Visit Hong Kong

Hong Kong Island

0.9 miles from downtown

Endure a few light-headed minutes and take a tram up Victoria Peak for views of the Hong Kong skyline. Sun-soaked Repulse Bay and Deep Water Bay beckon you to a lazy day by the sea. Set sail for Aberdeen Island aboard a sampan (traditional boat) and lose yourself in the life of a traditional fishing community.

Places to stay from $15 a night

Kowloon

1.9 miles from downtown

Catch a sea breeze in coastal Kowloon. As morning breaks, sport and Tai Chi enthusiasts head to Kowloon Park. Inside, the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre exhibits the roots of British colonial rule. Strike it rich in one of the 400 shops at the Jade Market in Yau Ma Tei, or haggle with shrewd vendors at the Temple Street Night Market.

Places to stay from $7 a night

Central District

In downtown

The bells still toll in St. John’s Cathedral and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Hit Hollywood Road for galleries, look for critters at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, or chill out at the eateries along Victoria Harbour. At night, try out your moves at the clubs in expat-filled Lan Kwai Fong.

Places to stay from $27 a night

Mongkok

2.6 miles from downtown

Mong Kok means "busy corner" in Cantonese. Ladies’ Market on Tung Choi Street sells everything for the modern girl. See Sai Yeung Choi Street for electronics and cosmetics, and the fruit, flower and goldfish markets need no explanation. On a hot day, find air-conditioned comfort at the Sino Centre’s multimedia shops.

Places to stay from $25 a night

Tsim Sha Tsui

1.4 miles from downtown

The city’s busy tourist area mixes shopping and culture. Buy luxury clothing on Canton Road, or grab a bargain at Park Lane Shopper’s Boulevard’s factory outlets. The city’s past comes to life at the interactive Hong Kong Museum of History, and kids can take a whirlwind tour of the galaxy at the Hong Kong Space Museum.

Places to stay from $7 a night

Wan Chai

1.2 miles from downtown

Wan Chai is a friendly assault on the senses. Walk up Stone Nullah Lane for striking pre-war architecture, or slurp up noodles and congee at the local "Dai Pai Dong" (open-air restaurants). Hong Kong Arts Centre hosts provocative exhibitions year-round. Wan Chai's theaters stage popular musicals with a dash of Broadway panache.

Places to stay from $15 a night

Causeway Bay

1.8 miles from downtown

Causeway Bay is organized chaos. Shopping centers erupt with shoppers day and night, especially in Hysan Place with its 17 floors of shopping. If elbowing your way to a bargain doesn't appeal, head to Jardine Crescent, a local shopping area with bargains to boot. Exhausted? Reenergize in Victoria Park's open spaces, or listen to the Noonday Gun blast.

Places to stay from $20 a night