Hong Kong is one of the busiest and most populated cities in the world but it’s an amazing bustling metropolis. The charm and diversity of the city in undescribable. The place is easy and visitors friendly with many outrageous attractions that can be only found in Kong Kong. I’m was fascinated by the place and was on an extensive 5-day discovery mode while visiting Hong Kong. In my adventurous Hong Kong 3-day itinerary, I’ll lead you through very unique city experiences, magic activities in the mountains including hiking trails, transportation advice, very affordable dream tours and budget tips, and all essential things you need to know for this destination.
You might want to check: Best Hong Kong travel guide for first-timers for real adventure. You will find information on every attractions within the city with recommendations & travel advice.
Adventurous Hong Kong 3-day itinerary.
It is very helpful to do some planning before the trip to HK, there are literally hundreds of memorable attractions and it might be tight to cover all these exciting places in few days. Hong Kong is undoubtedly one of the most photographed places in the world. It will drag you in with its incredible vibe, international atmosphere and breathtaking skyline. This Hong Kong 3-day itinerary allows you to explore the city in an exciting way by running off the beaten paths. HONG KONG travel essentials:
VISA – Check your requirements for Hong Kong Travel Visa. Most nationalities can enter visa-free for stays ranging from 7 days to 180 days.
FLIGHTS: Check last minute flight deals on Skyscanner.com. If your flight is delayed or cancelled have AIRHelp to seek your compensation. All you have to do is submit your flight details.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Hong Kong OCTOPUS CARD.
ACCOMMODATION: Not the cheapest in Hong Kong, if you are not staying in a hotel the rooms are usually tiny. Best area to stay: Tsim Sha Tsui near the harbour and Avenue of Stars – search for best offers on agoda.com. Check advise on Hong Kong travel guide for first timers.
CURRENCY: The official currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). ATMs: widely available, debit and credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger stores.
Wi-Fi: Every hotel/hostel/guesthouse, public transportation, touristic spots.
OCTOPUS CARD: Travel card for every public transport in Hong Kong and some service points. It’s a must to have it for hassle-free travel. You can book your OCTOPUS CARD on Klook and pick up your card at Hong Kong International Airport upon landing. Coming preloaded with a deposit of HKD50/150.
SIM CARDS: you can pre-purchase your SIM card with DrimSim – the first universal real SIM, that it is not tied to an operator. Once your plane lands in a new country, Drimsim is immediately ready to work. Drimsim operates in 229 countries, provides stable communication, a fast Internet connection, and prices similar to those of local operators but this one is hassle free 😉
Hong Kong Explorer Pass – you may want to get your explorer pass, which gets you an easy access to number of biggest city attractions.
Day 1 - discover the best Hong Kong skyline.
Every traveler is chasing best view of Hong Kong skyline, it’s famous for its iconic skyscrapers that create a unique and visually dynamic cityscape.
Explore Hong Kong skyline from the islands – get to know two biggest Hong Kong Islands:
- Lantau Island (the largest island in Hong Kong) with Giant Buddha & Ngong Ping Cable Car.
- Hong Kong Island (second largest), easily reachable by subway from the mainland, with incredible Peak Tram & Sky Terrace 428.
Chasing the best view of the Hong Kong skyline.
Hong Kong skyline amazes, at day and night time, with a magnificent display of modern architecture, soaring skyscrapers, and stunning
The list of the best vantage points to view the impressive Hong Kong skyline:
- Victoria Peak (Peak Tram) & Sky Terraces 428, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city,
- Victoria Harbour (especially at nightime),
- Kowloon Peak & Suicide Cliff, and the surrounding mountains.
- Giant Buddha & Ngong Ping Cabel Car is highly popular and great destination along with Victoria Peak (both on the same island),
- Another popular spot is along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront in Kowloon with Avenue of Stars where you can see the skyline from across the harbour.
Option 1: Peak Tram to Victora Peak & Sky Terrace 428.
People say Sky Terrace 428 is the best view of Hong Kong skyline – in my opinion Kowloon Peak & Suicide Cliff is no 1 and Peak Tram is no 2. The Sky Terrace 428 is a must-visit attraction, it is located at the top of Victoria Peak in Hong Kong Island.
It is one of the highest outdoor observation decks in the world, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city – one and only Victoria Harbour and the surrounding landscape.
ACCESS: The Sky Terrace 428 is accessible via the Peak Tram, the historic funicular railway that takes you up to Victoria Peak from the Peak Tram Lower Terminus in Central (near Central Sybway Station) – in Hong Kong Island. Alternatively, you can also reach it by taking a taxi or bus to the Peak Galleria (small green bus No 1 or big bus no 15).
Or you can hike to the top of Victoria Peak – it’s a beautiful walk, check my adventure for more information.
TICKETING: Admission tickets to the Sky Terrace 428 can be purchased at the Peak Tram Lower Terminus or at the entrance of the Peak Galleria. You can choose between a single or round trip on the Peak Tram, which includes access to the Sky Terrace. It’s much easier to book tickets online: Victoria Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428 Ticket in Hong Kong.
Once you arrive to Hong Kong Island to visit Victoria Peak you can use the rest of the day to explore the island.
Option 2: Hiking Kowloon Peak & Suicide Cliff.
If you prefer more active way of exploring the city, hiking Kowloon peak would be the top choice and I would highly recommend to sqeez it in your Hong Kong 3-day itinerary. Kowloon Peak & Suicide Cliff is absolutely the best hike in Hong Kong. The starting point of the Kowloon Peak hike vary depending on the route you choose. The hike to Kowloon Peak is considered moderately challenging, with some steep ascents and uneven terrain. It would be good to have prior hiking experience and you must wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and a hat.
My highest tour recommendations for Hong-Kong Skyline view:
Luxury Yacht Experience from Victoria Harbour HK Night Cruise (Unlimited snacks and drinks + Victoria Harbor photography) – my no ONE! Loved it.
Giant Buddha – extremely popular Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Ticket in Hong Kong.
Day 2 - Victoria Harbour & Avenue of Stars.
Take a walk along the beautiful promenade of Avenue of Stars – the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront in Kowloon, where you can see the skyline from across the harbour. The Symphony of Lights show, a daily light and sound display involving many buildings on both sides of the harbour (usually starts at 8pm).
To experience the energy of Hong Kong’s skyline at night you must go on a Luxury Yacht Experience from Victoria Harbour HK Night Cruise (Unlimited snacks and drinks + Victoria Harbor photography)!
The Avenue of Stars – displays over 100 hand imprint plaques of movie directors, scriptwriters and celebrities, along with towering skyscrapers. The bulevard is busy all day and night long, it seems like the city never sleeps.
Things to do in the area:
- Visit luxury Shopping Centre
- Hong Kong Space Museum – check events & exhibitions here.
- Hong Kong Arts Centre – All events Here.
- Water Taxis to Hong Kong Island – book tickets with Klook.
- Upper deck view with lovely DJ cafes.
Day 3 - Macau biggest casino hub!
Macau may be currently the world’s biggest casino entertainment hub. The Chinese city is the only place among Asian countries where casino gambling is legal. The city is a unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences, which makes it unique looking.
Fixed time ticket holders can enjoy the convenience of booking in advance for seat guarantee (a must-do during peak seasons!). You can wheter go with TurboJet – most popular Hong Kong – Macau Ferry by TurboJet or Hong Kong – Macau Ferry by Cotai Water Jet.
Once you reach the shores of Macau it’s a great idea to treat yourself in 360 Cafe of one of the luxury Buffets:
After you may go on a tour to see all city highlights with lovely Macau Sightseeing Day Tour or Macau Open Top Bus Night Tour.
City attractions you can’t miss:
- The Venetian Macao – one of the largest casino resorts in the world, The Venetian Macao features a replica of the Grand Canal in Venice with gondola rides, shopping, and entertainment.
- Macau Tower – with stunning panoramic views of the city. Macau Tower is a popular spot for thrill-seekers looking to experience activities such as bungee jumping, skywalking, and dining at the revolving 360° Café.
- Senado Square – vibrant public square surrounded by pastel-colored neoclassical buildings. Senado Square is a great place to stroll, shop and colonial history.
- Ruins of St. Paul’s – iconic landmark, one of the most famous symbols of Macau, is the facade of the 16th-century St. Paul’s Church
