To best experience our vibrant city on your own terms, you gotta stay in a neighbourhood that matches your own vibe. Here are our top picks for where to stay in Hong Kong.
While Hong Kong is small in size compared to most metropolises, you can find exceptional diversity in this unique coastal city. This is why choosing where to stay in Hong Kong can make or break your holiday! Luckily for you, our local team has curated a list of the parts of Hong Kong that are best to stay in for all kinds of travellers. Before hopping on your HK-bound flight, be sure to book yourselves into one of our sustainable hotels, check out the best places for currency exchange, familiarise yourselves with our public transport system, and download these useful Hong Kong apps.
Where to stay in Hong Kong for your next trip
1. For first-timers: Central and Western District
If this is your first time visiting Hong Kong, then we recommend staying somewhere in the Central and Western District. This area spans across the northwestern coast of Hong Kong Island from Central to Sai Ying Pun, and you’ll find plenty of hotels, upscale accommodation, and serviced apartments here.
Also, don’t be fooled by this area’s towering high-rises and unending traffic. We think the Central and Western District is the best place to experience the old and new, and the East and West – their collisions having created the Hong Kong we know and love today. Tucked away in the ultra-contemporary cityscape are slices of local life and culture, whether it be centuries-old temples, authentic dai pai dong (outdoor eateries), hip murals and street art, or shops selling antiques and curios. On the other hand, the party-goers amongst you mustn’t miss out on the exciting multitude of bars and nightclubs in the (in)famous Lan Kwai Fong and Soho!
2. For experienced gourmands: Kowloon City
Consider yourself a food connoisseur? Then the best place to stay in Hong Kong for you is Kowloon City. Located in the heart of the Kowloon Peninsula, this historical neighbourhood is home to a diverse range of restaurants. Whether you’re craving a taste of home or seeking delicious, authentic eats, Kowloon City has you covered. Psst – before you venture out for a Hong Kong-style breakfast, dim sum lunch, or dinner at a local cha chaan teng, brush up on your language skills with our guide on how to order food in Cantonese!
In addition to its gourmet, Kowloon City is well-connected to neighbouring areas that are less frequented by tourists. Take a leisurely stroll through Kowloon Tong, a quaint residential neighbourhood just west of Kowloon City. Alternatively, head south and discover even more restaurants in To Kwa Wan. Finally, hunt for the perfect souvenirs in shopping malls in Kai Tak, San Po Kong, and Kowloon Bay.
3. For culture vultures: Jordan and Tsim Sha Tsui
Tsim Sha Tsui is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hong Kong, which means there’s no shortage of things to do and places to eat and shop in the area. Plan your itinerary with our curated neighbourhood guide to Tsim Sha Tsui!
A nearby neighbourhood to check out is Jordan. While this area isn’t well-known to tourists, we think its proximity to major tourist attractions and budget-friendly accommodations make it worth exploring. Art lovers can head west along Jordan Road for the West Kowloon Cultural District, home to some of Hong Kong’s most frequented museums. Alternatively, you can head north on foot along Nathan Road or by MTR for the famous Temple Street and Tin Hau Temple in Yau Ma Tei. What’s more, Jordan is just a few train stops away from local markets in Mong Kok, Sham Shui Po, and Prince Edward – another way to immerse yourself in HK culture!
4. For business travellers: Hong Kong Island East
Even if you’re in Hong Kong for official business, you can still have plenty of fun and leisure when staying in the Eastern District. Situated on the northeastern coast of Hong Kong Island, the area is conveniently connected to the CBDs of Central, Admiralty, and Wan Chai by MTR, but it’s also slightly removed from the main action – just enough distance to give you a feeling of home after a long day at work. Plus, it’s only a few stops away from Kwun Tong, an up-and-coming business hub (and local foodie paradise) on the other side of the Victoria Harbour.
North Point is an excellent option for business travellers staying in Hong Kong. Like the rest of Hong Kong Island, this neighbourhood has a unique blend of local culture and Western influences. The best way to experience this is to take a tram tour! As for those who work in Taikoo and Quarry Bay, you’ll find yourselves in a laid-back residential neighbourhood, with down-to-earth food options and abundant green spaces to spend your lunch breaks at. And if you don’t fancy staying so close to the office, check out the quaint neighbourhood of Tai Hang. Here, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and local boutiques along its historical streets.
5. For families: Tung Chung and Aberdeen
Travelling with kids, tweens, and teens? Then check out Tung Chung and Aberdeen. Located on Lantau Island, Tung Chung is a laid-back residential neighbourhood just minutes away from the Hong Kong International Airport. While its outlet malls, tranquil parks, and hiking trails are attractive enough, Tung Chung is also favoured by travelling families for its proximity to Hong Kong Disneyland. On the other hand, Aberdeen is located on the southern coast of Hong Kong Island and is perfect for families with older children. You can experience Aberdeen’s fishing heritage through a series of cultural excursions. And if your not-so-little ones are an adventurous bunch, then they’ll have a blast in Ocean Park. This theme park comes with thrill rides, carnival games, zoos, aquariums, and a water park – what’s not to love?
Moreover, Tung Chung and Aberdeen are conveniently connected by public transport, so you can uncover the rest of Hong Kong with ease. For more inspiration, check out these family-friendly hotels and our guide on free things to do with kids in Hong Kong.
6. For nature lovers: Sai Kung
Often nicknamed “the back garden of Hong Kong”, Sai Kung is the perfect place for nature lovers choosing where to stay in Hong Kong. Home to some of the best beaches in the city, water sports enthusiasts can try out a wide range of activities, while luxury travellers can consider chartering a yacht for an extraordinary excursion on the sea.. Or, you can simply catch an affordable boat ride at the Sai Kung Pier to hop around the stunning islands nearby.
Once you’ve tackled the countryside, feel free to explore Sai Kung Town Centre. Chow down on fresh catches of the day at the Sai Kung Seafood Street, or wind down over happy hour. To wrap up your day, take a stroll along the Sai Kung Waterfront Promenade and admire the sunset while listening to the gentle splash of waves.
