Here’s our HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE blog with sample HONG KONG ITINERARY and HONG KONG-MACAU ITINERARY, hotel and tour recommendations, and list of expenses to help you budget for and plan your trip.
There’s a hole in my heart that only Hong Kong can fill.
Perhaps it’s because of the fact that it is the first foreign city that I explored on my own for leisure and the first foreign destination I have visited more than once. (Singapore was my first overseas destination, but I was there to attend an awards show.) I had been to Hong Kong four times now, and I’m set to return later this month.
Looking back, having my international travel debut in Hong Kong isn’t a bad idea at all. This “modern and futuristic city” is a great destination for a first out-of-the-country trip. The culture is not too different to be alienating but not too similar to be boring. It is connected by an impressive, expansive systems of transportation — from its world-class airport terminals to its vast train network to its reliable bus system. They have all their major tourist attractions easily accessible. They also make the cities very friendly to kids and elderly, an important criterion for ideal family vacations. All these combined make it one of the best foreign cities for first-time overseas traveler.
UNDERSTANDING HONG KONG
Although officially a part of China, Hong Kong is worlds apart from the rest of the country culturally, economically and politically because of its unique history. After the British won the Second Battle of Chuenpi, the Qing Empire, who ruled China at the time, admitted defeat. Peace negotiations resulted in the Treaty of Nanjing on 29 August 1842, which formally cedes Hong Kong to Britain and ended the First Opium War.
Since then, Hong Kong was a colony of the then mighty British Empire, except during World War II, when it was occupied by Japan. Britain maintained its rule of the territory until 1997, when it was handed back to China.
Today, Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of China. It is part of China, but it has its own economy, currency, and immigration laws. Hence, even mainland Chinese would need to go through Immigration checks upon entering the region.
Hong Kong is one of the busiest and the most developed metropolitan hubs in Asia in terms of trade, business, and tourism. It consists of the Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, and 200 outlying islands. While these areas are connected by sprawling train and bus networks, it is important to be familiar with its geography.
- Hong Kong Island is where the Central area, the political and economic center, is located. Although intimidating at first, it harbors a number of affordable guesthouses and hostels. It is also home to many tourist attractions including the Victoria Peak.
- Kowloon is where you will find most museums, markets, and the Avenue of Stars. It also has the greatest concentration of cheap guesthouses.
- The New Territories, north of Kowloon, is dotted with wetland parks and temples. Lantau Island, one of the many outlying islands, takes pride in Ngong Ping (Giant Buddha and Po Lin Monastery) and Hong Kong Disneyland.
Here are more bits of info you might want to know to prep for your trip.
- Language: Cantonese and English are the official languages. Almost 95% of the population speaks Cantonese. Almost everything a tourist would need has an English translation, so there isn’t that thick of a language barrier. Mandarin is also starting to flourish as more immigrants from the mainland pour in.
- Currency: Hong Kong dollar (HKD). HKD 100 is around PHP 665, USD 12.75, EUR 11.23, SGD 17.25 (as of February 2019).
- Money Exchange: You’ll find countless money changers around Hong Kong, concentrated in the areas of Tsim Sha Tsui (Chungking Mansions and Hankow Centre) and the Central district. ATMs are also aplenty, with HSBC being the most familiar.
- Modes of payment: Most establishments prefer cash payment, but many of them also accept credit card transactions.
- Electricity Info: 220V, 50Hz. Types G and D are used.
BEST TIME TO VISIT HONG KONG
The months of October to March are a good time to tour Hong Kong. The most ideal is October-December, when the temperature remains comfortably cool and the skies much more sunny than previous months.
That said, it doesn’t mean that it’s like that every day. My first Hong Kong visit was in October and it was slightly raining the entire time. It wasn’t a heavy downpour, more like constant drizzling. My third visit was in November and it was great, albeit a little bit cloudy despite the sunny forecast. It’s hard to predict these days.
January to March sees clear skies too — in fact, January is the driest month — but it can get too cold. I have experienced Hong Kong in January and February and I loved it, mainly because I really enjoy cold and dry winter months.
Avoid August if you can. It is the wettest month, sometimes battered by typhoons brewed by the Pacific. September is pretty damp, too. I have also been to Hong Kong in May and June and it was hot and rainy both times. Not good months to visit.
If you hate big crowds, look away from the days leading to the Chinese New Year, usually in late January or early February.
HOW TO GET TO HONG KONG
Okay, before I discuss flights, let me just say this: If you can, visit Macau, too! Macau is easily accessible from Hong Kong! If possible, book a flight to Hong Kong and then take a return flight from Macau, or vice versa. This way, you get to see and discover both cities.
If there really is no way that you can do a Hong Kong entrance-Macau exit (or vice versa), you can also book a roundtrip ticket to either. That means you’re gonna have to take the 1-hour ferry ride to the other.
MANILA TO HONG KONG
If you’re coming from Manila, the cheapest plane tickets are sold by Cebu Pacific Air and AirAsia. But if low-cost carriers are not your thing, the cheapest legacy airline is Philippine Airlines (PAL). Here are their usual year-round rates:
HONG KONG AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER by Airport Express Train
Here are the rates. Children (below 12 yo) get 50% discount.
BUT if you feel like you’ll be taking the MTR and the bus a lot in the next 3 days (and you will), purchase an Airport Express Travel Pass instead. This pass will allow you 1 or 2 single journeys on the Airport Express and UNLIMITED use of MTR, Light Rail, and MTR Bus (Northwest New Territories) for the next 3 days (72 hours).
Here are the rates:
- 1 Airport Express Ride + Unlimited MTR Rides for 3 days: HK$250
- 2 Airport Express Rides + Unlimited MTR Rides for 3 days: HK$350
Please note that the “3-day unlimited MTR rides” refers to MTR only. If your trip is longer than 3 days, you can still use your Airport Express rides even after the Unlimited MTR access has expired. For example, if your trip is 5 days and you purchase the HK$350 package, you can use the Airport Express Ride on Day 1, use unlimited MTR rides on Days 2-4, and then the remaining Airport Express ride on your way back to the airport on Day 5.
You can also top up the card after 3 days.
You can purchase an Airport Express Travel Pass online as early as now. Check out the link below:
But here’s the thing: you will need 2 transfers to get to Tsim Sha Tsui. And if you’re carrying gargantuan luggage or traveling with kids, it can be a challenging first day for you, which is why I recommend the other option…
HONG KONG AIRPORT TO TSIM SHA TSUI By Bus
It’s cheaper and more comfortable. And you don’t need to switch vehicles!
But if you’re taking the bus, I recommend that you get an Octopus Card. which you can use when riding the MTR and buses. The Octopus Card isn’t necessary — you can do away with it and just pay cash each time instead — but since you will be using the bus and MTR most of the time, you might as well just get one. It’s convenient after all. You won’t need to get a ticket every time you’re taking the train or the bus.
The standard Octopus Card costs HK$100 for adults and HK$50 for kids plus HK$50 deposit. The deposit for both standard and children’s cards is refundable when you surrender the card.
If you don’t think you’d be able to return the card (thereby letting go of your deposit), you can buy an Octopus TOURIST Card online instead. The Octopus Tourist Card is preloaded with HK$50 and you can take home the card as souvenir. You can buy one below.
Once you have the card, here’s how to take the bus to Tsim Sha Tsui:
- At the airport, look for signs to the BUS terminal. It’s right in front of the airport building, you’ll see it immediately after the exit.
