Hong Kong

Where To Stay In Hong Kong: 5 Best Areas & Places

Updated: March 26, 2024

One of the most eccentric cities in all of Asia is Hong Kong. Hong Kong is a hub in the area and brings so much to every visitor. When staying here, this is no shortage of things to do and see.

Hong Kong is a multilayered city that encompasses a lot of different aspects. There is a jungle, a city center lined with skyscrapers, traditional markets, and more.

At one moment, you can be navigating through the buzzing downtown streets, and be surrounded by monkeys in the jungle moments later. This is a truly unique perspective that not many cities have.

However, Hong Kong is not small, and it will take some time to navigate. This means that you need to pick the right area to stay in. This will allow you to be close to the attractions you like and prioritize the other experiences as well.

Here are five of the best areas to stay in all of Hong Kong!

 

In this travel guide:

 

Central Hong Kong

Central

As the name implies, Central is the area that is in Downtown Hong Kong. Staying here will keep you right in the center of the city and in the heart of the action. For any first-time visitor or someone who wants a fast-paced trip, Central is the place to stay.

There is so much packed into Central that you would ideally spend a couple of days in this area alone. Thankfully, Hong Kong has a really good transit system that can move you around affordably and quickly.

Some of the common hotspots include Man Mo Temple, Hong Kong Park, Tai Kwun, and the Mid-Level Escalator. All are really interesting locations that you can visit quickly and for free.

In particular, the Mid-Level Escalator is an actual escalator that helps commuters move from the city center to the residential areas. Riding on this will give you a cool view of the area.

Because this is the happening spot, the nightlife here is unmatched. Every night, clubs, bars, and restaurants are packed to the gills with people looking to have a good time. No matter where you choose to stay, going to Central for the nightlife is a must.

Best place to stay in Central

The Murray Hotel. Address: 22 Cotton Tree Dr, Central, Hong Kong.

Cheaper alternative:

Hotel One96. Address: 196 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

 

Tsim Sha Tsui

Tsim Sha Tsui

Also known as TST, Tsim Sha Tsui is an area that is diverse in things to do and sites to see. TST is a melting pot of different lifestyles and ideals that makes it so attractive.

A big part of TST’s identity is the culinary scene. Some of the city’s best restaurants are located here.

Another cool experience is to visit the Star Ferry Pier and ride the ferry to Central. Along with the subway systems, the ferry is a great way to move around Hong Kong while also taking in the city from a different perspective.

While in the neighborhood, be sure to visit the Clocktower, Avenue of Star, and some of the various museums that call TST home. Some examples include the Science Museum, the Hong Kong Museum of History, and the Space Museum.

Best place to stay in Tsim Sha Tsui

Hyatt Regency Hotel Tsim Sha Tsui. Address: 18 Hanoi Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong.

 

Causeway Bay

Causeway Bay

If you want to spend some real money, Causeway Bay is the place to be. This is because Causeway Bay is the fashion capital of Asia and has every luxury brand you can think of. Hong Kong’s own version of Time Square is right here. With the big LED screens and lines of shops, this area is a must-visit for everyone.

Causeway Bay went through a huge transformation to become what it is today. It started as a fishing town with not many people living here. This history lives on through the Tin Hau Temple that was built by the fishermen hundreds of years ago. Seeing this area’s roots is a cool aspect of Causeway Bay.

Along with the shopping and historic aspects, Victoria Park is another hotspot for visitors. This is the largest public park in the entire city and is a great place to relax and enjoy your environment.

Best place to stay in Causeway Bay

Tuve Hotel. Address: 16 Tsing Fung St, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.

 

Mong Kok

Mong Kok

As you move through the city, you may desire a more authentic experience. This can partially be found in Mong Kok. This is one of the busiest areas in the entire city and has a lot more locals running about than in some of the other neighborhoods.

Mong Kok is known for having busy streets and people running all over the place. Because of this atmosphere, street food is at the center of attention. This is a really cool part of the city that gives visitors a glimpse into the everyday life of a lot of Hong Kong locals.

