Places To Visit In Hong Kong : 31 Attractions & Tourist Spots You Must Go

Although just 1,114 square kilometres (four times smaller than Tokyo and nine times smaller than Los Angeles), Hong Kong packs a lot of punch within the 250+ islands that make up the territory. From fishing villages that appear as if they’ve been frozen in time to night markets full of streets upon streets of trinkets, and grand museums to one of the most awesome giant Buddha statues in the world, it’s impossible to fully grasp the mingling of cultures and history that has made the city of Hong Kong what it is today in just one trip. However, we’ve put together a list of some of the essential Hong Kong attractions you must see to give you the best idea of just what this city is all about.

Antique Street & Cat Street — Sheung Wan

The small lanes of Antique Street and Cat Street in Sheung Wan are one of the best places to visit for antique treasure hunters. Wander through rows of stalls selling everything from Maoist memorabilia and vintage teacups to exquisite jade. It’s the perfect spot to snag unique souvenirs and soak in the local ambiance. The neighbourhood of Sheung Wan also houses many boutique shops, cafés, and bars, making it a must-visit to explore a piece of Hong Kong’s east-meets-west, old-meets-new culture.

Best For: Antique and souvenirs shopping
Where: Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan
How to get there: From Sheung Wan MTR Station, walk along Hillier Street and then take the steps up, or continue further to ascend Ladder Street; either route will lead you there. Look for signposts indicating Cat Street when you reach the street
Contact: Website

Avenue of Stars — Tsim Sha Tsui

Hong Kong’s Avenue of Stars, reminiscent of Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, celebrates film legends like Bruce Lee and Anita Mui, featuring statues and handprints like director John Woo’s. Located on Tsim Sha Tsui harbourfront, it’s an ideal spot to view the city skyline, drone shows and firework displays. Don’t miss the nightly 8 pm Symphony of Light show. Nearby, the Hong Kong Museum of Art and other cultural tourist spots offer free entry on Wednesdays.

Best For: Victoria Harbour view
Where: Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui
How to get there: From Tsim Sha Tsui or Tsim Sha Tsui East MTR Station, exit from the K11 MUSEA exit then walk towards the harbourfront. Or take the ferry from Central (pier 7) or Wan Chai to the Star Ferry Pier and start walking along the harbourfront
Contact: Website

Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) — Lantau Island

Standing 112 ft tall on Lantau Island, the Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha, is the world’s largest outdoor seated bronze Buddha. Reach this tourist attraction via a scenic 25-minute gondola ride on Ngong Ping 360, followed by a stroll through Ngong Ping Village. After climbing 268 steps, enjoy views of surrounding nature and explore halls with Gautama Buddha relics. Visitors are also welcome to try vegetarian food at the nearby Po Lin Monastery.

Best For: Historic Buddha statue and serene ambience
Where: Ngong Ping Road, Lantau Island
How to get there: From Tung Chung MTR Station, take exit B and board the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to Ngong Ping Village. Then, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Big Buddha.
Contact: Website

Central Market — Central

Originally one of the city’s first wet markets, Central Market is now a revitalized Grade III historic building offering diverse dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. We love this spot for its support of local brands, making it a great place for finding authentic, locally crafted souvenirs. From retro toys to traditional Hong Kong-style snacks, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Best For: Shopping for local souvenirs
Where: 93 Queen’s Road Central and 80 Des Voeux Road Central, Central
How to get there: Walk 5 minutes from Central Station Exit C
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Central to Mid-Levels Escalator — Central

Did you know that Hong Kong is home to the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system? Opened in 1993, this 800-meter marvel connects Central’s CBD to the residential area at Mid-Levels, climbing over 135 meters in elevation. Featured in films like Chungking Express, this escalator is a convenient and sweat-free way to explore the streets of Central and Soho.

Best For: Travel around Central and Soho
Where: From Queen’s Road Central to Conduit Road, Central
How to get there: 5 minutes walk from Central Station Exit D2

Chi Lin Nunnery & Nan Lian Garden — Diamond Hill

Escape to the serene Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden in Hong Kong. This historic Buddhist sanctuary boasts remarkable Tang dynasty wooden architecture, built entirely without nails. Adjacent to it, Nan Lian Garden is a picturesque retreat, complete with a red bridge and the Pavilion of Absolute Perfection. This peaceful tourist place offers a refreshing contrast to the busy city life around it.

