Hong Kong Road Trip: Epic Itinerary for One Week in Hong Kong!

Hong Kong is an exceptional destination for an Asian road trip adventure. This detailed one-week Hong Kong road trip itinerary covers the best places in this dynamic territory that you can explore in 7 days.

Hong Kong may be compact, but it offers an incredible diversity of experiences! Scenic coastal roads wind through bustling urban districts, serene fishing villages, dramatic mountain peaks, and pristine beaches. Therefore, embarking on a Hong Kong road trip is by far the best way to explore this fascinating Special Administrative Region.

With your own wheels, you will be able to discover Hong Kong’s hidden gems conveniently. While many attractions in Hong Kong are accessible by the excellent public transport system, having a car allows you to reach remote beaches, mountain viewpoints, and traditional villages that are off the beaten path.

Based on my experience of multiple visits to this incredible territory, I’ve put together this comprehensive 7-day Hong Kong road trip itinerary covering everything from the iconic skyline and bustling markets to tranquil temples and stunning natural landscapes. It includes distance information, provides practical tips, and suggests the best places to stay in Hong Kong.

Car rental tips:

Avis Hong Kong is a reliable choice with multiple pickup locations including the airport. International visitors can drive with their home country license for up to 12 months.
For budget-friendly options, check Hertz or Budget. Compare rates on Expedia or Kayak to find the best deals.
Remember: Hong Kong drives on the left side of the road, and traffic can be extremely congested during peak hours.

Stay: I booked all accommodations through Booking.com and Agoda for the best rates. Travel Insurance: Get comprehensive coverage through World Nomads or SafetyWing. Tours: Check the best guided tours on Viator and GetYourGuide.

Summary of My Hong Kong Road Trip Route

Day 1: Hong Kong Island – Central, Peak Tram, and Victoria Harbour
Day 2: Southern Hong Kong Island – Aberdeen, Stanley, and Repulse Bay
Day 3: New Territories – Tai Po, Plover Cove, and Bride’s Pool
Day 4: Lantau Island – Big Buddha, Tai O Fishing Village
Day 5: Sai Kung Peninsula – Beaches and Hiking Trails
Day 6: Northern New Territories – Sha Tin, Temple of 10,000 Buddhas
Day 7: Final exploration and departure preparations

If I had 4 days in Hong Kong, my itinerary would include Hong Kong Island highlights – Victoria Peak – Stanley Market – Big Buddha on Lantau Island – Tai O Fishing Village.

If I had 10 days in Hong Kong, I would add Macau day trip – more extensive hiking in country parks – extended time in traditional villages – deeper exploration of local neighborhoods.

Hong Kong Road Trip Planning Tips

Renting a Car in Hong Kong

Car rental companies operate from Hong Kong International Airport and various city locations. Major international brands like Avis, Hertz, and Budget offer competitive rates. However, consider whether you really need a car for the entire trip – Hong Kong’s public transport is world-class, and parking can be expensive and challenging to find.

Pro tip: Consider renting a car only for specific days when you plan to explore areas like Sai Kung Peninsula or the northern New Territories, where public transport is less frequent.

Driving in Hong Kong

Driving in Hong Kong can be challenging but rewarding for reaching remote locations. The territory has excellent road infrastructure, but traffic congestion is severe, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM).

Key considerations when driving in Hong Kong:

Traffic moves on the left side
Parking is expensive (HK$20-40 per hour in Central)
Tunnels and bridges often have tolls (HK$5-45)
GPS is essential due to complex road networks
Peak hour traffic can turn a 30-minute journey into 2 hours

Alternative suggestion: Use a combination of public transport and taxis for city exploration, and rent a car only for countryside excursions.

