Hong Kong Airport Guide: How to Reach the City, Hotels & Lounges?

Hong Kong International Airport is located about 34 km from the city center, and travelers can transfer directly to downtown using several convenient transport options.

The Airport Express train is the fastest choice, reaching Central in about 24 minutes with departures every 10 minutes.

Buses provide a cheaper option with routes to major districts like Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, while taxis offer direct door-to-door service in around 30–45 minutes. Depending on your budget, luggage, and schedule, these options make getting from the airport to the city quick and straightforward.

Learn the 4 best ways to reach Hong Kong's city center, including the MTR Airport Express, shuttle bus, and taxis.

Basic Info About Hong Kong Airport (HKG)

The airport connects Hong Kong to over 200 destinations worldwide

Hong Kong International Airport (IATA: HKG, ICAO: VHHH) is a major global aviation hub located on Chek Lap Kok island, operating 24 hours and serving hundreds of destinations worldwide.

For the latest flight information, transport details, and passenger services, visit the official website: Hong Kong International Airport Official Site.

Covering over 1,255 hectares (4.8 square miles, roughly the size of 1,800 standard football fields), it’s one of the largest and busiest airports in the world.

It handles both passenger and cargo traffic. Free Wi-Fi, ATMs, and luggage services are available throughout the airport. The airport has two terminals:

• Terminal 1: Handles most international flights.
• Terminal 2: Currently under renovation but set to reopen with expanded facilities.

✅If you're curious about how to stay connected in HK, check out the following packages for cheap and fast HK eSIM/SIM!

How to Get from Hong Kong Airport to City?

Hong Kong has an extensive public transport network

Hong Kong International Airport is approximately 34 km (21 miles) from the city center. You can take the Airport Express train, which connects the airport to Hong Kong Station in about 24 minutes. Buses, such as Cityflyer routes, are cheaper and offer scenic rides but take longer. Taxis and car rentals are also available.

Tips for you~🚆 Want speed and convenience? Hop on the Airport Express. Need to stick to a tight budget? The airport shuttle buses are your best bet. Looking for flexibility? A car rental might be perfect for you.

Here are the top transport means from Hong Kong Airport to City:

No matter if you're riding public transport in HK, grabbing snacks at a convenience store, or paying for a quick meal, the Octopus Card is your all-in-one solution.

How to Take a Taxi at Hong Kong Airport?

Source from Unsplash: Jerry Zhang | Take a taxi in HK

A taxi is perfect if you have heavy luggage, are traveling with family, or want to skip the hassle of public transport. It’s not the cheapest option, but the convenience is superb—just hop in and enjoy the ride!

👀Note: Have small bills ready, as most drivers don’t accept cards. Show your address in Cantonese to avoid confusion.

How Much Does It Cost?

• To Central or Kowloon: $38–$51 USD, depending on traffic.
• Extras: Expect a $6 USD airport toll and $2–$4 USD per piece of luggage.

Where to Find Taxis

Head to the official taxi stands outside the Arrivals Hall, organized by taxi type:

• Red Taxis: Serve urban areas like Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.
• Green Taxis: Operate in the New Territories.
• Blue Taxis: Cover Lantau Island.

Best Taxi App

Download the HKTaxi app for a smoother experience. It supports English and lets you book taxis, track your ride, and pay electronically—all without needing cash.

You can book a taxi in Hong Kong using ride-hailing apps like Uber, which allows passengers to request metered taxis and track their rides directly through the app. For more information or to download the app, visit the official website: https://www.uber.com/hk/en/.

How to Take the MTR (HK Airport Express Train)?

The main public transportation system in Hong Kong

If you’re looking for the smoothest, quickest way to get from Hong Kong International Airport to the city, the Airport Express Train is your best bet. This sleek, modern train is a favorite among travelers for its speed, comfort, and reliability. In just about 24 minutes, you can glide from the airport to Hong Kong downtown.