There are also a number of markets in Mong Kok that are really interesting and fun to visit. These include the Fish Market, Birds Market, Flower Market, and Ladies Market. All of these sell fantastic goods for both visitors and locals. The Ladies Market, for example, is the best place to buy clothes in mong Kok.

Best place to stay in Mong Kok

Hotel The BEACON. Address: 88 Sai Yee Street, Yau Tsim Mong District, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

 

Shatin Hong Kong

Shatin

Last but not least, Hong Kong is home to Shatin. This is one of the more holy, historic neighborhoods in the entire city. Although the area itself isn’t very old, the historic remains and religious temples are.

The main reason people come to visit Shatin is to see the various temples, monasteries, and religious buildings. No matter what your religious affiliations are, visiting these holy sites will give you a big look into Hong Kong’s true identity.

The renowned Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery is just a few minutes’ walk away from many of the accommodations. This ancient site is lined with more than 10,000 Buddha statues and is really a sight to see.

Another big selling point of Shatin is its proximity to nature. This is where you can explore the jungle, cycle through the mountains, and visit the Shing Mun Reservoir. This is a great way to escape the city line and get in touch with the environment.

Best place to stay in Shatin

Alva Hotel By Royal. Address: 1 Yuen Hong Street, Sha Tin District, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

 

Ritz Carlton Hong Kong

Where travel critics stay in Hong Kong

Want to know where travel critics from publishers like The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet stay in Hong Kong? Check out our overview of all recommended hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Hong Kong.

 

Budget

Hostel Campus.

“Fabulous hostel for university students that also entertains backpackers whenever rooms are available, but especially during the summer months. The 48 rooms with four beds each feature nifty communal and study spaces, kitchenette and shower.” — Lonely Planet.

Address: 123 Castle Peak Rd (Ting Kau), Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong.

 

Mid-range

Hotel Indigo.

”Conveniently located in Wan Chai, the 138-room Hotel Indigo has a bright, locally inspired décor—goldfish pillows, Chinese lanterns–along with a glass-bottom, rooftop pool cantilevered over the bustling sidewalks 29 floors below.” — New York Times.

Address: No. 246, Queen’s Rd E, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.

 

Luxury

The Peninsula Hotel.

“This is Hong Kong’s legendary grand dame, built in 1928 to accommodate overland train passengers traveling through China and disembarking at nearby Kowloon Station. Yet the hotel is also stunningly up to date, with room renovations completed in 2013 that make it one of the most high-tech accommodations in the world.” — Frommer’s.

Address: Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong.

 

Hong Kong bay

FAQ: Hong Kong hotel tips

Looking for the best budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Hong Kong? Or maybe you’re a backpacker looking for an excellent hostel? Want to know which Hong Kong hotel serves a great breakfast? Here are the answers to all those and other questions about where to stay in Hong Kong.

 

What is the best budget hotel in Hong Kong?

If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Hong Kong, then book Page 148 Hotel. It’s an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It’s in a good location, it’s been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Hong Kong.

 

What is the best boutique hotel in Hong Kong?

You like some luxury but don’t like the famous chain hotels. If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Hong Kong, you should check out Tuve. It’s a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts. Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Hong Kong, it’s a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.

 

What is the best luxury hotel in Hong Kong?

If money isn’t a problem and you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Hong Kong, then go for Hotel The Upper House. The hotel offers excellent service, it’s in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Hong Kong, it’s a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.

 

What is the best hostel in Hong Kong?

If you’re looking for a great hostel in Hong Kong, then you should check out Ashoka Hostel. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it’s in a good location. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Hong Kong.

 

Which Hong Kong hotel offers great views?

If you’re looking for a room with a view, then try Hotel The Ritz-Carlton. It offers amazing views of Hong Kong according to recent customer reviews.

 

How much does it cost to stay in a Hong Kong hotel?

For a 3-star hotel, you have to pay around $100 per night and for a 4-star hotel, you would be looking at $140 per night. If you’re after a luxury 5-star Hong Kong hotel then you can expect to pay around $290 per night.

 

Which Hong Kong hotel has the best swimming pool?

Try Hotel Indigo if you’re looking for a hotel with a great swimming pool. Recent customer review ratings have been excellent for their swimming pool.

 

Which Hamburg hotel serves great breakfast?

Try The Peninsula Hotel, if you’re looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Hong Kong. The hotel has excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.

 

Which Hong Kong hotel is the best for a romantic getaway?

If you’re looking for a romantic Hong Kong hotel for couples then try Hotel Mandarin Oriental. The hotel has excellent customer review ratings by couples.

 

Which Hong Kong hotels are the best for families?

If you’re looking to stay in Hong Kong with your family, then try The Peninsula Hotel. The hotel has excellent review ratings by families.

 

Hong Kong market

Best time to visit Hong Kong

The best time to visit Hong Kong is between October and December when the weather is absolutely delightful – sunny, cool, and comfortable. During these months, the city experiences an average temperature of 20-24°C (68-75°F), making it the perfect time to explore its breathtaking attractions without breaking a sweat.

Not only will you be able to indulge in outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, but you’ll also be able to partake in the city’s exciting festivals and events. Get ready to immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s rich cultural heritage and witness firsthand its lively atmosphere during this prime time!

October to December is also the most pleasant period in terms of climate, avoiding the scorching heat of summer and the typhoon season that usually occurs between May and September.

You can comfortably stroll through the bustling streets of Hong Kong, visiting iconic landmarks like Victoria Peak, the Avenue of Stars, and the Tian Tan Buddha without worrying about the weather playing spoilsport.

Furthermore, with the lower humidity levels during these months, you’ll have the opportunity to capture amazing panoramic views of the cityscape that will leave you in awe.

 

Hong Kong beach

Best things to do in Hong Kong

There are plenty of things to do in Hong Kong and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in Hong Kong:

 

Hong Kong: Evening Cruise Tour in Chinese Junk Boat with Wine

Relax on a lounge bed, sip on a refreshing drink and soak up the sights and sounds of Hong Kong’s harbor and stunning skyline on the 45-minute harbor cruise. Price: $30. More info.

 

Lantau Island and Giant Buddha Day Trip from Hong Kong

Pay a visit to the Giant Buddha, visit Po Lin (Precious Lotus) Monastery and explore the island of Lantau on this incredible tour, complete with a professional and friendly guide. Price: $153. More info.

 

Hong Kong Island Half-Day Tour including Peak Tram

Get to know the ins and outs of Hong Kong island during this comprehensive half-day tour that touches on all the highlights. Price: $40. More info.

 

More things to do in Hong Kong

 

Deciding where to stay in Hong Kong

As a closing note, let’s summarize this travel guide. We covered the best areas of Hong Kong so you can decide which part of town you want to stay in.

 

Top 5 areas to stay in Hong Kong

 

As you have seen in this article, there are plenty of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Hong Kong is important. Whether you stay in Shatin, Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Causeway Bay or Mong Kok, all those neighborhoods are in good locations.

The atmosphere of the area, whether you travel for leisure or business, whether you travel with your family or friends, and proximity to the attractions you prefer to visit should probably be the deciding factors. Whatever your preference is, you’ll have a great stay in Hong Kong.

 

Hong Kong overview

🏨 Hotel prices: Medium
🛏 Budget hotel: $90
💑 Boutique hotel: $130
5-star hotel: $270
🌎 Best area for first visit: Central
👪 Best area for families: Shatin
💎 Best luxury hotel: The Peninsula Hotel
👫 Best boutique hotel: Hotel Icon
💰 Best cheap hotel: Page 148 Hotel
🎒 Best hostel: Wontonmeen

 

More Hong Kong recommendations

See our other guides about the best places to stay in Hong Kong:

Hotels in Hong Kong

Hostels in Hong Kong

Boutique hotels in Hong Kong

Luxury hotels in Hong Kong

Cheap hotels in Hong Kong

Eco-friendly hotels in Hong Kong