Top 10 Things to Do in Hong Kong (2025 Edition)

1. 🌇 Ride the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak. Take the Peak Tram to the highest point on Hong Kong
Island. Visit Sky Terrace 428 for stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour

2. 🎢 Have Fun at Hong Kong Disneyland. A must-visit for families and Disney fans.  Unique attractions include Mystic Manor and Iron Man Experience. Now features World of Frozen, the first Frozen-themed land in the world (opened late 2023).

3. 🏞️ Explore Ngong Ping and Tian Tan Buddha. Ride the scenic Ngong Ping 360 cable car on Lantau Island. See the iconic Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Enjoy peaceful trails and local vegetarian meals.

4. 🏖️Relax at Repulse Bay or Shek O Beach. Escape the city to sunbathe or swim. Repulse Bay offers chill vibes and beachfront cafes. Shek O is great for surfers and hikers (near Dragon’s Back).

5. 🚠 Hike the Dragon’s Back Trail. One of Asia’s top urban hikes. Easy-to-moderate level with ocean and mountain views. Ends near the beach - perfect for a swim after the trek.

6. 🌃 Watch the Symphony of Lights. A nightly light and music show at 8 PM. Best viewed from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade or a Star Ferry ride.

7. 🏛️ Visit the M+ Museum and West Kowloon Cultural District. M+ is Asia’s leading contemporary art museum. Stroll the Art Park and enjoy waterfront views and public art.

8. 🍜 Eat Your Way Through the City. Try dim sum at Tim Ho Wan or Maxim’s Palace. Local must-eats: egg tarts, pineapple buns, wonton noodles, roast goose, fish balls. Explore Mong Kok, Temple Street Night Market, and Central for food stalls and hidden gems.

9. 🛕 Visit Man Mo Temple. A 19th-century Taoist temple in Sheung Wan. Famous for its hanging incense coils and photogenic interiors.

10. 🛍️ Shop in Mong Kok and Causeway Bay. Mong Kok: Sneakers, gadgets, cheap finds, and night markets. Causeway Bay: Big-name brands and mega malls like Times Square and Hysan Place.

✅ Bonus: Take the Star Ferry. A scenic and budget-friendly way to cross Victoria Harbour. Offers unbeatable views of Hong Kong’s skyline — day or night.

 

🆓 Top 10 FREE Things to Do in Hong Kong

1. 🌇 Watch the Symphony of Lights. Every night at 8:00 PM, Hong Kong’s skyline comes alive with lights, lasers, and music. Best viewed from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade or Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai.

2. 🛳 Ride the Star Ferry (if using a tourist pass). The ride costs less than HK\$3, but on certain tourist passes or promotions, it’s free. Great views of Victoria Harbour between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui.

3. 🌄 Hike the Dragon’s Back Trail. One of the best free outdoor activities in Hong Kong. Offers stunning views of the coastline, Shek O Beach, and lush green hills.

4. 🛕 Visit Man Mo Temple. A historic temple in Sheung Wan is filled with incense and traditional Chinese architecture. Free to enter and photograph (respectfully).

5. 🖼️ Explore the West Kowloon Art Park & M+ Museum Public Spaces. Walk around West Kowloon Cultural District, enjoy harbor views, and visit open-air installations. M+ Museum’s rooftop and some ground floor exhibitions are often free to access.

6. 🧘 Stroll Through Nan Lian Garden. A beautifully landscaped classical Chinese garden in Diamond Hill, Kowloon. Peaceful, photogenic, and completely free.

7. 🕌 Visit Chi Lin Nunnery. Located next to Nan Lian Garden. A spiritual, serene space with lotus ponds, wooden halls, and Buddhist architecture.

8. 🏙️ Wander Through PMQ in Central. Former police quarters transformed into a creative hub. Free to explore art spaces, exhibitions, and local design shops.

9. 🎨 See Street Art in Central & Sham Shui Po. Take a DIY street art tour through neighborhoods like SoHo, Sheung Wan, and Sham Shui Po. Great photo ops with murals, graffiti, and local creativity.

