One of the oldest yet also most dynamic districts in the city, Old Town Central - encompassing the sloped streets and small alleys of Central and Sheung Wan, it encapsulates Hong Kong’s rich and diverse spirit. A place where century-old temples (such as Man Mo Temple) share the same streets as fashion-forward concept stores, or where authentic tea houses coexist with modern art galleries. This colourful neighbourhood is an intriguing mix of old and new while also being proudly local and unmistakably global. Ride the vertiginous funicular railway to the top of Victoria Peak and marvel at one of the world’s great cityscapes. The view across the soaring skyscrapers and harbour, bustling with watercraft of all shapes and sizes, has to be seen to be believed.

With a history dating back to 1842, Central Market has been through multiple transformations since its emergence as one of Hong Kong’s first wet markets, and is a site not to be missed. The Hong Kong tram, affectionately known by locals as the ‘Ding Ding’, is a unique form of transportation found on the bustling streets of Hong Kong Island. A ride on the beloved tram - also an iconic symbol of Hong Kong - is a journey through the city’s rich history, culture and everyday life. In the evening, get your dancing shoes on and hit the legendary nightlife of Lan Kwai Fong, home to over 90 restaurants and bars.

For a completely different side to the territory, ride the ferry out to Lantau Island, Hong Kong’s largest island. Enjoy the spectacular cable car ride up to find peace and quiet at what is one of Hong Kong’s most popular tourist attractions, Tian Tan Buddha - known colloquially as the Big Buddha. After gliding up to the site by the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, experience the awe-inspiring view from the base of the enormous sculpture. Wander around and perhaps have lunch at the atmospheric Po Lin Monastery, then catch a bus down to Tai O fishing village.

Experience this charming and quaint place, to see a local way of living, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a step back in time as you explore the historic Tai O, home to a community of fishermen who have built their houses on stilts above the tidal flats of Lantau Island for generations. These stilt houses are interconnected, forming a tightly knit community that lives on the water.

Start your day with a visit to Tin Hau Temple complex in Yau Ma Tei, where fishermen flock to worship the Goddess of the Sea, Tin Hau. After, discover Chi Lin Nunnery and the adjacent Nan Lian Garden, which showcases traditional Chinese landscaping techniques and aesthetic principles: winding paths taking you past lush greenery, ornamental rocks, koi-filled ponds and a rushing waterfall. Take a stroll through its wooden gates and find an oasis of calm.

In the evening, stroll along Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade (Avenue of Stars) before grabbing a harbour side seat to enjoy the spectacular Symphony of Lights - a nightly multimedia show with coloured lights, laser beams and spotlights splashed over 40 buildings on both sides of the harbour. Pay a visit to Temple Street Night Market which has been transformed into a multicultural food market to showcase the rich diversity of cultures in Hong Kong. Try a variety of Hong Kong-style snacks, such as curry fish balls, siu mai (Cantonese dumplings), dim sum, snake soup, and more.

Hong Kong is one of the most vibrant and energetic cities in Asia, if not the world with a stunning skyline, fascinating history, superlative shopping and exciting nightlife all bundled up in a compact place. For more inspiration, take a look at our Hong Kong Holidays pages.