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It’s your dream to visit Hong Kong. But you can only see it…in 3 days. Feeling the cocktail of dread, panic, and pure adrenaline roiling in your gut?
Breathe, dear traveller. All will be well.
Because you’re going to have a sensational trip thanks to my strategic Hong Kong travel itinerary 3 days.
Whether you’re short on time bouncing between cities or doing a layover, I’ll make sure you see the top of the top sights. Literally. Like riding the 130 year-old tram to the Peak to see Hong Kong from the top of the world. Or gliding over oceans and mountains to wonder at the giant Bronze Buddha. And of course I’ve included a visit to the Man Mo temple where the atmosphere is simultaneously eerie and sacred.
And what about the best places to eat dim sum? Don’t fret! You’re not leaving Hong Kong without tasting classic Cantonese dishes and other gourmet fare that has shaped Hong Kong into a culinary capital.
I’ve visited Hong Kong over a dozen times thanks to family ties. In this guide, you’ll get my best travel tips on how to make the most out of this energetic city. Once you’re done with this 3-day itinerary, you’ll be ready and eager to buy that plane ticket for your bucket-list trip to Hong Kong.
Basics About Hong Kong to Know Before You Go
Language: Locals mainly speak Cantonese Chinese, but Mandarin Chinese is common too. Most businesses are also comfortable speaking in English.
Entry requirements: Check the official immigration department of Hong Kong for visa requirements. See also my travel guide for first-timers to Hong Kong for what to expect before you go.
Currency: the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD).
Voltage: 220 volts. Hong Kong uses the 3-pronged UK-style plugs. See my post on Travel Handbag Essentials: What to Pack (and Skip) for tips on what plug adapters to buy.
Major Train Station: The MTR subway system is the best way for getting around Hong Kong. It’s fast, timely, and inexpensive.
Major Airport: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Best time to visit: During the colder months of November to February or April. It gets really hot and humid starting in April, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Your Hong Kong Travel Itinerary 3 days at-a-Glance
A little tight on time and want the highlights upfront? Here’s your cheat sheet for what to see in Hong Kong in 3 days.
Where to Stay
📍 Kowloon – Local vibes, neon lights, and bustling night markets.
🏙️ Hong Kong Island – Skyscrapers, trendy bars, and modern city life.
⛴️ Take the Star Ferry or MTR to get across Victoria Harbour.
🚫 Skip Chung King Mansion in Tsim Sha Tsui — cheap place to stay, but unsafe for travellers.
Top Hotel Picks
🎨 Hotel Stage (Kowloon) – Artful, modern, and quiet. Walkable to Jordan MTR. Great value-for-comfort stay.
🌟 The Peninsula (Tsim Sha Tsui) – Grand dame of luxury. Spa tubs, skyline views, and Rolls-Royce transfers. A deluxe stay.
🛋️ 99 Bonham (Sheung Wan) – Stylish and central. Little service, but great for independent travellers.
🌆 The Hari (Wan Chai) – Mid-premium experience with harbour views and friendly service. Close to Central and the airport.
What to Do in Hong Kong
🚠 The Peak Tram & Sky Terrace – Ride the 130-year-old tram 1,300 ft up for impeccable skyline views.
🧘 Lantau Island & Big Buddha – Glide over mountains on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to reach this iconic bronze Buddha.
🌆 Victoria Harbour Promenade – Stroll Tsim Sha Tsui at sunset. Catch the Symphony of Lights and spot the red Dukling gliding by.
🌟 Avenue of Stars – Spot the statue of Bruce Lee and enjoy waterfront views of Hong Kong’s stunning skyline.
🏛️ Museum of Art (MOA) – Free entry, free guided tours, stunning Chinese antiquities, and floor-to-ceiling harbour views.
🕯️ Man Mo Temple – a sacred temple in Sheung Wan dedicated to the Gods of Literature and War.
Where to Eat and Drink in Hong Kong
🥢 Lei Garden (Mong Kok) – Classic dim sum done right: har gow, siu mai, and even roast quail. Reliable and delicious.