- Board the A21 Cityflyer Bus. Look for the A21 sign and queue. Pay using Octopus Card. If you don’t have this card, you can pay in cash but you must have the exact amount.
- Alight at Stop 13 (Cameron Road corner Nathan Road) or Stop 14 (Middle Road corner Nathan Road), depending on what’s closer to your booked hotel.
- Walk to your hotel.
That’s about it! Before your trip, contact your hotel and ask for the closest bus stop so you know where exactly to get off.
MACAU TO HONG KONG by Ferry
Hong Kong is easily accessible from Macau. All it takes is a one-hour ferry ride. From Macau, you can board a ferry at either of these two terminals:
- Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, located in Macau Peninsula. This is closer to the city center.
- Taipa Terminal, sometimes called Cotai Terminal, just a short walk from Macau International Airport.
These ferries sail to any of these two terminals in Hong Kong,
- Hong Kong MACAU Ferry Terminal along Connaught Road Central, Sheung Wan area in Hong Kong Island.
- Hong Kong CHINA Ferry Terminal along Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon.
These are separate terminals so make sure you get to the right one!
If your hotel is in Tsim Sha Tsui, choose the one in Kowloon so you will just have to walk. If your hotel is in the Central district, board a ferry bound for Sheung Wan.
MACAU TO HONG KONG by Bus (Sea Bridge)
You can also travel to Hong Kong from Macau by bus, via the newly opened Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge (HZMB).
Normally, you can catch a bus at the HZMB. More info here. Some transfer service offered online cover hotel pick-ups. These are the usual hotels or casinos in Macau included in the package:
- MGM Cotai
- MGM Macao
- Grand Lisboa Macau
- Starworld Hotel
- The Venetian Macao
- Galaxy Macao
- Sands Macao
The bus can take you directly to either Prince Edward in Mong Kok or Kowloon Elements in Tsim Sha Tsui. Note that you will also have to go through Immigration and Customs inspections.
Bus Fare: HK$ 158 to 160.
You can reserve a bus below.
How to Get Around Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s MTR system is your best friend in the city. It’s extensive, tourist-friendly, and relatively inexpensive. However, this intricate network can be confusing for first-timers.
I recommend that you download the MTR Mobile app, which is available for FREE.
The app is equipped with maps and other information you need about the MTR system. To use it when navigating Hong Kong’s underworld, just enter the stations of origin and destination and it will show you a suggested route, complete with the necessary transfers, fares, and travel time.
Once you choose a route, it’s time to start the journey. If you have an Octopus Card, you just need to hover the card above the sensor at the gates and enter. Otherwise, you will need to purchase single-journey tickets. Here’s how to get one.
How to Use the Hong Kong MTR
- At the train station, approach one of the ticket machines. Each machine has a screen and a route map.
- Touch the destination on the route map.
- Select ticket type. By default, it is set to ADULT.
- Insert coins or bills.
- Get the ticket and change.
But again, you can make your life easier by getting an Octopus Card.
Octopus Card
The Octopus Card is a prepaid stored-value card that you can use when riding the MTR and buses. When you have the card, you don’t need to buy a ticket each time you travel. Just hover the card above the reader by the entrance and you’re good to go.
Fares are also slightly lower with an Octopus Card. Although the discount per ride isn’t much, it can mean big savings when they rack up.
The standard Octopus Card costs HK$100 for adults and HK$50 for kids plus HK$50 deposit. The deposit for both standard and children’s cards is refundable when you surrender the card.
If you don’t think you’d be able to return the card (thereby letting go of your deposit), you can buy an Octopus TOURIST Card online instead. The Octopus Tourist Card is preloaded with HK$50 and you can take home the card as souvenir. You can buy one below.
Pocket Wifi and Data SIM Card in Hong Kong
You can purchase a 4G/3G SIM Card or rent a 4G mobile wifi. Either way, you can pick it up at Hong Kong airport, for your convenience.
You can reserve one below:
✅ 4G/3G SIM Card. RESERVE HERE!.
✅ 4G Pocket Wifi. RESERVE HERE!.
Places to Visit: Hong Kong Tourist Spots
Here are some places you don’t want to miss! Below the pics are more info about the place including the nearest MTR Station and some useful links!
But before that, you might want to avail of the iVenture Pass!
iVenture Card
This card which will grant you DISCOUNTS for numerous restaurants and FREE entry to many attractions in Hong Kong and Macau including but not limited to the following:
- Ocean Park Hong Kong
- Ngong Ping 360 (Hong Kong)
- The Peak Tram (Victoria Peak, Hong Kong)
- Hong Kong Watertours Pre-Dinner Sunset Cruise
- Macau Tower
There are more attractions and establishments covered!
Disneyland Hong Kong
Admission Fee: Adult:
HK$589; Child (Age 3 – 11) HK$419
Theme parks are not only made for kids but also for the young at heart. Disneyland has been a household name when it comes to theme parks and family-friendly places. How can you go wrong with “the happiest place on earth”?
Officially opened in September 2005, the theme park is located inside Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, on a reclaimed land in Penny’s Bay on Lantau Island. It is the largest theme park in Hong Kong with seven themed areas — Main Street, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch, and Mystic Point. Each area is constructed and set up in a way where all of the five senses are treated to a theater-like environment that is unique per theme.
Aside from the rides, you can interact with notable Disney characters like the Disney princesses in meet-and-greet sessions, sing along while enjoying The Lion King performance, and watch the parades where you can see various Disney characters strutting and dancing to the lively music.
Nearest MTR Station: Disneyland Resort
You can skip the lines if you buy your ticket in advance online.
Ngong Ping and Tian Tan Big Buddha
Also located on Lantau Island is Ngong Ping. The cable car ride, Ngong Ping 360, links it to Tung Chung on the northwestern part of the island. Ngong Ping is the home of Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. These attractions have drawn tourists, especially Buddhist pilgrims, making Ngong Ping a popular tourist destination in Hong Kong.
Tian Tan Buddha, also known as Big Buddha, is probably the most notable attraction in Ngong Ping. It is said to be one of the world’s largest bronze statues of Buddha, towering at 34 meters. It is visible from Ngong Ping Village. To reach the statue, visitors have to climb over 200 steps or take the winding road that is accessible to vehicles. The latter option is specially made for elderly visitors and those who are physically challenged or handicapped.
Also in the area are Ngong Ping Village, Ngong Ping Tea House, and Walking with the Buddha attractions. A hostel near the monastery has opened its doors to travelers who want to stay longer.
Nearest MTR Station: Tung Chung. From here, you can take Bus 23. However, the most scenic way of getting there is by cable car, Ngong Ping 360. You can purchase a ticket below.
Victoria Peak
Victoria Peak, also called Mount Austin or simply The Peak for the locals, is the highest point on Hong Kong Island, blessing you with the beautiful spectacle of the Central’s cityscape, the Victoria Harbour, and other surrounding islands, especially at nighttime. With millions of visitors every year, it is undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions in Hong Kong.
The actual summit of Mount Austin is closed to the public, but the public parks and the expensive residential estates are what the term “The Peak” refers to. Victoria Peak’s popularity led to the establishment of the Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria, offering visitors a wide variety of dining options. The Peak Tower is the site of the Peak Tram’s upper terminal. Located beside the Peak Tower is the Peak Galleria. It houses the bus terminal for the public buses and the green minibuses.
Nearest MTR Station: Central. Use EXIT J2. Upon exiting the terminal, cross the Chater Garden and look for the Bank of China Building (picture on the left). Just keep an eye on this tall building because this is your main landmark. Walk uphill along Garden Road and you’ll see the Peak Tram Terminus on your left hand side.
The queues to the tram are notoriously crazy long! We tried falling in line and wasted a lot of time. But you can actually skip it if you book a ticket! Peak Tram Passes are often packaged with other attractions at The Peak including Madame Tussauds, Sky Terrace 428, and Trick Eye Museum. You can book below.
✅ RESERVE DISCOUNTED TICKETS HERE
Avenue of Stars & Symphony of Lights
The Avenue of Stars was officially launched in April 2004, along the Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront Promenade. It showcases the prominent personalities of the Hong Kong film industry, having their names, signature, and handprints etched on the stars scattered throughout the promenade’s floor. One of the most celebrated attractions along the promenade is the bronze statue of Bruce Lee, Hong Kong’s martial arts legend.
Avenue of Stars is also one of the best sites to watch the Symphony of Lights, a nightly spectacle of synchronized lights display with musical accompaniment, featuring 44 of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers — both in Kowloon and Hong Kong sides of Victoria Harbour. However, the Avenue of Stars is currently closed to the public for renovation. The target relaunching is in the first quarter of 2019.
Nearest MTR Station: East Tsim Sha Tsui. Use Exit J. From here, it is only a 3-minute walk. It should be on your left. If coming from Nathan Road or Tsim Sha Tsui Station, you can walk through the pedestrian subway to EAST Tsim Sha Tsui Station. Just follow the signs that lead to Exit J and you’ll be fine.
Mong Kok
Hong Kong is also a favorite destination for those who love to shop. As a shopping mecca, Hong Kong boasts an extensive selection of shopping destinations, offering a different experience per location. It has something to offer for various types of shoppers — luxury boutiques, outlet stores, wholesale shops, street markets, and night markets. The options seem inexhaustible.
One of the shopping destinations in Hong Kong is Mong Kok. The streets are always bustling with activities, especially at night. Old shops and restaurants blend in with the modern ones, giving it a unique characteristic that is so unlike the rest of Hong Kong. Being in Mong Kok is a feast for all the senses. It houses a great number of shops and markets, selling various kinds of items — from clothes to jewelry to cosmetics to electronics to construction materials to sports equipment to food. And the list goes on.
Nearest MTR Station: Mong Kok. Take the B2 or B3 exit.
Unique Hong Kong Tours
If you have more budget, you can enjoy these tours to maximize your stay in Hong Kong! Links so you can book these tours in advance or reserve slots are provided below!
Macau Day Tour
You can easily go to Macau from Hong Kong! You just need to buy a ticket from the terminal, board a ferry, and you’ll be there in 55 minutes.
FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS, BOOK BELLOW
Please take note of the date and time of your trip because rates of sailing on weekends and at night are higher. Just click on any of the following links:
- Hong Kong (Sheung Wan) to Taipa Terminal via CotaiJet (ONE-WAY). Reserve Discounted Ticket Here.
- Hong Kong (Sheung Wan) to Macau Outer Harbour Terminal via TurboJet (ONE-WAY). Reserve Discounted Ticket Here.
- Hong Kong/Kowloon to Macau Outer Harbour Terminal via TurboJet (ROUNDTRIP). You can board either in Hong Kong Macau Terminal (Sheung Wan) or in China Ferry Terminal (Kowloon). Reserve Discounted Ticket Here.
- Hong Kong/Kowloon to Taipa Terminal via CotaiJet (ROUNDTRIP). You can board either in Hong Kong Macau Terminal (Sheung Wan) or in China Ferry Terminal (Kowloon). Reserve Discounted Ticket Here.
Once in Macau, you can take advantage of the free shuttle rides provided by hotels and then just explore on foot! It’s super easy.
More info here: DIY MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE.
But if you want to be more comfortable, there are day tours being offered in Hong Kong. They will take care of everything, from ferry tickets to your sightseeing in Macau to a sumptuous lunch at a 4-star hotel. If you’re interested in that, you can book below.
AquaLuna Symphony of Lights Cruise
Although you can also enjoy the Symphony of Lights from the Avenue of Stars, you can level up your Hong Kong experience by admiring it from a traditional junk boat as you cruise around Victoria Harbour! It comes with DINNER too!
360 Lantau Island Sky-Land-Sea Day Pass
This one isn’t really a tour but a day pass that would take you around and over Lantau Island and enjoy the following:
- a round trip cable car ride
- a boat excursion
- unlimited use of the bus system
- Big Buddha Statue visit
- Tai O Fishing Village visit
- HK$20 voucher for the Ngong Ping 360 Souvenir shop
Hong Kong Food Tour
This tour is recommended by the Hong Kong Tourism Board! Eat your way through one of Hong Kong’s old districts, Sham Shui Po. You’ll get a total of 10 tastings as you learn more about the culture and history of Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Walking Tour – Day
This tour is a great way to be familiar with Hong Kong’s history and culture. It will take you around Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon and then aboard Star Ferry to the Central area in Hong Kong Island. This tour will allow you to see tourist spots not just as structures but as an important part of the Hong Kong life today and back in the day.
Kowloon Evening Walking Tour
This tour will take you across Hong Kong’s Jordan and Yau Ma Tei neighborhoods to visit the following:
- a century-old fruit market
- a local art deco-style restaurant
- an old-school singing parlour
- Temple Street market
- fortune tellers
Where to Stay in Hong Kong
Finding cheap accommodations in Hong Kong is easy. The Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, and Central areas are littered with guesthouses and hostels offering affordable rooms. They are also consistently cheap throughout the year, ranging from HK300-HK500 for a double room.
I personally love staying in the Tsim Sha Tsui area whenever I’m in Hong Kong because it’s close to almost everything I want to see. You can walk to the Avenue of Stars. Hong Kong Island can be easily reached by ferry or MTR. Mong Kok is also just a few stations away. There are a lot of money changers and ATMs around. And like I said, when it comes to accommodations, you have a lot of options here.
Anyway, here are top budget guesthouses and hostels in Hong Kong as rated by Agoda users as of March 2019.
- SLEEEP. Hong Kong. Check Rates and Availability.
- YIU FAI GUEST HOUSE,. Hong Kong. Check Rates and Availability.
- Travellers Pack Hostel,. Tsim Sha Tsui. Check Rates and Availability.
- Hop Inn on Mody. Tsim Sha Tsui. Check Rates and Availability.
- L’etoile de Mer TST. Hong Kong. Check Rates and Availability.
- Toms Guesthouse. Tsim Sha Tsui. Check Rates & Availability.
Search for more: Hong Kong Hotels
Sample Hong Kong Itinerary
Below are two sample itineraries. The first covers Hong Kong only, while the other will take you to both Hong Kong and Macau. Both itineraries assume the following:
- You’re a group of 2, splitting much of the expenses.
- You have a budget of HKD 70 per meal (lunch/dinner). You’ll find meals much lower than this, but better to overestimate than under.
- You’re skipping breakfast. It’s overrated, according to intermittent fasters. And healthy too. Haha.
- You’re staying in a budget inn in Tsim Sha Tsui for HKD300 per night. As mentioned, Tsim Sha Tsui is an ideal base because it’s close to many attractions.
Just make the necessary adjustments to match your flights and other preferences.
Itinerary #1: Hong Kong Only
Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Day 1: VICTORIA PEAK, AVENUE OF STARS
09:55 am – Arrival at Hong Kong Airport
10:30 am – Pick up Octopus Card, RESERVE HERE!