Best For: Buddist culture & Chinese traditional architecture
Where: 5 Chi Lin Drive, Sheung Yuen Leng, Diamond Hill
How to get there: From Diamond Hill MTR station, take exit C2 and walk 5 minutes to Chi Lin Nunnery
Contact: Website

Cup Noodles Museum — Tsim Sha Tsui

Growing up in Asia, cup noodles are a staple as a quick meal or a late-night snack. But have you ever tried creating your own version? The Cup Noodles Museum in Tsim Sha Tsui offers more than just a glimpse into the innovative journey of Momofuku Ando, the genius behind instant ramen; and at My CUPNOODLES Factory, you can craft your own Cup Noodles to take home! Choose from four soup bases and twelve toppings, resulting in over 5,460 possible flavor combinations.

Best For: Cup noodle fans!
Where: Shop 26-35, 2/F, China Hong Kong City, 33 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
How to get there: Walk 10 minutes from Austin Station Exit E or Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit A1
Contact: Website

Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir — Sham Shui Po

The Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir is a historical landmark rediscovered during renovations in 2020. Recognized as a Grade I historical monument, this first circular underground reservoir in Shek Kip Mei now serves as a popular tourist spot. The Water Supplies Department offers free guided tours to educate the public about the reservoir’s history and architecture, and to promote heritage conservation. Advance booking is required to visit this unique site. Read our Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir guide to learn more.

Best For: Historic walk
Where: Woh Chai Hill, Sham Shui Po
How to get there: 5 minutes walk from Central Station Exit D2. From Queen’s Road Central to Conduit Road, Central
Contact: Website  

Golden Bauhinia Square — Wan Chai

Golden Bauhinia Square is home to the Forever Blooming Bauhinia Sculpture, which commemorates the 1997 Handover and was gifted by the Chinese government. Adjacent to the HKCEC, this tourist attraction is best for sightseeing, hosting daily flag-raising ceremonies at 8 am, performed to the national anthem by the Hong Kong Police. Following the ceremony, enjoy a stroll along the Expo Promenade for stunning views of Victoria Harbour.

Best For: Historic monument and flag-raising ceremony
Where: 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai
How to get there: From Exhibition Centre MTR station, take exit B and walk 5 minutes to Golden Bauhinia Sqaure
Contact: Website

Happy Valley Racecourse — Happy Valley

Wondering where to go in Hong Kong in the middle of the week? Happy Valley Racecourse isn’t just about horse racing; it’s an iconic mid-week hotspot! On Wednesdays, join the crowd for live races, music, and a lively beer garden atmosphere. Perfect for beginners and racing pros alike, these nights offer a unique blend of excitement and entertainment.

Best For: Mid-week night out
Where: Wong Nai Chung Road, Happy Valley
How to get there: The non-member entry to the racecourse is via Wong Nai Chung Road. From the Causeway Bay MTR Station, exit from Time Square then walk 5-10 minutes to the entrance. Alternatively, take the Happy Valley tram to the last stop and walk across the road to the track
Contact: Website

Hong Kong Disneyland — Lantau Island

The Happiest Place on Earth can also be found in Hong Kong! This magical tourist attraction, complete with seven themed lands and the exclusive World of Frozen, offers endless fun for all. Stay for the dazzling ‘Momentous’ fireworks show and the charming shows. Whether it’s a family trip or a solo adventure, Disneyland is worth a full day trip. Read our full Disneyland guide before you visit!

Best For: Disney fans, family day-out
Where: Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantua Island
How to get there: Take the Disneyland Resort line from Sunny Bay Station to reach the theme park
Contact: Website

Hong Kong Park — Central

In the heart of the city lies Hong Kong Park, a stunning eight-hectare oasis located beside Cotton Tree Drive. The park beautifully blends historic preservation with natural landscapes. Take a stroll along the picturesque artificial lake, and you’ll come across the Flagstaff House Museum of Teaware, where you can relax and enjoy a cup of fine Chinese tea. Alternatively, visit The Pond to indulge in afternoon tea while enjoying views of the pond and waterfall.

Best For: Take a break during city walk
Where: 19 Cotton Tree Drive, Central
How to get there: Walk 15 minutes from Admiralty Station Exit B or Central Station Exit J2
Contact: Website

Hong Kong Observation Wheel — Central

The Hong Kong version of the London Eye is located in front of Victoria Harbour. A 15-minute ride on this 60m Ferris Wheel is perfect for sightseeing and cityscape snaps, especial at night when the city lights up. Located at the Central Harbourfront, it’s a great tourist spot to catch events like Hong Kong’s largest music festival – Clockenflap. A must-visit for both views and vibes!

Best For: Victoria Harbour and city skyline view
Where: 33 Man Kwong Street, Central
How to get there: Take Star Ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central Pier then walk over. Or, from Hong Kong MTR Station, exit from IFC mall then walk 5-10 minutes to reach the wheel.
Contact: Website

Hong Kong Space Museum — Tsim Sha Tsui

If you’re strolling along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront promenade, you’ll easily spot the iconic egg-shaped dome of the Hong Kong Space Museum. Since its opening in 1980, the family-friendly museum features interactive exhibits across two main halls: the Hall of the Cosmos and the Hall of Space Exploration. Don’t miss the chance to catch a documentary in the Space Theatre – located beneath the dome – featuring an OMNIMAX projector for an immersive experience. The museum also offers stargazing events, educational programs, and 3D shows tailored for llittle space enthusiasts.

Best For: museum dedicated for space
Where: 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
How to get there: Walk 5 minutes from Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit E, or East Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit J3
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Ladies’ Market — Mong Kok

If you’re looking for a good bargain, then Tung Choi Street, also known as Ladies’ Market, is your go-to destination. Don’t be fooled by its name; the stalls here offer everything from luxury replicas to affordable tech. This 1 km pedestrian-only street is lined with stalls and complemented by stores, restaurants, and street food vendors behind them. Popular with both tourists and locals, the famous night market comes alive in the afternoon. Nearby attractions include Sneaker Street, Goldfish Street, and the Flower Market.

Best For: Street market
Where: Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok
How to get there: From Mong Kok MTR Station, take Exit E2 and walk for two minutes along Nathan Road towards Shan Tung Street to reach Tung Choi Street.

Lan Kwai Fong — Central

Hong Kong, a city that never sleeps, is energetic with late-night shops and restaurants, and lively streets even at 9pm. The heart of this buzz is Lan Kwai Fong, one of the city’s most famous places to go at night. On Fridays and weekends, it’s a hub of energy with young crowds filling pubs, bars, and nightclubs, often spilling onto the streets during major events like Halloween, Rugby Sevens, and New Year’s Eve. Find the best bars in Hong Kong here in Lan Kwai Fong, too.

Best For: Bar hoping and clubbing
Where: Lan Kwai Fong, Central
How to get there: From Central MTR station, take exit D2 and walk 3 minutes uphill to Lan Kwai Fong
Contact: Website

Legoland Discovery Centre Hong Kong — Tsim Sha Tsui

Legoland Discovery Centre Hong Kong is the largest indoor Lego playground in the city. Kids can enjoy 10 thrilling play zones, including Merlin’s Apprentice and LEGO 4D Studio. Head to Miniland, where Hong Kong landmarks are crafted as miniatures from 1.5 million LEGO bricks. Families and also enjoy rides, creative workshops with a Master Model Builder, and a well-stocked LEGO store

Best For: Kids-friendly activities
Where: Shop B131-133 B1, K11 MUSEA Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui
How to get there: Walk 5 minutes from East Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit J3 or 10 minutes from Tsim Sha Tsui Station
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

M+ — West Kowloon

M+ Museum is a must-visit museum for contemporary visual arts. Situated on the waterfront, the museum has a monolithic design. Inside, you can explore a variety of galleries and art exhibitions featuring architecture, design, and multimedia art, including the acclaimed M+ Sigg Collection. M+ has featured works by celebrated artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Guo Pei, and I.M. Pei.