🍯 Tin Lung Heen (The Ritz-Carlton) – Char siu made with Iberico pork. Stunning views and the most refined dim sum experience.
🦆 Lai Ching Heen (The Regent) – Reserve in advance for their legendary roast Peking duck carved table-side. Crispy, juicy, delectable.
🍢 Yardbird (Sheung Wan) – Modern izakaya and bar. Yakitori skewers made from the whole chicken. A must-eat, even in dim sum country.
Day Trip to Macau
🇲🇴 Macau in a Day – Hop across the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (bring your passport!) for a taste of Portugal in Asia.
🏛️ Ruins of St. Paul’s – Iconic 17th‑century façade with stunning carvings and hidden catacombs below.
💛 Lover’s Lane & Senado Square – Colourful alleyways, mosaic‑paved squares, and pastel façades.
🍮 Po Tat Egg Tarts – Flaky, buttery, custard-top baked to perfection. Grab one fresh from a street stall.
🍤 Portuçao Restaurant – Classic Portuguese flavours: octopus, garlic shrimp, and chorizo cooked tableside.
🎰 Casino Lobby Tour – Pop into The Venetian or The Grand Lisboa to admire their glitzy lobbies and world‑class art.
⏱️ Travel Tip – Getting to Macau by buses via the 55 km bridge take about 3 hours each way; turbojets are faster, but bad if you’re prone to seasickness.
Want More Detail?
Keep scrolling for in-depth insights and personal takes on why these spots made the list. Or download my FREE 7-day travel planner to start noting down top sights, hotel picks, and gourmet stops before you forget.
Getting from the Airport to the City Centre
Depending on where you’re headed, taking an Uber or local taxi could be a more economical choice. It costs around 350 HKD for a one-way trip.
An even more economical and efficient way to travel is to take the airport express directly from the airport to the city centre. The airport express stops at a few major subway stations that’ll get you on the MTR subway and to downtown fairly quickly and cheaply.
Get the reloadable octopus card (available at any 7/11 stores) to breeze your way through the airport express train and the local MTR subway station. Customer service is available right in the main arrival hall. They’ll help you get to wherever you need to go.
Oh, and a flight from Canada can take over 14 hours to get to Hong Kong. Pack rejuvenating skin masks and travel-size toiletries to freshen up on the plane. You’ll want some mouth-wash, let’s just say, after hour 9.
What are the Best Neighbourhoods to Stay at in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is made up of several islands, but the two main areas you’ll be exploring are Kowloon (connected to mainland China) and Hong Kong Island (often simply called Hong Kong on road signs).
The iconic Victoria Harbour is on the Hong Kong Island side (but the best night view is from the Kowloon side). It’s easy to travel between Kowloon and Hong Kong using the MTR subway or by sailing the Star Ferry.
Kowloon is considered the more local of the two. It’s got neon-lit billboards, night markets, and street food galore. Hong Kong Island, on the other hand, is more modern and business-focused. It’s home to skyscrapers, trendy bars, upscale restaurants, and The Peak.
Both sides have great shopping, dining, and sightseeing options. Your choice really boils down to how much you want to spend on accommodations and how close you want to be to major attractions. Either way, getting around is fast and efficient with the MTR.
And avoid staying at Chung King Mansions in Tsim Sha Tsui. Despite its central location (and its almost myth-like status for all the clandestine goings-on inside), the building has a reputation for being unsafe for visitors.
Speaking of safety, petty pickpockets are a thing in big cities like Hong Kong. Keep your valuables safe with slash-proof travel purses and RFID wallets. This isn’t to make you worry more than you need to, but staying safe anywhere you go should be top priority.
Best hotels in Kowloon
I’m fortunate enough to get to stay with family when I visit Hong Kong. But these are the hotels I’d stay in that fit my criteria of location, walkability, cleanliness, service, and safety when I’m picking a hotel.
