Your Ultimate Hong Kong Travel Itinerary: 5 Days

Many travelers first encounter Hong Kong during a quick stopover on a longer international journey. With a bit of flexible scheduling, even a day or two can offer a glimpse into this vibrant city. That was precisely my initial experience years ago when a missed flight presented an unexpected opportunity to spend a day in a very warm Hong Kong.

However, Hong Kong is far more than just a convenient transit hub; it stands out as a truly captivating destination deserving of a dedicated visit. Driven by this realization, I recently returned for my first in-depth exploration. Spending a concentrated Hong Kong Travel Itinerary 5 Days provided an ideal introduction to the city’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and dynamic atmosphere. This detailed guide outlines my day-by-day journey, including where I ate and essential tips, crafted to inspire and assist you in planning your own memorable trip to this incredible city.

Traveling to Hong Kong

I took a direct flight from Amsterdam to Hong Kong, a journey spanning approximately 12 hours. As my flight departed in the evening, I arrived in Hong Kong in the late afternoon the following day local time. Since this day primarily involved checking into my hotel (I stayed at the beautiful The Hari hotel) and finding a quick meal nearby, I consider it a transit day rather than part of the core 5-day exploration. The real adventure begins tomorrow!

Exterior view of The Hari luxury hotel in Hong Kong, a skyscraperInterior view from a premium corner room at The Hari hotel in Hong Kong, showing city skyline

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Day 1: Wan Chai & Causeway Bay

With my hotel, The Hari, situated in the Wan Chai district, my first full day focuses on exploring this vibrant neighborhood and the adjacent Causeway Bay, both located on Hong Kong Island.

Breakfast: Cheung Hing Coffee Shop

A quintessential Hong Kong breakfast experience awaits at a ‘cha chaan teng’—these are affordable cafés or restaurants with a nostalgic, retro ambiance. They are local favorites, serving popular Hong Kong dishes.

BreakfastTip: Cheung Hing Coffee Shop is particularly famous for its delicious ‘pineapple buns.’ These soft, sweet rolls, served with a generous slice of butter, are surprisingly pineapple-free. Pair one with a cup of classic Hong Kong milk tea for an authentic start to your day.

Address: 9 Yik Yam Street, Happy Valley

Coffee: n.o.t. specialty coffee

If you’re craving a high-quality coffee after your traditional breakfast, head to n.o.t. specialty coffee, located inside the Hysan Place department store. Situated on the 9th floor, this café offers both excellent coffee and a fantastic view. Access is via the lift at B1 Office; follow signs for ‘Urban Sky.’

Address: Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay

Activity: Walking Tour of Wan Chai

To truly immerse yourself in the character of Wan Chai, I followed a suggested walking route, including iconic stops like the historic Blue House, the bustling Wan Chai Market, and the serene Wan Chai Pak Tai Temple. This walk offers a great overview of the district’s blend of old and new.

Lunch: Kam’s Roast Goose

Even on a weekday during the off-season, securing a table for lunch at Kam’s Roast Goose involved an hour-long wait. However, for enthusiasts of roasted meats, this Michelin-starred establishment is an absolute must-visit. Service is incredibly swift once seated, and the food is surprisingly affordable given its reputation.

Address: 226 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai

Activity: Monster Building

Hong Kong’s distinctive skyline is defined by its dense clusters of high-rise apartment buildings. The ‘Monster Building’ is a famous example, comprising five interconnected towers that house an estimated 10,000 residents. Despite its imposing and somewhat stark appearance, it has become a popular landmark for photographers. To reach it, take a ‘Ding Ding’ tram (opt for a seat upstairs at the front for the best perspective) to the Quarry Bay district.

Coffee: Retro

After exploring Quarry Bay, take the tram back towards Wan Chai. If you’re ready for another coffee break, Retro is a convenient stop located close to The Hari hotel. They also offer tempting treats.