How to Take HK Airport Express Train

Once you land, follow the signs in Terminal 1 to the Airport Express Station. Tickets can be purchased at the station’s ticket counters, vending machines, or online ahead of time for added convenience. If you’re using an Octopus Card, simply tap it at the gates. Trains depart every 10 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long. Once onboard, enjoy the spacious seating, ample luggage storage, and free Wi-Fi.

1. Buy Your Ticket: Get it at the station, online, or use your Octopus Card.
2. Follow the Signs: Head to the Airport Express Station in Terminal 1. Then scan the ticket QR code on your phone to pass the gate.
3. Board the Train: Trains run every 10 minutes, so just hop on and relax.

Scan the ticket to pass the fare gate

HK Airport Express Route & Timetable

The Airport Express Train is a quick and efficient way to travel between Hong Kong International Airport and the city. The journey from the airport to Kowloon Station takes just 22 minutes, while reaching Hong Kong Station in Central takes 24 minutes. If you’re heading to AsiaWorld-Expo, the ride is a short 2 minutes from the airport.

*All Info is subject to Dec 2024

How to Take HK Airport Bus to and from Hong Kong Airport?

Source from Travel China Guide | Take the airport bus to the city center

The Hong Kong Airport Bus is a cheap and convenient option for traveling between Hong Kong International Airport and various city destinations. The bus services are categorized by letters:

• A Routes: Airport bus services connecting the airport to urban areas.
• E Routes: External bus services serving areas outside the immediate airport vicinity.
• NA Routes: Night express bus services operating during late hours.
• N Routes: Standard night bus services.
• S Routes: Shuttle buses providing connections to and from the airport.

Fares for the airport and night express buses range from approximately HKD 4 to HKD 50. Regular bus services are more economical, with fares between HKD 15 and HKD 30. Given the extensive network of bus routes, it's advisable to consult the airport information counters upon arrival for the most current schedules and route details.

How to Take Shuttles to Hong Kong Airport?

Taking shuttles from attractions is convenient

If you live in Discovery Bay or Park Island, getting to Hong Kong International Airport is simple with the dedicated shuttle services. These buses run frequently, are budget-friendly, and take you straight to the airport without the hassle of multiple transfers.

• The DB02R shuttle from Discovery Bay runs from 5:30 AM to 3:30 AM daily, with a fare of HKD 48. It picks up passengers at the DB Plaza Bus Terminus and takes about 30 minutes, stopping at places like Tung Chung along the way.
• For Park Island residents, the NR334 shuttle operates between 6:30 AM and 12:30 AM for HKD 31.2, with stops at Cathay City and the airport's Carpark 1 Coach Station.

These shuttles are a great option if you want a quick and easy way to reach the airport. Just check the latest schedules before you go, pack light, and enjoy a smooth ride!

How to Buy an Octopus Card at Hong Kong Airport?

A widely used contactless payment card in Hong Kong

The Octopus Card saves you from fumbling with cash or figuring out exact change. Plus, it offers discounts on certain transport routes.

It can be used in transport like the Airport Express, MTR, buses, trams, and ferries, and it also works for cashless payments at convenience stores, restaurants, supermarkets, vending machines, and even parking meters.

Where to Get It

You can grab an Octopus Card as soon as you arrive at Hong Kong International Airport from Counter A13 in the Arrival Hall (open 8:00 AM–9:00 PM) or at West Kowloon Station (Counter B2-15) (open 9:30 AM–5:30 PM). The card costs approximately $14.67 USD, and it comes preloaded with credit so you can start using it right away.

How to Use It

Using the Octopus Card couldn’t be simpler—just tap it on a reader until you hear a beep. The system deducts the correct fare instantly, and you’re good to go. No matter if you're riding public transport, grabbing snacks at a convenience store, or paying for a quick meal, the Octopus Card is your all-in-one solution.

Topping Up

Running low on credit? You can top up your card at thousands of locations across the city, including:

• MTR Stations (automatic top-up machines or service counters)
• 7-Eleven and OK Stores
• Supermarkets like Watsons and Mannings
• Fast-food chains such as McDonald’s

Just place your card on the reader, add your cash, and wait for the beep. The process is quick, and you’ll see your updated balance on the screen.

