THE TOP 10 HONG KONG CITY TOURS & BIG BUS TOURS IN 2024

Consequently, are you ever considering visiting Hong Kong anytime soon? This bustling cosmopolitan is a hub of vibrant city life, rich culture, and an enthralling skyline. It’s a tremendous place to visit for anyone looking for an amalgam of traditional and modern. But on the flip side, planning to tour Hong Kong might be a little laborious since there are many places to see and experiences to gather. This is where the Big Bus and City tours come in, and the overwhelm starts to subside. In 2024, these top-rated ten cities and Big Bus tours, as stated in this blog post, guarantee that you will get the much-desired in-depth feeling of the lively appeal of the town. The delightful and thrilling excursions offer iconic sights, hidden treasures, epic tales, and incredible views. Searching for the perfect tour that meets your expectations for your next Journey to Hong Kong. Maybe you’ve never been to the city before or are a pro at it. Do not worry; this blog’s got you covered for your trip.

What are the best Hong Kong city tours for first-time visitors?

1. Big Bus Hong Kong Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

This tour allows you to visit key markers like The Peak, Man Mo Temple, and Tsim Sha Tsui at your convenience. A multilingual audio guide is available, and it is best suited for those who wish to learn more about Hong Kong’s culture while exploring the city themselves.

2. The Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428 Experience

This is an absolute must if one wants to witness Hong Kong’s skyline at its best. With the iconic Peak Tram, get ready to visit Sky Terrace 428, the highest point within the city, and explore its marvelous vistas.

3. Hong Kong Heritage Tour

Explore the Ping Shan Heritage Trail and Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees to appreciate Hong Kong’s vivid history. This excursion is all you need to grasp Hong Kong’s traditional roots.

4. Victoria Harbour Cruise

Take a break with this cruise and view Hong Kong’s breathtaking skyline. With options to go during the day and the evening, you can see elite places such as the International Commerce Center and the Bank of China Tower.

5. Lantau Island and Big Buddha Day Trip

Witness in awe the Lantau Island, a rather peaceful place inside Hong Kong that houses the Tian Tan Buddha and Ngong Ping village. You can also take a 360-degree cable car ride there.

The tours blend key experiences, social features, and ease of access, perfect for a newcomer to Hong Kong.

Exploring Hong Kong’s iconic skyline and Victoria Harbour

Must-see attractions on a Hong Kong Island tour

1. Victoria Peak (The Peak)

Hong Kong is home to numerous breathtaking views and locations, but none can match the splendor of Victoria Peak. This place looks magnificent and allows you to view the entire island, the islands near Hong Kong, and even the harbor. If you want a stimulating experience, savor the creative architecture of the Peak Tower and then visit Sky Terrace 428. Alternatively, if you want a more soothing experience, stroll at Peak Circle Walk.

2. Aberdeen Fishing Village

Aberdeen is abundant in ancient culture and places, allowing visitors to experience the traditional fishing industry. This place features a vibrant harbor full of sampans and fishing boats. You can even acquire a piece of history by visiting the Jumbo Floating Restaurant, a modern water village with yachts.

3. Stanley Market and Stanley Waterfront

Tropical artwork, clothing, and various souvenirs can all be purchased at the enthralling and colorful Stanley market. If recreational activities are more popular, soothing beers paired with delectable food at the Stanley waterfront or even historic buildings and sights would do the trick!

4. Repulse Bay

Repulse Bay is a well-known Puerto Rico resort with an arc-shaped coastline and a sandy beach. It offers relaxing family entertainment, beautiful views of the Southern Chinese Sea, and several structures, such as the Tin Hau Temple, which houses thousands of deities related to the Goddess of the Sea.

5. Man Mo Temple

A trip to Hong Kong Island isn’t complete without visiting the Man Mo Temple, one of the oldest temples in the city, built in 1847. As described, it was established in commemorating the Two Gods, believed to represent Literature (Man) and martial arts (Mo) in Taoism. Given the Temple’s architectural design, it is culturally embellished by hanging incense coils.

These must-see attractions offer a panoramic view of Hong Kong Island. They blend beauty, culture, and urban decor.

