The ultimate 3 day weekend in Hong Kong (not your normal tourist guide)
Whether Hong Kong is you holiday destination or you’re just stopping off there on the way to S E Asia - it’s a city that is unlike anywhere else. While there are hundreds of great tourist attractions in the city, this is an alternative Chasing Threads guide for getting out a bit further afield with beach, rainforest, rooftop bars and nightlife...
DAY 1
Drop off your bags and get straight back out! Jet lag whaaaat?
If you’re feeling spritely and want to stretch those economy-seat-legs, take a hike to the most famous view, Victoria Peak (I know, I know, a bit obvious, but you cant really miss this one).
Walk through the Botanical Gardens then take one of the smaller paths, like the Garden Trail, to wind up through rainforest to the Peak. We can’t lie, it’s fairly steep but it’s worth the views all the way!
If sweating up a steep hill after a day of travelling isn't for you (fair enough) the historical Peak tram gets you up there with an exciting incline and great views. Just beware on a weekend as you could be queuing hours to buy a ticket and no one with a short time frame wants that…
Fingers crossed for a clear day to take in the sprawling metropolis, container ships and distant islands.
Avoid the selfie sticks by the commercialised tram terminus and walk around the back for views out to Lamma and Lantau.
If you’re there as the sun goes down, watch the city transform with light.
For dinner you have a million amazing choices, but we’d suggest getting stuck straight into some dim sum! Try Din Tai Fung and don’t miss the xiao long bao.
Get a good sleep for an early start tomorrow.
DAY 2
Get some breakfast - the Flying Pan for a classic dirty fry up - and head down to central ferry piers. Loads of great island options (Lamma, Cheung Chau, Peng Chau- all worth a visit if you have time) but we recommend getting a ferry to Mui Wo on Lantau island.
Take the lovely walking trail around the coast and over the island - 2 to 3 hours of great views out to sea, look out for buffalo, snakes & spiders.
The walk ends at Pui O beach - get out of your hiking boots, into some swimmies and get in that sea!
Watch the sun go down with a game of frisbee or some beers at Mavericks bar. Not what you first imagine of Hong Kong eh?
Grab a bus back to Mui Wo ferry or the MTR at Tung Chung back to central with a road beer. If you’re still going, grab some drinks at 99 Bottles before experiencing the of nightlife of Lan Kwai Fong. Upside-down vodka jelly at Al’s Diner anyone..?
You’re welcome.
DAY 3
Still with us..? Great! Get yourself back to the Central ferry pier and take the famous Star Ferry over to Tsim Tsui Tsui on Kowloon side. Try some local street food (Gaa Lei Yu Dan = Curry Fish Ball, Siu Mai = Steamed Dumpling, Gai dan jai = egg waffle or Bo Lo Bao = Pineapple Bun) explore the markets and pop into the History Museum if you’re into a bit of culture!
Hong Kong never looks as photogenic as it does from the sea by night.
Take the only inherent junk boat left in Hong Kong for a cruise around the harbour.
The Duk Ling sailing junk has become an icon in the city and the 1.5 hour cruise is best taken as the sun goes down while enjoying a wine or two on board.
Disembark back on the Central side and get yourself up to a rooftop bar! Try Wooloomooloo on Hennessy Road for a steamy rooftop cocktail and views over Happy Valley, or C’est La Vie Sky Deck on the top of California Tower for a Happy Hour drink.
Tired..?? Great!
Head to the airport and don't forget to stitch your passport cover to mark off the epic long weekend.
