Make every minute count between flights at Hong Kong International Airport, with exciting things to do that help you kill time and relax.
Need a reason to arrive hours early for your next flight out of Hong Kong? Well, you’re in for a treat because this city’s major transit hub just received a fabulous upgrade. Don’t worry if you can’t access the airport lounges – many of the airport’s fantastic features are open to all travellers. Whether you’re embarking on a short trip or jetting off to a private island, make the most of your time in transit by taking full advantage of everything Hong Kong International Airport has to offer before your flight. Get ready to elevate your travel experience with things to do at the Hong Kong Airport!
Pre-flight pampering: Things to do at the Hong Kong Airport
1. Sip cocktails at Intervals
After passing security, we recommend heading straight to Intervals – HKIA’s cocktail bar blissfully suspended above the tarmac. This chic spot totally transforms stressed-out pre-flight mode into luxury lounging with craft drinks and eats. We’re obsessed with the mini “flight” cocktails which let you taste-test 2 to 5 drinks, depending on your layover time. Sip hand-crafted G&Ts as you witness the sunset through floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook dancing planes. Consider it a pitstop almost as good as your actual vacay destination – trust us, it’s worth padding your pre-flight time for.
Intervals, Unit 9SB206, Level 9, Sky Bridge, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong, p. 6706 8075
2. Visit the Wonder Zone
On your next flight out of Hong Kong, upgrade your airport experience with a visit to the Wonder Zone. This futuristic entertainment hub at Terminal 1 is every jetsetter’s dream for escaping terminal boredom. We’re loving the immersive VR experiences that transport you to fantastical worlds, not to mention the addictive games providing hours of competitive fun. Parents can sit back knowing the kiddos are entertained at the stations that are tailored just for them. With comfy seating and chill vibes, say goodbye to those pre-vacation jitters, thanks to this brilliant mix of cutting-edge tech and pure entertainment. Just don’t get so engrossed that you miss your flight!
Wonder Zone, Level 6 (next to Gates 2, 9, 36, and 46), Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong
3. Order from Blue Bottle Coffee’s pop-up kiosk
Anyone else crazy about Blue Bottle Coffee? This cult-fave brand is blessing travellers with a pop-up stall at Hong Kong International Airport, so we can get our java fix before jetting off. We’re swooning over the chic, retro-inspired setup, reminiscent of the iconic K67 kiosks. Sip your perfectly crafted pour-over against a backdrop of artsy floral cutouts, and immerse yourself in a serene oasis amid the airport buzz. Exclusive collabs with Kinto travel mugs and buttery Hong Kong pastries make the best pre-flight gifts. Consider your caffeine cravings sorted, thanks to Blue Bottle’s first-ever airport location designed for a laidback coffee break before your holiday.
If you want to explore more cafes in the city, check out our guide to good coffee shops in Hong Kong.
Blue Bottle Coffee, Level 7, East Hall, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong
4. Recharge by the Waterfall Gardens
Why not head to the Arrival Hall’s Waterfall Gardens if you arrive extra early before your flight? Take a moment to lounge by the ponds, watch colourful fish swim, and listen to the soothing sounds of waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery. With interactive experiences from touching the waterfalls to walking the stone paths, you can enjoy a slice of nature without going outside. Consider it the ultimate way to recharge before your flight. By the time you meander through these unexpected tranquil spaces, you’ll feel restored and ready to jet off on your next adventure.
Waterfall Gardens, North & South Gardens, Level 5, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong
5. Book a massage
A pre-flight massage at Oriental Massage Center? Yes, please! This hidden airport sanctuary near Gate 64 offers quick services to loosen up tired muscles and upgrade your whole travel experience. We highly recommend squeezing in an impromptu foot rub or shoulder massage in between flights to melt away tension. With head, neck, and shoulder massages plus mani/pedi options, you can customise your pre-boarding pampering. Whether you want to completely unwind those knots from long-haul flights or simply refresh in a pinch, this is the perfect pitstop for instant relaxation.
Oriental Massage Center, near Gate 64, Departures Level 6, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong, p. 2261 0086
6. Indulge in Gordon Ramsay’s gourmet eats
An answer to lacklustre airport dining? Gordon Ramsay Plane Food To Go. This fab eatery by the Michelin-starred celeb chef offers a premium menu of British comfort foods and grab-and-go options for on-the-move indulgence. We love Ramsay signatures like short rib burgers and fried chicken, plus hot breakfast sandwiches oozing with egg yolk – all made fresh with quality ingredients. We’re calling it first-class, celebrity-chef cuisine that’s actually airport-accessible!
Gordon Ramsay Plane Food To Go, Food Court after Departures (South), Departures Level 7, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong, p. 2754 9106
7. Take a shower
As the ultimate jetsetters, we know looking fab starts with feeling refreshed. For an instant pick-me-up between flights, hit the 24-hour complimentary airport showers near Gate 22. These shower rooms offer everything you need post-touchdown: hair dryers, shampoo, bath gel… Even vending machines stocked with towels, if you didn’t pack your own. After a long-haul, nothing rejuvenates better than washing away travel fatigue under a warm shower. Consider it the first step in rebooting for your next adventure, so you can touch down looking and feeling amazing.
Complimentary Shower Facilities, near Gates 12 & 45, Arrivals Level 5, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong
