9 Best Cities in Hong Kong & Best Time of Year to Visit

Hong Kong is a vibrant, bustling city-state known for its impressive skyline, rich history, and cultural diversity. While it is often thought of as a single city, Hong Kong is actually composed of multiple areas and islands, each with its own unique character and attractions. Whether you're looking for urban excitement, cultural experiences, or natural beauty, Hong Kong has something to offer every traveler. Here are nine cities within Hong Kong that are beloved by visitors and offer a wealth of experiences.

Central

Central is the bustling business district of Hong Kong and a must-visit for travelers. It's home to iconic skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and historical sites. The Peak Tram takes you to Victoria Peak, offering stunning views of the city. Explore the Hong Kong Museum of Art for a taste of local and international art, or stroll through Hong Kong Park for a peaceful escape from the urban rush. The nearby Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo areas are famous for their vibrant nightlife and dining options.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Central is during the fall (October to December) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are thinner. The Hong Kong Arts Festival in February and March is also a great time to experience the city's cultural offerings.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the nightly Symphony of Lights, a spectacular light and sound show featuring more than 40 buildings on the harborfront.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Mandarin Oriental and The Landmark Mandarin Oriental offer luxurious accommodations. For dining, try Tim Ho Wan for Michelin-starred dim sum or Lung King Heen for exquisite Cantonese cuisine.

Kowloon

Kowloon is a diverse and densely populated area known for its shopping streets and cultural landmarks. The bustling Nathan Road and the famous Temple Street Night Market offer endless shopping and dining opportunities. Don't miss the Hong Kong Cultural Centre for performances and the Hong Kong Museum of History to learn about the region's past. The Kowloon Walled City Park is a historical site that provides a glimpse into the area's unique history.

When to Visit: The cooler months from October to early December are ideal for exploring Kowloon. The Hong Kong International Film Festival in March and April is a treat for movie buffs.

Travel Tip: Visit the Sky100 Observation Deck for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, especially beautiful during sunset.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Peninsula Hong Kong offers classic luxury, while Hotel ICON provides modern comforts. For food, try the famous Australian Dairy Company for breakfast and One Dim Sum for affordable yet delicious dim sum.

Tsim Sha Tsui

Tsim Sha Tsui is a shopper's paradise and cultural hub located at the tip of Kowloon Peninsula. It's home to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, perfect for views of the iconic Hong Kong Island skyline and the Avenue of Stars, celebrating Hong Kong's film industry. The area boasts numerous museums, including the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of Art. K11 MUSEA is a unique shopping and cultural destination that combines retail with art installations.

When to Visit: Visit between November and early December to avoid the peak tourist season and enjoy mild weather. The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in June is a colorful and exciting event to witness.

Travel Tip: The Hong Kong Museum of History offers a comprehensive and engaging overview of the territory's fascinating past. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Where to Stay & Eat: The InterContinental Hong Kong and The Ritz-Carlton are excellent luxury options. For dining, try Hutong for northern Chinese cuisine with a view or Aqua for Italian-Japanese fusion dishes.

Causeway Bay

Causeway Bay is one of Hong Kong's most exciting shopping and entertainment districts. It's packed with department stores, boutiques, and eateries. Times Square is a major shopping mall and landmark in the area. For a more local experience, visit the bustling Jardine's Crescent Street Market. Victoria Park offers a green oasis in the city and is a popular spot for locals to exercise and relax.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Causeway Bay is from October to December when the weather is cooler and the sales are on. The Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament in April is a fun and lively event to catch.

Travel Tip: The Noonday Gun is a former naval artillery piece that is fired every day at noon. It's a quirky tradition that's worth seeing at least once.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Park Lane Hong Kong offers great views and a central location. For dining, try Din Tai Fung for Taiwanese dumplings or Under Bridge Spicy Crab for a local seafood experience.

Wan Chai

Wan Chai is a dynamic district with a mix of old and new. It's known for its nightlife, but also has a rich history and culture. The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre is a landmark on the waterfront, and the Old Wan Chai Post Office is a reminder of the area's colonial past. The Wan Chai Heritage Trail takes visitors through historic sites, and the bustling Wan Chai Market offers a taste of local life.