Best For: World-class museum for visual arts
Where: 38 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District
How to get there: Take Bus W296D, H2, H2K, or Minibus 26, 74, 74S, 77M to Museum Drive
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Man Mo Temple — Sheung Wan

In the eclectic neighborhood of Sheung Wan, you can find the city’s oldest temple, Man Mo Temple. Established in 1847, this historical sanctuary honors the gods of literature and martial arts. Wander through its incense-filled, lavish halls and experience tranquility in this Grade I Historic Building. Before or after your visit to this popular tourist attraction, explore the charming neighborhood surrounded by antique stores.

Best For: Spiritual heritage
Where: 124-130 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan
How to get there: From Sheung Wan MTR station, take exit A1 and walk your way up to Hollywood Road. Alternatively, take the Mid-Level Escalator from Central to Hollywood Road then walk over

Ocean Park — Aberdeen

Ocean Park, Hong Kong’s cherished amusement park, offers thrill rides, oceanariums, and Water World, the city’s largest water park in Hong Kong. Spread across a mountainside, it features unique attractions like Old Hong Kong Street, Amazing Asian Animals with giant pandas, and Polar Adventure with penguins. The park is also a famous for its October Halloween event, Asia’s biggest, with haunted houses and themed rides.

Best For: Family day out
Where: 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen
How to get there: From Ocean Park MTR station, take exit B and walk one minute to Ocean Park.
Contact: Website

PMQ — Central

Take a deep dive into the city’s creative scene at PMQ, once known as the Police Married Quarters. Now home to over 100 local young “create-preneurs,” it invites you to support them by shopping for orginal items, meeting the designers, and learning the stories behind their work. It’s also a foodie hotspot, offering everything from local delicacies to contemporary cuisines. Check their social media and website before visiting; you might catch international arts and culture events, pop-ups, or festivals!

Best For: Repurposed cultural hub at former police buildings
Where: 35 Aberdeen Street, Central
How to get there: 15 mins walk from Sheung Wan Station Exit E2 or Central Station Exit C
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck — West Kowloon

For a unique bird’s-eye perspective of the famous skyline, head to the Sky100 Observation Deck. Located on the 100th floor of the ICC, the city’s tallest building, this observation deck is among the best places to visit for a 360-degree view of Hong Kong, especially during sunset hours. Ascend in the city’s fastest elevator, explore local history with interactive exhibits, and enjoy a coffee break at Café 100, operated by The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong.

Best For: 360-degree unobscured view of Hong Kong
Where: 100/F, ICC, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon
How to get there: From Kowloon MTR station, exit from Elements mall and walk 5 minutes to ICC
Contact: Website

Star Ferry — Tsim Sha Tsui & Central

Hop on the iconic symbol of Hong Kong – the Star Ferry. In just 5 minutes, this affordable ride travels from one shore to the other between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, offering front-row seats to the city’s skyline. Running all day, every day, it provides a leisurely way to do sightseeing from a new angle while enjoying the breeze.

Best For: A leisure ride on the iconic ferry across the Victoria Harbour
Where: Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier and Central Pier No. 7
How to get there: The ferry service runs from Tsim Sha Tsui Pier to/from Central Pier every 5 minutes during operation hours
Contact: Website

Symphony of Lights — Tsim Sha Tsui

Catch the Symphony of Lights, a dazzling 10-minute show every night at 8 pm along Hong Kong’s harbor. Featuring 43 buildings in a choreographed dance of lights and music, it offers a visual feast best enjoyed from the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. This world-record show, blending modern technology with traditional Chinese instruments, is a perfect sightseeing activity that symbolizes Hong Kong’s ‘East meets West’ ethos.

Best For: Large-scale evening light show along Victoria Harbour
Where: For the best view, head to Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront
How to get there: Take the ferry to Tsim Sha Tsui Pier and walk over to the promenade, or take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui East station and walk over
Contact: Website

Tai O Fishing Village — Lantau Island

Often dubbed ‘Hong Kong Venice’, Tai O is a historic fishing village on the outlying islands of Hong Kong, unique for its stilt houses, or pang uk, not seen elsewhere in the city. Descended from early boat-dwelling communities, residents here live in metal and wood homes built on stilts over water. Famous for its salted fish and boat tours to see pink dolphins, Tai O is a captivating tourist attraction.

Best For: Relaxing in a traditional village
Where: South of Lantau Island
How to get there: From Tung Chung MTR station Exit A and take bus 11 to Tung Chung Town Centre. Or take the ferry from Central to Mui Wo (pier 6) and then catch bus 1 to the village.

