Stopover in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a favourite stopover on the way to Australia or New Zealand, pairing skyline views with culture, food, shopping and nature spots. Visit the Big Buddha, enjoy harbour views or enjoy a little luxury before flying onwards with Cathay Pacific.
Are you ready to discover the magic of the East?
Since Britain handed its former trading post back to China in 1997, Hong Kong has continued to grow and evolve. Today, it is one of the world’s most densely populated and highly developed cities. As a Special Administrative Region of China, it has its own distinct character, where British influences still sit alongside deep-rooted Chinese traditions.
On the drive in from the airport, you’ll pass through Kowloon before the skyline of Hong Kong Island comes into view. Down at the harbour, step aboard the famous Star Ferry, which has been carrying passengers between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula for generations.
A stopover should always leave a little room to unwind. At Repulse Bay, you can stretch out on one of Hong Kong’s longest sandy beaches and watch the sun dip over the water. With more time to spare, head out to one of the offshore islands, where freshly caught fish is a must-try local favourite.
"My favourite stopover location is Hong Kong. It boasts old-fashioned Chinese neighbourhoods combined with a modern, Western influence, which makes it very easy to get around."
— Nicole, Travel specialist
Best time to travel to Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a wonderful year-round destination. The weather is at its most comfortable from mid-September to the end of February, when conditions are generally mild and pleasant. From May to September, it becomes much warmer and more humid.
Most of Hong Kong’s rainfall falls between May and September, with August typically the wettest month. So, if you’re travelling to Australia or New Zealand during the European winter and stopping in Hong Kong along the way, you can usually expect mild, dry weather — ideal for a few days of exploring.
Flights down under via Hong Kong
Your holiday begins the moment you step on board. Settle in and enjoy a comfortable journey to Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific, arriving at your stopover feeling refreshed and ready to explore, whichever cabin you choose.
You’ll land at Hong Kong International Airport, Cathay Pacific’s main hub. From there, it’s easy to reach the city, with several transfer options available, including the fast and convenient Airport Express. Make the most of your time here with a Hong Kong stopover package and turn your layover into a memorable part of the journey.
Transport in Hong Kong
You can travel from the airport into the city by Airport Express train, bus, tram or taxi. The Airport Express is the quickest option, but taking a bus or taxi gives you the chance to get a first feel for the city, watching the streets come to life and catching glimpses of Hong Kong’s skyline along the way.
Kowloon Station offers in-town check-in for passengers flying from Hong Kong International Airport. From here, you can also use the free shuttle bus services to many major hotels in the Tsim Sha Tsui and Yau Ma Tei areas.
Things to do in Hong Kong
For a bird’s-eye view of Hong Kong and its striking skyline, take the Peak Tram up to Sky Terrace 428. One of the city’s most popular attractions, this famously steep railway carries you up to Victoria Peak, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across the city and harbour.
Discover Victoria Peak
There’s plenty to enjoy once you reach Victoria Peak, from shops and restaurants to small museums and viewpoints. It’s easy to spend a few hours here, especially if you like to take your time. As it can get very busy, we recommend visiting on a weekday where possible.
Enjoy incredible views
For another spectacular perspective, head to Sky100, a 360-degree observation deck on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre in Kowloon. From here, you’ll enjoy a different but equally impressive view over the city, Victoria Harbour and the surrounding islands.
Marvel at the nightly spectacle
During your stopover, don’t miss the Symphony of Lights, Hong Kong’s famous evening light and music show. Since 2004, this dazzling display has entertained millions of visitors from around the world. The show takes place every night at 8 pm and is free to watch.
Some of the best places to see the show are the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, in front of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, and the Avenue of Stars. You can also enjoy good views from the promenade at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, or from one of the sightseeing ferries on Victoria Harbour.
Explore the shops and flavours of Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from sleek malls to lively markets and independent boutiques. Explore popular shopping areas such as Causeway Bay and Soho, then wander through Temple Street Night Market, Ladies’ Market on Tung Choi Street and Sneaker Street on Fa Yuen Street.
Local tip: Temple Street can feel quite touristy, and prices are often higher in the busiest section. Carry on along Temple Street and through the park, though, and you’ll reach a more local part of the market where you can often find similar items for around half the price.
Hong Kong is also a dream for food lovers. This is a city where you can taste cuisines from all over the world, from refined fine dining to simple street food packed with flavour. Many Chinese restaurants here specialise in Cantonese cooking, often with a strong focus on fresh seafood.
There’s a great nightlife scene too, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Lan Kwai Fong, often called LKF, Wyndham Street and Peel Street are among the most popular areas for a night out. Be sure to try classic street food such as curry fish balls, cheung fun, fried tofu, sticky rice cakes and dim sum. A visit to a traditional tea house is well worth adding to your stay, too.
Visit Lantau Island
For a breather from the buzz of the city, Lantau Island is well worth a visit. You can reach this beautiful corner of Hong Kong’s New Territories by ferry, and as the largest of Hong Kong’s 263 islands, it is a wonderful choice for nature lovers.
Expect lush, forested mountains and some superb walking trails, with the island’s standout sight being the 112-foot-high Tian Tan Buddha. Perched high above the island, this impressive statue looks out towards mainland China.
Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with sweeping views across the surrounding landscape. Other highlights include Po Lin Monastery and the traditional fishing village of Tai O.
Entry requirements for Hong Kong
Details and information on the current regulations for a trip to Hong Kong can be found here.