10. 📷Take in the View from Sky100 (Public Area at ICC). While the official observation deck charges admission, you can get free views from the public lobby levels at the International Commerce Centre (ICC) or IFC Mall.

✅ Bonus Free Tips. Window-shop in Mong Kok Night Market.  Visit Tai Kwun, a revitalized heritage police station transformed into an art and culture hub. Attend free events and festivals, especially around Lunar New Year or the Mid-Autumn Festival. 

When in Singapore GOTO free attractions and experiences

Singapore offers plenty of free attractions and experiences that showcase its rich culture, nature, and skyline. Here's a curated list: 

🌿Nature & Outdoors

1. Gardens by the Bay (Free Areas). Stroll through the Outdoor Gardens, including Supertree Grove, Heritage Gardens, and Dragonfly Lake. Supertree light show (Garden Rhapsody) is free nightly at 7:45 PM & 8:45 PM.

2. Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade. Enjoy skyline views and night walks with breeze, art installations, and light displays.

3. Singapore Botanic Gardens. (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Beautiful, historical garden with walking trails, lakes, and lawns. Open daily, entry is free.

4. East Coast Park. Free beach, cycling paths, barbecue pits, and a relaxed seaside vibe.

5. Southern Ridges & Henderson Waves. Scenic 10 km walking trail through forests, bridges, and parks.

6. MacRitchie Reservoir & TreeTop Walk. Free rainforest trails and a suspension bridge for nature lovers.

🏙️ Iconic Attractions & Views

7. Merlion Park. Snap photos with Singapore’s half-lion, half-fish national icon with Marina Bay Sands in the background.

8. Jewel Changi Airport (Free Zones). See the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.    Stroll the Shiseido Forest Valley- no entry ticket needed.

9. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. Watch free performances at the Concourse or Outdoor Theatre (check schedule).

🧘Culture & Heritage

10. Sri Mariamman Temple / Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (Chinatown). Free to enter and explore these intricate religious landmarks 

11. Sultan Mosque & Haji Lane (Kampong Glam). Admire the mosque’s golden dome, then explore the colorful murals and hip indie shops nearby. 

12. Little India. Visit Tekka Centre, vibrant temples like Sri Veeramakaliamman, and street art.

13. National Library of Singapore. Great for architecture, exhibitions, and free rooftop views of the city.

🎨 Art & Events

14. Singapore Art Museum (Free Areas) & Public Art Trail. View outdoor installations and sculptures around the Civic District.

15. Light & Water Show at Marina Bay Sands (Spectra). Free daily show at 8 PM & 9 PM (and 10 PM on weekends).

When in Singapore GOTO Hawker Centers

🍲Singapore Hawker Centres: A Cultural & Culinary Icon. 

Hawker centres are open-air food courts in Singapore where you can enjoy delicious, affordable, and diverse local food. They are an essential part of everyday life and reflect Singapore’s multicultural identity-serving Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan dishes all under one roof.

🌟Why Visit Hawker Centres?

1. Authentic Local Food. Try must-haves like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, char kway teow, roti prata, and satay.

2. Affordable Prices. Meals typically cost SGD \$3–\$6, making it perfect for budget travelers.

3. UNESCO Recognition. Hawker culture in Singapore is listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

4. Community Experience. Locals and tourists eat side-by-side at communal tables.

Maxwell Food Centre is a must-visit destination in Singapore for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of the city's diverse culinary heritage. Located in the heart of Chinatown, this bustling hawker centre offers a wide array of local dishes that reflect Singapore's multicultural roots.

🍽️ Why Visit Maxwell Food Centre

1. Iconic Local Dishes: Maxwell Food Centre is renowned for its variety of traditional Singaporean fare. Notably, it houses the famous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, which has received international acclaim and a Bib Gourmand recognition from the Michelin Guide. 

2. Diverse Culinary Offerings: With over 100 stalls, visitors can indulge in a plethora of dishes ranging from Chinese, Malay, to Indian cuisines, all under one roof.

