Hong Kong is one of our favourite stopover destinations on the way to Australia or New Zealand. In this Asian metropolis, there are plenty of new and exciting things to do and see. Here, you can find an assortment of delicious food, authentic Asian culture, great shopping, and luxurious wellness experiences. Marvel at the spectacular skyline, visit the Big Buddha, or explore the incredible nature.
"My favourite stopover location is Hong Kong. It boasts old-fashioned Chinese neighbourhoods combined with a modern, Western influence, which makes it very easy to get around."
Nicole, Travel specialist
Hong Kong offers an excellent public transport system which makes it ideal to get around the city. Some may say that the transport system is even better than in many major European cities. Hong Kong is a special part of the world and we recommend flying there with Cathay Pacific.
Ever since the British handed over their former trading post to China in 1997, Hong Kong has continued to evolve and develop. Today, it is one of the most densely populated and most developed cities in the world. Hong Kong is a special administrative region to China. However, you will still find a combination of strong British influence and traditional Chinese culture.
Driving into the city from the airport, you will first pass Kowloon until you reach the skyscrapers of Hong Kong. At the harbour, hop on board the famous Star Ferry, which connects Hong Kong Island to the Kowloon Peninsula.
Relaxing is important during a stopover and at Repulse Bay, you can enjoy the longest sandy beach found in Hong Kong. Watch the sunset over the ocean. If you have more time, why not explore one of the offshore islands. Be sure to try the freshly caught fish too, a local’s favourite.
Hong Kong is great to travel year-round. The climate is mild from mid-September to the end of February. Between May and September, the weather is quite warm and humid.
Approximately 80% of the rainfalls occur in Hong Kong between May and September, and August is the wettest month. If you plan to travel to Australia or New Zealand during the European winter, you can expect mild and dry weather in Hong Kong.
Your holiday starts as soon as you board the plane. Sit back and relax as you make your way to Hong Kong. Fly in comfort and style with Cathay Pacific and arrive at your stopover destination safely and relaxed - no matter what class you fly.
You will arrive at Hong Kong International Airport, which is the major hub for Cathay Pacific Airways. After you have reached the airport, there are plenty of options for a transfer into the city including the Airport Express. Take advantage of a Hong Kong stopover package and enjoy your layover to the fullest.
It is possible to reach the city from the airport by bullet train, bus, tram or taxi. The Airport Express train is the fastest way to get to the city. However, if you take a bus or taxi, you can soak up the hustle and bustle on the streets and marvel at the wonderful sights of the city on the way.
Kowloon Station provides an in-town check-in service for passengers departing from the Hong Kong International Airport. Here, you can also take advantage of free shuttle bus services to most major hotels in the Tsim Sha Tsui and Yau Ma Tei areas.
The following transport options are worthwhile:
A trip on the ferry - the iconic Star Ferry offers an authentic experience. Soak up the views of the harbour and Hong Kong Island. The trip only costs approximately three pounds. If you would like to explore other places by ferry, this is also very affordable. A day trip is also definitely worth it if you have time.
The Hong Kong subway is very efficient, clean, and safe. A low fare and a well-developed network ensure that you can get from A to B easily and safely.
Taxis are extremely cheap compared to Europe and there are plenty on offer. The friendly drivers are also more than happy to give tourists a tour of the city for a pre-negotiated amount of money.
The buses also run often and are very cheap. However, a bus ride is definitely not the quickest way to travel around the city. If you would like to soak up the action of the city, a ride on the top deck of a double-decker bus is highly recommended.
Explore the city onboard a double-deck tram - the most affordable, convenient, and greenest public transport mode in the city.
The Airport Express departs every ten minutes and links the principal urban areas with the Hong Kong Airport.
Experience comfortable flight times, connections, and a relaxing stopover. As Australian and New Zealand specialists, we work with leading airlines and can arrange flights that suit your wants and needs.
How can we help you?To get a birds-eye view of the city and the impressive skyline, take a ride on the Peak Tram to Sky Terrace 428. The Peak Tram is the world’s steepest cable railway system and one of Hong Kong’s most popular attractions. It takes you up to Victoria Peak and Sky Terrace 28 for stunning views over the city.
Here, you can find plenty of shops, restaurants, and museums on Victoria Peak. You can easily spend a few hours here! Due to the large crowds that are drawn to this place, we highly recommend that you visit on a weekday.
If the view from Sky Terrace 428 isn’t enough for you, you can also head to Sky100, a 360-degree observation deck on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre in Kowloon. Here, you will be rewarded with a unique view of the city and port.
Hong Kong is a real paradise for shopping. Visit shopping districts such as Causeway Bay, Soho, Temple Street Night Market. Ladies Market (Tung Choi Street) and Sneaker Street (Fa Yuen Street).
Local tip: Temple Street can be very touristy and overpriced. However, if you continue down Temple Street and through the park, you will come to a part of the market where you can find the same products for half the price. This is where the local's shop.
Hong is a foodie haven and a gourmet destination. Here, you can find every imaginable cuisine from all over the world. From fine dining to local street food, there are so many new flavours to discover in Hong Kong. Most Chinese restaurants are Cantonese, with an emphasis on seafood.
You can find a large assortment of bars and nightclubs too. The most popular bar areas are Lan Kwai Fong (LKF), Wyndham Street, and Peel Street. Try the street food classics such as curry fish balls, Cheong fun, fried tofu, and sticky rice cakes or dim sum. You should also visit a traditional tea house during your stay!
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, we highly recommend visiting Lantau Island. You can reach this part of Hong Kong’s New Territories by ferry. The largest of Hong Kong’s 263 islands, Lantau is the perfect place for nature lovers.
Here, you will find lush forested mountains and a collection of beautiful hiking routes. The absolute highlight of the island is the 34-metre high Tian Tan Buddha statue, which is enthroned on a mountain above the island.
Imposing, the buddha directs her gaze towards the Chinese mainland. Once you are up the top, you can enjoy an amazing view of the entire landscape. Other attractions include the Po Lin Monastery and the fishing village of Tai O.
During your stopover, don’t miss a special show: Symphony of Lights. Since 2004, the combination of light shows and music has delighted millions of people from all over the world. The show takes place every night at 8 pm and is without any charge.
The best vantage points for this nighttime spectacle are the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront in front of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and the Avenue of Stars, the promenade at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wanchai, and from the sightseeing ferries in Victoria Harbour.
Details and information on the current regulations for a trip to Hong Kong can be found here.
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At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
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