Address: 160 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai

Dinner: Tim Ho Wan

Hong Kong boasts a remarkable number of Michelin-starred restaurants, many of which are surprisingly accessible in terms of price. Tim Ho Wan, renowned globally for its dim sum, exemplifies this, offering a Michelin-star dining experience that won’t break the bank—my meal here cost around €15.

Multiple Tim Ho Wan locations exist across Hong Kong. On Hong Kong Island, you’ll find one in the Central district. While the setting (often within an MTR station) isn’t always the most atmospheric, the ‘bbq pork buns’ are simply divine and shouldn’t be missed.

Address: Shop 12A & 12B, Level 1, MTR Hong Kong Station, Central

Day 2: Central & Northwest

The second day of this Hong Kong Travel Itinerary 5 Days focuses on the Central and Northwest districts, also situated on Hong Kong Island, offering a mix of iconic sights and local culture.

Breakfast: Bakehouse

One pastry you absolutely must sample in Hong Kong is the ‘egg tart,’ and those from Bakehouse are particularly celebrated. These delicate tarts bear a striking resemblance to the pastel de nata found in Portugal. While available at many bakeries, Bakehouse’s version is considered a standout.

You have the option to dine in at Bakehouse, but today, I opted for a takeaway cappuccino, a delicious croissant, and, naturally, a couple of their famous egg tarts to enjoy on the go as I began exploring.

Bakehouse has several branches. I visited the one located near my hotel in Wan Chai.

Address: 14 Tai Wong Street E, Wan Chai

Activity: Hong Kong Park

Our next destination is the Peak Tram terminus, which is conveniently located near the edge of Hong Kong Park. If you’re up for a pleasant pre-tram walk, make your way from Bakehouse to Hong Kong Park (around 15-20 minutes) and enjoy a peaceful stroll through this urban oasis before heading to the tram station.

Activity: Peak Tram & Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak is one of Hong Kong’s most famous attractions, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. Several hiking trails ascend to the summit; for a local experience, you can hike the Morning Trail (2.8 km). I observed people of all ages tackling it, but be prepared for a continuous uphill climb. The path is paved and shaded by trees.

Most visitors choose the less strenuous option: the Peak Tram, which reaches the summit in a mere six minutes. It can be incredibly busy, but arriving around 9 AM, I encountered no queue. Tickets for the Peak Tram are also 25% cheaper if you travel between 8 AM and 10 AM. Note that the Sky Terrace, offering the absolute best vantage point, opens at 10 AM. During peak hours, investing in a ‘Skip the line’ ticket (known as a Ruby Pass) can be highly beneficial.

The Peak also offers various hiking trails at the top. I opted to hike back down via the Morning Trail. Keep in mind that the trail’s end point (or starting point if going up) isn’t directly in the city center, so you’ll have a bit more walking to do to reach the main tourist areas. Planning ahead, perhaps considering the best travel backpack for asia to carry water and essentials, can make the hike more comfortable.

Coffee: Halfway Coffee

The remainder of the day is dedicated to exploring Central. Halfway Coffee is a charming and popular spot known for serving coffee in traditional Chinese porcelain cups, offering a unique aesthetic alongside your brew.

Address: 26 Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan

Lunch: Little Bao

For lunch in Central, Little Bao is an excellent modern choice specializing in creative bao sandwiches featuring fillings like fried chicken and pork belly.

I accidentally made a reservation at their Causeway Bay location and had to backtrack; I recommend sticking to the Central branch for convenience during this itinerary.

Address: 1-3 Shin Hing Street, Central

Activity: Man Mo Temple

If your hong kong travel itinerary 5 days allows for only one temple visit, make it Man Mo Temple. I found it to be the most atmospheric and rewarding.

Address: 124-130 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan

Activity: PMQ

PMQ, which stands for Police Married Quarters, has been transformed from housing for married police officers into a vibrant hub for creative entrepreneurs. Exploring its various floors is enjoyable, and it’s a fantastic place to discover unique local designs and souvenirs.