10:50 am – Take A21 Bus to Tsim Sha Tsui, HKD33
11:40 am – Check-in at guesthouse
12:00 pm – Lunch, HKD70
01:30 pm – Walk around Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Park
03:30 pm – MTR to Central, HKD10.5
03:40 pm – Walk to Peak Tram
04:00 pm – Victoria Peak, roundtrip HKD86, RESERVE DISCOUNTED TICKET!
06:00 pm – Go down via tram, walk to Central Station
06:50 pm – MRT to Tsim Sha Tsui Station, HKD10.5
07:00 pm – Walk to Avenue of Stars
07:15 pm – Explore Avenue of Stars, FREE
08:00 pm – Watch the Symphony of Lights, FREE
08:30 pm – Dinner, HKD 70
09:00 pm – Walk back to hotel
Day 2: DISNEYLAND, MONG KOK
09:30 am – MTR to Disneyland Resort, HKD15.5
10:30 am – Explore Disneyland Hong Kong, HKD 519, DISCOUNTED
01:00 pm – Lunch, HKD100
07:00 pm – MTR to Mong Kok, HKD23
07:40 pm – Dinner, HKD70
08:30 pm – Explore Mongkok, shop
10:30 pm – MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui, HKD5.5
Day 3: NGONG PING, DEPARTURE
08:00 am – Check out
09:00 am – Take MTR to Tung Chung Station, HKD19.5
10:00 am – Leave luggage at CityGate lockers, HKD60
10:30 pm – Brunch, HKD70
11:00 am – Take bus to Ngong Ping, HKD17.5
12:00 pm – See Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery
02:10 pm – Bus back to Tung Chung
03:20 am – MTR to Airport, HKD15.5
03:50 pm – Check in at airport
06:40 pm – Flight out
If you spend only HKD 300 per night on accommodations (divided by 2 pax), this itinerary will set you back around HKD1520 (USD195, EUR172, SGD267, PHP10,200) per person, excluding airfare and travel tax.
Itinerary #2: Hong Kong + Macau Day Tour
Duration: 4 days, 3 nights
To better understand the MACAU leg of this itinerary, read this first: MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE
Day 1: VICTORIA PEAK, AVENUE OF STARS
09:55 am – Arrival at Hong Kong Airport
10:30 am – Pick up Octopus Card, RESERVE HERE!
10:50 am – Take A21 Bus to Tsim Sha Tsui, HKD33
11:40 am – Check-in at guesthouse
12:00 pm – Lunch, HKD70
01:30 pm – Walk around Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Park
03:30 pm – MTR to Central, HKD10.5
03:40 pm – Walk to Peak Tram
04:00 pm – Victoria Peak, roundtrip HKD86, RESERVE DISCOUNTED TICKET!
06:00 pm – Go down via tram, walk to Central Station
06:50 pm – MRT to Tsim Sha Tsui Station, HKD10.5
07:00 pm – Walk to Avenue of Stars
07:15 pm – Explore Avenue of Stars, FREE
08:00 pm – Watch the Symphony of Lights, FREE
08:30 pm – Dinner, HKD 70
09:00 pm – Walk back to hotel
10:00 pm – Lights out
Day 2: MACAU DAY TOUR
08:30 am – Walk to Hong Kong China Ferry Terminal
09:00 am – Ferry to Macau, Roundtrip Fare: HKD310, DISCOUNTED
10:15 am – Shuttle to the Venetian, FREE
10:30 am – Explore the Venetian
11:30 am – Lunch at the Venetian Food Court, HKD70
12:30 pm – Walk to City of Dreams, explore a bit
02:00 pm – Board shuttle to Senado Square, FREE
02:20 pm – Explore Senado Square & St. Paul Ruins
04:30 pm – Walk to Sintra Hotel (for shuttle)
05:00 pm – Board FREE Shuttle to City of Dreams
05:30 pm – Walk to The Parisian
05:50 pm – Explore The Parisian & Studio City
08:00 pm – Dinner, HKD100
09:00 pm – Board shuttle to Macau Ferry Terminal
09:30 pm – Board ferry to Hong Kong
10:30 pm – MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui, HKD 11
11:00 pm – Lights out
Day 3: DISNEYLAND, MONG KOK
09:30 am – MTR to Disneyland Resort, HKD15.5
10:30 am – Explore Disneyland Hong Kong, HKD 519, DISCOUNTED
01:00 pm – Lunch, HKD100
07:00 pm – MTR to Mong Kok, HKD23
07:40 pm – Dinner, HKD70
08:30 pm – Explore Mongkok, shop
10:30 pm – MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui, HKD5.5
11:00 pm – Lights out
Day 4: NGONG PING, DEPARTURE
08:00 am – Check out
09:00 am – Take MTR to Tung Chung Station, HKD19.5
10:00 am – Leave luggage at CityGate lockers, HKD60
10:30 pm – Brunch, HKD70
11:00 am – Take bus to Ngong Ping, HKD17.5
12:00 pm – See Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery
02:10 pm – Bus back to Tung Chung
03:20 am – MTR to Airport, HKD15.5
03:50 pm – Check in at airport
06:40 pm – Flight out
For this Hong Kong itinerary, you will have to shell out HKD2150 (USD275, EUR243, SGD378, PHP14,420) per person, excluding airfare and travel tax. If you choose to try the rides or watch the shows at a hotel in Macau, that would incur additional fees, which are not covered by this estimate. Much of the expenses were for the entrance fees, with Disneyland taking the bulk.
NOTE: For both itineraries above, I used the fares charged for single-journey users. If you have an Octopus Card, the actual fares are a bit lower because of the discounts. I just used the regular rates just to add some padding. Again, better overestimate than under.
I have to warn you, though, that these itineraries can get extremely exhausting because they involve a lot of walking. Disneyland and Mongkok in one day is no joke and can be physically demanding. You might want to adjust this if you have kids or elderly with you.
More Hong Kong Travel Tips
- I recommend that you download the MTR Mobile app, which is available for FREE. The app is equipped with maps and other information you need about the MTR system. To use it, just tap on Train Trip Planner and enter the stations of origin and destination and it will show you a suggested route, complete with the necessary transfers, fares, and travel time.
- In Macau, the currency is the Macanese pataca. But the Hong Kong dollar is widely accepted at 1:1 rate.
- Take advantage of the FREE hotel shuttles in Macau. You don’t need to have a reservation to board their buses. They’re FREE and you can find them at the ferry terminals and other key spots in the city.
- If you’re traveling on a really tight budget, there are a lot of things you can do in Hong Kong and Macau for FREE. Here are some suggestions: 10 FREE Things to Do in Macau, 7 FREE Things to Do in Hong Kong
- For more information about Macau, read: MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE
Our Hong Kong Slam Book
- Best thing about Hong Kong: In many aspects, Hong Kong sits in a gray area. On face value, it looks very modern and futuristic, but as you walk deeper into smaller alleys, you’ll find plenty of its heritage intact. From a Pinoy standpoint, it is also not too familiar to be boring but not too different to be alienating. It’s also undoubtedly Asian but has a lot of western bits scattered around the city.
- Something about Hong Kong that you don’t like: Summer rain. I’ve been to Hong Kong in summer, autumn, and winter, and I really dislike summer there. I have experienced Hong Kong summer three times now and it was hot and wet each time, so it was difficult to go around. I enjoyed winter the most! Dry and cool!
