Best Things to Do in Hong Kong This Weekend

1. Explore Victoria Peak

Start your weekend with a visit to Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. Take the Peak Tram for a scenic ride up the mountain and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding islands. At the top, explore the Peak Tower, where you can find restaurants, shops, and the Sky Terrace 428, which offers a panoramic view of Hong Kong.

2. Stroll Through the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens

Located on the northern slope of Victoria Peak, the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Spend a relaxing morning strolling through the gardens, where you'll find a wide variety of plants, animals, and birds. The gardens are free to enter and provide a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

3. Visit the Hong Kong Museum of History

For a deeper understanding of Hong Kong's rich history, visit the Hong Kong Museum of History in Tsim Sha Tsui. The museum's permanent exhibition, "The Hong Kong Story," takes you on a journey from the city's prehistoric era to the present day. With interactive displays and multimedia presentations, the museum offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

4. Shop at the Temple Street Night Market

No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a visit to one of its famous night markets. Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, electronics, and more. The market comes alive at night with street performers, fortune tellers, and food stalls serving delicious local delicacies like clay pot rice and stinky tofu.

5. Take a Ferry Ride on Victoria Harbour

One of the most iconic experiences in Hong Kong is a ferry ride on Victoria Harbour. Hop on the Star Ferry for a short but scenic trip between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui. The ferry offers fantastic views of the city's skyscrapers, especially at night when the buildings are illuminated. If you're lucky, you might catch the Symphony of Lights, a nightly light and sound show that takes place along the harbour.

6. Hike the Dragon's Back

For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike along the Dragon's Back is a must-do. This popular hiking trail offers some of the best views in Hong Kong, with breathtaking vistas of the South China Sea, Shek O, and Big Wave Bay. The hike is moderately challenging and can be completed in a few hours, making it a perfect activity for a weekend morning or afternoon.

7. Experience the Art Scene at Tai Kwun

Tai Kwun, located in the Central district, is a centre for heritage and arts housed in a beautifully restored police station and prison complex. Explore contemporary art exhibitions, watch live performances, or join a guided tour to learn about the history of the site. Tai Kwun also hosts various cultural events and workshops, making it a lively and creative space to visit over the weekend.

8. Indulge in Dim Sum at a Traditional Teahouse

No visit to Hong Kong is complete without indulging in dim sum. Head to a traditional teahouse like Lin Heung Tea House in Central or Luk Yu Tea House in Sheung Wan for an authentic dim sum experience. Enjoy a wide variety of bite-sized dishes, from steamed buns and dumplings to rice rolls and sweet desserts, all served with a pot of hot tea.

9. Relax at Repulse Bay Beach

If you're looking for a more laid-back weekend activity, spend some time at Repulse Bay Beach. This popular beach on the southern coast of Hong Kong Island is known for its soft sand and calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or having a picnic. The area around the beach is also home to several restaurants and shops, so you can enjoy a meal or do some shopping after your beach day.

10. Explore the Lantau Island

Lantau Island, the largest island in Hong Kong, offers a variety of attractions and activities. Visit the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha), one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world, located at the Po Lin Monastery. You can also take a cable car ride on the Ngong Ping 360 for panoramic views of the island. For a more adventurous experience, hike up to Sunset Peak or Lantau Peak for incredible views of the sunset or sunrise.

11. Visit the Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery

For a tranquil retreat in the middle of the city, visit the Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery in Diamond Hill. The garden is a beautifully landscaped classical Chinese garden, featuring trees, rocks, ponds, and wooden structures. Adjacent to the garden is the Chi Lin Nunnery, a Buddhist temple complex built in the Tang dynasty style. Both the garden and nunnery offer a serene escape from the urban chaos and are perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

12. Catch a Movie at an Art House Cinema

If you're a film enthusiast, consider catching a movie at one of Hong Kong's art house cinemas, such as the Broadway Cinematheque in Yau Ma Tei or The Grand Cinema in Elements Mall. These cinemas often screen independent films, foreign films, and documentaries that you might not find at mainstream theatres. It's a great way to unwind and experience a different side of Hong Kong's cultural scene.

13. Discover the Local Food Scene on a Food Tour

Hong Kong is a food lover's paradise, and a guided food tour is a fantastic way to discover the city's culinary delights. Join a food tour that takes you through different neighbourhoods, where you can sample a variety of local dishes such as wonton noodles, egg tarts, roast goose, and milk tea. Food tours often include visits to local markets, street food stalls, and family-run restaurants, giving you an authentic taste of Hong Kong's diverse food scene.

14. Visit a Rooftop Bar for Stunning City Views

End your weekend on a high note by visiting one of Hong Kong's many rooftop bars. Sip on a cocktail while enjoying panoramic views of the city's skyline at bars like Ozone at The Ritz-Carlton, SEVVA in Central, or Sugar in East Hong Kong. These rooftop bars offer a luxurious setting to relax and take in the sights of the city, especially as the sun sets and the city lights up.

15. Attend a Weekend Event or Festival

Hong Kong is known for its vibrant festivals and events, many of which take place on weekends. Check out what's happening this weekend, whether it's a music festival, art exhibition, cultural fair, or sports event. Participating in a local event is a great way to immerse yourself in the city's culture and connect with the local community.

In conclusion, Hong Kong offers an endless array of activities to suit every interest, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and culinary delights. Whether you're exploring the city's historical landmarks, relaxing on the beach, or indulging in delicious dim sum, there's no shortage of things to do this weekend in Hong Kong.