Address: 35 Aberdeen Street, Central

Activity: Tai Kwun

Tai Kwun stands out as one of my favorite places visited in Hong Kong. This complex was formerly the central police station and prison. The 16 historic buildings have been beautifully restored and now house a lively mix of art galleries, dining options, shops, and cultural spaces. It’s an absolute must-see.

Address: 10 Hollywood Road, Central

Cocktail: 001

Ensure your visit to Tai Kwun extends into the late afternoon so you can experience a unique cocktail at a hidden speakeasy. 001 is concealed behind a plain prison door with no visible signage. Simply ring the bell next to the door to gain entry into Hong Kong’s first speakeasy bar.

Dinner: Ho Lee Fook

I was initially drawn to Ho Lee Fook simply by its intriguing name. Reservations are definitely required, but the effort is well worth it—this was, for me, the best meal of my trip. The menu offers Cantonese dishes infused with global influences from the chef’s travels. The ‘prawn toast x okonomiyaki’ was a particular highlight.

Address: 3-5 Elgin Street, Central

Day 3: Kowloon

Today, we leave Hong Kong Island and venture across Victoria Harbour to explore Kowloon, the bustling mainland district. This day offers a contrasting experience to the more central areas visited earlier in the hong kong travel itinerary 5 days.

Breakfast: Australia Dairy Company

We start the day in another traditional cha chaan teng, the iconic Australia Dairy Company. Don’t expect trendy Australian brunch fare; the name refers to dairy ingredients historically imported from Australia (where the founder once worked on a farm).

This restaurant, operating since 1970, is a genuine institution and, in my view, a quintessential Hong Kong experience. It’s known for being busy, sometimes chaotic, and incredibly efficient—you’ll likely be in and out quickly. Despite the pace, it’s a memorable visit, especially for their famously delicious scrambled eggs with toast.

There’s often a queue, but I was seated immediately on a weekday. Be prepared to share a table with strangers, which is part of the authentic cha chaan teng atmosphere. This busy, communal environment is very different from planning a lengthy travel to australia and new zealand, highlighting the variety of travel experiences available.

Address: 47 Parkes Street, Jordan

Activity: Kowloon Walled City Park

Take the metro to Kowloon Walled City Park. This tranquil park occupies the site of the former “walled city,” an incredibly dense, self-governing settlement. Demolished in the 1990s, it was replaced by this beautifully landscaped park. It’s now one of the city’s most peaceful spots, ideal for a relaxing walk, and features interesting exhibits documenting the history and appearance of the former city.

Coffee (and lunch): Roommate

Within walking distance of Kowloon Walled City Park, Roommate is a pleasant spot for a coffee break or even lunch if the timing aligns.

Address: 88 Choi Hung Rd, San Po Kong

Activity: Tai Shing Street Market

Interested in visiting an indoor market in Hong Kong? The Tai Shing Street Market is located just around the corner from Roommate. Since you’re already in the area, it’s worth a brief visit to see a slice of local life.

Address: 121 Choi Hung Road, Chuk Un

Activity: Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple

Exterior view of Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple in Kowloon, Hong Kong with traditional architectureNext, I visited the Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple. Frankly, this is one I might suggest skipping depending on your preferences. I found it quite overwhelming—it’s one of Hong Kong’s largest temples, filled with crowds, smoldering incense, and loud music from numerous screens. If you’re interested in fortune-telling, however, this is the place to be, with many practitioners available.

Activity: Nan Lian Garden & Chi Lin Nunnery

Fortunately, a more serene experience is just one metro stop away in Kowloon: Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery. Nan Lian Garden, less than two decades old, is a masterfully designed classical Chinese garden. Its peacefulness within the bustling city is truly remarkable. Adjacent is the Chi Lin Nunnery, a nearly century-old Buddhist monastery that is visually stunning. Photography was restricted to the first section, but I found this location absolutely worth visiting for its tranquility and beauty.

Coffee: Coffee Analog

The Mong Kok district is known for its specialized markets, including the famous Ladies’ Market and a Goldfish Market. The area is lively and entertaining to walk through, though the markets themselves didn’t strike me as particularly unique. If you need a moment to pause and enjoy a quality coffee, Coffee Analog is highly recommended. By evening, it transitions into a whiskey bar, but during the day, it’s a quiet haven for serious coffee enthusiasts.

Address: 169 Sai Yeung Choi Street N, Mong Kok

Activity: Avenue of Stars

The Avenue of Stars provides a beautifully designed promenade along the waterfront, offering iconic, postcard-worthy views of the Hong Kong Island skyline. It’s Hong Kong’s answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, featuring handprints of local celebrities (many of whom I didn’t recognize, but some international figures are present). Despite being a major tourist spot, it’s a lovely place for a leisurely stroll by the water.

Dinner: Din Tai Fung

I’m a considerable admirer of Din Tai Fung, having enjoyed memorable meals at their original location in Taiwan and also in Singapore. Their renowned dim sum is equally fantastic in Hong Kong. If you’re in the vicinity, it’s definitely a worthwhile stop for dinner.

Address: Shop 306, 30 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Activity: Symphony of Lights

The Symphony of Lights show illuminating the Hong Kong skyline from the Avenue of Stars at 8pmEnsure you are back at the Avenue of Stars by 8:00 PM for the nightly Symphony of Lights show. This coordinated light and sound display across the harbour draws large crowds but offers a spectacular view of the illuminated skyline.

Activity: Star Ferry

Following the Symphony of Lights, you could take the metro back to your hotel. However, riding the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour is a quintessential Hong Kong experience you should have at least once during your visit—why not now? The Star Ferry operates routes to Central and Wan Chai, offering an incredibly affordable (under €0.50) and scenic 10-minute journey. You can pay using your Octopus card.

Day 4: Lantau Island

Did you know Hong Kong comprises 263 islands? While most of your hong kong travel itinerary 5 days will be spent on Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon peninsula, today is dedicated to exploring another significant island: Lantau. This is also where you’d find Hong Kong Disneyland if that’s on your list. Lantau offers a different pace and natural beauty compared to the urban intensity. Planning a longer trip across the region, perhaps a southeast asia travel itinerary 3 weeks, would also involve exploring diverse islands and mainland areas, much like contrasting Hong Kong’s main areas with Lantau.

Breakfast: Bakehouse

For breakfast, I returned to Bakehouse in Wan Chai. This time, instead of grabbing items to go, I chose to sit down and enjoy a more relaxed meal at the restaurant.

Activity: Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, Big Buddha & Po Lin Monastery

Next, take the metro to Tung Chung on Lantau Island, a journey of about an hour. The primary attractions on Lantau are the Big Buddha and the Po Lin Monastery. To reach them, you ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car up the mountain from a station located directly across from the Tung Chung MTR station.

The cable car ascends rapidly, offering spectacular views during the approximately half-hour ride. As someone with a fear of heights, I admit I was relieved to be back on solid ground!

The Big Buddha is the largest seated Buddha statue in the world. Accessing it requires climbing a staircase of 268 steps. The adjacent Po Lin Monastery is also well worth exploring.

Lunch: Samsen

There is a highly-regarded simple vegetarian restaurant at the Po Lin Monastery if you wish to have lunch there. However, I opted to return to Hong Kong Island for my meal.

The Thai restaurant Samsen has multiple locations and is a fantastic choice for either lunch or dinner. If you’re coming back from Lantau Island, the Sheung Wan location is most convenient, about a 12-minute walk from Hong Kong Station. It can get very busy with significant wait times, but on a weekday, I easily got a table for lunch.