When to Visit: The cooler months from October to December are the best time to explore Wan Chai comfortably. The Hong Kong Arts Festival in February and March showcases a variety of performances and exhibitions.

Travel Tip: The Blue House Cluster is a set of historical buildings that now house a community museum and cultural space. It's a hidden gem that tells the story of the neighborhood's evolution.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Renaissance Hong Kong Harbour View Hotel and The Fleming are both excellent choices. For food, try Kam's Roast Goose for local flavors or The Pawn for a modern British dining experience in a historic setting.

Sheung Wan

Sheung Wan is a charming neighborhood with a blend of traditional and modern elements. It's known for its antique shops on Hollywood Road and the Man Mo Temple, a picturesque tribute to the gods of literature and war. The area is also home to the PMQ, a hub for creative and design industries housed in a former police married quarters. For a taste of traditional medicine, visit the shops on Ko Shing Street, known for selling Chinese herbal remedies.

When to Visit: Autumn, from October to November, is a great time to visit Sheung Wan, with comfortable temperatures and less humidity. The Mid-Autumn Festival, with its lantern displays and mooncakes, is a particularly festive time to visit.

Travel Tip: The Cat Street Market is a great place to find antiques, trinkets, and souvenirs. It's a fun spot for browsing and experiencing the local culture.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Ibis Hong Kong Central & Sheung Wan offers affordable comfort, while The Jervois provides boutique luxury. For dining, try Yardbird for modern yakitori or Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant for fresh Cantonese dishes.

Stanley

Stanley is a seaside town located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Stanley Market is a popular destination for shopping and finding unique souvenirs. Stanley Plaza and the nearby promenade offer a variety of dining options with sea views. The town also has several historic sites, including Murray House and Tin Hau Temple.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Stanley is from October to April when the weather is cooler and ideal for beach activities. The Stanley Dragon Boat Races during the Tuen Ng Festival in June are a thrilling spectacle.

Travel Tip: Take a leisurely walk along the Stanley Ma Hang Park boardwalk for stunning coastal views and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Where to Stay & Eat: While Stanley doesn't have many hotels, The Stanley Oriental Hotel offers a comfortable stay. For dining, try The Boathouse for seafood or Stanley Beer Yard for a casual meal with a view.

Discovery Bay

Discovery Bay is a resort-style residential area on Lantau Island, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It's known for its outdoor activities, including hiking trails, a golf course, and tranquil beaches. Tai Pak Beach is a great spot for relaxation, and the Discovery Bay Plaza provides shopping and dining options. The area is also a gateway to other Lantau attractions, such as the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping 360.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Discovery Bay is during the spring (March to May) or fall (October to November) when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. The Discovery Bay Sunday Market, held on select Sundays, is a great time to visit for local crafts and food.

Travel Tip: Take the Discovery Bay to Mui Wo hike for scenic views and a chance to explore another charming part of Lantau Island.

Where to Stay & Eat: Auberge Discovery Bay offers a resort experience, while the nearby Disney Explorers Lodge is perfect for families. For dining, try Zaks for international cuisine with a waterfront view or Hemingway's for plant-based dishes.

Lamma Island

Lamma Island is the third-largest island in Hong Kong and is known for its bohemian atmosphere and natural scenery. It's a popular spot for hiking, with trails offering panoramic views of the South China Sea. The island is also famous for its seafood restaurants in Sok Kwu Wan and the laid-back village vibe of Yung Shue Wan. The beaches here, such as Hung Shing Yeh Beach, are perfect for a relaxing day out.

When to Visit: The best times to visit Lamma Island are during the fall and spring when the weather is mild and conducive to hiking and beach activities. The Lamma Fun Day beach music festival in November is a highlight for visitors and locals alike.

Travel Tip: The Lamma Winds Pavilion is not only an eco-friendly power station but also offers one of the best views on the island. It's a unique spot that combines technology and nature.

Where to Stay & Eat: Accommodations on Lamma are more limited, but the Concerto Inn offers a pleasant stay. For dining, Rainbow Seafood Restaurant is a popular choice for fresh seafood, and The Bay Restaurant & Bar is great for Western-style dishes with a view.