If you have unused credit at the end of your trip, you can get a cash refund at any MTR station, except for the Airport Express counters. Simply hand over your card at the service desk to process the refund.

How to Rent a Car at Hong Kong Airport?

It gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit outlying areas like Lantau Island, the New Territories, or scenic coastal spots that aren’t easily accessible by public transport. Just note, Hong Kong is on the left side of the road, so you need to be careful when driving.

How Much Does It Cost?

Car rental prices at Hong Kong International Airport vary depending on the vehicle type. Prices suject to Dec 2024, click to check the latest HK Airport car rental price.

• Small Cars: From $106.46 USD per day
• Medium & Large Cars: From $127.17 USD per day
• SUVs: From $127.17 USD per day
• Vans: From $146.12 USD per day

Trip.com is offering a 8% discount on car rentals for new members. Why don't you rent a car for your trip to Hong Kong?

How to Rent a Car

1. Search for Your Vehicle: Go to Trip.com Car Rental, select Hong Kong International Airport as your pick-up location, and enter your rental dates.
2. Choose Your Car: Review vehicle options, prices, and equipment. Click "Book" when you find the one that suits you.
3. Provide Details: Enter the driver’s information and select any insurance or extras you need.
4. Confirm Your Booking: Make the payment to finalize your reservation. You’ll receive a confirmation voucher via email.
5. Pick Up Your Car: Upon arrival, visit the car rental desk at the airport to collect your vehicle.

HK Airport Hotels with FREE Shuttle

Book a hotel with free shuttles to and from HKG

If you're catching a red-eye flight to or from Hong Kong, staying at a nearby hotel with free shuttle services can be a true savior. It takes the stress out of late-night travel and gives you a comfortable spot to rest. Here are two top picks near Hong Kong International Airport🏩

Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung Hotel: The Sheraton Tung Chung is about ~5 km (~3.1 miles) from the airport and close to the Tung Chung MTR Station. The hotel offers rooms and suites in pastel shades and full-length windows from which you can enjoy the views. There are a large gym facing the sea, an inviting pool deck as well as sophisticated destination dining with Sunset Grill, a rooftop grill restaurant featuring dry-aged meats, Yue, a modern Chinese dining, Lobby Lounge for afternoon tea, as well as Café Lantau, an international all-day dining with live stations. It also includes one of the largest ballroom in Hong Kong with 315 sqm of indoor and outdoor meeting spaces.

Regala Skycity Hotel: Located just ~2 km (~1.2 miles) from Hong Kong International Airport, the Regala Skycity Hotel is directly connected to AsiaWorld-Expo. The hotel features three restaurants offering a mix of international cuisines, a bar, and a café for quick bites. Guests can enjoy modern amenities like a gym, conference facilities, and free airport pick-up and drop-off. For some relaxation, the executive lounge is a great option. It’s also a short drive from popular spots like Tung Chung’s Citygate Outlets for shopping.

Can You Get a FREE VIP Lounge at Hong Kong Airport with Trip.com?

Relax at free VIP lounge at Hong Kong Airport

If you’re flying through Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), the VIP lounges are your gateway to a more comfortable and relaxing experience. And here’s the best part: Trip.com loyalty members can enjoy free access to select lounges globally, including HKIA!

Lounges at Hong Kong International Airport

How to Get Free Lounge Access on Trip.com

Trip.com VIP members have exclusive access to lounges worldwide, including Hong Kong International Airport. Depending on your membership tier, you may qualify for free lounge access. Check your eligibility and learn how to redeem lounge benefits here: Trip.com Lounge Access.

Why Use a Lounge at HKIA?

Lounges at HKIA are perfect for:

• Red-eye flights: Relax and recharge with showers, comfy seating, and snacks.
• Long layovers: Enjoy quiet spaces, free meals, and Wi-Fi to work or unwind.
• Late-night travelers: Stay refreshed in private rest areas before your next journey.

How to Get to Top HK Attractions from HK Airport?

The Peak, Hong Kong

Here's a handy guide to help you reach some must-visit spots in HK from HK airport: