an  emergency.  You can contact the local police, ambulance service, fire department and other emergency services by calling 999. If you lose your passport, make a 'lost report' at the nearest police station (call the Police Hotline 2527 7177 for locations or refer to their website to find a Report Room). Then contact your consulate to have your passport replaced. If your wallet or valuables are lost or stolen, please notify your hotel immediately and report the theft to police. Keep a separate record of your credit card numbers and report the loss to your card issuers as quickly as possible.

Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) 999
Police Hotline +852 2527 7177
Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong +852 2807 0707
Hong Kong Tourism Board Visitor Hotline +852 2508 1234
Hong Kong International Airport +852 2181 8888
Hong Kong Immigration Department +852 2824 6111
Consumer Council +852 2929 2222
Department of Health +852 2961 8989
Customs and Excise Department 24-Hour Hotline +852 2815 7711
Hongkong Post +852 2921 2222
Hong Kong Observatory (for weather information) +852 1878 200
Telephone directory enquiries 1081

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Best Time to Visit in Hong Kong

The months of October to March are a good time to tour Hong Kong. January to March sees clear skies too — in fact, January is the driest month — but it can get too cold. The most ideal is October-December, when the temperature remains comfortably cool and the skies much more sunny than previous months.  The best time of year to visit Hong Kong for beach holidays and hot-weather activities is from late September to early November. 

Avoid August if you can. It is the wettest month, sometimes battered by typhoons brewed by the Pacific. September is pretty damp, too. If you hate big crowds, look away from the days leading to the Chinese New Year, usually in late January or early February.

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What to Wear in Hong Kong

Hong Hong climate features 4 distinct seasons: warm and humid spring, hot and rainy summer, sunny pleasant autumn and cold and dry winter. The area is prone to thunderstorms and cyclones from May to November as well as typhoon season in September.

  • Spring (March to May): Goggles and a snorkel might be the best advice—but seriously, some effective waterproofs are a must, as well as shorts and T-shirts for warmer days and sweaters for evenings.
  • Summer (June to September): Bring plenty of T-shirts and shorts, although those who easily burn in the sun may want to consider long sleeves or high factor sunscreen. A raincoat is useless, take an unbrella.
  • Autumn (October to mid-December): The short autumn season brings drier and cooler conditions with plenty of sunshine. Bring T-shirts, short or lightweight pants, thin jacket.
  • Winter (December to February): Cool, dry and cloudy, with occasional cold fronts. The temperature can drop below 10°C in urban areas. Bring long sleeve T-shirts, long pants, thin jacket, coat and sweater.

How to Get to Hong Kong

There are four major ways for you to get to Hong Kong: by air, by train, by ferry or by long-distance bus. Most international tourists choose plane as their major way of getting to Hong Kong. If you are visiting other cities of China, you can also choose trains and ferries, as well as long-distance buses. If you travel to Hong Kong by air, you will land at Hong Kong International Airport , Airport Express and Airport Shuttle Bus to Hotel will be helpful to you. Hong Kong – Macau Helicopter provides convenient and fast transportation for your travel to Macau. If you want to tranfer to other major mainland cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guilin, etc, high speed trains are available besides the planes. As for inner transportation, it’s easy to get around Hong Kong using just the MTR. It’s convenient and inexpensive, you can also choose bus, tram and taxi. As advised, it’s best that you get an Octopus Card especially if you plan on using public transportation a lot. You’ll never have to get single journey tickets or fish for exact change if you need to take the bus. It’s accepted on the Peak Tram as well and you can use it to ride these iconic double decker trams to travel between east and west on Hong Kong Island.

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How Many Days Are Needed for Hong Kong Travel

Hong Kong isn’t that big so 3-4 full days may be enough for many first-time travelers. If you can, then 5 days would be even better. It’ll give you enough time to do most everything in this guide. Here we have 1 or 2 days Hong Kong city tours, 3 or 4 days Hong Kong Highlight tours and 5 days or more Hong Kong full around tours, please check our Hong Kong Tours.