- Most unforgettable moment: Oh gosh, I have a lot of unforgettable moments in Hong Kong! But these are the top two. First, on my second visit, Vins and I went to Victoria Peak. It was February, middle of winter. But since I have a high cold tolerance, I was confident that I could handle it in just a shirt and jeans. But I did not take into consideration that part of our Hong Kong itinerary was Victoria Peak, and the temperature up there is much lower than on sea level. I was shaking so bad the whole time. It didn’t help that the tram line to go down was so long, extending to the outside of the building. I even had to buy a cup of coffee for relief. My second unforgettable moment was in my third Hong Kong visit, which coincided with another close friend’s trip. We were both staying in Tsim Sha Tsui. We decided to meet in Mong Kok to buy pasalubong. After shopping around while talking about everything in life, it was time to go home. We had an idea: Since we enjoyed our conversation so much and we still had a lot to catch up on, we decided to walk from Mong Kok to our hotel. It was past midnight. So yeah, we did. Haha. We had to stop at a 7-Eleven halfway to our hotel because we got hungry.
- Favorite meal. This wasn’t my most delicious meal, but certainly my most unforgettable. In the basement of our guesthouse was a dimsum restaurant. I wasn’t able to catch the name, but it was along Nathan Road. It was my second day in Hong Kong so I have not tried the restaurants yet. You know, before that day, my experience with dimsum was limited to fast food and street carts in the Philippines. This was my first non-fast-food dimsum in my life. I remember that first bite. Aaaaaaah. I got so used to mass-produced siomai, I could not believe it when I actually felt and tasted the shrimp and meat in my mouth. Dimsum was never the same for me. Haha.
- Favorite spot. Avenue of Stars. I always try to set foot in this area every time I’m in Hong Kong. I simply enjoy the view and the lights.
- Biggest surprise. How friendly it is travel newbies. Before my first trip, the Hong Kong that I painted in my head was so different to reality. I was expecting that language barrier would be a major problem and that I would get lost most of the time. But it was easy to navigate around Hong Kong. Not only are there English translations everywhere, the transportation system didn’t require a long learning curve.
- Biggest disappointment. This isn’t Hong Kong’s fault, but I still hasn’t dived into Hong Kong’s street food scene. I’ve tried some animal entrails in Mong Kok, but that’s about it. It’s something that I always tell myself that I would do next time but it just won’t happen yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hong Kong safe?
Yes, Hong Kong is very safe even at night, even if you’re alone. At least, the areas that tourists frequent are. Always use common sense when exploring, follow the rules, and don’t leave your things unattended.
However, there are things you need to watch out for if you plan on shopping in Hong Kong. There are a number of scams in Hong Kong targeting foreign shoppers. Some shops sell fake products. Some electronics stores have brand new, genuine gadgets on display, but after paying, they’ll hand you units that are either used or of an older model. If you’re interested to purchase gadgets, choose a reputable shop and not some random store along Nathan Road.
What is tipping policy in Hong Kong?
In restaurants, tipping is not obligatory. A 10% service charge is usually added to the bill, so you don’t really have to leave a tip. However, if you really enjoyed the service, you can leave a few notes — HKD 10 to 20 per person — to make sure the waiter gets it.
In hotels, tipping is expected. Tip the bellhop or maid HKD 10 to 20 for their service.
Taxi drivers don’t expect to be tipped. But you can always round up the bill to show appreciation.
Where to exchange money in Hong Kong?
There are a lot of money changers in Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui and Central areas. Out of all of them, Berlin Company Exchange and Ngau Kee Money Changer have the best reputation in Central. In Tsim Sha Tsui, Pacific Exchange at Chungking Mansions is known for having the best rates, too.
I’ve never tried any of them though. I usually just withdraw from ATM.
What is the power socket used in Hong Kong?
220V, 50Hz. Types G and D are used.
Do I need a 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.
How to avoid being offloaded from my Hong Kong flight?
Hong Kong is a hotspot for Filipino illegal workers. Hence, both the Philippine and Hong Kong Immigration bureaus can be stricter to Pinoys traveling to Hong Kong. It’s also one of their measures to avoid human trafficking.
If you’re worried about getting offloaded or if it’s your first time to travel abroad, read this: HOW TO AVOID GETTING OFFLOADED.
Is it possible to enter Macau and exit Hong Kong?
YES, if what you mean is your outgoing flight is to Macau and your return or onward flight is from Hong Kong, and you’re crossing the border legally.
Technically speaking, what you will be doing is not “enter Macau-exit Hong Kong”. You will actually enter Macau then exit Macau, cross the border, then enter Hong Kong then exit Hong Kong, because you’ll be clearing Immigration checks on both sides.
Is it possible to enter Hong Kong and exit Macau?
YES, if what you mean is your outgoing flight is to Hong Kong and your return/onward flight is from Macau, and you’re crossing the border legally.
Technically speaking, what you will be doing is not “enter Hong Kong-exit Macau”. You will actually be entering Macau then exiting Macau, crossing the border, then entering Hong Kong then exiting Hong Kong, because you’ll be clearing Immigration checks on both sides.
2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 3️⃣ • 1️⃣8️⃣ (updated)
2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 6️⃣ • 7️⃣ (first up)
More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️
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where did you get your disneyland ticket? its only 589hkd. please let me know i will be there end of july. it’s my first out of the country trip too. im on a tight budget. can you share also where to get cheaper ocean park ticket?
Hi Joan! Here: https://affiliate.klook.com/jump/activity/39-hong-kong-disneyland-resort-hong-kong/?adid=5248&af_wid=825
Hong Kong is a great place to visit. Thanks for useful information. Well written about places and budget information.
Informative and comprehensive! Thank you for all the info!
thank you for this itinerary. now i have an idea on the budget. i’ll definitely use this as a guide.
No prob!
Very informative and detailed. Thank you so much. I’ll be traveling to hkg on October 10-14, is 30k enough to sustain my stay? Where can I buy cheap Disneyland ticket? Many thanks
Hi.
We have booked a package for 4d/3n stay next month. We arrive late on a Sunday, 8pm. There’s a compulsary city/disney (halfday) tour on Mon. We’re free for the next two days. I plan to stay in HK Disneyland overnight Mon-Tues. Then reserve Tue night and the whole of Wed for some activities. What do you think of our plan? What would you suggest we do Tues night and Wed?
Thanks!
P.S. I have a 5yr old boy with me so the Disney stay is a non-negotiable.
Where did you stay in HK? Can you recommend any places?
What food did you have during your stay? It seems you only spent around 1k in HK. :)
Hi,
Just want to ask, if I purchase an Airport Express Ride + Unlimited MTR Rides for 3 days would I be able to use it going to Ngong Ping via Bus?
Thanks
Hi, May I ask what is the ideal time to visit Macau and Hongkong? And also, what season did you went there with this itinerary?
Hi Athena, I’ve done the HK-Macau itinerary in October, November, and February. (Iba-iba kasi kasama ko each time so paulit-ulit.) Our October visit was a bit rainy (more like gentle showers, though). November is great but hotels in Macau tend to shoot up because of Macau Grand Prix. If day tour lang naman sa Macau, pwede na rin. Very comfortable temperatures.
I personally prefer January/February because it’s generally dry, but that’s also because I love the cold. :)
Hi! May I ask kung saang hotel kayo nagstay? Yung exact name talaga nang hotel sa Tsim Sha Tsui. I really hope that you can reply to this message :) Thank you
Guest house lang. Sa TAI SAN GUEST HOUSE. :)
More info:
https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2012/11/where-to-stay-in-hong-kong-cheap-hostels-and-guesthouses/
Hi! Already have airfare tix for June, 6days, 5nights. Our tour group consists of 3 adults, 1 child and 1 infant. Since we have small kiddos, we wanted convenience as much as possible. Can you recommend a travel agency whom we may approach to handle our hotel and trips? Probably with the cheapest price? I know there are a lot of agencies out there but most of them charged exorbitant rates. Appreciate any help pls! Thank you very much!
thanks a lot for all detailed information, it would be of great help in planning a good trip to HONGKONG. I specially like your comment “SPEND WHEN YOU CAN. ENJOY YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY “. I am going to do exactly that. keep posting more helpful information.
Enjoy Hong Kong!
Hi, ask ko lang where did you redeem your peak tram tickets? is it easier to redeem sa traveleasy (Shop 316, 3/F, World Wide Centre, 19 Des Voeux Road Central, Central) kasi mas malapit sya sa peak tram itself?
or mas convenient sya sa holiday world tours (Room 1021, 10/F, Peninsula Centre, 67 Mody Road, Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon)? kaso idk how to go this one kapag from chunking mansion (where I’ll be staying in one of the hostels).
I hope you see this huhu first time traveler here. thank you and more power :-)
Dammit, i already purchase ticket to hong kong on august .. i should hv read this article first.. i want to cry..
Hi Ying. That’s okay. August is one of the wettest months but it doesn’t mean that it’s going to rain every single day. You can still have a good time if luck is on your side.
hi, we are travelling as family(4) with one 9yo and elderly is it necessary to book 4 octupos card for us”?
Hi Nina, yep, mas madali if may kanya-kanya kayo. :) May Octopus na pambata and meron ding pang-elderly, discounted un pareho.
Hi! meron po bang motels malapit sa tsim sha tsui? Less than P1000/ night for two person? Thank you so much!
Hi meron po bang motels near tsim sha tsui?? Less than ₱2000 2person npo then 3 night stay na ? Okay na po kahit saan bsta pwede matulugan.
Hi,
We’re travelling to HK the first week of October this year, and our flight comes arrives in HK around 11:30 PM. That means we don’t have the option to use their MTR. I want to know if you could inform me about the possible prices for some car rentals that’s cheap or if they have UBER in HK.
Thanks for your help!
Hi Marie, I haven’t tried taking Uber or car rental in HK. But that might be something we can look into next time we’re there.
hi.
salamat sa iyong informative blog. plano po namin jan. 2019 pumunta,2 adults and a 6 yr old child.ano po ba magandang kunin n card para sa pag commute? san po mas makamura? ang pupuntahan namin is airport -disney-tsim sha tsui,2nd day tsim sha tsui to china ferry-macau and back,day 3 tsim sha tsui to airport. ano po ok n sakyan?san po makatipid?salamat.
Hi Michelle, kahit Octopus card lang, okay na since di ganun kadami yung pupuntahan nyo. :)
Pwede b yung sa ferry? Mas makasave pa if advance kukuha sa klook?pati dusneey tiiicket?
Yep, slightly mas mura sa Klook.
I just love your travel guides! It’s great how much effort you put in to give us everything we need on a platter! That too in a structured way!
Thanks, Sinjana!
Hi Yoshke,
We are planning to cover your Sample Itinerary 2, however we also like to cover for Ocean Park. What day do you suggest it? Do we need to have 1 whole day for the theme park and also where is it near? (Kowloon side, Hong Kong side…)
Plus the octopus card, if we buy it on Klook, can we top up the value. and where can we do so?
Thanks so much!!!
Hi Carla,
There are “Add Value” machines at many MTR Stations.
Regarding Ocean Park, we’re not big fans, haha, but to answer your question, if you arrive in Hong Kong early, do it on your first day. It’s on Hong Kong Island, near Victoria Peak, so you can visit these sites on the same day.
Then on your Disneyland Day, since there’s no more fireworks display, you can just visit the Avenue of Stars after Disneyland. Just arrive at Disneyland early to maximize your stay and leave before everyone else does.
Hi Yoshke! Apart from DSWD Travel Clearance, did you present any docs in HK immigration/airport upon arrival/departure? I will bring my niece with me.
On the HK side, other than the usual (passport, return ticket, etc), nothing else.
Hi, What is the easiest way to travel from Tsim Sha Tsui hotel to Hong Kong International Airport?
I am planning my itinerary for the last day of our trip and I find it confusing. The way going to the hotel is different on way back. I searched google and suggesting to use A22 bus. I need to travel by bus because of our big luggage and need less walking for my 60 year old mother and 7 year old kid.
Thank you in advance ^_^
Hi Megan, which part of Tsim Sha Tsui?
I usually take A21 bus, the same bus that I take from the airport, just the other way around.
If you’re staying on the same side of the main road as Chungking Mansions, you just need to cross the street and wait for a bus on the other side.
Hi, we’ll go to HKG this November. We might pattern our tour with your 4D3N w/ Macau, just want to confirm the ferry from Taipa is really until night? We will not have a hard time going back to Tsim Tsa Tsui if ever?
Also, about leaving our luggages at City Gate..it doesn’t matter what size the luggage is and they are really open at 7 AM?
Thank you in advance.
Hi Clarize, I rechecked yung website ng ferries and it looks like hanggang 7:45pm na lang yung diretsong Tsim Sha Tsui from Taipa. May nakalagay na night sailings sa legend pero walang sked. Naconfuse na rin ako.
Anyway, mukhang most sailings sa gabi ay papuntang Hong Kong (Sheung Wan) so we updated na rin the sample itinerary to reflect that.
HI,
Im going to visit HK this oct 27-Nov2. Will be arriving around 8pm. We can still buy the octopus card at the Airport? Until What time? Because our acomodation is at TST.
Hi Millette, ang alam ko bukas pa rin naman yun pero di ko sure. :(
Hello!! May i ask if octopus card can be used by 1 person only???
ang alam ko, only 1 person per card.
Sir ung mga prices na namention nyo po ba pareho din hanggang ngayon? :-) Lahat po ng mga bayarin or ung expenses po :)
Yung MTR fares, yep. Yung tours and entrance fees, double check mo na lang sa Klook links, kasi minsan may discounts or baka nagtaas na. :)
Hi ,
just want to ask po if where ka makakabili ng adaptor for hongkong? Nasa province po kasi ako and cant find adaptor here, available po kaya sa hongkong airport? and
Hi Leslie, di ko alam if meron sa HK Airport. Pero check mo 7-Eleven sa HK Airport, baka meron.
Hello Sir,
With regard to this statement:
“Please note that the “3-day unlimited MTR rides” refers to MTR only. If your trip is longer than 3 days, you can still use your Airport Express rides even after the Unlimited MTR access has expired. For example, if your trip is 5 days and you purchase the HK$350 package, you can use the Airport Express Ride on Day 1, use unlimited MTR rides on Days 2-4, and then the remaining Airport Express ride on your way back to the airport on Day 5.”
Is it possible to use the unlimited MTR rides on non-consecutive days? I mean, if I use it say on Day 1 but not on Day 2, will I still be able to avail it on Day 4? Thanks a lot in advance!
HI Elle, as far as I know, the days have to be consecutive.
Thanks a lot!
Hello po,
Ask ko lang po if merong area sa Macau with luggage storage same sa Hongkong? Kasi we are planning to visit macau on our last day of tour. Bale Phil-HK and macau-phil flight. Thank you in advance..
April Dabao
Hi April,
Alam ko sa 2nd floor ng Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, may luggage storage hanggang midnight.
Another idea is i-store mo sya sa casino. For example, ang alam ko, The Venetian accepts luggage deposit for a fee, mga 10 MOP per piece. Iwan mo sa kanila tapos balikan mo na lang. Okay yan kasi usually may buses rin from ferry terminal papuntang casino, so sakay ka ng bus tapos iwan mo luggage sa kanila. :)
Hi! First-time kong mag ta travel out of the country and before on facebook, I saw some girls who were denied of entering HongKong. Some said on the comment that there were some documents they were not able to provide? What documents do we need to bring?
In general, if you’re visiting a friend or relative, it’s best to have an invitation letter and proof of relationship to that person. If you’re there as a tourist, you must have a return ticket and hotel booking, and itinerary for good measure.
More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2013/03/philippines-first-timer-international-flight-travel-guide-abroad/
Thank you Yoshke for sharing your tips on when is the best months to travel to Hongkong. It is so much helpful in planning future trips.
Thanks!
Hi,
Thanks for your very informative blog and tips on Hong Kong and Macau. Had visited Hong Kong and stayed 3 days but not toured Macau so plan to do it this time.
However, there’s supposed to be a Star Cruise (Virgo), I think that sails from Hongkong to Macau and since you’ve been onboard, was wondering if it’s worth it. Also I’m not able to find a site to book this cruise directly. Can you help please?
Hi! I’m not sure if Superstar Virgo has Hong Kong-Macau sailing. I tried searching online but can’t find it either. All I see is Manila-Hong Kong this season.
But assuming there is, Star Cruises is known for affordable rates. If you’re traveling with family, especially seniors, it’s worth it. It’s not the most topnotch ship there is today, but for its price, I’m willing to sail with them again. If you’ve tried newer ships before, it can underwhelm. But if it’s your first time, go for it.
Hello, Yoshke! We’ll be traveling to Hongkong this January. Is the budget for Itinerary #2 inclusive of expenses for accommodation? Thanks in advance for the response (tho we’ve already booked rooms for the said trip?).
Yep, kasama na. :)
I really appreciate that you took time to share this. Very helpful. Were from Canada and its our first time visit to Hong Kong this coming July 2019.
Thanks, Jim! Enjoy planning your HK trip!
You are amazing!!
This is sooooooooooo helpful.
Thanks a lot for all the time and effort put in this. You’re helping lots and lots of people out there xxx
Love to you!
Lunathayoga
You’re welcome!
I’m glad I found this page, very informative. I’m sure this will help us in our future trip this summer. Thank you very much. I’ll go over this to familiarize. More power and God bless.
Thanks, Luisa!
Hi Yoshke,
Question, Pupunta kasi kami ng family ko sa HK, wala work si mother ko dito sa pinas or source of income. posible paba na maharang sya sa immigration? since kasama naman ako at ako naman gagastos para sakanya, baka kasi may hingiin pa na docs. para sakanya at wala sya ma present only passport lang ang meron sya. thanks sa reply. sobrang appreciate ko.
Hi AL, usually, ang hihingin lang ay roundtrip ticket and hotel reservation since kasama ka naman nya. Pero syempre di mo rin masabi, depende kasi yan sa immigration officer na matatapat and paano kayo sumagot.
Hi Yoshke,
Thank you for the information here in your blog. It’s very informative and will help us save time and money for this trip.
We are travelling for the first time to Hong Kong on June with my kids , mom, sisters, nephews and nieces.
We would like to go to Disney, Ocean Part, Victoria Peak and Macau and other tourist spots is it doable if we are staying for 4days and 3 nights?
Will you be able to send me an itinerary from Day 1 to Day 4?
Our arrival on Day 1 is at 9:30 am and our departure from Hongkong Day 4 is 10pm.
I was thinking of the itinerary below is that feasible?
Day 1 – Victoria Peak Avenue of the stars
Day 2 – Macau
Day 3 – Disney
Day 4 – Ocean Park
Also if we will purchase IVenture will it be cheaper since it includes Ocean Park and Macau.
Your suggestions is highly appreciated.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Best regards,
Hi Annie,
Yes, your itinerary is feasible. Although it makes more sense to have Disneyland on the last day since it is closer to the airport.
Hi Yoshke,
It’s me again, got one concern about our luggage on the last day. kase check out is at 12noon,
Where can we leave our luggage in HK if our last tour will be Disneyland. And how much.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you and best regards.
There are lockers at Disneyland. More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/05/hong-kong-disneyland-ticket-lockers/#Are_there_lockers_in_Hong_Kong_Disneyland
Thank you for your response so generous of you. It helps us a lot in planning our HK trip.
If we will buy the IVenture card will it be cheaper since it includes Ocean Park and Macau Tower.
What’s the best places to go to in Macau?
Your response is highly appreciate.
Thank you and best regards,
iVenture only makes sense if you’re visiting multiple attractions a day.
All our Macau tips are here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/04/macau-hotel-tour-itinerary/
Ideally how much should be the load of my Octopus card for a 3day HK tour? Were planning to go to Disneyland, Victoria Peak and Visit Ngong Ping and travel to macau on the 4th day. We will be staying in TST. Or will you recommend Hong Kong Airport Express & 72-hour Unlimited MTR Travel Pass which is available in Klook?
Hi Enih, what I always do is get the standard card with initial HKD100 load. Then I just top up or buy single journey tickets when it runs out.
Hi, I and my friend will be traveling to HK in August. It will be our first time to travel abroad. Part of our Itinerary is to visit my sister. Is it okay if I’ll not divulge to IOs that I have a sister working there? They might ask for additional docs kasi. She will not be sponsoring our trip though. We have our Hotel Booking, Round Trip Ticket, and Tour Vouchers…Thank youuu..
If they don’t ask, don’t volunteer the info.
Thank You :)
Just love reading your blog, you are really a pro, Anyway I prefer itinerary 2 because I really want to see Macau. May I know the estimated expenses if that includes an accommodation or only the travel fee expense in Hong Kong/ Macau tour?
The sample itineraries already include a HKD300 budget for accommodations.
Hi Yoshke Dimen, good day to you. We will will stay at TST area during our 5 days stay in Hongkong this coming June. But we will visit Macau 1 day tour on our own. My reference is your sample itinerary but I can see that Macau tower is not included in your list. Is it possible that we can include this one, how we can reach there? Is it far from other attractions mentioned.
Thanks and more power.
Hi Luisa, it’s a little bit detached from everything else. But you can still visit. Andito ung info how to get there: https://www.macautower.com.mo/plan-your-visit/how-to-get-here/
Thank you.
Hi, I’m basing my iti on yours. May I ask what are the exact stations of MTR if I’m coming from Tung Chung going to the airport? Including interchange? Is there a bus from Tung Chung to Airport? Thanks :)
The station names are: Tung Chung Station and Airport Station.
There is a transfer at Tsing Yi. Please download the MTR Mobile App for the instructions and complete route.
hello Yoshke! Can you help/suggest us what we gonna do, its is about our luggage on the last day kase check out is at 12noon and our flight will be 10pm and we’re planning to go to macau on that day, but were thinking about the luggages. Thanks for response.
Hi Josheiy, yung exit nyo ay Macau airport or HK airport?
Hi! I’m a frequent traveler but never had been questioned until recently when i flew to Bali which traumatized me because I was traveling alone and thought they weren’t gonna let me leave. I had my company ID, proof of stay, return ticket and the IO still went through my phone in front of me and doubted my work. I never experienced this and in the past year I flew to HK, SG, Japan, Taiwan and Korea already and always had a smooth flow. She eventually let me pass after I showed proof that I work for the big company by showing email proof and visual proof on my phone, but I dont think it had to go to that point.
Anyway, Im going back to HK in a few months and that recent traumatizing experience scared me. The thing is, I’m traveling with a girl friend and our flights weren’t booked by us. It was a free flight by our guy friend because he has a lot of miles and he wanted to celebrate his birthday in HK with us. (I met him in HK while he was traveling back in 2018 and he’s from america , he also traveled in PH. The accommodation will be by him for we’ll all stay in a huge airbnb – it’s purely a platonic relationship). I believe the IO has issues with young adults traveling and the possibility of sex trafficking but I’ve been a traveler for as long as i can remember with active visas in both US and AUS.
Will they question the source of payment for these bookings? Or as long as the bookings exist and i’m traveling w my friend that’s a girl, will it be less of a problem? I just dont want that experience to happen again. I really hated that IO and my main point is to have fun and enjoy the HK night life again.
Hi KC, so sorry to hear about what happened to you. The IO who questioned you is the IO in PH or IO in Bali?
Anyway, to answer your question if the IO will question the source of payment for your bookings…
—– That’s hard to predict because things like that happen quite randomly. Your Airbnb booking is under your other friend’s name, right? If the IO is in the mood to ask a lot of questions, that could be a problem because it’s under a foreigner’s name. But there is a big chance they won’t ask questions because you’re a frequent traveler.
Is your girlfriend a frequent traveler too?
What is the nationality of the friend who paid for your flight/accommodations?
Hi! I just booked a one way tix from Ceb to HK for this Dec. I’m planning to exit in Macau, do you know the average price for MFM to Cebu flight? Is MOP 1K too pricey? I really have no idea po. Thank you.
Hi Venice, I’m not that familiar with the usual prices for international flights from Cebu. :(
But you may use comparison websites like SkyScanner or Traveloka to somehow get an idea. :D
Hi Yoshke,
Would you have any recommendations for affordable child friendly hotel/hostel? Thanks!
Hi,
Question lang. Iba iba ba talaga ang check in time sa hotelin HK? Possible kaya to ask the hotel that we will do an early check in?
Hi Vida, yep, kanya-kanyang rules ang mga hotel. Yung early check-in, usually depende yan kung may available room na (e.g. may nagcheck out nang maaga or may vacant na room talaga). If di pwede mag check in, usually pumapayag naman ang mga hotels na iwan ung bags sa kanila muna while mag-explore kayo sa labas.
Hi,
Do you have any idea if it is safe to visit Hong Kong this July? like the early week of July as we’ve seen reports about protests happening there?
very informative
Thanks!
Hi Yoshke,
I’ll be travelling this October with my 10 year old daughter and would like to ask your opinion/recommendation regarding our itinerary. Our ETA is 8:45 am and ETD is 8:10 pm
Day 1
Ngong Ping
Hotel Check In (still undecided between Cosmo, Dorsett Tsuen Wan, and Metropark Kowloon)
Victoria Peak and Madamme Tussaud
Avenue of the Stars and Symphony of Lights
Day 2
Ocean Park
Aqualuna cruise
Day 3
Disneyland
Day 4
Macau
Day 5
Sky100
last minute shopping
Do you this is feasible or too siksik yung Day 1? Should I move Ngong Ping to Day 5? Logic begind wanting to have a lax day 5 is that for sure pagod si bagets sa previous days, so wanted to let her rest and sleep in sa last day.
Thanks!
Hi Isabel, I think your itinerary is great and nicely paced. :)
Hi Yoshke,
Thanks so much for the quick reply!
Have another question, can I buy Octopus card sa airport? I’ve checked Klool kasi and I don’t think they have one for kids. Also, given our itinerary, do you think we should avail the Hong Kong Pass or Iventure card or better to just buy tickets individually?
Thanks so much!
Hi Isabel, yes you can buy an Octopus Card at the airport too.
Great! Thanks so much! You’re blog is super helpful talaga and thanks so much for taking the time to answer our questions!
No prob! Enjoy your trip!
Hi, is it possible for me to stay in hongkong for 5 days? Im planning to stay for 2days in hotel then cheap hostel for three days so I can save a lil and use it for food and shopping instead. Will it be question by IO in NAIA? Thank you. looking forward for your reply. :)
Hi Yaz, that’s okay. Staying at multiple lodging places is perfectly normal. :)
Thank you, Yosh for your reply. It’s very kind and generous of you :). That would be my first time travelling abroad as my ultimate goal and gift for myself. So, I’m kinda skeptic and worry at the same time because I read a lot somewhere and in your blog as well about OFFLOAD thing issue. I never had thought about such thing until I read it. So, I’ll make sure to bring with me my company ID, VL certificate and COE as well. Thank you so much for all the info and tips. :)
Pero ako, when I’m staying at multiple hotels, I just write yung first hotel kung saan ako mag-stay. Di rin kasi kasya sa form.
Good luck and have a great first international trip! :)
Yow mate
Me and my family will be travelling to HK this end of november..i just have 1 question regarding the MTR or rather can you give me an advice so i could get a big value of my money
Will be there on nov 28 to dec 2 so basically 4 nights 5 days
What type of transport ticket would be the best for us?? I got a 15 year old and 5 year old
Please help
Hi Jeffrey, naku, mahirap po sagutin yung question nyo kasi depende po yan kasi sa specific itinerary nyo and saan kayo nagse-stay.
Pero if hindi naman ganun ka-hectic yung itinerary, Octopus ay better choice kasi hindi naman yun pass. Stored value ticket lang sya so okay sya if konti lang ung sakay.
If feel nyo maraming kayong MTR rides na gagawin, get the Airport Express Travel Pass but make sure you do all your MTR-heavy visits within 3 days.
Good job. Thanks for sharing.
Have a wonderful day.
Hi Yoshke,
My family plans to travel from Cebu to Hongkong, Macau to Cebu our exit point, will be planning to stay in Hongkong for 3 days and 2 days in Macau this coming May 2020. I just have doubts if we could exit in Macau?
Hi Manuel, yes, you can. That’s perfectly normal. Technically, you’re entering HK, exiting HK, then entering Macau, exiting Macau. That’s totally fine. Just make sure you have a copy of your exit ticket and hotel booking when you enter Macau. :)
Thanks for the info..and quick response Yoshke.
Hi Yoshke,
You have elaborated about hong kong very well!! I got good information from your post.
I will certainly inform you if nay travel plan happens for hong kong!
Keep sharing good posts.
Such a great, helpful and excellent travel guide article for hong kong. I really appreciate your hard work sir…
Thanks for sharing…
love form India
Hi! Sample reply! Test
Ask ko lang po if merong area sa Macau with luggage storage same sa Hongkong? Kasi we are planning to visit macau on our last day of tour. Bale Phil-HK and macau-phil flight. Thank you in advance..
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE OCTUPUS CARD & AIRPORTEXPRESS TRAVEL PASS? WHICH AMONG THE TWO IS BETTER BUDGET WISE?
Hi The Poor Traveler,
Hoping na mag release kayo ng podcast about your HK tripssss! Yung focused lang talaga sa HK.
Hi Aldrin! Sa September pa yung HK trip namin, so mga October kami release ng new batch of updated Hong Kong content. :D