Hong Kong Reasons to Go

Tourists and locals enjoy the finer things in life in Hong Kong. From next-level hotels to must-try street food and game-changing bars, here are just a few ways Hong Kong will enchant you and leave you wanting more.

See more about Hong Kong on the new season of Luxury Escapes: The World’s Best Holidays, airing every Thursday on Foxtel at 8.30pm AEST. Find out more here.

1. The hotels are exceptional

Marrying Cantonese tradition with modern luxury amid the famous skyline, Hong Kong’s hotels quietly take luxe to the next level. Think Rolls-Royce airport transfers from The Peninsula, the oldest hotel in the city (circa 1928), where you can head to the Philippe-Starck-designed 28th-floor bar Felix for stunning Victoria Harbour views.

At the Mandarin Oriental in the heart of Central, there’s high-end dining and some of the city’s most scenic views of Victoria Harbour, the historic Statue Square Garden and the vibrant city streetscape.

The Regent is an excellent vantage point from which to see ‘A Symphony of Lights’, one of the world’s largest permanent sound and light shows. Renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, this hotel features a collection of art sourced from local artists.

Floating above the bright lights of the city, the modern, minimalist The Upper House feels like a private residence and exudes quiet luxury. It’s moments from the city centre with incredible mountain views.

Rosewood (Kowloon) is famous for an infinity pool that overlooks Victoria Harbour, most rooms have a water view at this elegant hotel.

2. The dining ranges from Michelin-starred to street food

Whatever your budget, you’ll feast like a king in Hong Kong.

Don’t miss traditional yum cha at Maxim’s Palace. The har gow steamed shrimp dumplings, pork buns, egg tarts and the rest of the extensive Cantonese dim sum menu here are award-winning. The majestic restaurant has crystal chandeliers and elegant fittings. Similarly, the historic tea house Lin Heung Lau is one of the oldest Cantonese restaurants in Hong Kong and retains the old-school trolley cart. There’s an energetic, social vibe and the egg yolk buns and siu mai pork dumplings are definitely worth lining up for.

Taste the real Hong Kong when you eat at one of the dai pai dong that dot the streets. Check out Michelin Guide-listed Trusty Congee King (Wan Chai) for congee, Shui Kee Coffee for scrambled egg sandwiches, and Lan Fong Yuen for the best Hong Kong-style milk tea in town. The street food of the Temple Night Markets is also a dream for foodies. Here you’ll find egg waffles, chilli crab, fried clams, sweet and sour pork, stir-fried morning glory, fish cakes and snake soup.

When it’s time for tea, Hong Kong’s cha chaan teng tea houses won’t disappoint. Try the sweet pineapple buns at Kam Wah Cafe or the siu mei, Hong Kong-style roast pork, at Tai Hing.

For lovers of champagne, the hidden private dining destination The Krug Room (housed within the Mandarin Oriental) pairs the brand’s finest bubbles with gourmet seasonal delicacies that combine classic European and Asian flavours with ingredients found only in Hong Kong. Another unmissable luxury experience awaits at Lai Ching Heen at The Regent, one of the world’s finest Cantonese restaurants. Jade features strongly throughout the design of the restaurant, symbolising good luck, virtue and prosperity. Don’t miss the Peking duck.

3. It’s a captivating fusion of east meets west

Hong Kong fuses modernity and tradition. Ancient temples like Man Mo, Wong Tai Sin, and Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery sit alongside futuristic skyscrapers, many of which are more than 150 metres tall. Highlights for architecture enthusiasts include the orchid-inspired The Henderson, the Jockey Club Innovation tower and the M+ Museum.

A visit to Hong Kong immerses visitors in Cantonese culture but there’s more to discover in this international hub. It’s a vibrant destination that offers renowned international brands and diverse cuisines from around the world.

4. The shopping is some of the best in the world

Hong Kong is a shopper’s tax-free paradise, from global brands and luxury shopping at K11 Musea to K-beauty outlets and indie boutiques in the restored historical buildings of PMQ. Pack good walking shoes and prepare to increase your daily step count.

5. Its bar scene is buzzing

With six of Hong Kong’s bars making it onto the The World’s Best Bars list in 2025 and many more achieving a place in the past few years, Hong Kong knows how to create amazing destination bars.

Club room guests of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel can enjoy the 23rd-floor Mandarin Club with all-day dining, evening canapes, sensational views and personalised service. Meanwhile, on the 25th floor, Aubrey is an excellent cocktail bar with a Japanese-inspired menu. Try a bento box or the wagyu sando at this modern izakaya. Seasonal innovative cocktails will delight.

Want a cocktail bar with a cigar library? At The Regent, Qura Bar’s sophisticated drawing rooms and dining lounges provide an elevated drinking destination for cocktails, wines, and fine spirits.

Number 1 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list in 2024 and 2025, the romantic, Italian-style Bar Leone is renowned for serving traditional martinis, bellinis and margaritas – often with a little HK twist. Try the bar’s signature drink, the Olive Oil Sour.

Kinsman is an authentic Cantonese cocktail bar with a retro vibe showcasing cocktails made from local spirits (think snake wine with agave syrup and papaya wine with ginger). Sit in a cosy booth or up at the bar on red leather stools and go back in time for a while.

6. There’s plenty of green space

Hikers love the Dragon’s Back trail for its scenic city and nature views. On Lantau Island, Po Lin Monastery and the 34 metre-tall bronze Tian Tan Buddha are impressive. On the eastern side of Clear Water Bay Peninsula, Sai Kung is beloved by locals, as is the rich diversity of Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve.

7. And other things to do

Whether it’s an Eastern spa experience with a gemstone facial, a relaxing Aqua Luna harbour cruise, a ride on the Peak Tram for views over Victoria Harbour, a ringside seat for ‘A Symphony of Lights’ over Victoria Harbour or a specialty foodie tour, Hong Kong caters to all tastes.

See more about Hong Kong on the new season of Luxury Escapes: The World’s Best Holidays, airing every Thursday on Foxtel at 8.30pm AEST. Find out more here.