Where to Stay During Your Hong Kong Road Trip

For this road trip, I recommend staying in different areas to minimize travel time:

Days 1-2: Central or Admiralty for Hong Kong Island exploration
Days 3-4: Tsim Sha Tsui for easy access to transportation hubs
Days 5-7: Flexible based on your preferred final activities

Accommodation types I prefer:

Boutique hotels in Central for luxury and convenience
Guesthouses in Tsim Sha Tsui for budget-friendly options with great views
Serviced apartments for longer stays with kitchen facilities

Hotel recommendations:

Central District – The Landmark Mandarin Oriental (luxury) or Mini Hotel Central (budget)
Tsim Sha Tsui – The Peninsula Hong Kong (luxury) or Chungking Mansions guesthouses (budget)
Causeway Bay – Park Lane Hong Kong (mid-range) with great shopping access

What to Expect in Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, you’ll experience a unique blend of East meets West. Marvel at the stunning skyline from Victoria Peak, explore traditional temples hidden between skyscrapers, sample incredible street food in local markets, and discover pristine beaches just minutes from urban centers. You’ll navigate through dense urban jungles, hike scenic mountain trails, visit traditional fishing villages, and experience one of the world’s most efficient public transport systems. This former British colony seamlessly blends Cantonese culture, colonial heritage, and modern cosmopolitan life.

How Many Days Do You Need in Hong Kong?

Based on multiple visits, one week in Hong Kong provides sufficient time to see the major highlights while also discovering some hidden gems. With 4-5 days, you can cover the essential attractions. With 10+ days, you can explore more remote areas, take day trips to Macau and Shenzhen, and really immerse yourself in local neighborhoods.

Note: This itinerary assumes arrival and departure through Hong Kong International Airport, but can easily be adapted for other entry points or if you’re combining with visits to mainland China or Macau.

When to Visit Hong Kong

The best time to visit Hong Kong is during the dry season from October to early December and from February to April. During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures (18-26°C) and lower humidity.

Avoid: June to September due to hot, humid weather and typhoon season. December and January can be cool and misty, but still pleasant for sightseeing.

Peak season: Chinese New Year, Christmas, and Easter bring crowds and higher prices.

Budget for Your Hong Kong Road Trip

Hong Kong is one of the more expensive destinations in Asia, but you can still travel on various budgets:

Accommodation: HK$200-500/night for budget guesthouses, HK$800-2000/night for mid-range hotels, HK$3000+/night for luxury
Food: HK$50-100/day for street food and local restaurants, HK$300-500/day for mid-range dining
Car Rental: HK$400-800/day depending on vehicle type and season
Fuel: HK$16-18/liter (among the world’s most expensive)
Parking: HK$20-40/hour in city center
Attractions: Many temples and hiking trails are free, major attractions range from HK$30-200

Money-saving tips:

Eat at local cha chaan tengs (tea restaurants) and street food stalls
Use public transport instead of taxis when possible
Take advantage of free attractions like hiking trails and beaches
Shop at local wet markets instead of upscale malls

Hong Kong 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary Day by Day

For those wanting to experience the incredible diversity Hong Kong offers, here is my day-by-day breakdown of the route I took during my week-long adventure in this remarkable territory.

Day 1: Hong Kong Island – Central, Victoria Peak, and Victoria Harbour

Distance covered: 25 KM
Total drive time: 1 HR 30 MIN (with traffic)
Overnight in: Central District

Starting your Hong Kong adventure on Hong Kong Island is essential. I recommend beginning in Central District, the financial heart of the territory, before ascending to the iconic Victoria Peak for breathtaking panoramic views.

CENTRAL DISTRICT

Central is where modern Hong Kong showcases its impressive skyline and bustling energy. The contrast between towering skyscrapers and traditional elements creates an unforgettable first impression.

Things to do in Central:

Explore the elevated walkway system – Navigate through the air-conditioned pedestrian bridges connecting major buildings. This network allows you to walk for kilometers without touching street level.
Visit International Finance Centre (IFC) – Shop at this premium mall and enjoy harbor views from the Sky100 observation deck.
Stroll through Hong Kong Park – A green oasis featuring the Museum of Tea Ware, Olympic Square, and beautiful gardens.

VICTORIA PEAK

The journey to Victoria Peak is a must-do Hong Kong experience. I opted to drive up via Peak Road rather than taking the famous Peak Tram to avoid the crowds and have more flexibility.

Driving to Victoria Peak: The winding Peak Road offers spectacular views as you ascend. However, parking at the top is limited and expensive (HK$30/hour). I recommend arriving early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.

USEFUL TIP: If you choose the Peak Tram experience, buy tickets online in advance. The queue can be 2+ hours during peak times. The Sky Terrace 428 costs HK$99 for adults, but the free Lion’s Pavilion offers nearly identical views.

From Victoria Peak, the panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, Central District, and Kowloon Peninsula are absolutely stunning. On clear days, you can see all the way to mainland China. The sunset views are particularly magical.

VICTORIA HARBOUR

End your first day with a stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade on the Kowloon side. The Symphony of Lights show happens nightly at 8 PM – while touristy, it’s still impressive against Hong Kong’s iconic skyline.

Where to stay on Hong Kong Island: I stayed at the Mini Hotel Central, a compact but well-designed hotel just steps from Central Station. The location was perfect for exploring on foot, and the rooftop offered nice city views. For luxury, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental provides exceptional service in the heart of Central.

Day 2: Southern Hong Kong Island – Aberdeen, Stanley, and Repulse Bay

Distance covered: 45 KM
Total drive time: 2 HRS (with stops)
Overnight in: Central District

Day two takes you to the southern side of Hong Kong Island, showcasing a completely different character from the urban intensity of Central.

ABERDEEN

Aberdeen offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s fishing heritage. The Aberdeen Harbour is famous for its floating restaurants and traditional sampan boats.

Things to do in Aberdeen:

Take a sampan ride – Local boat operators offer 30-minute tours through the typhoon shelter for HK$70 per person. You’ll see traditional junks, floating restaurants, and maybe even someone’s floating home.
Visit Ap Lei Chau – This small island connected by bridge has great seafood restaurants and is less touristy than the main floating restaurants.
Aberdeen Country Park – If you enjoy hiking, there are several trails with good harbor views.

STANLEY

Stanley Market and Stanley Beach represent Hong Kong’s more relaxed, colonial-era charm.

Stanley Market is famous for bargain shopping, though prices aren’t as low as they once were. I found some good deals on casual wear and souvenirs, but don’t expect authentic designer goods.

Stanley Beach is one of Hong Kong’s most popular beaches. The water quality is decent, and there are changing facilities and restaurants nearby. It gets crowded on weekends, so weekday visits are preferable.

USEFUL TIP: Parking in Stanley can be challenging. The main car park fills up quickly on weekends. Consider arriving early or using the bus from Central if you prefer not to deal with parking stress.

REPULSE BAY

Repulse Bay Beach is considered one of Hong Kong’s finest beaches, backed by luxury residential towers and offering calm waters perfect for swimming.

The beach has full facilities including lifeguards, changing rooms, and restaurants. The iconic Repulse Bay shopping arcade has several dining options, though they’re pricey for the quality.

Tin Hau Temple at the eastern end of the beach is worth visiting. This colorful temple dedicated to the sea goddess features many statues and offers good photo opportunities.

DRIVING TIP: The route along the southern coast via Repulse Bay Road and Deep Water Bay Road is scenic but narrow in places. Take your time and enjoy the ocean views, but be aware of cyclists and pedestrians.

Day 3: New Territories – Tai Po, Plover Cove, and Bride’s Pool

Distance covered: 80 KM
Total drive time: 2 HRS 30 MIN
Overnight in: Sha Tin or return to Central

Day three ventures into the New Territories, where you’ll discover Hong Kong’s natural beauty and traditional villages.

TAI PO

Tai Po represents traditional Hong Kong away from the urban intensity. The old market town has maintained much of its character despite modern development.

Tai Po Market is a traditional wet market where locals shop for fresh produce, meat, and seafood. It’s a authentic glimpse into daily Hong Kong life, though not for the squeamish.

Man Mo Temple in Tai Po is less crowded than its Hong Kong Island counterpart but equally atmospheric with giant incense coils creating mystical smoke.

PLOVER COVE

The drive to Plover Cove Reservoir takes you through some of Hong Kong’s most beautiful countryside. This area feels remarkably remote despite being just 45 minutes from Central.

Plover Cove Country Park offers several hiking trails with spectacular views over the reservoir and towards mainland China. The Pat Sin Leng mountain range provides dramatic backdrops for photography.

USEFUL TIP: Bring water and snacks as there are limited facilities in the remote areas. The visitor center near the reservoir dam has restrooms and basic information about hiking trails.

BRIDE’S POOL

Bride’s Pool is a series of natural rock pools and waterfalls that’s popular with locals for swimming and picnicking. The 30-minute hike from the road is easy and suitable for most fitness levels.

The pools are beautiful, especially after recent rainfall, though swimming isn’t always possible during dry seasons. It’s a peaceful spot that feels worlds away from Hong Kong’s urban areas.

DRIVING TIP: The roads in the northern New Territories can be narrow and winding. Watch for hikers and cyclists, especially on weekends. Mobile phone coverage can be spotty in remote areas, so download offline maps beforehand.

Day 4: Lantau Island – Big Buddha, Tai O Fishing Village

Distance covered: 65 KM
Total drive time: 2 HRS 15 MIN (including ferry)
Overnight in: Tung Chung or return to Central

Day four takes you to Lantau Island, Hong Kong’s largest island, home to the airport and some of the territory’s most impressive cultural and natural attractions.

GETTING TO LANTAU ISLAND

You have two options to reach Lantau with your car: drive through the tunnels and bridges (expensive tolls but faster) or take the vehicle ferry from Central to Mui Wo (cheaper and more scenic). I recommend the ferry for the experience – it’s HK$55 for a car plus HK$14 per passenger, and the 35-minute journey offers beautiful harbor views.

BIG BUDDHA (TIAN TAN BUDDHA)

The 34-meter bronze Buddha statue atop Ngong Ping plateau is one of Hong Kong’s most iconic attractions. The drive up from Mui Wo takes about 45 minutes through winding mountain roads with spectacular valley views.

Things to do at Ngong Ping:

Climb the 268 steps to Big Buddha – The statue is impressive up close, and the views from the base stretch across Lantau’s mountains and the South China Sea.
Po Lin Monastery – This active Buddhist monastery adjacent to the Buddha features beautiful architecture and serves excellent vegetarian meals (HK$80 for a set meal).
Ngong Ping Village – A themed cultural village with shops, restaurants, and cultural shows. It’s quite touristy but offers air-conditioned comfort and clean restrooms.

USEFUL TIP: Parking at Ngong Ping can be challenging during weekends and holidays. Arrive early (before 10 AM) or consider taking the cable car from Tung Chung and walking to avoid parking stress. The cable car offers stunning aerial views but costs HK$235 for a round trip.

TAI O FISHING VILLAGE

Tai O, known as the “Venice of Hong Kong,” is a traditional fishing village built on stilts over tidal flats. It’s one of the few places in Hong Kong where you can still see traditional ways of life.

Things to do in Tai O:

Explore the stilt houses – Walk along the narrow wooden walkways between houses built over the water. Many residents still live in these traditional structures.
Take a boat tour – Local boat operators offer 20-minute rides (HK$30 per person) to see Chinese white dolphins and get different perspectives of the village.
Try local specialties – Tai O is famous for its dried seafood, especially shrimp paste. The smell is strong but it’s an authentic local experience.
Visit Tai O Heritage Hotel – This former police station turned boutique hotel offers great views and a glimpse into colonial architecture.

DRIVING TIP: The road to Tai O from Ngong Ping is narrow with limited parking in the village center. I found parking spaces along the main road about 200 meters from the village center – it’s a short walk and much easier than trying to navigate the tiny village streets.

SUNSET BEACH (Optional)

If you have time and energy, Sunset Beach on Lantau’s northwest coast offers beautiful sunset views and is less crowded than other beaches. The drive from Tai O takes about 20 minutes through rural countryside.

Day 5: Sai Kung Peninsula – Beaches and Country Parks

Distance covered: 70 KM
Total drive time: 2 HRS 30 MIN
Overnight in: Sai Kung Town or Sha Tin

Day five explores the Sai Kung Peninsula, often called Hong Kong’s “back garden” for its pristine beaches, hiking trails, and relaxed atmosphere.

SAI KUNG TOWN

Sai Kung Town serves as the gateway to the peninsula’s natural attractions. This former fishing village has evolved into a popular weekend destination for Hong Kong residents seeking outdoor activities.