Address: 23 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan

Coffee: EN

If you’re ready for an excellent cup of coffee after lunch, EN is just a 5-minute walk from Samsen. In my opinion, this is the best coffee shop I found in Hong Kong. There’s limited seating inside, but the café is conveniently located next to a large staircase where you can comfortably sit and enjoy your drink.

Address: 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central

Dinner: Yardbird

For my final evening meal during this hong kong travel itinerary 5 days, I chose another Michelin-starred restaurant: Yardbird. Making a reservation in advance is absolutely essential (available two weeks ahead).

This trendy restaurant specializes in a variety of yakitori skewers, using different parts of the chicken. The standout dish for me was the meatball skewer, served with a dipping sauce uniquely featuring an egg yolk to be mixed in. It was utterly delicious!

Address: 154-158 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan

Day 5: West Kowloon & Central

With my flight home scheduled for tonight, this marks the conclusion of the hong kong travel itinerary 5 days. However, having a late flight allowed for a full additional day of exploration. It’s beneficial not to over-schedule this last day, providing flexibility to revisit favorite spots or catch anything missed earlier.

Breakfast: Lucciola at The Hari Hotel

Since I had to check out today, I had breakfast at the hotel restaurant, Lucciola, located at the hotel. Breakfast included a buffet complemented by a choice of one hot dish from the menu, such as French toast or eggs Benedict. It was perfectly adequate, but not particularly memorable compared to breakfasts experienced outside the hotel on previous days.

Activity: M+ Museum

During my dedicated Kowloon day, I didn’t have the chance to visit the M+ art museum, so I made time for it this morning in West Kowloon. If you appreciate modern and contemporary art, this museum is a must-visit. The building itself, designed by the architects behind London’s Tate Modern, is architecturally striking, and the collection is deeply impressive. It stands as one of the most beautiful museums I’ve ever visited.

Address: 38 Museum Drive, West Kowloon

Lunch: Duddell’s

I had never dined at so many Michelin-starred restaurants on a single trip before, but given how accessible they are in Hong Kong, it felt like an opportunity not to miss. As this was my final proper meal of the trip (dinner would be at the airport), I wanted to make it count.

Duddell’s is not the most budget-friendly option, but I had heard such positive reviews that I decided to make a reservation. I ordered the executive lunch, which offered a selection of various dishes. While everything was good, I found the dim sum to be the true highlight. On a future visit, I might focus primarily on ordering dim sum.

Address: 1 Duddell Street, Central

Activity: Central Market

You’ve likely seen or used them already, but riding the Central-Mid-Levels Escalators is a quintessential Hong Kong experience. At 800 meters long, it’s the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system, ascending 135 meters.

Located right next to the escalators is Central Market. This historic building has been revitalized into a space filled with small shops and street food vendors. It’s a fun place to wander through. If you want to try an egg waffle, a classic Hong Kong street snack, Mammy Pancake here is renowned for serving one of the best in the city. This kind of urban exploration offers a stark contrast to planning travel in different climates, such as a travel to rome in december, which involves different considerations entirely.

Activity: ArtLane

For the final activity of this hong kong travel itinerary 5 days, I took the tram to the Sai Ying Pun district to visit ArtLane. I almost skipped it, but if you are a fan of street art, it is definitely worth the detour. The walls of two streets in this area are adorned with vibrant murals created by local and international artists.

Coffee: Winston’s Coffee

Looking for a final coffee or tea stop in the Sai Ying Pun area? I made one last stop at Winston’s Coffee, conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from ArtLane. If you prefer something even closer, Rootdown is another option.

Address: 213 Queen’s Road W, Sai Ying Pun

Following this last stop, it was time to head back to my hotel, collect my luggage, and make my way to the airport. While one could easily spend weeks exploring the myriad facets of this incredible city, five days proved to be the perfect duration for a comprehensive and memorable first impression. I sincerely hope your trip is just as amazing!