3. Cultural Experience: Beyond the food, the centre offers a glimpse into Singapore's hawker culture, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The communal dining setting fosters a unique social atmosphere where locals and tourists alike converge .

 4. Affordable Dining: Despite its popularity, the food remains reasonably priced, making it an excellent spot for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy high-quality meals.

🍜 Laksa in Singapore: A Must-Try Dish. Laksa is one of Singapore’s most beloved local dishes—a spicy, flavorful noodle soup that reflects the country’s Peranakan (Straits Chinese) heritage. It’s a unique blend of Chinese and Malay culinary influences.

🗺️ How to Get There. Address: 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore 069184

By MRT (Subway):

Maxwell MRT Station (TE18): Located just a short walk from the food centre .

Chinatown MRT Station (NE4/DT19): Approximately a 2-minute walk to Maxwell Food Centre .

Tanjong Pagar MRT Station (EW15): About a 5-10 minute walk to the centre .

By Bus:

Bus services 80 and 145 stop near Maxwell Road Food Centre .

Nearby Attractions:

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: Situated directly across the street, it's a significant cultural site worth visiting .

Maxwell Food Centre operates daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM . Whether you're a food lover or a cultural enthusiast, this hawker centre offers an immersive experience into Singapore's rich culinary landscape.

Get your Tickets to Universal Studios-Singapore

When in Singapore GOTO The Esplanade

 🎭 Why Go to the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Singapore. The Esplanade is Singapore’s premier arts and performance center, located right by Marina Bay. It's affectionately nicknamed “The Durian” due to its spiky exterior resembling the famous local fruit.

🌟Top Reasons to Visit:

1. World-Class Arts & Culture. (1) Hosts concerts, plays, ballets, art exhibitions, and film screenings. Features both international acts and local talents; 

(2) Free Performances. Regular free outdoor and indoor performances at the Esplanade Concourse and Outdoor Theatre; 

(3) Iconic Architecture. A must-see for architecture lovers—its twin domes look like durians and make for great photo ops; 

(4) Scenic Views. Fantastic views of Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore River, and the Merlion. Perfect spot for a relaxing evening stroll; and 

(5) Dining & Shopping. Restaurants with bayfront dining (e.g., Supply & Demand, Alter Ego). Boutique shops and a library dedicated to the arts.

🚇 How to Get to the Esplanade

By MRT (Subway):

Esplanade MRT Station (CC3 – Circle Line). Take Exit D, follow signs toward the Esplanade Mall. A short 5-minute walk to the main building.

Alternatively: City Hall MRT Station (NS25/EW13 – North-South/East-West Lines). Take Exit D, walk through CityLink Mall toward the Esplanade (\~10-minute walk).

🚌 By Bus:

Bus Stop: Esplanade Drive or Raffles Avenue (near the Esplanade). Bus Numbers: 36, 56, 75, 77, 97, 111, 133, 162, 195, 502, 518

🚶Walking From Nearby Attractions:

Merlion Park: \~5–10 minutes

Marina Bay Sands: \~15–20 minutes via Helix Bridge

Raffles City / City Hall: \~10 minutes

Book your hotel now

When in Singapore GOTO Merlion Park

 🦁 Why Go to Merlion Park. Merlion Park is one of the most iconic tourist spots in  Singapore. Here's why it's worth a visit:

🌟Reasons to Go:

1. See Singapore’s Symbol. The Merlion (half lion, half fish) is a national symbol representing Singapore's origins as a fishing village ("mer") and its original name “Singapura” (Lion City). The statue stands 8.6 meters tall and spouts water from its mouth-great for photos!

2. Great Photo Spot. Get a classic shot with the Merlion and the Marina Bay Sands in the background. Stunning views of the waterfront, especially around sunset and at night.

3. Free Attraction. Open 24/7 and completely free to visit—no tickets required.

4. Central Location. Located in the heart of the city, it’s close to other major attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade, and the Fullerton Hotel.

