Regarded as one of the most dynamic cosmopolitan cities in the world, Hong Kong’s charm and allure beckons travellers from all around the world. Beyond the towering sky scrapers and bustling crowds lies stunning natural beauty, incredible cuisine and a rich local culture waiting to be explored.
If you have an upcoming weekend trip planned for Hong Kong, read on to get the lowdown on how to maximise your 48 hours in town, including the best places to stay, eat and play. How to spend a weekend in Hong Kong.
How to Maximize a Weekend Stopover in Hong Kong
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Where to Stay
The Langham
Want to splurge for the weekend? Look no further than The Langham. Situated in Hong Kong’s prime shopping district of Tsim Tsa Tsui, step out of the hotel to streets of delectable dining, shopping and entertainment.
For the ultimate indulgence, book into one of the grand city view rooms and enjoy sweeping views of the legendary Victoria Harbour (also a two-minute walk from the hotel). To get to the hotel, it’s very easy to organize an airport transfer in Hong Kong.
Cosmo Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, Cosmo Hotel is the perfect base to set up camp for your weekend escape in Hong Kong.
Only an 8-minute walk away from Causeway Bay subway station and mega shopping malls like Times Square and SOGO, this modern establishment is one of the most convenient hotels in the area, with rooms that guarantee style and comfort. Where to stay in Hong Kong. Best hotels for a weekend in Hong Kong.
Where to Eat
Tai Cheong Bakery
No visit to Hong Kong is complete until you’ve tried the city’s famous egg tarts – and Tai Cheong Bakery is the go-to for the best of the pack. Expect piping hot egg tarts filled with smooth and creamy fillings, encased with a crumbly buttery crust. How to spend two days in Hong Kong. Hong Kong itinerary.
Tim Ho Wan
This Hong Kong landmark appears at first glance to be an ordinary eatery. In reality it’s the world’s cheapest Michelin Star restaurant, offering some of the best dim sum in Hong Kong. Review of food at Tim Ho Wan.
You might feel like you’re queuing at a theme park at first but once you taste the incredible fare on offer you’ll realise it was worth the wait. The must-orders at Tim Ho Wan include the famous Baked Bun with BBQ Pork, the Steamed Egg Cake and the Pan Fried Turnip Cake. Where to eat in Hong Kong.
Where to Play
Experience the Symphony of Lights Show from a Star Ferry
Take the classic Star Ferry at night (from Central to Kowloon) right before 8pm to witness the world’s largest permanent light and sound show – The Symphony of Lights. Expect a sky filled with lasers and music all choreographed to an intricate lightshow played out on a wall of imposing skyscrapers.
Marvel at Hong Kong’s Skyline from Victoria Peak
Considered one of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks, Victoria Peak is a must-visit. Take the Peak Tram up to the Peak Tower and enjoy picture-perfect, panoramic views of the city’s dazzling skyline. Arrive half an hour before sundown to watch the city lights come alive in all its sparkling glory.
Party at Lan Kwai Fong
Lan Kwai Fong is Hong Kong’s most vibrant nightlife district, home to over 100 trendy bars, clubs and restaurants. From exotic cocktails and fine dining to a cheap beer and bite to eat, this is your destination for after-hours fun.
Sit and people watch from one of the many street bars or kick back and enjoy a spot of live music. How to spend 48 hours in Hong Kong.
Shop Til You Drop
If you haven’t heard already, Hong Kong is a shopper’s paradise. From bustling local street markets offering bargains at every corner, to some of the most upscale multi-story shopping malls, this modern city caters to all types of shoppers and all kinds of budgets.
Head to Causeway Bay for local boutique favourites, Tsim Sha Tsui for luxury buys and Ladies Market or Temple Street Market for street bargains.
While You’re in Transit
If your time in Hong Kong is a little short don’t worry, Hong Kong International airport is an attraction on its own. World class shopping, fine dining and a range of entertainment options make for one of the world’s most impressive airports.
Here are a few ways to maximise your time at the airport:
Imax Theatre
That’s right, Hong Kong’s largest IMAX theatre is inside terminal 2. Pass the time until your connecting flight by catching a blockbuster on the big screen.
Aviation Discovery Centre
Catch up on the history of flight in Hong Kong with themed and interactive exhibits to enjoy. 2 days in Hong Kong itinerary.
Shopping & Dining
With 24-hour shopping and dining available at the airport, you just may need the extra time to do a last-minute haul.
With so much to do and see in this buzzing cosmopolis, the only logical next step is to book your tickets ASAP. Kick start your Hong Kong adventure in style and comfort with the nation’s flag carrier Cathay Pacific, who offers flights to Hong Kong from all over the world.
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Photo credits: Featured photo & Pinterest image by Kevin Jaako. Second pinterest image by Jonathan Leung. Cosmo Hotel by Dorsett Hospitality International. Tim Ho Wan food by insatiablemunch, @ccfoodtravel & TomEats. Victoria Peak by Jonathan Leung.
