Insider Guide: How to spend 48 hours in Hong Kong

Kick off your Hong Kong experience with a traditional dim sum breakfast. There are many options, but if you can head to Luk Yu Tea House, a local legend and a Michelin-recommended restaurant. Located in Central, we recommend you arrive early to avoid long lines and savour a variety of dumplings, steamed buns, and rice rolls. Pair your meal with a pot of fragrant tea for the full experience.

After dim sum, head to the Peak Tram station. The tram ride to Victoria Peak is an experience in itself, offering breathtaking views as you ascend. Once at the top, take a stroll along the Sky Terrace 428 for panoramic views of the city and harbour. Don’t forget to capture the stunning skyline from this vantage point. At Victoria Peak, you can enjoy the lush greenery of Victoria Peak Garden and stroll along Lugard Road which circles the Peak, providing even more beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

For lunch, indulge in another culinary staple: roast goose. Yung Kee Restaurant in Central is renowned for its succulent roast goose, served with a flavourful plum sauce. The restaurant has a rich history and offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s dining culture. Be sure to try its signature dish alongside stir-fried seasonal vegetables and fragrant rice.

After lunch, venture to the Mong Kok area, one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Hong Kong. Here, you’ll find bustling street markets like the Ladies’ Market and the Goldfish Market. Stroll through the narrow streets, where you can shop for souvenirs, trendy clothing, and unique local goods. The atmosphere is electric, with street vendors calling out to passers-by and the scent of street food wafting through the air.

Next, head to Tsim Sha Tsui for a walk along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. This scenic waterfront path offers iconic views of Victoria Harbour and the stunning Hong Kong Island skyline. Snap photos, especially at the Avenue of Stars, which pays tribute to Hong Kong’s film industry. As you stroll, consider visiting one of the various museums in the area!

As the sun sets, treat yourself to a drink at one of Hong Kong’s sky bars. Ozone, located on the one-hundredth-and-eighteenth floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, is the highest outdoor bar in the world. Enjoy a cocktail as you take in the stunning views of the city at night. The atmosphere is sophisticated, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

For an authentic taste of old-school Hong Kong, head to a lively dai pai dong food stall. These open-air eateries have been feeding hungry locals for generations, offering a window into the city’s street food culture. Although there are plenty of options across the New Territories, there is a nice cluster of them around Gage Street in Central.

Grab a plastic stool and dive into the bustling atmosphere, where servers in aprons zip between tables taking orders. Start with a hot and frothy milk tea, the quintessential Hong Kong beverage. Next, feast on some classic Cantonese dishes like barbecued pork and steaming bowls of wonton noodles. Wash it all down with a cold bottle of local beer, and end your meal on a sweet note with some Hong Kong-style egg tarts or mango pudding.

Begin this nature-focused adventure in Sai Kung, often referred to as the “back garden of Hong Kong.” Take the MTR to Choi Hung Station, then catch a minibus or taxi to Sai Kung town. Once there, grab a hearty breakfast at one of the local cafés. Try a traditional Hong Kong-style breakfast with congee or a simple sandwich before you set off for the day.

After breakfast, prepare for a hike, one of Sai Kung’s most beloved activities. There are multiple trails that will take you to your ultimate destination—Tai Long Wan—but you can choose a section that suits your energy level. The trail from Sai Wan Pavilion to Sai Wan is the easiest, but you can also trek part of the Maclehose Trail Section 2 from Pak Tam Au to Ham Tin, a route that is particularly scenic, offering views of lush hills and the stunning coastline. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks for your journey!

Once you arrive at one of the four beaches on Tai Long Wan, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters or simply lounge on the pristine sands, the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the nearby coves and shores. You can enjoy a picnic, or buy food from nearby stalls.

Hop on a speedboat back to Sai Kung town (you can book it as soon as you arrive at the beach to set your departure time). After a day of outdoor activities, treat yourself to a delicious seafood meal in Sai Kung. The seaside town is famous for its fresh seafood restaurants where you can choose from a variety of live seafood at the market, then have it cooked to your liking. Try the grilled squid or steamed fish, paired with some local rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal with a view of the waterfront as the sun sets.

To wrap up your second day in Hong Kong, you can head to one of the city’s famous night markets. The Temple Street Night Market in Yau Ma Tei is a must-visit. Here, you can browse stalls selling everything from clothing to souvenirs while enjoying local street food. Try some stinky tofu, egg waffles, or bubble tea as you soak in the lively atmosphere. If you’re ready to go home and are staying on Hong Kong Island, catch a ride on the iconic Star Ferry, the perfect scenic ending to 48 hours in Hong Kong.