Best areas to stay in Hong Kong for first timers

Are you looking for the best area to stay in Hong Kong for fist timers? I get you, it is daunting sometimes to find the perfect location that fits your interested and is convenient.

Choosing the right place to stay in Hong Kong can significantly affect your travel experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this guide will help you navigate the city’s diverse neighborhoods to find the best area to stay in Hong Kong and your adventure.

We stayed in Hong Kong 10 nights in total and the whole trip was divided into three different areas. The public transportation is really good and efficient, so wherever you choose to stay, you’ll be able to easy move around. I put together all the tips here.

Hong Kong is divided into a few regions. If it is your first time in Hong Kong, I’d recommend to stick to either Kowloon or Kong Kong island, near the waterfront. I believe that these are best areas to stay in Hong Kong for first timers.

Victoria Harbour is the beating heart of Hong Kong, separating two distinct and dynamic halves of the city: Kowloon to the north and Hong Kong Island to the south. Each side offers its own unique charm and flavor, making the harbor not just a scenic divide, but a cultural one too.

For first-time visitors looking to experience both the traditional and contemporary sides of Hong Kong, staying near Victoria Harbour- on either side- offers unbeatable convenience and unforgettable views.

Kowloon

Kowloon is the area north of the harbour that contains a few districts that are great for tourists. On the Kowloon side, neighborhoods like Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok are packed with energy, offering a vibrant mix of street markets, shopping, and local culture.

Tsim Sha Tsui (TST): cultural and shopping extravaganza

Located at the southern tip of Kowloon, TST is renowned for its shopping avenues, cultural institutions, and panoramic views of Victoria Harbour.

Tsim Sha Tsui is one of the best areas to stay in Hong Kong for first timers, thanks to its unbeatable location and diverse attractions. The scenic views from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, especially during the nightly Symphony of Lights show, are nothing short of iconic. Take a boat ride for incredible views of the harbour either for sunset or during the Symphony of Lights.

It’s also a cultural hub, home to the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, offering plenty for art and history lovers. These days, there’s a great Picasso exhibition called Picasso for Asia. But go early and prebook your ticket because it’s very popular, so they limit number of people at a time.

Shoppers will be in heaven here, with everything from luxury malls like Harbour City to vibrant street markets at their doorstep. However, its popularity comes at a cost-the area is almost always buzzing with tourists, which can mean crowded streets, long queues, and a generally more hectic atmosphere. We stayed in the area for 4 nights and loved it.

Hotel recommendation:

The Peninsula Hong Kong: An iconic hotel offering timeless elegance, exceptional service, and a fleet of Rolls-Royce limousines.
Hotel ICON: A stylish hotel known for its contemporary design and commitment to sustainability.

Dining recommendations:

Espresso Alchemy: it’s a coffee shop in a mall that serves incredible coffee. Don’t go there for food , but try their coffee.
In the Peninsula hotel, there’s a Michelin guide recommended restaurant, called Spring Moon, that serves traditional dishes in a modern way.

Mong Kok

Just a 20-minute walk (or a quick bus ride) from Tsim Sha Tui, Mong Kok is budget friendly neighbourhood. It’s a place, where you can really immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the city markets, like the Ladies Market, the Goldfish market or the Sneakers Street.

Hotel recommendation:

While Mong Kok may not be known for luxury, there are several stylish and comfortable options for accommodation.

The Cordis, Hong Kong is a standout choice, offering 5-star comfort with a rooftop pool and incredible skyline views, right in the heart of the action.
For a more boutique feel, Hotel Ease Mong Kok provides modern rooms with great access to nearby markets and dining.
For a budget friendly boutique feel, try Tung Nam Lou Art hotel.

Dining recommendations:

Mong Kok is a paradise for food lovers.

For Michelin-approved eats, don’t miss Kam Wah Café, listed in the Michelin Guide for its legendary pineapple buns and milk tea-quintessential Hong Kong flavors in a retro local cha chaan teng.
Another favorite is Ho To Tai Noodle Shop, praised for its traditional wonton noodles.
For a heartier meal, try Yat Lok Roast Goose (Michelin-starred, and just a few MTR stops away in Central).
Ming Court at Cordis Hotel, which holds a Michelin star and serves refined Cantonese cuisine in an elegant setting. Whether you’re in the mood for street snacks or high-end dim sum, Mong Kok delivers an unforgettable culinary experience.
Heartwarming is small place specialized is a few sweets, including ice cream, made of black sesame seeds.

Hong Kong Island

This is another region that I would consider the best area to stay in Hong Kong for first timers. Across the water, Hong Kong Island presents a more modern, international face of the city. Areas like Central and Wan Chai are ideal for those who want sleek hotels, upscale restaurants, and easy access to top attractions like Victoria Peak and the historic Star Ferry.

Central and Sheung Wan: the heartbeat of Hong Kong

Central is where the old British heartbeat of Hong Kong still echoes through grand colonial buildings, chic boutiques, and glossy high-rises.

It’s the city’s financial hub, but don’t let that scare you off- Central is also home to some of the best restaurants, rooftop bars, and art galleries in Hong Kong. Nearby Sheung Wan is a cooler, more relaxed area, with indie coffee shops, art spaces, and antique stores lining its quieter streets. The Mid-Levels Escalator connects the hilly terrain and makes walking fun (and easier in the heat).

This area is ideal for first-time visitors who want convenience. You’ll be within walking distance of the Star Ferry, Victoria Peak tram, Lan Kwai Fong nightlife, and the artsy PMQ complex.

Where to stay:

The Upper House – a sleek, luxury hotel with views of Victoria Harbour and a calm, minimalist design.
iclub Sheung Wan Hotel – a more affordable option with modern rooms and easy access to both Central and Sheung Wan.

Where to eat:

Luk Yu Tea House – a nostalgic dim sum spot steeped in 1930s charm, listed in the Michelin Guide.
Ho Lee Fook – bold, modern Cantonese food in a vibey setting tucked away in Soho.
Kau Kee Restaurant – famous for its beef brisket noodles, a no-frills gem with a cult following.

Causeway Bay: shopper’s haven

Causeway Bay is Hong Kong’s retail heart, where glitzy malls meet bustling street life. Times Square and Hysan Place offer international brands, while nearby side streets hide quirky cafés, local fashion, and cha chaan tengs. It’s a high-energy area that never seems to sleep.

It’s a great base for shopaholics, foodies, and anyone wanting to be close to action without the business-suit vibe of Central. Public transport is fantastic here, with easy access to trams, buses, and MTR.

Hotel recommendations:

Lanson Place Causeway Bay – a boutique hotel blending French elegance with warm Hong Kong hospitality.
Eaton HK – not in Causeway Bay but a trendy, artsy hotel in Jordan (a short MTR ride away) worth considering for its creative community vibe.

Where to eat:

Kam’s Roast Goose – Michelin-starred and legendary for its crispy-skinned roast goose.
Samsen – rustic Thai street food in a hip, bustling space.
Via Tokyo – beloved for its rich black sesame and matcha soft serve.

Wan Chai: Blend of tradition and modernity

We stayed in Wan Chai for four nights. Wan Chai is a fascinating blend of contrasts: glitzy convention centers and colonial buildings, hipster bars and wet markets. Once known for its seedy nightlife, Wan Chai has transformed into a hub of creativity and cool, without losing its authentic roots.

It’s a great middle ground between Central and Causeway Bay, with a local feel and tons of hidden gems. You’ll also find street art, temples, and indie shops tucked among office towers. In my opinion, it’s one of the best areas to stay in Hong Kong for first timers.

Where to stay:

The Fleming – a beautifully designed boutique hotel inspired by Hong Kong’s maritime heritage.
Hotel Indigo – sleek and artistic, with a rooftop pool that has a glass-bottom extension.
Yingn’Flo– a perfectly located, modern and comfortable hotel.

Where to eat:

The Pawn – set in a restored colonial building, offering modern European cuisine with a nod to history.

Frequently asked questions

I’ve covered most of the things I could think of regarding your first stay in Hong Kong in this post. However, let me answer some of the most common questions.

What is the best area of Hong Kong to stay for first-time tourists?

After staying in three different areas of Kong Kong, I think the best area is either Tsim Sha Tsui or Central and Admiralty.

Where not to stay in Hong Kong?

While Hong Kong is generally safe and well-connected, there are a few areas that might not be ideal for tourists, especially first-time visitors. It’s best to avoid staying in remote parts of the New Territories like Fanling, Yuen Long, or Tin Shui Wai unless you’re visiting friends or have a specific reason to be there. These areas are far from most tourist attractions, and long daily commutes can quickly become tiring.

Tung Chung near the airport, while convenient for a layover, is also quite isolated from the city’s main action. I originally planned to stay there for a couple of nights to have an easy access to the Big Buddha and other places on Lantanau island, but I was glad that I didn’t after seeing what it is like.

Must- do in Hong Kong for first timers?

Depending on the amount of time you have in Hong Kong, I think the Big Buddha, Victoria Harbour (and a boat ride for the Symphony of Lights) and the Peak are the highlights. I put together more idea in the guide to Hong Kong for first timers.

I recently discovered Wegotrip, a platform, which helps you choose or design your own design audio tours on your phone and use without internet when you’re visiting places. I think it’s a great thing to use without a guide, but at the same time, get all the information about places you visit. It might be a good idea to start with this.

How many days do I need to visit Hong Hong for the first time?

For a first visit, 4 to 5 days is great. This gives you enough time to experience the main sights, try local food, do a day trip or two (like Lantau Island or a beachy escape to Lamma), and soak up the city’s contrasts-from neon-lit markets to tranquil temples. If you’re into hiking or want to dig deeper into Hong Kong’s outlying islands or art scene, you could easily stretch your trip to a full week without getting bored.

Please note that this post included affiliate links, when you decide to purchase anything through these links I get a small commission at NO extra cost to you, it helps me to keep running this blog! I only promote products and services I use or would use myself. All images are the property of Postcards from the World and cannot be used without permission.

See also:

Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips

Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.