Hong Kong is a big, thriving metropolis and 48 hours will never seem like enough time to fully experience the delights and attractions of its many districts, the cosmopolitan luxury, varied restaurants and fantastic nightlife, and the eclectic mixture of local culture. The incredible skyline and frenzied harbor of Hong Kong, adorned by a sheer greenish backdrop is one of the most spectacular sights in the world! If you can only spend 48 hours in Hong Kong, below are some of the best ways in which you could squeeze in different options such as sightseeing, eating, and reveling in the diverse views of this magnificent metropolis.
The First 24 Hours
Take a view from the Peak
Start your vacation on a bright note with a pleasurable trip to Victoria Peak. Traveling via the Tram will offer the most picturesque views. The Tram is an almost vertical funicular railway which has been operating for over a century. Go to the Peak Tower after getting to the top and revel in the stunning 360-degree views, you can also walk along the Harlech and Lugard roads to enjoy the leafy green loop.
Culinary delights in the afternoon
Take the Tram back to Central and enjoy a little bit of local atmosphere along with servings of dim sum at Lin Heung, a traditional and busy tea house operating in the area for more than eight decades. Here, you will also find plentiful lo mai gai.
Continue the fun in Sheung Wan
Continue the tour towards Hollywood Road to check out the incense-filled Man Ho Temple. Built in the mid-1800s, it’s a beautifully intricate structure full of antiques and art dealers. Towards the north are several streets lined with different kinds of stores selling varied items ranging from ginseng, rice, and tea to dried seafood. Cat Street, situated in the vicinity, is where you can check out kitsch and trinkets. Continue south towards Tai Ping Shan Street and get surprised by the drastic change in the scenery. Here, you will find some of the trendiest indie boutiques, galleries, and diners in Hong Kong. Take a break at Teakha and delight your taste buds with osmanthus chiffon cake and lemon-caramel iced tea, while simultaneously surveying the animated surroundings.
Dinner and drinks
Enjoy delicious cocktails at Sevva, a chic lounge with panoramic views located on the Prince’s building’s rooftop. Or head to Lung King Heen, the Cantonese restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel and enjoy delicious cuisines with marvelous views of the harbor. Another great option is the Hutong located on the 28th floor at One Peking Road. Reserve a window seat and enjoy the fantastic display of light and sound while digging your teeth into northern Chinese cuisines, especially “Ma La” chili prawns that comes fried with plentiful whole Sichuan chilies.
Partying in the night
Party the night away in Lan Kwai Fong , the place with the best nightclubs. If you’re looking to relax and unwind, opt for a reflexology massage at any one of the spas in Central, most of them are open late.
The Next 24 Hours
Enjoy a quiet, peaceful morning
Head to the southern part of Hong Kong Island to Stanley and enjoy a pleasurable walk along an attractive boardwalk flanked by a tranquil bay, home to multicolored wooden boats and large luxury yachts. You can also check out the market, stroll through the beach, or enjoy a flavorful breakfast at one of the sea-facing cafés.
Lunch and more
Take the smart green-colored Hong Kong trams to one of the bustling dai pai dongs for a taste of the local cuisine. Dai pai dongs are open-air food stalls, and the best ones are located at Wellington Street as well as at the end of Graham Street near Stanley Street. Delight your taste buds with bountiful servings of noodles in the company of locals and strangers.
Afternoon at wondrous Kowloon
If you’re looking for luxury shopping in Hong Kong, then there is no better place than Tsim Sha Tsui at the end of the Kowloon peninsula. If you’re want to shop for traditional items, or desire a more local shopping experience, then you need to visit the Temple Street Market and the Jade Market situated at Yau Ma Tei. Women may look for bargain buys at the Ladies’ Market. The Goldfish Market at Prince Edward is another great place to shop, or you can head to Salisbury Road and get a bit of culture by visiting the Space Museum, the Cultural Centre, and the Museum of Art.
Dinner and drinks
One Harbor Road at the Grand Hyatt and the Ozone in The Ritz-Carlton are fantastic places for dinner and drinks while taking in the distinctive views of this megacity. Afterward, head to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront promenade to enjoy scintillating music along with the “Symphony of Lights” a glitzy laser light show.
Been to Hong Kong and have some tips to share on the best restaurants or sights? Post them in the comments below