Hong Kong

From exploring the city’s heights to plying its bustling waters on traditional boats and indulging in the arts, discover Hong Kong three ways in three days

I’ve spent most of my life in Hong Kong and still make regular new discoveries. There’s so much to find here, whether you’re a first-time visitor or an Old China Hand. The itinerary recommended here blends classic Hong Kong with highlights of the newest attractions.

Morning:

Start your day with a truly unique experience by hopping on the world’s longest escalator to Tai Kwun. The beautifully restored Victoria-era building was at one time a court, and is now an energetic contemporary arts, culture, and dining hub. The free tours are very good – book online in advance. Otherwise, take a self-guided stroll through the interactive museum, making stops at pop-up events and exhibitions, from circus acts to movie screenings and colorful projection mappings on the buildings. On the upper levels of the arts center, Madame Fù makes the perfect pit stop with its rooftop views and delicious truffle chicken.

Afternoon:

Hong Kong does rooftop bars better than anywhere else. Dress up for drinks with dazzling views at Cardinal Point, perched on the 45th floor of The Landmark building. Downstairs at the Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic, dine on local tastes fused with French haute cuisine. Don’t miss the oolong-flavored berlingots.

Evening:

Get the lay of the land with a sunset ride on the recently upgraded Peak Tram, which whisks passengers uphill on a vertiginous 25.7-degree incline to the top of Victoria Peak. From Lugard Road Lookout, you’ll get sweeping views of Hong Kong’s forest of skyscrapers tumbling toward Victoria Harbour.

Morning:

Just 30 minutes away by ferry, Lamma Island – one of Hong Kong’s more than 260 islands – is a favorite escape. Home to nature trails, golden beaches, and old-time fishing villages, this area also boasts some of the best seafood in the city. Walk off the garlic-drenched scallops and jumbo prawns on a hike around the island, passing sea caves and spectacular South China Sea viewpoints along the way.

Afternoon:

Lamma Island has two ferry piers – both offering little-known routes to Aberdeen, one of the few places where you can still catch a ride on a traditional sampan. More than 150,000 people once lived in the harbor on junks and sampans. Today, only 5,000 remain, including elderly ladies wearing bamboo conical hats who will take you on a cruise around Aberdeen Harbour.

Evening:

Stay with the nautical theme on an evening cruise around Victoria Harbour under the red fan sails of Aqua Luna, one of the territory’s last hand-built wooden junks – it’s where I always take visitors to enjoy the nightly Symphony of Lights laser show dancing across the skyline. Have a relaxed dinner at LALA, a smart-casual French bistro with a classic-made-modern menu.

Morning:

Hera, Invader, and Jaune are some of the international graffiti artists who have left their mark on the city. See their work on a street art tour with Wanderlust Walks Hong Kong. Next, take a step back in time at Luk Yu Tea House, one of the few remaining dim sum restaurants where septuagenarian waiters in white tunics have been serving classic dishes for more than 90 years. The original 1930s interiors are as delightful as the food.

Afternoon:

I’m overjoyed about the new dog-friendly ferry between Central Pier 9 and the West Kowloon Cultural District. Locals visit WestK to picnic, walk their dogs, and snack from waterfront cafés. This is also where you’ll find the magnificent M+ museum and the equally impressive Hong Kong Palace Museum. The former houses one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary Asian art. The latter contains countless treasures on loan from the Palace Museum in Beijing.

Evening:

Join Hong Kong’s cocktail lovers as they line up along Bridges Street at 5 p.m. for the opening of Bar Leone. This Italian-esque spot rightly won the 2025 World’s 50 Best Bars award and shouldn’t be missed. Then move on to COA (three-time-winner of Asia’s 50 Best Bars), serving Mexican-inspired craft cocktails.