Mid-tier option: Hotel Stage (Kowloon)
According to top reviews on Booking.com, Hotel Stage is a good pick if you want a balance between comfort and value. Rooms feature modern decor, marble showers, and high-tech gadgets. Guests consistently rave about the cleanliness and quiet.
It’s just a short walk to Jordan MTR station and one stop from Tsim Sha Tsui. The friendly staff are also known for sharing helpful local tips.
👉Book early for the best rates.
Premium option: The Peninsula (Tsim Sha Tsui)
The Peninsula is Hong Kong’s most iconic luxury hotel (think spa tubs, skyline views, and impeccable service) housed in a historic 1928 building.
The hotel is right in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui and just steps from the Star Ferry and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Request a high-floor room for the best harbour views. Ever wanted to ride in a Rolls-Royce? Consider splurging on a Rolls-Royce airport transfer from their fleet.
👉 Rooms sell out quickly. Book now for the best rates.
Best hotels on Hong Kong Island
99 Bonham (Sheung Wan)
99 Bonham is a good pick for travellers with a mid-range budget who want to stay somewhere clean and modern in a prime location. Rooms are comfortable, but the hotel offers minimal service and they offer no restaurant options.
But late-night restaurants abound in Sheung Wan, so you’ll never run out of food options. And you’re only a 3-minute walk from the MTR. Great location if you just need a solid place to sleep.
👉 Check availability and reviews on Booking.com
The Hari (Wan Chai)
The Hari is ideal for travellers seeking a mid-tier to premium hotel close to Central. Rooms are stylish (though reviews say they’re a bit small) but many offer harbour views. The service is friendly and consistent, and you’re within walking distance of Central Plaza and Times Square. There is a restaurant on site but it closes after 10 PM. But you’re in Hong Kong afterall, so late-night food stops are constantly available.
👉 Book now to lock in the best rates
Top Things to Do in 3 Days in Hong Kong
Ride the Peak Tram to Sky Terrace
The tram leading up to The Peak has been operating for over 130 years. It climbs more than 1,300 feet to reveal impeccable views of both sides of Hong Kong. Once at the top, head straight for the Sky Terrace to get to the city’s most famous lookout point. You’ll see the postcard view of Hong Kong. And you’ll understand instantly why this is one of the city’s most iconic spots.
It gets windy up here, so hold onto your stuff. And please don’t climb over the railings. Yes, you’ll see some kids trying to do that. It’s dangerous, needless to say.
👉 Book a skip-the-line ticket to get a spot before the crowds arrive.
Visit the Big Buddha on Lantau Island
Ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car over sea and mountains to reach the Big Buddha. This is an immense bronze statue built on the peak of Lantau Island.
During the 15-minute ride, witness planes taking off from airport island and spot the remarkable 55 km Hong Kong–Macau–Zhuhai Bridge stretching across the water. You may even spot the Buddha itself from a distance before you arrive.
Once you land, stroll through the historical village, then take the stairs up to the statue. Then head down to admire the peaceful monastery adorned with gold dragons and painted ceilings. Don’t miss the area where you can view the
foot-long incense sticks. They’re quite the sight.
👉 Book your Ngong Ping 360 tickets in advance to skip the crowds.
Stroll Victoria Harbour and the Avenue of Stars
In the evening, stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade to view the Victoria Harbour skyline sparkling at you. Victoria Harbour is especially magical around 8 PM when the Symphony of Lights begins. It’s a nightly show where the skyscrapers on Hong Kong Island coordinate their lights to music. It’s a spectacular sight.
Keep an eye out for the Dukling, a red-sailed junk boat that’s been ferrying passengers since 1955. You can even sail aboard it to admire the skyline from the water, just as locals did decades ago.
As you continue down the boardwalk, you’ll reach the Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It honours the legends of Chinese cinema and you can get a picture with the statue of Bruce Lee.
👉 Book a spot on the Dukling or time your visit to catch the Symphony of Lights show for a grand evening.
Can’t get enough of Victoria Harbour? See where the best free and premium viewing spots are for photographing Hong Kong and its skyline.