32 Comments
Hong Kong is one of my dream destination. I would definitely plan now. Thanks Megan, an ultimate guide you have provided. Thanks again for sharing.
Hi Camille! Glad we could set you up with some info to start planning your journey. Have a wonderful time in Hong Kong!
Hing Kong always looks amazing especially the photo’s taken at night. Victoria peak sounds like to place to go to take a good night shot. does the Langham have family rooms?. I find this to be an issue with a lot of hotels these days. My kids want to go to Disneyland in Hong Kong.
Absolutely – night is when the photographers come out to play!
And yes, the Langham absolutely caters to families. You can book interconnecting rooms, or even a larger suite, and they have a number of amenties for kids too – complimentary cartoon DVD rental upon request etc.
Have a great time at Disneyland!
Great idea for a post, it really covers all the bases. I think I’d like to stay in the cosmo hotel, hit up the bakery, and watch an IMAX movie. Maybe because we haven’t had those in a long time. How far is the flight from Australia?
Thanks Mary – Cosmo hotel is a delight! Flight from Sydney to Hong Kong is 9 hours :)
Hope I’ll go to HingKong very soon and for a bit more than a stopover… but I’m sure I’ll follow your tips also for a longer stay! Thank you very much
Happy travels Sabrina! Enjoy your time in Hong Kong :)
I wish I had known about the Cosmo hotel before I went to Hong Kong. It looks pretty funky
Means you now have an excuse to plan a return trip :D
Love the fast pace and energy of HK. So much to see and do. Could definitely go for some dim sum at Tim Ho Wan right about now!
Happy to hear you’re also a fan of Hong Kong!
Great tips!!!
I’m planning a trip to Taiwan with a long stopover in Hong Kong, one or two days to explore the city. Was afraid it wouldn’t be time enough to see the top attractions and specially the dinning scene. But now I’m more confident of my choice.
Cheers!
Nat
You can definitely make the most of a couple of days in Hong Kong and see the major sites while you’re there. And then if you fall in love with the city and decide there’s a lot more to explore, can always plan a return trip or a longer stopover the next time :)
Happy travels Nat – enjoy Taiwan!
We’re so close to Hong Kong but we’re saving it for when our contract in China ends. Looks like such a pretty city to photograph.
You’ll have such a fabulous time Lexi … and yes, it’s a photographers playground … especially at night once the city lights up the sky!
I have yet to visit Hong Kong but it’s definitely on my list. I’d definitely go for the food ;) Thanks for sharing!
Great destination for foodies – definitely make a note of Tim Ho Wan for when you have the chance to go :)
I’m not a big city person usually but I do love Hong Kong. I used to stay at the Cosmo too because it was close to the office in Wan Chai or else one of the hotels in Causeway Bay itself are a nice position. With the MTR nothing is far away. The symphony of lights is also good from the lounge bar at the Intercontinental – a good show for the price of a cocktail to start the evening.
There’s always that one city which we fall head over heels for even if we’re not the biggest fans of cities in general.
Thanks for the tip on watching the symphony of lights from the lounge bar at the Intercontinental – absolutely agree that it would be made even better with a cocktail in hand!
The cheapest Michelin star restaurant, Tim Ho Wan, is one reason I’d take off for a weekend to Hong Kong. You’ve given me enough ideas here to maximize my stay there when I go. Thanks!
Hong Kong is definitely a haven if you’re a foodie, and Tim Ho Wan is a great way to get that Michelin star experience :)
Glad you enjoyed the post Adonis – have a fabulous time in Hong Kong!
I haven’t been to Hong Kong yet but it is on my list.
Hope you have the chance to visit soon Rhonda :)
Hong Kong is one of the cities at the top of my list to explore – I love the sound of the light show and have always wanted to capture that iconic skyline-at-night shot! Saving this post for when I (finally) get there!
A photographers playground for sure – especially once the sun goes down! Hope you have the chance to travel soon Vicki :)
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Hong Kong is definitely one of my favorite cities of China (they say they are not “Chinese”, but geographically they are still in China, sorry :). And yes, this city has a lot to offer. However not many people know that Hong Kong has also some hidden gems- not only skyscrapers, malls, markets and endless advertisements, but also pure virgin nature, jungles with monkeys, small remote islands and perfect beaches… and for me, as an adventure and nature lover, these places are my Hong Kong’s favorites.
So glad you enjoyed your time in Hong Kong Krasen, and I do agree – a surprising amount of opportunity for nature lovers! I hope to get back soon for more time to explore :)
Hong Kong is a fantastic city to explore, from the busy streets of Kowloon, to the more tranquil island of LanTau. There are many ways to travel, from the famous Star Ferry to trams. Thanks Mappingmegan for sharing!
Absolutely Cadiza, so glad you enjoyed the post!