Places You Shouldn't Miss on Your First Trip to Hong Kong

I couldn't think of a better place to start this guide than Victoria Peak. It's one of Hong Kong's most famous landmarks and offers some of the best views over the city's skyline and Victoria Harbour.

Most people choose to take the Peak Tram to the top, but I'd actually recommend taking the bus instead. The journey up the mountain offers incredible views along the way, and it drops you off just a short walk from the tram's final stop.

Once you arrive, you can either continue walking to the highest viewpoints or simply enjoy the scenery from the viewing areas. I decided to save my energy for the walk back down, and it was worth it 1000%. The whole route felt like walking through a tropical forest, and it ended up being one of my favourite experiences in Hong Kong.

Before heading back, take some time to explore the shopping centre at the Peak. There are plenty of cafés and shops, and it's actually where I found some of the best souvenirs to bring home.

You simply can't leave Hong Kong without visiting Bakehouse at least once.

I originally went there for the famous egg tarts, but they weren't the only thing that impressed me. If you only try one more thing, make it the Beef Rendang Pie. Guilty! I went back three more times just for that pie.

If you're planning to visit Victoria Peak, there's also a Bakehouse inside the Peak Tower. Order your favourite coffee, have a seat outside or by the window, and enjoy the view over Hong Kong while watching the Peak Tram make its way up and down the mountain.

This is much more than just a photo spot.

The famous Monster Building (listed as Montane Mansion on Google Maps) is actually a residential complex made up of five connected buildings that's home to more than 10,000 people. It's only when you stand beneath these towering buildings that you truly understand how it got its name.

If you decide to visit, remember that people actually live here. Be respectful, keep the noise down, and follow any signs or rules around the building to respect the residents' privacy.

This is probably the most colourful basketball court you'll ever see.

Surrounded by brightly coloured apartment buildings, it's become one of Hong Kong's most popular photo spots. Despite its popularity, it's still a functioning basketball court, so be respectful if people are playing when you visit.

The basketball court is located on the rooftop of the car park, so don't worry if you can't find it straight away. I made the same mistake and spent a few minutes wondering where it was before realising I needed to head upstairs.

Getting there is easy, as it's just a short walk from Choi Hung MTR Station. Once you reach the rooftop, you'll understand why this place has become such a popular stop for photographers and travellers visiting Hong Kong.

Believe it or not, riding the tram is an attraction in itself.

Hong Kong's iconic double-decker trams have been running since 1904 and are home to the world's largest fleet of double-decker trams. Taking a ride on one is an experience you shouldn't miss.

My advice? Wait for a tram that isn't too crowded, head upstairs, and grab one of the front seats if you can. Watching the city pass by while trams travel just inches from each other is something that's hard to describe until you experience it yourself.

Hong Kong Park is one of the most unique places to take photos in the city.

With waterfalls, ponds, lush gardens, and even an aviary, it feels like a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Hong Kong. What makes this park so special, though, is the contrast. As you walk through the greenery, towering skyscrapers suddenly appear in the background, creating a view that's hard to find anywhere else.

One thing I found fascinating is that Hong Kong isn't built on completely flat ground. Because of its hilly landscape, many of the city's skyscrapers stand at different elevations. Once you notice it, the skyline feels even more impressive and gives this park an even more unique backdrop.

If you'd like to experience a different side of Hong Kong, don't miss Nan Lian Garden. Built in the style of a classical Chinese garden, it's filled with peaceful ponds, traditional wooden pavilions, beautifully landscaped paths, and carefully shaped trees that make you forget you're in the middle of one of the world's busiest cities.

You'll also find a vegetarian restaurant hidden behind a waterfall. If you're planning to eat there, I'd recommend taking a few photos of the building before heading inside. It's one of the most beautiful spots in the garden. Since Chi Lin Nunnery is right next door, I'd definitely recommend visiting both at the same time.

Right next to Nan Lian Garden is Chi Lin Nunnery, one of the world's largest hand-built wooden Buddhist temple complexes, constructed without the use of a single nail.

From the moment you walk through the main entrance, you'll be surrounded by stunning traditional architecture, lotus ponds, and a sense of peace that's hard to put into words. As you explore the grounds, keep an eye out for the signs in certain areas where photography isn't allowed. It's important to respect both the rules and the people who come here to pray.

Out of all the places I visited during my trip to Asia, including Japan, this is the one that stayed with me the most. I've never experienced such a deep sense of calm anywhere else, and I genuinely hope it makes you feel the same way. If you ever visit, I'd love to hear what you thought of it.

No first trip to Hong Kong is complete without visiting Victoria Harbour and the Bruce Lee Statue.

This is one of the best places to admire Hong Kong's famous skyline, especially in the evening when the skyscrapers begin to light up. Take your time to walk along the waterfront, enjoy the atmosphere, and don't miss the Bruce Lee Statue, which pays tribute to one of Hong Kong's most iconic figures.

If your schedule allows, visit around sunset. Watching the skyline slowly light up as day turns into night is an experience that's hard to forget.

For most first-time visitors, Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are the two most convenient areas to stay. Both offer excellent public transport, plenty of restaurants, and easy access to many of the city's main attractions.

I personally stayed in Wan Chai, on Hong Kong Island, and I'd happily stay there again. It was easy to reach from the airport by direct bus, and both the MTR and the historic tram were just a short walk away, making it incredibly easy to explore the city.

To make planning a little easier, I've also pinned a few hotels on the interactive map at the beginning of this guide. They're all located in areas I'd consider for a future trip.

Luxury

• The Upper House – Panoramic harbour views and exceptional service.

Mid-range

• Novotel Century Hong Kong – Great location with excellent transport links.
• The Royal Garden – An elegant hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui with a rooftop pool and an excellent location.
• The Fleming – Beautiful boutique hotel with unique design.

Budget

• iclub Fortress Hill – Modern rooms close to the MTR.
• Booth Lodge – Excellent value in a central location.