Admire antiquities Inside the Museum of Art (MOA)
This museum is one of the best free experiences in Hong Kong. It’s great for a rainy-day option, but there’s more to it than that. The permanent collection showcases classical Chinese antiquities and contemporary art in a beautifully architected space.
But the real treat inside the museum is the floor-to-ceiling windows that frame stunning views of Victoria Harbour. For a coffee break, head to Hue, the museum’s in-house restaurant. Walk all the way to the bar for an incredible view of the harbour while you sip your latte.
👉 Admission is free. And the views are priceless.
Find serenity and the supernatural at Man Mo Temple
Man Mo temple is a special, sacred temple in Sheung Wan dedicated to the Gods of Literature and War. The atmosphere is serene, but also eerie at the same time. There are massive incense coils hanging from the ceilings; an incredible sight.
You’ll spot the hand-carved wooden statues on the altars. They’re very old looking and exude almost a haunting feeling. The quietness of the temple is in stark contrast to all the noise just right outside the threshold. Come in here for a few minutes of respite.
👉 Visit early in the day for a quieter experience.
Dim Sum and other Gourmet Bites: Where to eat in Hong Kong in 3 Days
Experience Hong Kong’s food culture in 3 days. Enjoy dim sum, but also other delicious cuisine to understand why Hong Kong is a food lover’s paradise.
Tin Lung Heen at The Ritz-Carlton
This is my most splurge-worthy pick in Hong Kong. Located on the 103rd floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Tin Lung Heen is a two Michelin-starred restaurant with sweeping, bird’s-eye views of Kowloon and Victoria Harbour.
You must order the char siu here. It’s made with Iberico pork and each bite is rich, tender, and glazed just enough to melt inside your mouth. The dim sum is equally show-stopping: delicate and refined.
If you’re looking for incredible views and Chinese fine-dining that’s worth it: this is the place.
Lei Garden (Mong Kok)
Lei Garden is a local favourite and perfect for dim sum. Go for the classics like har gow, siu mai, spring rolls, and fried turnip patties. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the roast quail and gingko soup. There are locations all over the city, but I usually head to the Mong Kok one. It’s efficient, flavourful, and deeply satisfying.
Lai Ching Heen at the Regent
For classic fine Chinese dining, this is the one. Lai Ching Heen at the Regent Hotel serves one of the most phenomenal versions of roast Peking duck in Hong Kong. Make sure to reserve both your table and the duck in advance because they sell out like…hot cakes!
The duck is oven-roasted at blistering temperatures, giving it a crisp, lacquered skin and tender, juicy meat. It’s carved table-side and served with rice-flour wrappers, fresh cucumbers, carrots, scallions, and a glossy oyster sauce. The most perfect bite. Ever.
I also love this spot for a refined dim sum experience. You’ll find all the Cantonese classics here, but each is shaped, plated, and served delicately.
Yardbird (Sheung Wan)
If you’re on the Hong Kong Island side, you are obligated to eat at Yardbird, a modern izakaya and bar. You’re probably thinking: shouldn’t I be eating only Chinese food while I’m in Hong Kong?
Sure, dear traveller. But that’s like saying you’ll only eat French food in the cosmopolitan city of Montréal. Gasp! Hong Kong is a modern Silk Road of flavour. And Yardbird is one of its brightest spots.
Founded by expat Canadians from Vancouver, Yardbird is a waste-not-want-not joint where the entire bird is deconstructed into skewers (think breast, thigh, neck, skin, knees). The seasoning is inventive and bold. It’s like having little fireworks of flavour in your mouth with every bite.
And it’s not just about the meat. The sides are standouts in their own right: think roasted daikon and a mushroom salad you’ll be thinking about days later. Every dish is deliberate, playful, and layered with flavour.
Book ahead or prepare to wait in line. Even if you do, it’s worth it.
Looking for even more restaurant suggestions? See my ultimate travel guide to Hong Kong for a list of the best places to eat.
Where to Splurge and Shop in Style for your 3 Day Trip
Hong Kong exudes capitalism at its finest. Luxe malls, glitzy storefronts. With everyone trying to get you to part with your hard-earned money, here are some places where it’s actually worth splurging and shopping at.
Ladies’ Market (Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok)
Yes, it’s a tourist trap, but also wildly entertaining. The Ladies’ Market is packed with stalls selling everything from Japanese and Korean fashion to costume jewellery, phone accessories, and trinkets of all kinds. It’s not about quality; it’s about scoring fun, fast, and trendy finds on the fly.
There are hardly any price tags here. You pretty much have to bargain for everything. So put those haggling skills to the test. Some shopkeepers will give you outrageous prices; it’s all part of the game. And if the price isn’t right? Walk away with your head held high.
Ladies Market is a cacophony of colour, noise, and cheesy things. It’s a classic Hong Kong market experience you’ll remember.
Park Lane (Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui)
Park Lane is a stylish stretch of boutiques running along Nathan Road, and it’s one of my favourite spots for ready-to-wear fashion that strikes a balance between trendy and wearable.
Unlike the street markets, the clothing and accessories here are higher quality (think well-cut pieces, classy jewellery, and quality shoes). The fashion is often inspired by Korean and Japanese trends. These are all little individual shops with their own personality.
Prices are usually fixed, so bargaining is a no-no, unless you want nasty looks from the staff. But the value lies in finding fashion-forward pieces that feel more boutique than fast fashion.
Come here if you’re looking to refresh your travel wardrobe with something stylish, sharp, and still accessible.
Harbour City (Tsim Sha Tsui)
You’re probably wondering, dear traveller, why on earth would you spend time in a mall? But Harbour City isn’t just any mall—this is Hong Kong’s ode to consumerism at its most decadent.
It’s a one-stop shop for mid-tier to premium brands, with labels like Zara and Tommy Hilfiger, all the way up to Ralph Lauren, Burberry, and Max Mara. And since Hong Kong doesn’t charge a value-added tax, you can score some of your favourite designer goods without the extra markup you’d face back home (especially if you’re coming from Canada).
I personally love stopping by the MoMA Design Store for unique finds (like journals with original sketches). If the shopping gets too intense, there’s a rooftop bar where you can sip and recharge with a skyline view.
This is where you go when you want the real designer labels, not the knockoffs being pushed on the street. Please don’t buy counterfeit on the streets; they’re not worth the headaches you’ll get at customs. Enjoy authentic luxury products instead (if you’re looking to splurge!).
Make room in your luggage for all the goodies you might get. Pack only the travel essentials, so you’re not panicking over how to fit that new Bulgari handbag into your carry-on.
Take a Day Trip to Macau to see Portugal in Asia
Macau, a former Portuguese colony, is just a short trip from Hong Kong. Skip the casinos and go straight into the historic heart: wander Senado Square’s pastel façades, explore the haunting Ruins of St. Paul’s, and stroll through the colourful Lover’s Lane.
Snack your way through Macau with samples of honey beef jerky and warm po tat (Macanese egg tarts), then settle in for a Portuguese feast at Portuçao. Order octopus, garlic shrimp, and chorizo cooked table-side.
The fastest way to get there is via the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge on a cross-border bus. Remember to bring your passport.
👉 Book a day tour to Macau for an easy trip there.
Ready to Experience Hong Kong in 3 Days?
3 days in Hong Kong barely scratches the surface of what this frantic city has to offer. But pick a good hotel in the central part of the city (like the opulent Peninsula hotel or the luxurious but accessible Hari) and you’ll be exploring without burnout or panic.
But if you’re even more short on time, I have a post on how to spend 24 hours in Hong Kong that’ll give you a thrilling, but balanced tour of the city.
Get my free 7-day travel planner as a companion to this 3 day itinerary guide. The trick to any successful trip is planning in advance the stuff you should plan in advance. My free fillable planner will ease any travel anxieties you might have.
And don’t hesitate to deviate from the plan while you’re there! The best part of travelling is when unexpected, but good, surprises happen.
Wishing you happy travels,
Chloe