Sai Kung Waterfront features a pleasant promenade with seafood restaurants, boat operators, and great people-watching opportunities. The town has a distinctly more relaxed vibe compared to urban Hong Kong.

SHARP ISLAND (KIAU TSUI CHAU)

Sharp Island is accessible by a short boat ride (HK$40 return, 10 minutes) from Sai Kung pier. The island features a beautiful beach, clear water perfect for swimming, and a unique tombolo (sand bridge) that appears at low tide connecting to a smaller island.

Things to do on Sharp Island:

Swimming and snorkeling – The water quality around Sharp Island is among Hong Kong’s best
Beach activities – The main beach has basic facilities and is perfect for relaxation
Hiking – A short trail leads to viewpoints overlooking the Sai Kung coastline

HAM TIN WAN BEACH

For those seeking a more adventurous beach experience, Ham Tin Wan requires a 45-minute hike from the road but rewards visitors with pristine sand and crystal-clear water. This is one of Hong Kong’s most beautiful beaches and rarely crowded due to the hiking access.

USEFUL TIP: Bring water, snacks, and sun protection for the hike to Ham Tin Wan. The trail starts from the Pak Tam Au car park and is well-marked but can be challenging in hot weather.

SAI KUNG EAST COUNTRY PARK

The country park offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. The MacLehose Trail, Hong Kong’s premier long-distance hiking route, passes through this area.

Popular hiking options:

Long Ke Wan – A 2-hour round trip hike to a secluded beach with dramatic cliff views
Tai Long Wan – Multiple beaches accessible via longer hiking trails (4-6 hours)
High Island Reservoir – Easier walk around the reservoir with interesting hexagonal rock columns

DINING IN SAI KUNG

Sai Kung is famous for its seafood restaurants. Many establishments display live seafood in tanks outside – you choose your fish, crab, or lobster, and they prepare it to order. Prices vary widely, so ask before ordering. Lo Shui Bridge Seafood Restaurant is popular with locals for fresh catches at reasonable prices.

DRIVING AND PARKING TIPS:

Sai Kung Town has several car parks, but they fill up quickly on weekends
Parking fees range from HK$15-25 per hour
For country park visits, arrive early as roadside parking spaces are limited
Some hiking trail access points have small parking areas, but these fill up by 9 AM on weekends

Day 6: Northern New Territories – Sha Tin and Temple of 10,000 Buddhas

Distance covered: 40 KM
Total drive time: 1 HR 30 MIN
Overnight in: Sha Tin or Tsim Sha Tsui

Day six takes you to Sha Tin, one of Hong Kong’s “new towns” that successfully blends modern development with traditional culture and natural beauty.

SHA TIN

Sha Tin represents Hong Kong’s planned urban development success story. What was once agricultural land is now home to over 600,000 residents in well-designed high-rise communities surrounded by parks and recreational facilities.

Sha Tin Racecourse is one of Hong Kong’s two horse racing tracks and hosts some of Asia’s most prestigious races. Even if you’re not interested in gambling, the architecture and atmosphere are worth experiencing. Racing season runs from September to July, with races typically on Wednesday evenings and weekends.

New Town Plaza is one of Hong Kong’s largest shopping malls, offering everything from local brands to international luxury goods. It’s connected to Sha Tin Station and provides air-conditioned relief during hot weather.

TEMPLE OF 10,000 BUDDHAS (MAN FAT SZE)

Despite its name, this temple complex actually houses over 13,000 Buddha statues, each with unique expressions and poses. The temple sits atop a hill requiring a 45-minute uphill climb, but the journey is as rewarding as the destination.

The climb to the temple:

400+ steps through bamboo forests with golden Buddha statues lining the path
Life-sized golden arhats (Buddhist disciples) in various poses create photo opportunities
Multiple temple halls at different levels, each with distinct architectural features
Panoramic views of Sha Tin and the surrounding mountains from the top

USEFUL TIP: The climb is steep and can be challenging in hot weather. Start early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Bring water and wear comfortable walking shoes. The temple is free to visit, making it one of Hong Kong’s best value attractions.

SHA TIN PARK

If you need to relax after the temple climb, Sha Tin Park offers peaceful gardens, lakes, and walking paths. The park connects to the Shing Mun River, where you can rent bikes or simply enjoy the waterfront promenade.

