Hong Kong’s Best Tours and Activities for New Visitors

Hong Kong is a dazzling fusion of East and West, where towering skyscrapers meet ancient temples, and bustling markets coexist with serene hiking trails. For first-time visitors, the city offers an overwhelming array of experiences. To help you navigate, here’s a curated list of the best tours and activities that showcase Hong Kong’s unique charm.

Must-Do Iconic Experiences

Victoria Peak Tram & Sky Terrace

No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a ride on the historic Peak Tram. This funicular railway has been operating since 1888, offering a steep ascent to Victoria Peak, the city’s highest point. At the top, the Sky Terrace 428 provides a 360-degree panoramic view of Hong Kong’s skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding islands. For an even more magical experience, visit at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.

Star Ferry & Victoria Harbour Cruise

The Star Ferry is one of the world’s most iconic and affordable boat rides. Crossing Victoria Harbour between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, it offers unbeatable views of Hong Kong’s skyline. For a more luxurious experience, book an evening harbour cruise with dinner and live music, where you can witness the Symphony of Lights, a dazzling multimedia light show.

Ngong Ping 360 & Tian Tan Buddha

Take a scenic 25-minute cable car ride on the Ngong Ping 360 to Lantau Island, where the majestic Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) awaits. This 34-meter-tall bronze statue sits atop a hill, surrounded by lush mountains. Nearby, explore the Po Lin Monastery and the charming Ngong Ping Village, which offers cultural performances and vegetarian dining options.

Cultural & Historical Explorations

Temple Street Night Market

For a taste of local life, head to Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon. This bustling bazaar comes alive after dark, offering everything from street food and fortune tellers to trinkets and electronics. Don’t miss trying clay pot rice or stinky tofu from the food stalls.

Man Mo Temple & Hollywood Road

Step into old Hong Kong at Man Mo Temple, a tranquil 19th-century shrine dedicated to the gods of literature and war. Nearby, Hollywood Road is a treasure trove for antique lovers, with galleries selling everything from Ming Dynasty vases to vintage posters.

Tai O Fishing Village

Escape the city’s hustle and visit Tai O, a traditional stilt-house fishing village on Lantau Island. Take a boat tour to spot pink dolphins, sample local seafood, and wander through the narrow alleys lined with dried fish and shrimp paste stalls.

Outdoor Adventures

Dragon’s Back Hike

Hong Kong isn’t just about urban sights—it’s also a hiker’s paradise. The Dragon’s Back Trail is one of the most scenic hikes, offering sweeping views of Shek O Beach and the South China Sea. The trail is moderate in difficulty, making it perfect for beginners.

Sai Kung Seafood & Geopark

Foodies and nature lovers will adore Sai Kung, known for its fresh seafood restaurants and stunning UNESCO Global Geopark. Join a boat tour to explore sea caves, hexagonal rock formations, and secluded beaches like Sharp Island.

Lamma Island Day Trip

Just a short ferry ride from Central, Lamma Island is a peaceful retreat with no cars, sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails. Walk from Yung Shue Wan to Sok Kwu Wan, stopping at seafood restaurants along the way.

Food & Drink Experiences

Dim Sum Tasting Tour

Hong Kong is the birthplace of dim sum, and no visit is complete without indulging in these bite-sized delights. Join a guided dim sum tasting tour to sample classics like har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and egg tarts at hidden local eateries.

Lan Kwai Fong Nightlife

For a lively evening, head to Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong’s premier nightlife district. This area is packed with bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges. Try a Hong Kong-style milk tea cocktail or sip on craft beers at one of the many microbreweries.

Dai Pai Dong Street Food

For authentic local flavors, visit a dai pai dong (open-air food stall). These no-frills spots serve up dishes like wonton noodles, beef brisket, and pineapple buns. Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po are great neighborhoods to explore these culinary gems.

Unique & Offbeat Activities

Ghost Tour in Sheung Wan

Dive into Hong Kong’s spooky side with a ghost tour in Sheung Wan, where guides share tales of haunted buildings and supernatural legends. It’s a thrilling way to learn about the city’s folklore.

Rooftop Bars with a View

Hong Kong’s skyline is best enjoyed from above. Visit rooftop bars like OZONE at The Ritz-Carlton (the world’s highest bar) or Sevva for cocktails with a view of the HSBC Building and Bank of China Tower.

TramOramic Tour

Hop on a vintage double-decker tram for the TramOramic Tour, a guided ride through Hong Kong Island’s historic districts. The open-top deck provides fantastic photo opportunities of the city’s architecture.

Family-Friendly Fun

Hong Kong Disneyland

A magical escape for kids and adults alike, Hong Kong Disneyland features unique attractions like Mystic Manor and Hyperspace Mountain. Meet Mickey Mouse and watch the nighttime “Momentous” light show.

Ocean Park

Combining a marine park, zoo, and amusement rides, Ocean Park is perfect for families. Don’t miss the Grand Aquarium or the thrilling Hair Raiser roller coaster.

PMQ Creative Hub

For a dose of creativity, visit PMQ, a revitalized police dormitory turned into a hub for local designers. Kids can enjoy workshops, while parents browse handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Shopping Hotspots

Ladies’ Market & Sneaker Street

Bargain hunters will love Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok for cheap fashion and accessories, while Sneaker Street is a paradise for sneakerheads with limited-edition kicks.

Harbour City

One of the world’s largest malls, Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui, houses luxury brands, tech stores, and a stunning oceanfront promenade.

Cat Street Market

For vintage finds and curios, Cat Street Market (Upper Lascar Row) is a hidden gem selling everything from Mao-era memorabilia to antique jewelry.

Hong Kong is a city of contrasts, where every corner offers something new to discover. Whether you’re into history, food, nature, or nightlife, these tours and activities will ensure an unforgettable first visit.