5. Relaxing Waterfront Walk. Enjoy a scenic stroll along the promenade with city skyline views and sea breeze.

📸What to Do at Merlion Park:

(1) Take Iconic Photos. Pose “drinking” or “catching” the water from the Merlion’s mouth—a fun tradition.  Capture shots with Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer, or the Esplanade; (2) Watch the Light Show. Stay for the Spectra Light and Water Show across the bay (held nightly at Marina Bay Sands);

(3) Explore Nearby Attractions.  Walk to: (a) Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay for arts and performances; (b) Jubilee Bridge for more skyline views; (c) Fullerton Hotel for colonial architecture and history;

(4) Enjoy a Snack or Coffee. Chill at nearby cafés or grab street food from nearby areas like Raffles Place.

To reach Merlion Park in Singapore, you have several convenient public transportation options:

🚇 By MRT (Subway)

Nearest Station: Raffles Place MRT Station (EW14/NS26)

Walking Directions:

  1. Exit the station via Exit H (Chartered Bank Building).

  2. Walk towards the Fullerton Hotel.

  3. Cross Fullerton Road to reach Merlion Park. The walk takes approximately 5 minutes.

🚌 By Bus

Nearest Bus Stop: Fullerton Rd - Fullerton Sq (03011)

Bus Services: 100, 130, 196, 36, 57, 70M, 851, 851E

Walking Directions: (1) Alight at Fullerton Sq bus stop: (2) Walk towards the Fullerton Hotel; (3) Cross Fullerton Road to reach Merlion Park. The walk takes approximately 2 minutes.

🚶 By Foot

If you're nearby, you can enjoy a scenic walk to Merlion Park:

From Marina Bay Sands: Walk along the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.  The walk takes approximately 18 minutes.

 🚖 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services

* Simply input "Merlion Park" as your destination.

* The drop-off point is near the Fullerton Hotel.

* From there, it's a short walk to the park.

Merlion Park is open 24/7 and is free to visit. It's especially picturesque during sunrise and sunset. Don't forget to bring your camera for some iconic shots!

Book your Hotel now

When in Singapore GOTO Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands (MBS) in Singapore is one of the most iconic landmarks in Asia, offering a blend

of luxury, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Here's a breakdown of the top things to do while you're there:

1. SkyPark Observation Deck

*Location: Level 57

*Why go: For panoramic views of the Singapore skyline, Gardens by the Bay, and the sea.

*Tip: Visit around sunset for stunning views and photo ops.

🏊 2. Infinity Pool (Hotel Guests Only)

*World’s largest rooftop infinity pool

*Access: Only for hotel guests

*Pro Tip: Book a stay even just for one night to access this bucket-list-worthy experience.

🌸3. Gardens by the Bay (Adjacent to MBS)

*Don’t miss: Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome.

*Night show: The Garden Rhapsody light and sound show is free and mesmerizing.

🛍️4. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

*Luxury shopping with brands like Chanel, Prada, and Rolex.

*Also features: A canal with gondola rides, fine dining, and celebrity chef restaurants (e.g., CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Waku Ghin by Tetsuya Wakuda).

🎭5. Sands Theatre

*Watch Broadway shows, concerts, and performances.

*Check what's on during your visit—past shows include The Lion King and Phantom of the Opera.

🎰6. Marina Bay Sands Casino

* Open 24/7 (ID required)

* Offers hundreds of gaming tables and thousands of slot machines.

* Entry is free for foreigners (Singaporeans/PRs pay a levy).

🖼️7. ArtScience Museum

*Famous for: The lotus-shaped building.

* Exhibits: Future World (digital art by teamLab), and rotating exhibitions blending art, science, and tech.

🍸8. CE LA VI (Rooftop Bar & Club Lounge)

* Located at the top of MBS, near the infinity pool.

* Go for a drink and enjoy views similar to the Observation Deck with a livelier vibe.

📸9. Spectra – Light & Water Show

*Location: Event Plaza (outdoors, by the waterfront)

*Free show: Nightly at 8:00pm and 9:00pm (check latest schedule)

*A beautiful combination of fountains, lasers, music, and projections.