Immersing in local culture with a food tour

Indulging in the delectable food that Hong Kong Island offers is an exceptional way to experience its rich culture. I went on a Food Tour, which opened my eyes to various traditional cuisines I had never tasted. Knowing how to appreciate freshly made dim sum from conventional tea houses and how to consume clay pot rice at local joints was both eye-opening and honest. These tours are popular for their straightforward logistics – they typically encompass 8-12 people, do not last more than 3-4 hours, and the distance doesn’t exceed 2 miles. Additionally, many tours adjust their food offerings to match different dietary preferences. Those tours impressed me with their tastes and helped me delve deeper into the history and legends behind each dish.

How does the Big Bus Hong Kong tour enhance your sightseeing experience?

Big Bus Tours offers an in-depth sightseeing experience, giving its passengers the luxury of starting their journey at any landmark they prefer; it complements the overall sightseeing experience they will have. If you have something in mind, the buses have open tops providing great views of Hong Kong’s Skyline, cultural sites, and neighborhoods.

Benefits of a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour

In my opinion, hop-hop-off tours have the most convenience and flexibility. For example, I prefer to discover Hong Kong at my own pace by getting off to explore the specific sites of interest and resuming the tour whenever I like. The open-top bus allows for excellent views with remarkable photo opportunities of the extraordinary skyline. Moreover, the voice recordings provide valuable information about the history and culture of the landmarks, enhancing my experience. This is one of the simplest and most fun ways to get around the city and experience it.

Top attractions covered by Big Bus tours

Bus tours make it possible to visit the most sought-after popular destinations in almost all of the notable mega-cities worldwide. When Visiting such Cities, don’t forget to include Big Bus tours in your itinerary for a big set of sightseeing experiences throughout your trip. Here are some top tourist attractions featured on their routes:

1. The Eiffel Tower (Paris)

The Eiffel Tower is a beautiful landmark that is most definitely the landmark that sets the signature skyline of the fantastic city of Paris. The buses travel to the Champ de Mars, providing close and helpful tower access.

2. The Statue of Liberty (New York City)

See one of the most known symbols of liberation. The visitor tours usually pass by Battery Park, where the boats to Liberty Island can be boarded for ferry rides.

3. The London Eye (London)

Enjoy sculpted views of London’s significant places and structures. The Big Bus station in the South Bank area is a good point for boarding this famous wheel.

4. The Colosseum (Rome)

Go on a journey to ancient Rome and visit the Colosseum. Big Bus company offers tours that end near this impressive amphitheater.

5. Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa (Dubai)

Go to the highest building in the world and one of the biggest shopping centers ever constructed. The tours leave people close to the Dubai Mall; from there, the Burj Khalifa is not far away.

6. Sydney Opera House (Sydney)

Look at the fascinating shapes of the Opera House’s design and the harbor. The Big Bus stop provides an appropriate point for visiting and exploring this popular place.

Most scripts of such trips include many well-known places within one city to ensure good coverage of the most beloved sites. Parameters such as circuit duration (which usually lasts between 1.5 and 3 hours for a complete route without boat stops) and bus intervals (every 10 to 20 minutes) can vary. However, the schedules are not rigid, and clients can board only at leisure.

Combining Big Bus with other Hong Kong activities

Нarboring dreams of grandeur like Paul Bunyan, bus tours are an excellent means of travel in Hong Kong and facilitate the integration of bus excursions along with other activities. I recommend visiting starters, following up with other significant human-made structures, like the ferry or perhaps the peak tram, that complements the bus tour nicely. For example, you could head to central or the Peak tram station, then head over to bus rides to Victoria Peak and enjoy the scenery. After visiting Tsim Sha Tsui, you could get on a star ferry and ride through the beautiful harbor.

Here are some key tips for optimizing your day:

• Tour Duration: Approximately 1.5-3 hours should suffice when planning a complete bus tour without stops.
• Bus Frequency: The wait time between bus departures is 15-20 minutes, so the need to be concerned about the crowd is eliminated.
• Operating Hours: The majority of routes are available between 9 am to 6 pm
• Ticket Validity: Tickets are issued for 24 to 48 hours with set timing and numbers, helping one accommodate other events.

Experiencing all these services and using a big bus helps you manage your time while providing convenience.

What are the most popular private tour options in Hong Kong?

1. Cultural Heritage Tours: Under the guidance of a professional, you will visit sites like Sham Shui Po, The Man Mo Temple, and many other traditional places.
2. Food and Market Tours: Visit local street food vendors, locate exquisite restaurants, and indulge in one-of-a-kind food experiences.
3. Victoria Harbor and Skyline Tours – Book exclusive boat rides or take a relaxing evening tour to see the light shows on Hong Kong’s skyline.
4. Nature and Hiking Tours—Take guided tours around scenic places in Sai Kung and breathtaking trails such as The Dragon’s Back, giving you a taste of Hong Kong’s nature.
5. Tailored City Tours—You can schedule a visit to specific venues of your choice, such as the bustling shopping districts of Tsim Sha Tsui or Causeway Bay and Victoria Peak.

Customized itineraries with a private guide

I’ll immerse myself in everything Hong Kong has to offer, and you, please take care of the details for me. If I want to hike scenic trails like Dragon’s Back or go and see the localized Big Buddha, I can check out plenty of other food. And we will ensure that the plan provided to us enhances your experience. Where I can go on a cultural hike and try out the local culinary delights, be it a regional delicacy in Hong Kong or some cultural delicacies. Now, we will be able to simplify the answer better, for example, by going off on cultural hikes and exploring the vast culinary delights of Hong Kong. If I can obtain the opposite, it is the same for exercising at my own pace, so I can consider myself free to work with a private guide that can set loose in Hong Kong, with the preeminent concentration being their iconic landmarks. At the same time, they have guaranteed to make a custom itinerary that perfectly meets my preferences and interests, with an opportunity to motivate each experience to become more personal and different.

Exploring Hong Kong’s hidden gems off the beaten path

Explore the seamless beauty and inherent diversity of Hong Kong through some of its less-known yet stunning attractions. Hong Kong has quite a lot to offer after discounting its iconic skyline and world-class attractions:

1. Tai O Fishing Village – Often referred to as the ‘Venice of Hong Kong’, Tai O is home to traditional stilt houses, narrow cobbled lanes and gives off an authentic village vibe. Tourists can sail throughout the village, tasting dried seafood and experiencing this place’s still atmosphere.

• Travel Tip: The trip takes around an hour and can be started from Tung Chung via the New Lantao Bus (Route 11).

2. Kowloon Walled City Park – Kowloon is home to this infamous city, and as thrilling as it may seem, it has been repurposed into newly built pristine employment parks. The combination of gardens and old Qing architecture makes this park a great experience for history lovers and those who want to get to a quiet spot.

• Note: The park stays open (07:00 am to 11:00 pm) and charges no admission fee.

3. Peng Chau Island – If you want to escape the cluttered streets of the city, then this peaceful island is your go-to destination, perfect for relaxing bike rides, beach strolls, and visiting local temples. Do not forget about Finger Hill, which has beautiful views at the top.

• Travel Tip: This can be accessed via a 35-minute ferry ride from Central Pier 6.

4. Sai Wan Swimming Shed—This spot, tucked in the western part of Hong Kong island, offers Beautiful views as the sun sets and photo opportunities. It is a great place to unwind and has rocky coastal areas.

• Photography Tip: To capture the best moments, try reaching during the golden hour, as it will provide a peaceful environment.

5. Shing Mun Reservoir—This is a great hidden place for people who love nature, as it provides a great hiking experience. There are beautiful trees and bushes around, awesome wildlife, and Paperbark trees, which are always a plus around the reservoir.

• Hiking Difficulty: moderate with the sufficiency of signboards.

Exploring these gems will also allow you to relish the incredible amalgamation of nature, history, and culture that Hong Kong possesses, making the experience worthwhile. Allow yourself to venture into the undiscovered areas of the nation by visiting these splendid views of the city.

Luxury private tours for discerning travelers

We specialize in creating ultra-private tailored tours for travelers known to be on the picky side. Our itineraries are filled with customized experiences, privileged entry to cultural areas, and accommodation in premium hotels and first-class vehicles. For our clients who want bespoke plans, we focus purely on privacy, cultural experiences, and comfort. We make sure every detail is up to their mark.

