5 Days in the City of Vibrance
Hong Kong has been one of those destinations I’ve always dreamed of exploring—a vibrant city where culture, fashion, and adventure collide. When the opportunity came up to squeeze in a quick trip, I couldn’t resist the challenge of packing as much as possible into just a few days. The idea of standing atop Victoria Peak, diving into bustling street markets, indulging in local delicacies, and even experiencing another Disneyland—all in such a short amount of time—felt like the perfect adventure.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most of a whirlwind trip, I’ve got you covered. Staying in stylish Soho, this itinerary balances iconic sights with hidden gems and plenty of time for shopping, dining, and indulging your inner Disney fan. Let’s make this quick trip unforgettable!
Things to Be Aware Of Before Your Trip
No Sales Tax or VAT
- Prices in Hong Kong include no sales tax or VAT, so there are no tax refunds for shopping. The price you see is the price you pay.
Octopus Card
- A rechargeable card used for public transport (MTR, buses, trams, ferries) and even small purchases at convenience stores and restaurants. Get it at the airport or any MTR station.
Currency and Payment Methods
- The local currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but keep some cash for markets and street vendors.
Language
- Cantonese is the primary language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Most signs are bilingual, so navigation is easy.
Weather and Packing
- Hong Kong can be humid, so pack light clothing and comfortable shoes. Check the forecast for rain if you’re visiting from May to September.
Etiquette
- Stand on the right side of escalators to leave the left side clear for those in a hurry. Queuing is expected in public transport and popular attractions.
Mobile Connectivity
- Consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport or convenience stores for easy navigation and communication.
5-Day Itinerary for Hong Kong (Staying in Soho)
Day 1: Arrival in Hong Kong
- Evening: Arrive at Hong Kong International Airport.
- Take the Airport Express train to Central Station (24 minutes) and a short taxi ride to your hotel in Soho.
- Dinner: Start your adventure with a trendy meal at Little Bao (modern Asian street food) or Chôm Chôm (Vietnamese).
Day 2: Exploring the City and Victoria Peak
- Morning:
- Begin your day with coffee at % Arabica in Central for a creamy latte and stunning harbor views, or grab coffee at Cupping Room Coffee Roasters, known for its award-winning brews.
- Take the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak for panoramic views of the city skyline.
- Walk along The Peak Circle Walk for a scenic trail.
- Lunch: Try dim sum at DimDimSum Dim Sum Specialty Store or Tim Ho Wan (Michelin-starred).
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Mid-Levels Escalator, the world’s longest outdoor escalator system.
- Visit PMQ, a creative hub for local designers, and shop for cool clothing, accessories, and unique gifts.
- Pastry Break: Savor a classic egg tart at Tai Cheong Bakery, a local favorite.
- Explore boutique stores and galleries in Soho and Central.
- Evening:
- Take a ferry to Tsim Sha Tsui for the Symphony of Lights Show.
- Dinner: Enjoy harbor views at Aqua, try classic Cantonese at Spring Moon (Peninsula) or casual eats at the Temple Street Night Market.
Day 3: Kowloon Adventures and Shopping
- Morning:
- Sip on a creative latte at Knockbox Coffee Company in Mong Kok before starting your day.
- Stroll through Nan Lian Garden and visit the Chi Lin Nunnery for tranquility.
- Lunch: Enjoy street food in Mong Kok, like curry fish balls and egg waffles.
- Afternoon:
- Shop for sneakers at Sneakers Street (Fa Yuen Street) and cosmetics at Sasa or Colourmix.
- Visit the Ladies’ Market for souvenirs and quirky clothing.
- Evening:
- Dinner: Try classic Dim Sum at Dim Dim Sum Mong Kok for a great and budget friendly Dim Sum.
- Head back to Soho for a night out at trendy bars like Iron Fairies or The Old Man.
Day 4: Disneyland Magic
- Morning to Evening:
- Start with a quick coffee at % Arabica in the Star Ferry Terminal before heading to Disneyland Resort Station via MTR.
- Take the MTR to Disneyland Resort Station. Spend the day enjoying rides, shows, and parades.
- Consider Disney Premier Access for shorter wait times on popular rides like Mystic Manor.
- Must-try attractions: Mystic Manor, Iron Man Experience, and Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars.
- Dining Recommendation: Book character dining at Enchanted Garden Restaurant for a magical experience.
- Return to Soho by MTR for the night.
Day 5: Souvenirs and Farewell
- Morning:
- Begin with coffee and breakfast at Halfway Coffee.
- Explore Hollywood Road and Cat Street Market for vintage designer items, jade trinkets, and unique souvenirs.
- Browse unique shops in PMQ for designer goods, art, and cool souvenirs.
- Lunch: Try ramen at Butao Ramen in Central.
- Afternoon:
- Shop for trendy fashion at Fashion Walk or upscale goods at Times Square in Causeway Bay.
- Savor a final pastry and coffee at Passion by Gérard Dubois.
- Head to Causeway Bay for last-minute shopping at Times Square or Fashion Walk.
- Evening: Take the Airport Express train from Central Station back to the airport for flight.
Getting Around Hong Kong
Public Transport
- The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is fast, reliable, and the best way to get around the city.
- Buses and trams are also great options, especially for scenic routes.
Octopus Card
- Purchase at the airport or any MTR station. Add credit and use it to pay for transport, shops, and restaurants.
Airport Express
- Best for airport transfers, connecting to Central in just 24 minutes.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Taxis are widely available but more expensive than public transport. Use Uber for convenience.
Closing Thoughts
This trip to Hong Kong was proof that you don’t need weeks to create unforgettable memories. In just a few days, I explored breathtaking viewpoints, hunted down unique souvenirs, tasted flavors I’ll never forget, and crossed another Disneyland off my list. It was a dream come true to pack so much adventure into such a short time—and leave with a sense of wonder, excitement, and a suitcase full of treasures.
If you’re planning your own whirlwind getaway, let this guide be your inspiration to embrace the magic of a quick escape. Life’s too short not to chase those travel dreams, even if they come with a packed schedule and a bit of jet lag. Hong Kong, you were worth every moment—until next time!
