Travel to Hong Kong: Top Attractions in Victoria Harbour

Victoria harbour of Hong Kong at sunset. Source: Man Chung/Unsplash

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Brief introduction of Victoria Harbour

Hong Kong's National Day fireworks in Victoria harbour / Source: Trip.com

Hong Kong is one of the most important financial hubs in the world, and the city has earned a spot among the most iconic destinations in the world. Often referred to as the "Pearl of the Orient," the island is dotted with emblematic skyrises along its shores and is home to one of the most recognizable skylines in the world. Strategically located between the Kowloon peninsula and Hong Kong Island, Victoria Habour is the crown jewel in the city's facade. It is any photographer's dream, with some of the most iconic pictures captured of its shores over the years. On average, the city welcomes about 55 million visitors to its shores every year. Originally called "Hong Kong Harbour," the British renamed it Victoria, after the queen of Britain, and the name has stuck to this day. As early as the 1850s, the harbour had already established its importance by hosting swimming and water polo competitions curated by the Victoria Recreation Club.

• For a day trip, visitors can explore Victoria harbour's many attractions, such as Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Central Pier, as well as the Hong Kong Observation Wheel. The harbour comes alive with a vibrant nightlife when the sun goes down.
• The best time to visit Victoria Harbour Hong Kong, is during the evening when the sun sets, and the skyline is lit up with stunning colors. The harbour is open 24 hours a day and offers plenty of options for getting around, such as the Star Ferry, public buses, as well as the MTR. One thing that makes Victoria Harbour a great place for a night out is the variety of restaurants and entertainment venues in the area.

There are a few options to get to Victoria harbour, but the two most practical ones are using the MTR or taking a ferry. As you may have already surmised, Hong Kong harbour, has a ton of activities and places to visit, but choosing between these can prove a challenge for a first-time visitor. However, there is no need to panic as we have compiled the most interesting places and activities, so you don't have to stress about making this choice.

Attraction near Victoria Harbour

1. Avenue of stars

Avenue of stars. Source: Emmanuel Appiah/Unsplash

Avenue of Stars is a walkway similar to the Hollywood walk of fame that pays tribute to the Hong Kong film industry. It is spotted with statues of the island's famous movie stars, handprints of actors and actresses, memorabilia from famous Hong Kong movies, as well as stunning views of Victoria Harbour. The venue is located along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade in Kowloon and is one of the places you must visit while in Hong Kong. The good news for those planning to visit Victoria harbour is that access and admission to Avenue of Stars is free of charge, so you can visit this iconic street as many times as you want. In addition, the street is open and accessible to the public 24/7. However, some of the peripheral facilities, such as souvenir shops and cafes, are subject to individual operating hours, so you will have to check further for more details. It is always recommended to check the official website or call ahead for updated information before planning your visit.

2. Habour Tours

Speed boat roaring in Hong Kong Victoria harbour. Source: Alison Pang/Unsplash

Hong Kong takes advantage of its unique location on the shores of the South China sea by providing boat tours that take visitors on a scenic cruise around Victoria Harbour. The harbour tours provide stunning views of Hong Kong's skyline, attractions, and landmarks such as the Central Business District, Victoria Peak, the Avenue of Stars, and more.

• The tours depart from several locations along Victoria Harbour, including Central Pier 9, Tsim Sha Tsui Pier, and Wan Chai Pier.
• The cost of one of these tours in Hong Kong varies depending on the type of boat, duration of the tour, and inclusions such as drinks or meals. However, there generally range from around USD12 to USD6 per person. Operation time for the tours in Hong Kong typically starts from morning to evening, with different tour times available throughout the day. However, just like any other tourist activity, checking the official website or calling ahead is always recommended.

3. Sky100 Hong Kong Observation

Cityscape Hong Kong at Twilight. Source: Chester Ho/Unsplash

Hong Kong has one of the most beautiful skylines in the world, and it is no surprise that the city is home to an observatory. The Sky100 Hong Kong Observation is a 360-degree indoor observation deck located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) in West Kowloon, Hong Kong. The deck offers panoramic views of the city and its famous skyline. It also features interactive exhibits, multimedia installations, and a cafe.

Sky100 Hong Kong / Source: Trip.com

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation is situated on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) in the heart of Hong Kong's Kowloon district.

The price of Sky100 Hong Kong Observation admission varies depending on the time of day and whether you book online or purchase tickets on-site. The regular ticket price for adult admission is USD24 if purchased on-site, but if you buy your ticket online, you can save more than USD2 online in advance. Discounts are available for children, seniors, and groups. The observation deck is open every day from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, with the last admission at 8:30 pm.