DRIVING TIP: Parking near the Temple of 10,000 Buddhas trailhead can be difficult. I found street parking about 10 minutes walk from the trail entrance. Alternatively, park at Sha Tin Station and take a short taxi ride to the trailhead.

Day 7: Final Exploration and Departure Preparations

Distance covered: 30 KM
Total drive time: 1 HR
Activities: Last-minute shopping, final sightseeing, departure preparations

Your final day in Hong Kong should be flexible, allowing for last-minute discoveries, souvenir shopping, or revisiting favorite spots.

MORNING OPTIONS:

Wong Tai Sin Temple – If you haven’t visited this famous fortune-telling temple, it’s worth the detour. Known for granting wishes related to health, career, and relationships, the colorful temple attracts both tourists and devoted locals.

Ladies’ Market (Tung Choi Street) – For last-minute souvenir shopping, this bustling street market offers everything from fake designer goods to local snacks. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun.

Temple Street Night Market – If your flight departs evening or you’re staying an extra night, this famous night market comes alive after dark with fortune tellers, street food, and shopping stalls.

AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES:

Final skyline views – Return to Victoria Peak or find a new vantage point like the Sky100 observation deck in the ICC building for final photos of Hong Kong’s famous skyline.

Dim sum lunch – Enjoy one last traditional Cantonese meal at a quality dim sum restaurant. Tim Ho Wan (the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant) or Maxim’s Palace in City Hall are excellent choices.

Airport preparation – If flying out the same day, allow extra time for returning your rental car and navigating the airport. Hong Kong International Airport is large and can be busy.

What I Skipped and What I’d Suggest Skipping

Ocean Park – While popular with families, this theme park didn’t offer the authentic Hong Kong experience I was seeking. Hong Kong Disneyland on Lantau Island is better if you want a theme park experience.

The Peak Circle Walk – The full walking trail around Victoria Peak is pleasant but time-consuming and doesn’t offer significantly better views than the main viewing areas.

Tsim Sha Tsui’s tourist attractions – The Avenue of Stars and Space Museum are fine but not essential. The waterfront promenade views are the real attraction here.

Shopping malls in Central – Unless you’re specifically looking for luxury shopping, the malls in Central (IFC, Landmark) are similar to upscale malls worldwide.

Expensive restaurants with harbor views – Many restaurants charge premium prices for views you can enjoy for free from public spaces.

Hong Kong Travel Resources

Planning your trip to Hong Kong soon? Here are useful booking resources I personally use:

Flights:

Expedia or Kayak for comparing international flight prices
Cathay Pacific offers direct flights from many major cities
Hong Kong Express for budget options within Asia

Accommodation:

Booking.com for the widest selection and best cancellation policies
Agoda often has better rates for Asian hotels
Hotels.com for loyalty program benefits

Car Rental:

Avis Hong Kong for reliability and airport pickup
Hertz and Budget for competitive rates
Expedia for package deals combining flights and cars

Transportation:

Octopus Card for all public transport (buses, MTR, trams, ferries)
Uber and Grab for ride-sharing options
Hong Kong Tramways for scenic and cheap transportation on Hong Kong Island

Travel Insurance:

World Nomads for comprehensive coverage
SafetyWing for budget-friendly options
Allianz for family travel plans

Tours and Activities:

Viator for the widest selection of guided tours
GetYourGuide for last-minute bookings and mobile tickets
Klook (local Hong Kong company) for exclusive deals and experiences

Money and Communication:

Most places accept Octopus Card or credit cards
7-Eleven and Circle K convenience stores are everywhere for cash, snacks, and basic needs
Free WiFi is available in most malls, MTR stations, and many restaurants
3 Hong Kong or CSL for local SIM cards if needed

This comprehensive Hong Kong road trip itinerary balances iconic must-see attractions with hidden gems that showcase the territory’s incredible diversity. From soaring skyscrapers to pristine beaches, traditional temples to modern marvels, Hong Kong offers experiences that will satisfy every type of traveler. The compact size makes it perfect for a week-long road trip, though you could easily spend months exploring every neighborhood and hiking trail this amazing destination has to offer.