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery — Sha Tin

Fun fact: The Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery was the inspiration for the design of the HK$100 banknote issued by HSBC between 1985 and 2002. Perhaps a lesser-known tourist spot in Hong Kong, the monastery is a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. To reach the main complex, you’ll need to climb 431 steps lined with golden Buddha statues. At the top, you’ll be greeted by 10,000 more statues.

Best For: Buddhas Monastery with 10,000 Buddha statues
Where: 220 Pai Tau Village, Sha Tin
How to get there: Walk 10 minutes from Sha Tin Station Exit B
Contact: Website

Temple Street — Yau Ma Tei

If you crave the vibrant energy of a night market, head to Temple Street in Yau Ma Tei. The historic street market, revamped and reopened in December 2023, offers delicious street food classics like three stuffed treasures and mock shark’s fin soup. Explore stalls selling everything from trendy electronics to fortune-telling services. Open daily from 2 pm to 11 pm, the tourist spot usually comes alive after 8 pm.

Best For: Night market
Where: Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei
How to get there: From Jordan MTR station, take exit A and walk 1 minute to the entrance of Temple Street Night Market
Contact: Website

The Peak — Central

Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, offers stunning city views from 1,811 ft above. Historically a retreat for wealthy expats, this famous tourist place now features Peak Tower and Peak Galleria with shops, restaurants, and a Madame Tussauds museum. While the Peak Tower observation deck charges HK$75, lower decks offer similar breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and the outlying islands for free!

Best For: City and Victoria Harbour view
Where: The Peak, Central
How to get there: Take the equally iconic Peak Tram from Admiralty. Alternatively, there are multiple bus and minibuses to the Peak Galleria. You can also hike your way up from Central
Contact: Website

Tsz Shan Monastery — Tai Po

Visit Tsz Shan Monastery for a serene escape. Home to the 76-metre tall Guan Yin statue and nestled away from buzzing city life, this monastery offers a tranquil atmosphere. Its grand courtyards and contemplative spaces blend white marble and African wood amidst natural beauty. One of the essential places to visit for appreciating Buddhist culture, visits are by appointment only, available through their website.

Best For: Buddhist culture and the Guan Yin statue
Where: 88 Universal Gate Road, Tai Po
How to get there: From Tai Po Market MTR station, take minibus 20B, 20C, 20T, NR532, or bus 75K or 275R to San Tau Kok. Then walk 10 minutes to the monastery.
Contact: Website

West Kowloon Cultural District — West Kowloon

If you’re interested in cultural activities and want to know where to go in Hong Kong, the answer is the West Kowloon Cultural District. This tourist spot features the M+ Museum, Hong Kong Palace Museum, and Art Park. When the weather is nice, head to the harbourfront green open space where families can enjoy picnics.

Best For: Museums and large green space for picnics
Where: West Kowloon Cultural District, West Kowloon
How to get there: From Kowloon MTR station, take exit B and walk about ten minutes to West Kowloon Cultural District
Contact: Website

Wong Tai Sin Temple — Wong Tai Sin

Another famous temple in Hong Kong is Wong Tai Sin Temple. This Taoist shrine is dedicated to the god Wong Tai Sin, and it’s particularly crowded during Chinese New Year’s Eve as visitors flock here to burn incense and wish for luck. Here, you can try practicing the prayer-answering kau chim tradition: pose questions in your heart while gently shaking a box full of bamboo sticks until one falls out. Each stick corresponds to a number, which an interpreter uses to reveal whether your wish may come true.

Best For: Try the Taoist kau chim tradition
Where: 2 Chuk Yuen Village, Wong Tai Sin
How to get there: Walk 5 minutes from Wong Tai Sin MTR Station Exit B2
Contact: Website

Looking for more things to do in the city, have a look at the following guides:

• The best things to do in Hong Kong
• The best free things to do in Hong Kong
• The best things to do at night in Hong Kong
• The best events for all in Hong Kong
• The best events for families and kids activities in Hong Kong
• The most beautiful places to visit in Hong Kong

Are you looking for a specific tourist attraction in Hong Kong?

Header image credit: Michael Kafka via Flickr