If you’re sleeping on Hong Kong as a holiday destination, consider this your wake-up call.
I’ll admit it: the first time I visited Hong Kong, I thought it was just another concrete jungle — skyscrapers, crowds and the occasional dim sum joint.
However, I’ve now visited four times — I have family there — and have discovered that Hong Kong is so much more than its urban reputation.
It’s a dreamy mashup of lush nature, vibrant nightlife, tantalising food (hello, vegetarian-friendly paradise) and cultural treasures.
Here’s why it needs to jump to the top of your travel bucket list for 2025.
Read more: Mountain holidays 2025: trending alpine travel destinations
Island-hopping
Nearly everyone thinks Hong Kong is all about the city, but many people don’t realise it’s made up of no less that 263 islands. Each one has its own personality, and hopping between them is a holiday in itself.
Start with Lantau Island, home to the iconic Big Buddha (officially known as the Tian Tan Buddha), which is perched on the island’s highest point. Skip the cable-car and hike up for breathtaking views and that ‘wow, I earned this moment’ feeling when you finally spot the 112ft bronze statue towering over you. While you’re there, explore the tranquil Po Lin Monastery and the nearby Ngong Ping village for some Zen vibes.
Fancy a beach day? Head to Cheung Chau, a tiny, car-free island that feels like stepping into another world. Think pastel houses, colourful fishing boats and quirky street food stalls. Rent a bike and explore at your own pace. My personal highlight is spotting pink dolphins off the coast of Tai O, a fishing village built on sticks.
Read more: Top 5 trending honeymoon destinations for 2025 and 2026
And then there’s Lamma Island, an indie haven where hippie vibes meet seafood feasts. Vegetarians, rejoice — there are plenty of plant-based options at the casual waterfront eateries here. After your meal, hike the family trail for stunning coastal views before catching the ferry back to the city.
The shopping scene
Whether you’re looking for luxe designer labels or quirky knick-knacks, you’ll find it all here.
For a slice of chaos (in the best way), hit up the Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok for everything from handbags to souvenirs. You can get great home décor in Stanley market.
For high-end indulgence, the Harbour City mall in Tsim Sha Tsui is your spot. The clean, quiet, scented halls offer a moment of tranquillity in an otherwise bustling city.
But honestly, I prefer getting lost in Hong Kong’s smaller, tucked-away malls like PMQ, a former police dormitory turned creative hub that’s packed with local designer boutiques and artisanal goodies.
Read more: Kintsugi Space review: Abu Dhabi’s women-only wellness club
Foodie paradise
Let’s talk food, because Hong Kong’s dining scene is next-level amazing — and not just for meat-lovers. As a Buddhist country, vegetarianism is widely embraced here. Think veggie dumplings, flavourful dishes like Mapo tofu and even Michelin-starred dim sum (including plant-based options).
For an unforgettable dining experience, book a table at Man Wah, the swanky Cantonese restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental that also offers sweeping city views.
Want something casual? Gaia Veggie Shop offers delicious vegetarian versions of your favourite Asian dishes, including katsu curry and sushi.
Oh, and street food? Don’t miss egg waffles, veggie curry fish balls, Hong Kong French toast or pineapple buns. Trust me, you’ll find stalls everywhere, but Mong Kok’s street scene is unbeatable.
Bars worth flying for
Nightlife in Hong Kong is an adventure in itself. Start your evening with cocktails at Ozone, the world’s highest bar on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton. The views? Outrageous.
For something more laid-back, head to Peel Street in SoHo. The vibe is young, hip and packed with cute little bars where people spill out onto the street.
My personal fave is The Old Man, an Ernest Hemingway-inspired cocktail bar that’s been named one of the world’s best.
View this post on Instagram
Hiking heaven
Yes, Hong Kong has a killer nightlife scene, but it’s also a hiker’s paradise. If you’ve got even a sliver of outdoorsy energy, pack your sneakers.
The Dragon’s Back trail is a must — think lush greenery, dramatic ridge views and an easy descent to the beach.
For something more challenging, tackle the MacLehose Trail, which cuts through eight sections of jaw-dropping scenery, from reservoirs to mountain peaks.