Where to Stay in Hong Kong

The city’s MTR system is so efficient it’s easy to get around no matter where you stay. But for first-timers, it’s best to stay on the Kowloon side or on Hong Kong Island, close to the harbor. Here are some of the most convenient areas to stay in Hong Kong: Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, Jordan, Yau Ma Tei, Causeway Bay, Wan Chai and Central. As for accommodation iIn Hong Kong, you can hang your hat in modest guesthouses, youth hostels, palatial hotels, chic boutiques, and mid-range comfort – in the heart of the city or away from it all. With over 72,000 rooms in over 200 hotels, you’re sure to find the perfect place for you. More detailed information about hotels in Hong Kong, please check the link below.

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Where to Shop in Hong Kong

With its tax-free status, shining mega-malls, hip independent designers, enormous factory outlets and colorful street markets, Hong Kong is among the world's most exciting places to shop. This is the city to buy that bespoke suit, new laptop, and designer dress - you just might need to purchase new luggage to bring it all home. With so many shops, markets and malls in Hong Kong,  where do you even start? Plan your Hong Kong shopping along the city’s shopping districts which offer a unique experience. And when you’re done, you can transfer to the next one in a short time. Shopping areas are roughly divided into Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. The highlights are Central, North Point, Admiralty and Causeway Bay in Hong Kong Island and Tsim Sha Tsui, Yau Ma Tei, Jordan and Mong Kok in Kowloon together with Sheung Wan. Further more, you can find lots of  discount outlets shops in Lantau. 

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Hong Kong Dining Tips

Hong Kong Food surely will be the highlight of your Hong Kong Tour as Hong Kong is a "gourmet paradise" where the world's delicacies are gathered. In Hong Kong, food is divided in to specific categories, which are strictly adhered to.  Hong Kong cuisine is mainly influenced by Cantonese cuisine, European cuisines and non-Cantonese Chinese cuisines, as well as Japanese, Korean and Southeast Asian cuisines. From the roadside stalls to the most upscale restaurants, Hong Kong provides an unlimited variety of food and dining in every class. If you have time, wander into any old-fashioned tea house and enjoy a “milky tea” or a cup of Yuanyang. If you eventually get tired of local food in Hong Kong, there are plenty of other options: you can try every type of Cantonese dish, and indulge in food from other cuisines such as India, Vietnam or the Philippines. Must-Eat Food in Hong Kong such as Dim Sum, Siu Mei, Hot Pot, Claypot Rice, Dai Pai Dong, Sea Food and Snacks in Hong Kong are highly recommended. 

As a compact city with more than ten thousand restaurants, Hong Kong could be described as a dining district in itself. Working out where to eat in Hong Kong is not easy for there are endless options. We classify the popular dining areas in Hong Kong according to the three major hot tourism regions: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories & The Outlying Islands. Check the link below for more details.

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Things to Do in Hong Kong

Bars, museums, attractions, art galleries and a whole lot of shopping are all in our list of the best things to do in HK. Home to towering skyscrapers and picturesque hiking trails, hong kong is a truly vibrant and beautiful city. From Victoria's Peak to dim sum dinners and visits to outlying islands like Lantau and Cheung Chau, there's plenty to keep you happily entertained. 

Top Attractions in Hong Kong

More about Hong Kong Attractions

Hike up to Victoria Peak

If only one place can be visited and only one photo can be taken in Hong Kong, at least 50% of the people will choose Taiping Peak. Looking down from the summit of Taiping Mountain, which reached the highest point in Hong Kong, the development of urbanization has brought Hong Kong an excellent sense of beauty. Be sure to take the 100-year-old Peak Tram. As the old red car slowly climbs up the hill, it leaves the downtown area, then it is surrounded by mountains and canyons. Finally, it skips over trees. The view suddenly widened, the panorama of Victoria Harbour slowly unfolds before your eyes. After the lights are fully turned on at night, the exquisite night view of Victoria Harbour is definitely the most classic feature of Hong Kong.

Explore the City on a Big Bus Tour

The Big Bus Tour is the easiest and most convenient way of seeing a city’s top attractions. Double decker buses ply set routes and you can get on and off as often as you like at designated stops for the duration of your pass. The Big Bus Tour will take you to the most popular attractions in Hong Kong like the Peak Tram, Causeway Bay, Ladies’ Market, Lan Kwai Fong, and Repulse Bay. 

 Enjoy the View from Sky100

Hong Kong’s skyline is magnificent so if the views at Sky Terrace 428 aren’t enough for you, then you can head up to Sky100 which is a 360° indoor observation deck on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre in Kowloon. Named by CNN as one of 17 beautiful places to see in Hong Kong, shooting up to its observatory will reward you with breathtaking views of the city and harbor.