4. Victoria Peak

Overlooking Victoria harbour. Source: Florian Wehde/Unsplash

Victoria Peak, also known as Mount Austin, is the highest peak on Hong Kong Island. It is a popular tourist attraction that offers panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding scenery. To reach Victoria peak, visitors can take the Peak Tram, which is a historic funicular railway, or by hiking up the hill on foot. Up the peak, travelers can find restaurants and shops, as well as a Madame Tussauds wax museum.

• Victoria Peak is located on Hong Kong Island, and its highest peak sits at an elevation of 552 meters (1,811 feet). The Peak Tram departs from Garden Road in the Central district of Hong Kong Island, near St. John's Cathedral..
• The price for Victoria Peak varies depending on the mode of transportation and the attractions that you wish to visit. That said, the round-trip fare for the Peak Tram is USD12.5 for adults and USD6 for children aged 3 to 11 years. When it comes to the Madame Tussauds wax museum, admission costs USD24 for adults and USD17 for children aged 3 to 11 years.

The Peak - Peak Tram / Source: Trip.com

The Peak Tram is the easiest way to get to the top and operates from 7:00 am to midnight daily, with departures every 10 to 15 minutes. The Madame Tussauds wax museum is open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm daily. However, it's always a good idea to check the official website or call ahead to avoid disappointment and confirm availability.

5. Jade Market

At the front gate of the antique Jade Market. Source: Trip.com

For those interested in jade and other precious gemstones, Jade Street is a popular shopping destination in Victoria harbour, Hong Kong. It is an outdoor market where vendors sell a wide range of jade products, including jewelry, carvings, and home decor. Jade Street is a pedestrian-only section of Kansu Street in the Yau Ma Tei district and is lined with shops selling jade and other precious stones.

The market is located in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong, specifically at the intersection of Kansu Street and Battery Street in Yau Ma Tei, between Jordan Road and Dundas Street. Given the central location of the market, there are numerous amazing hotels and other accommodation options available for those planning a longer stay.

• The price of jade products in the market can vary widely depending on the quality, size, and intricacy. The average price for small jade pendants can range from a few dollars, although larger, more intricate jade carvings or jewelry will cost more.
• Although the market is usually open daily from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, it's always a good idea to check the official website if you intend to visit a particular store. Jade Street is open 24 hours a day, and access is free.

6. The Peak Tram

Tram in Hong Kong. Source: Joen Patrick Caagbay/Unsplash

The Peak Tram is a rail vehicle that transports passengers on tramway tracks to the top of Victoria Peak on Hong Kong Island. It is one of the oldest and most famous tourist attractions in Hong Kong and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour. The whole journey lasts about 7 minutes and covers 1.4 kilometers (0.87 miles). The tram has two terminals, with the Lower Terminus located at Garden Road in the Central district of Hong Kong Island, near St. John's Cathedral. The Upper Terminus is located at the top of Victoria Peak.

The price for the Peak Tram varies depending on the time of day and whether you purchase tickets for multiple journeys. The average price for a round-trip for adults is USD12.5 if purchased on-site, while the same ticket will cost USD11 if purchased online. As with most tourist attractions in Victoria harbour, Hong kong, discounts were available for children, seniors, as well as groups.

• The Peak Tram operates from 7:00 am to midnight daily, with departures every 10 to 15 minutes.

>> Travel to Hong Kong | Exploring Victoria Peak and the Peak Tram in Hong Kong

7. Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong. Source: Trip.com

Madame Tussauds is one of the most iconic attractions around the world as it brings visitors as close to the likeness of their favorite stars as they will ever get. The Hong Kong version of the iconic museum is a popular tourist attraction and features lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and popular movie characters. Visitors can get up close and take photos with the likeness of their favorite stars, as well as learn about the history and art of wax figure making. The museum's Hong Kong branch is located on Level P1 of The Peak Tower, at 128 Peak Road in Hong Kong. It can be accessed via the Peak Tram, which departs from Garden Road in Central, or by bus or taxi.

👉 The price of admission to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong varies depending on the age of the visitor and the type of ticket purchased. The price of general admission tickets for adults aged 12-59 is USD37, while there is a special price of USD27 for children aged 3-11 and seniors aged 60 or above. Special packages and online discounts are also available, so be sure to check online in advance.

👉 Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:30 pm, and gates close at 7:00 pm, so be sure to keep the schedule in mind if you plan to make the trip uphill. However, our advice is to double-check to make sure this schedule is still available.

8. The Star Ferry

Sunset at the star ferry Hong Kong. Source: Jeanne Rose Gomez/Unsplash

The Star Ferry is a passenger ferry service that operates across Victoria Harbour, connecting Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. The ferry is one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around when in Hong Kong and offers stunning views of the city skyline and Victoria harbour. The ferry service is operated by Star Ferry Company Limited, which was established in 1888 and has become an integral part of Hong Kong's history and culture.

The Star Ferry operates between two main terminals: the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Terminal in Kowloon and the Central Ferry Pier in Hong Kong Island. The Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Terminal is in the heart of the Tsim Sha Tsui district, while the Central Ferry Pier is located in the Central district of Hong Kong Island.

The price for the Star Ferry varies depending on the route and the type of ticket you purchase. The ticket price for a single trip for an adult is USD0.34 for the lower deck and USD0.47 for the upper deck. Discounts were available for children, senior citizens, and people with disabilities, and payment options included Octopus cards as well as cash.

If you decide to book a trip on the ferry, keep in mind that the Star Ferry operates from early morning until late at night, with departures every 6 to 12 minutes depending on the time of day. The exact opening hours vary depending on the route and the day of the week, but in general, the first ferry departs at around 6:30 am, and the last ferry departs at around 11:30 pm. As is the case with the other activities on this list, it's always a good idea to check the official website or call ahead to confirm the opening hours.

9. Lantau Island

Lantau island. Source: Trip.com

This is the largest island in Hong Kong and is known for its beautiful scenery, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the surrounding mountains, sandy beaches, and traditional fishing villages, as well as popular attractions like the Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and Ngong Ping 360 cable car.

👉 It is located in the western part of Hong Kong and is fully accessible by ferry, bus, and MTR. The Hong Kong International Airport is located on the island, which is connected to the mainland by a series of bridges and tunnels called the Lantau Link.

The cost of visiting the island can vary depending on the activities and attractions that you choose. For example, the Ngong Ping 360 cable car costs USD 30 for a standard round-trip ticket, while admission to the Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery is free. Other activities, such as hiking, beach visits, and village tours, may not have any admission fees.

Most attractions on Lantau Island are open every day, with hours varying depending on the season and day of the week. For example, the Ngong Ping 360 cable car is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm during the week and only operates from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm on weekends and public holidays. The Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm daily.

Travel ips for Hong Kong

Victoria Harbour Hong Kong. Source: Trip.com

1. Hong Kong Weather

The weather on the island is mild subtropical in nature and is strongly influenced by the monsoon system. The winters are typically mild and relatively dry, while summers here are characterized by rain, humidity, and a lot of heat. Summer hits its peak from the end of May until the middle of September. December to February is the coolest period on the island, with temperatures dipping to 50°F. When planning your travel, it is important to keep in mind that 80 percent of the total rain received on the island falls between the months of May and September.

💗Given all this, the recommended time to visit the island is between October and December because the weather during this time is cool and warm.

2. Hong Kong Currency

The island's currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HK$), and the currency is available in denominations ranging from 10,20,50,100,500 as well as 1000 notes. In addition to paper notes, the currency is also available in coin form starting from 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as HK$1, 2, 5, and 10.

👉 Unlike the mainland, Hong Kong still predominantly uses physical cash for transactions, so make sure to carry enough cash with you. However, you can still use your internal VISA and MasterCard at most formal establishments that offer the service. There are also numerous ATM machines scattered across the island, so you can always make a cash withdrawal at your convenience.

3. What to Wear in Hong Kong

Although the city has a well-developed world-class transport system, you will inevitably have to do a lot of walking while on your trip. From visiting tourist sites to walking in the various markets, a comfortable pair of walking shoes will have to be a key component of your trip. The city's MTR system has many stops, so even if that is your preferred mode of transport, you will cover a lot of mileage walking between the stops.

When it comes to clothing, it is dependent on the weather at the time of year that you plan your visit. Owing to the city's sub-tropical climate, winter clothes are not needed for much of the year since the weather is cool and bearable. However, a sweater might come in handy when dealing with hotel air-conditioning, which can be brutal at times.

👀 In addition, make sure to pack casual and comfortable clothes like jeans and t-shirts, as this is the average dress code in Hong Kong. However, feel free to express your fashion sense and originality since, thankfully, there is no strict dress code for the city.

4. Hong Kong Travel Cost

TThe roaring tram at night. Source: Timon Studler/Unsplash

Traveling to the "Pear of the Orient" involves thinking about the costs involved with planning such a trip. While on the trip, you can expect to spend about USD138 every day on expenses like meals and local transport. If you are planning a trip for two, the cost of a hotel room for a couple COSTS USD122, although this can greatly vary depending on personal preference as well as the time of the year. Therefore, a week-long getaway for two people in Hong Kong would cost about USD1,936, with room for adjustment for various factors. A trip of the same duration for a single traveler would cost about USD976

The city is host to a multitude of events to celebrate festivities like the Spring festival and Lantern festival, two of the most widely celebrated Chinese festivals. Christmas and New Year are also periods crammed with lots of activity and celebration and are something worth experiencing. If you plan to have a shopping adventure, the island is home to the world's major brands offering winter and summer sales, where you can take advantage of amazing discounts in various stores.

Victoria Harbour - FAQ