• Group Size: Up to 6 people for exclusivity.
• Tour Duration: Customizable—half-day, full-day, or multi-day packages.
• Transportation: Luxury vehicles with professional chauffeurs.
• Guide Services: Expert licensed guides fluent in multiple languages.
• Customization Options: Dining preferences, activity levels, and cultural interests.

See Hong Kong differently through a custom-tailored tour for you.

Which Hong Kong tours are best for those with limited time?

If you are short on time, a half-day private tour is perfect. Such tours usually cover must-see attractions such as Victoria Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, and the Star Ferry. You can use your time effectively with expert guides and luxury transport while enjoying a personalized trip to Hong Kong.

Efficient layover tours from Hong Kong International Airport

If you are transiting through the Hong Kong International Airport and must use your waiting hours best, you can streamline your choices with the right tour. Book a guided layover tour that includes the pick-up at the airport so that there are no delays while changing locations. Guided tours of Hong Kong, for instance, involve visiting Victoria Peak for the best vantage points, taking a trip via the Star ferry, and going to the colorful markets or historic buildings in Central. You are in and out in a few hours, perfect for a long layover before your next flight. A guide will escort you and have set routes so you will not waste time on trivial matters.

Half-day tours covering Hong Kong’s highlights

If you are a tourist wishing to view Hong Kong’s history, beauty, or culture, then half-day tours offered by Hong Kong are just the thing for you. Below, we combine information from significant sources to provide some popular options and highlights.

Recommended Places:
Victoria Peak and Sky Terrace Overview: Victoria Peak is a must-visit place where you can see the entire city from one location. To do that, the tour involves taking the Peak Tram to the mountaintop while enjoying the breathtaking view way as a whole.

Highlights:
A sky terrace is 428 meters above sea level, the highest in Hong Kong.
This is the place to look for if you want to view the skyline from Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, or Victoria Harbor.

Duration: Expect to spend around 3 to 2 hours.

Advice: If you want the best view, visit early or late afternoon.

Recommended Places:
Walking in Central and Sheung Wan Tour: An Overview: Sheung Wan and Central areas are rich with traditional and modern sights, so be sure to book a tour and enjoy the regions and their beautiful views.

Highlights:
One of the oldest temples in Hong Kong, known as the Man Mo Temple, is located here.
Those wishing to visit antique stores and appreciate the street art must take a trip to Hollywood Road.
Local culture is abundant at the Graham Market; be sure to stop by.

Duration: Expect to spend around 3 hours.

Walking Difficulty: the distance is average, so comfortable shoes should do the trick.

Star Ferry and Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront Promenade

Overview: One of the most special Hong Kong experiences is riding the tabloid Star Ferry through the harbor. Thereafter, you can take a casual stroll on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade.

Highlights:

A delightful view of the Symphony of Lighthouse show can be watched if time allows.

Tower Clock and Avenue of Stars can be portrayed as the lending landmarks.

Duration: About Two and a half hours.

Price (Star Ferry): HK is approximately $3-5, depending on the seating class.

More information

Highlights:

Peak Tram tickets (Round Trip) – ~ HK $99 – for every adult.

Star Ferry Prices – as provided earlier.

Most locations can be reached by public transport or a short walk.

Wheelchair users can access Victoria Peak and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade.

Best Time to Visit:

Try the morning, early, or late evening claims; there are fewer people then, and it is less hot.

The tours are fascinating and orientated to the best Hong Kong sites; they also do not waste your time.

Evening tours to experience Hong Kong’s nightlife

There are evening tours available for a totally immersive experience of Hong Kong’s vibrant after-dark socials. The rushing feeling you get from the extravagant views of Victoria Harbor and the bustling Temple Street night market will leave a lasting impression on you. If you’re looking for good nightlife, I recommend taking a short harbor vacation and a detailed cruise to enjoy the Symphony of Lights show. Furthermore, the dew from mong kok is sure to satisfy your taste buds with fun food and shopping options that are ultimately Canadian. If you want to just relax during your trip, some of the most soothing spots are found at Central’s rooftop bars, where you can enjoy a beautiful 360 view of the city. Most tours have 2 to 3 hours and commence between 6 pm and 11 pm. See that the climate is suitable, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget to bring your camera for breathtaking night sky views!