Hop on the Iconic Star Ferry

The Star Ferry is not only a cheap and convenient way of public transportation across the sea in Victoria Harbour, but also a romantic experience of enjoying the sea views on both sides. When taking the Star Ferry, you must choose a window seat or a seat on the second floor so that you can see the beautiful scenery of Victoria Harbour. As the skyscrapers on Hong Kong Island get closer and higher, the broad view of Victoria Harbour is full of your vision. Sitting on the upper deck of the 100-year-old ferry, you can feel the ups and downs of the waves slowly and leisurely, and you can see the beautiful scenery everywhere. Wandering in the night view of Victoria Harbour at night, the scenery outside the window will definitely make you forget the tiredness of the day.

Make Your Fairy Tales Come True at Disneyland

Disneyland is the ideal paradise for every girl and child. The strong sense of substitution can make you feel like the hero of the fairy tale world in a trance. Wonderful and interesting entertainment and games continue day and night, even reluctant to blink. When you are happy with your eyes, don't forget to take photos. 

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Other Travel Tips for Hong Kong Tours

Top 13 Tips for First-timers

If it is your first time in Hong Kong, make your life easy with these simple, yet useful tips for your travel. 

  • Carry International Debit Cards
  • Be On Time For The Transfer
  • Shop Smartly
  • Book Your Accommodation In Advance
  • Buy A Tourist Octopus Card
  • Learn A Few Cantonese Phrases
  • Learn To Eat With Chopsticks
  • Don’t Keep All Your ID’s At One Place
  • Try To Use Airport Express Train
  • Download The App For Taxis
  • Don’t Forget To Witness The Skyline
  • Carry Extra Clothes With You
  • Save A Few Bucks And Hike Up The Peak

Hong Kong Travel Safety

In Hong Kong, it is against the law not to carry your ID card with you, so you must carry your photo identification documents (such as pass) at all times. Hong Kong has sound law regulations, but you should avoid carrying large amounts of cash, traveler's checks or credit cards are prefered. Smoking is strictly prohibited in Hong Kong. Smoking is prohibited in all workplaces, public places, restaurants, streets and most areas of public recreation places. Smoking is only allowed in areas with garbage cans equipped with ashtrays. Smoking in non-smoking areas (including public transport) will be fined up to HK$ 5,000. Spitting and littering in public places will also be subject to a fixed fine of HK$ 1,500. In addition, you can't eat in public places, such as subway and shopping malls.

Internet

Free Wifi Brand " Wi-Fi.HK"

Free Wi-Fi services are widespread in Hong Kong. In particular, there are many Wi-Fi.HK hotspots widely available across the city in locations such as major tourist attractions, shopping malls, parks and gardens, visitor centres, sports venues, museums, ferry terminals, cooked food centres and government buildings, which offer wireless internet connection completely free or free for a period of time.

GovWiFi

Many public places in Hong Kong provide free WiFi hotspots, such as Tsim Sha Tsui: Hong Kong Cultural Center, Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront Garden, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Science Museum, Hong Kong Space Museum; Islands: Discovery Bay Community Hall, Lamma Island, Tai O Public Library. Generally, there is no time limit. It can be used as long as you want, and is suitable for people who stay in Hong Kong for a long time. There are mainly two types:

Unencrypted but More Convenient

Network name: freegovwifi
Link method: Select freegovwif, press "Connect" → Accept "Code of Use and Disclaimer" → Complete

Encrypted and Safer

Network name: freegovwifi-e
Login account: govwifi
Login password: govwifi
Link method: Select freegovwifi-e→ Enter account and password → Complete

MTR Stations

You can connect wirelessly to the internet near the ‘MTR Free Wi-Fi Hotspot’ sign in every MTR station for free for up to 15 minutes per session, with a maximum of five sessions for each mobile device per day.

Pocket Wifi Device

You can connect to the internet by renting a pocket wifi device or buying a sim card. Personally, we prefer the former but either way is fine. Whichever you prefer, you can get either through Klook. They offer plenty of wifi options in Hong Kong so be sure to go through the list and find one that’s most convenient for you. You may be able to pick it up in Hong Kong or from your country of origin.