🏛️10. Explore the Surroundings

*Helix Bridge: A stunning architectural pedestrian bridge.

*Merlion Park: Just a short walk away.

*Singapore Flyer: A massive observation wheel with great views.

How to get there:

Getting to Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is easy—it's centrally located in Singapore and well-connected by public transport, taxis, and walking routes. Here are your main options:

🚇 By MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) – Most Convenient & Affordable

*Nearest MRT Station:

*Bayfront MRT Station (CE1/DT16)

  – Circle Line (Yellow)** and **Downtown Line (Blue)

  – Directly connected to Marina Bay Sands via Exit C or D

 

Directions:

1. From Changi Airport:

   * Take the East-West Line (Green) to Expo

   * Transfer to Downtown Line (Blue) → Go to Bayfront Station

   * \~45–55 minutes total travel time

2. From Orchard Road:

   * Take North-South Line (Red) to Dhoby Ghaut

   * Transfer to Circle Line (Yellow) → Go to Bayfront Station

   * \~15–20 minutes

 

3. From Chinatown:

   * Direct on Downtown Line (Blue) → Bayfront Station

   * \~10 minutes

 

🚕 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (e.g. Grab, Gojek)

* Destination:10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956

* Most drivers know MBS well—just say “Marina Bay Sands.”

* Estimated fare:

  * From Changi Airport: SGD 20–30 (30 minutes)

  * From Orchard: SGD 10–15 (15 minutes)

 

🚶‍♂️ By Foot or Walking from Nearby Attractions

*From Gardens by the Bay: Just a 5-minute walk via the Marina Bay Sands hotel connection.

*From Merlion Park or Esplanade: Use the **Helix Bridge—a scenic 10- to 15-minute walk.

 

 🚗 By Car (if driving)

* There are basement car parks at:

  * Hotel Tower 1, 2, and 3

  * The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

*Carpark Rates:

  * Weekdays: SGD 9.00 for the first hour, SGD 1.10 per 30 mins after

  * Special flat rates during weekends & evenings (check signage)

 

 🚌 By Public Bus

*Bus Services to MBS:

* 97, 97e, 106, 133, 502, 518

* Alight at Bayfront Ave – Marina Bay Sands Theatre stop

When in Hong Kong GOTO Tsim Sha Tsui (TST)

Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) in Hong Kong is one of the city's most dynamic districts, offering a mix of culture, shopping, food, and iconic views.

🎯 Why Visit Tsim Sha Tsui (TST)

🌉 1. Avenue of Stars & Victoria Harbour Views

• Walk along the promenade with incredible views of Hong Kong Island’s skyline.

• See handprints of Hong Kong cinema legends like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan.

🏛️ 2. Museums & Culture

• Hong Kong Museum of History – Learn about the city's rich past.

• Hong Kong Space Museum & Art Museum – Family-friendly and educational.

🛍️ 3. Shopping Heaven

• Explore Harbour City, one of the largest malls in Asia.

• Find luxury brands on Canton Road, bargains at Granville Road, and unique items at K11 Art Mall.

🍜 4. Amazing Food Scene

• Michelin-starred restaurants, local dim sum shops, and global cuisine all packed into one district.

🏨 5. Iconic Hotels & Nightlife

• Stay at famous hotels like The Peninsula, or enjoy drinks with a view at rooftop bars like Aqua or Ozone (in nearby ICC).

🚇 How to Get to TST

🔹 By MTR:

• Take the Tsuen Wan Line (Red Line) and get off at Tsim Sha Tsui Station.

• Exit through Exit E or L6 to reach major shopping streets.

🔹 From Hong Kong Island:

• MTR: Transfer at Admiralty Station to the Tsuen Wan Line.

• Star Ferry: Take the scenic route from Central or Wan Chai to TST Ferry Pier.

🔹 From the Airport:

• Airport Express to Kowloon Station, then short taxi or MTR ride.