What unique tour experiences does Hong Kong offer beyond the city center?

Besides Hong Kong’s urban appeal, the city has many experiences, including natural and historical sights and the local culture. Dragon’s Back and Tai Mo Shan’s beautiful hiking vistas can be hiked for lovely, peaceful panoramic skyline views. Tai O is an example of a traditional fishing community that reflects a slower lifestyle through stilted homes and local seafood markets. For a more relaxed outing, one could travel to Lantau island to witness the grand Tian Tan Buddha statue while enjoying a gentle ride on a cable car above breathtaking greenery. For those who appreciate ancient history, The New Territories have numerous heritage trails lined with ancient temples and walled villages depicting Hong Kong’s historical narrative. These excursions provide breathtaking experiences away from the fast-paced hustle and bustle of the city.

Lantau Island tour featuring the Big Buddha

My trip to Lantau Island’s Big Buddha was a one-of-a-kind life-changing event. The statue is vast and empty, sitting peacefully on a mountaintop. Calm, I hope it will be brimming with life shortly. I rode the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, which juxtaposed the serenity of the surroundings with jaw-dropping views of the terrain and ocean. In the vicinity, the Po Lin Monastery only enhanced the spiritual experience, wherein the Wisdom Path was intriguing and calming. This tour’s combination of culture, nature, and spirituality epitomized my expectations.

Exploring the New Territories and rural Hong Kong

The New Territories offer an alternative experience of Hong Kong, which is rich with greenery, ancient villages, and culture. Hong Kong History, marked by the Tang Ancestral Hall and Tsui Sing Lau Pagoda, can also be explored through the Ping Shan Heritage Trail, a trail connecting various Hakka villages. The Mo Tai Shan, at a height of 957 meters and the highest point in Hong Kong, is another key destination, especially for those who enjoy nature. Mo Tai Shan offers breathtaking views and incredible hiking paths.

Mai Po is a nature reserve that is ideal for all bird lovers, whether you are a hobbyist or professional. Tourists to this Nature Reserve will view the migratory birds, where more than four hundred types have been recorded. But this Nature Reserve can only be viewed via guided tours – a potential restriction for bird lovers. However, the “back garden” of Hong Kong also offers plenty of options – Sai Kung features stunning beaches, geological parks, and floating seafood markets.

Modern establishments and public transport can also be experienced in many outlying regions, which can contradict the belief that rural places lack them. Sites with reliable maps and weather predictions can allow tourists to immerse themselves in a safe journey while hiking and getting acquainted with nature through maintained gear.

Harbor cruises for a different perspective of Hong Kong

By taking a harbor cruise around Hong Kong, one can get a breathtaking view of the beautiful urban landscape’s living marvels and experience of the city’s naval history. I advise taking the Star Ferry or enjoying themed cruises such as the evening cruise highlighting the Symphony of Lights. I would recommend getting a cruise of 45 – 120 minutes, as there is a wide variety to choose from. For great photos, book for open-air deck boats and look around for additional value, such as onboard drinks or commentary. On average, cruise packages range from HKD 30 to HKD 300. Check the weather conditions and search for bookings beforehand; this way, you can have a smooth sailing trip with unparalleled views of Hong Kong.

How do you choose the right Hong Kong tour that suits your interests and budget?

The first step to picking out an appropriate Hong Kong is to narrow down your interests- travel, culture, food, shopping, etc. After honing in on that, look up different itineraries for tours based on those themes that you found. Free walking, self-guided, and even group tours are great options to save on travelling costs. However, check reviews and other necessary details, such as transportation and meals, while booking, as they may charge hidden fees. Ensure the tour duration fits your time constraints to make the most out of your experience while ensuring that the price is within your budget. This way, you will have a great time in Hong Kong without wasting much money.

Comparing group tours vs. private tours

Best value tours for budget-conscious travelers

For individuals on a strict budget, which is quite normal, group tours seem to be the wholesome option, especially if you want to experience more while spending less money. Recommendations tend to come our way so here are some top options worth considering:

G Adventures

Pricing: Multi-day trip costs start from $599 upto more significant amounts.

Key Features: Regional cultural seekers, local drivers, and groups of no more than 12-16 individuals.

Best For: Individuals wanting to travel solo for adventure while taking on their budget in accord.

Intrepid Travel

Pricing: Short tours can start from $500, with more extended tours costing upwards of that.

Key Features: Local contains and general accommodation options achieving carbon offset for cost minimization.

Best For: Increase eco-friendly tourism while wanting adventures and a cultural mix while roaming.

Contiki (for travelers aged 18-35)

Pricing: Tours culminating in 7 days could begin from $700 with constant promotions offered.

Key Features: Meals, accommodation, and transport are all included for social, fun-packed, young, and main monitored trips.

Best For: Young teens and 20s willing to get a good bang for their buck alongside social interactions during vacations.

Additional Money-Saving Tips:

Off-Season Booking: Save up during the times of the year when fewer people are on vacation trips.

Early Reservations: Discounts can be availed only if trips are booked a few months ahead.

Special offers: Seek out packages that include accommodation, transport, and activities.

With the right group tour provider and these easy tips, travelers can have a lifetime without burning a hole in their pockets.

Specialized tours for history buffs, foodies, and adventure seekers

Friends, I want to tell you about a different kind of tour – Specialized tours. To start with, let’s have a glimpse at how history lovers may enjoy themselves. Just to mention, guided heritage walks, traveling around UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and visiting various museums provide much helpful information to history lovers.

Or, if I were to put it this way, if someone is a foodie, there are world-trotting tours that involve tastings, cooking classes, or market tours. These tours focus on local cuisines, South American chefs, and diligently prepared farm-to-table creations. What to ask for: dietary restrictions, ingredients, and other items cooked on site.

And for those who are adventurous, some expeditions can include hiking, zip lines, or kayaking! These are less intensive tours where moderate fitness levels are recommended, and safety equipment and professionals are priorities. Some of these may have criteria: age, activity level, or aspects of eco-friendliness

So you see, by altering some of the parameters, one is sure to find the best type of tour suited for him or her, and one that he or she will find interesting, engaging, and most importantly, unforgettable!

What are the top-rated walking tours in Hong Kong?

1. Hong Kong Free Walking Tour—On this tour, you will learn about Kowloon and Hong Kong Island’s history, culture, and main sites. The guides are well-versed in the city’s colonial history and how it changed.
2. Central and Sheung Wan Foodie Tour: This local food adventure leads participants into back alleys and market stalls to sample dim sum, egg tarts, and other traditional food.
3. Dragon’s Back Hike with a Guide—This tour includes beautiful hiking routes and stunning vistas. It is perfect for adventurers wanting to explore the green side of Hong Kong.
4. Heritage Tour of Old Town Central—This walking tour covers the art and cultural districts rich in culture, street art, historical landmarks, and busy markets.

Historical walking tours through Hong Kong’s colonial past

Getting in touch with Hong Kong’s intriguing history has never been easier, thanks to its colonial past and the historical walking tours available. These tours were an excellent opportunity to learn about Hong Kong’s development during British rule. The guides are often well-versed in the history of their surroundings; for instance, they talk about the former Legislative Council Building and Statue Square through colonial stories. Strolling around Central and Sheung Wan epitomized the East meeting the West, not only in terms of buildings but cultures as well. If you want to know more about what Hong Kong was like during this time, there are informative tours that are fun to attend.

Street art and cultural walking tours in Kowloon

Kowloon is brimming with creativity and culture, which makes it the perfect place for street art and cultural walking tours. Art tourism meets art history in these tours, and they also highlight how the old world of Hong Kong is blended with the new one. Mong Kok, Sham Shui Po, and Yau Ma Tei are the best places for murals, graffiti, and installations done by the locals and international artists. Some of these street artworks are about social movements, cultural identity, and contemporary storytelling of the city.

These tours include art but focus on historical landmarks, busy wet markets, and the lesser-known parts of Kowloon’s local areas. Participants can learn about traditional industries, such as textile industries in Sham Shui Po, and good street food, like egg waffles and siu mai. A typical tour lasts for 2-3 hours and costs around $30-$50, where the group size can vary from small exclusive groups to a little more extensive regular tours. Many tours also provide the artist’s backgrounds and the narratives of the pieces, which give visitors a chance to get into the culture of Hong Kong.