Telephone System

Most of the world’s mobile telecommunications systems operate in Hong Kong, including GSM 900, PCS 1800, LTE, CDMA and WCDMA. Check if your service provider has a roaming agreement with a Hong Kong operator. And be sure to pay attention to the roaming rates! 

Telephones

Local private landline calls are free and cost only HK$1 for five minutes from public telephones. International Direct Dial (IDD) service to most countries and regions of the world is available at most hotels for a fee. The IDD code for Hong Kong is +(852). 

Mobile APPs

Local apps will be great help for  you to navigate Hong Kong’s many worlds, whether you want to craft your own tour, check out practical information such as Wi-Fi, public transportation and weather, or just see what’s around and above you on the city’s densely packed streets. When you arrive to download them and enjoy a one-stop mobile package for your stay!)

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Visa

Do I Need Visa to Visit Hong Kong?

Nationals of over 145 countries can visit Hong Kong without a visa. This includes the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and the European Union states. What differs is the number of days allowed.

If you’re carrying a Philippine passport, no need for a visa if you’ll be staying for up to 14 days. But to avoid being denied entry, it’s best to have the following documents with you:

  • Return or onward ticket
  • Hotel booking
  • Tour itinerary or bookings (e.g. Klook vouchers)
  • Enough pocket money

If you have an ATM card or credit card, bring those too.

144-hour Convenient Visa to Guangdong Province

Foreign nationals in Hong Kong can visit China’s Guangdong province for a maximum of 144 hours (six days) via entry ports in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Zhaoqing, Huizhou and Shantou using the 144-hour Convenient Visa.

To be eligible for the 144-hour Convenient Visa, visitors:

  1. Must join a tour organised by a registered Hong Kong travel agent.
  2. Must travel in a group consisting of a minimum of two persons and a maximum of 40 persons.
  3. Can have a choice of ports of entry or exit in Guangdong province, except Shantou*.
  4. Must enter and leave the areas together in their group via the ports of entry stated above.

Visitors travel to Shantou are restricted to enter and exit via Shantou port only and their activities must be conducted within the Shantou area.

Foreign Consulates

More than 100 countries and territories have representative offices in Hong Kong. Their contact details are listed here.

Money Exchange

The unit of currency in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). The exchange rate at Hong Kong airport isn’t very good so change just enough currency there to get you into the city. If you’re staying in Kowloon, then a good place to change your money is at Chungking Mansions (重庆大厦)in Tsim Sha Tsui . There are many currency exchange offices inside, all of which are known to give competitive rates. If you’re staying on Hong Kong island, then the money changers at World Wide House in Central are a good choiceYou can also use your ATM card to withdraw HKD. The exchange rates are comparable. 

Banks in Hong Kong

  • Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC)
    Add: No 1 Queen's Road Central in the Central district
    Tel:  +852 2899 8777
  • Bank of China (Hong Kong) 
    Add: 1 Garden Road Hong Kong
    Tel: +852 2826 6888
  • Hang Seng Bank
    Add: 83 Des Voeux Road Central Hong Kong
    Tel:  +852  2198 1111
  • Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong)
    Add: 32/F 4-4A Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong
    Tel:  +852 2282-3888
  • The Bank of East Asia
    Add: 10 Des Voeux Road Central Hong Kong
    Tel: +852 3608 3608

Hospitals in Hong Kong

Post Offices in Hong Kong

  • Ap Lei Chau Post Office
    Add: Shop 13-16, G/F, Lei Ning House, Ap Lei Chau Estate
    Tel:+852 2921 2222
    Mon to Fri 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
    Sat 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
    Sun Closed
    Public Holidays Closed
  • Cyberport Post Office
    Add: Shops 5-8, Level 1, The Annex, Cyberport, 100 Cyberport Road, Hong Kong
    Tel: +852 2921 2222
    Mon to Fri 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
    Sat 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
    Sun Closed
    Public Holidays Closed
  • Repulse Bay Post Office 
    Add: Unit C, G/F, 2H South Bay Road
    Tel:+852 2921 2222
    Mon to Fri 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
    Sat 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
    Sun Closed
    Public Holidays Closed
  • General Post Office
    Add: 2 Connaught Place, Central
    Tel:+852 2921 2222
    Mon to Fri 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sat 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sun 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
    Public Holidays 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

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