Hong Kong
Between glittering skyscrapers, Victoria Peak, and dim sum: your guide to Hong Kong.
Our City Check for Hong Kong
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Flair
A fascinating mix of glittering skyline, ancient temples, and incredible street food — Hong Kong really does feel like nowhere else on earth.
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Travel season
October through December is the sweet spot — mild temperatures, low humidity, and mostly clear skies. Summer is hot, sticky, and typhoon-prone, so avoid it if you can.
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Travel duration
Three to five days gives you enough time to explore Hong Kong Island, cross to Kowloon, and venture out to the surrounding areas without feeling rushed.
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Price level
On the higher end — especially hotels with a harbor view. Budget wisely, but don't worry: the street food and local restaurants are surprisingly affordable.
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Food
Dim sum at a traditional teahouse is an absolute must. Go for an early lunch when the carts are freshest — and don't skip the egg tarts for dessert.
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Transport
The Star Ferry and the double-decker trams are iconic for a reason — and honestly some of the best-value rides in the city. Get an Octopus card and use them both.
Orientation
Where is Hong Kong?
Hong Kong belongs to China — but as a special administrative region, it operates under its own laws.
The city sits in the southeast of the country on a peninsula in the South China Sea. The regions of the New Territories and Kowloon are on the mainland, while several islands are also part of the territory.
At just 1,104 square kilometers, Hong Kong is only slightly larger than Berlin — but it packs in twice the population.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Hong Kong?
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate — winters are dry and mild, while summers bring heat, humidity, and frequent rain.
The best time to visit Hong Kong is during the spring and fall months. Temperatures are pleasant, rain is scarce, and it’s genuinely ideal for sightseeing. That’s why Hong Kong is one of our top travel destinations in November.
Summers can get seriously hot and sticky. Winter is mild compared to Europe, but if you’re visiting in January or February, there are more rewarding options elsewhere in Asia.
How many days do I need in Hong Kong?
Plan for at least 3 to 4 days to hit the main highlights.
That said, there’s so much to discover here that you could easily fill one to two weeks without running out of things to do.
What entry documents do I need for Hong Kong?
Your passport must be valid for at least six months. For stays under 90 days, you don’t need a visa — straightforward.
On arrival, you’ll need to fill out an Arrival Card, which asks for an address in Hong Kong — just put your accommodation’s address.
The back of the card is your Departure Card, which you’ll hand in when you leave. Hold onto it during your stay so you don’t have to fill it out again at the airport!
What languages are spoken in Hong Kong?
The main languages in Hong Kong are Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, so you’ll have no trouble getting around.
You’ll also hear a variety of other Chinese dialects throughout the city.
What currency does Hong Kong use?
Hong Kong’s currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). One euro is roughly equivalent to about 8 HKD — though exchange rates vary, so it’s worth checking before you go.
What is the time difference in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong runs on Hong Kong Time (HKT) and doesn’t observe daylight saving time, so the offset stays consistent year-round.
For travelers coming from Central Europe, Hong Kong is 7 hours ahead in winter and 6 hours ahead in summer.
